4 May 2013

Anscombe scores hat-trick as Chiefs put down Rebels

7:32 am on 4 May 2013

Gareth Anscombe scored a hat-trick of tries as the fast-starting Chiefs prevailed 39-33 - and by six tries to five - over the Melbourne Rebels in a Super Rugby shoot-out on Friday.

The Chiefs fullback caught fire in the first half at Melbourne's Rectangular stadium, securing a bonus point for the visitors in the 27th minute with his third try, and finishing a 24-point game with three conversions and a penalty.

The Chiefs led 24-14 at the break but, inspired by Wallabies backs James O'Connor and Kurtley Beale, the Rebels pulled within a converted try with five minutes left, but the Chiefs held on to retain top spot in the New Zealand conference and be well-placed for a run to the playoffs.