23 May 2009

Muliaina try helps Chiefs into Super 14 final

7:25 am on 23 May 2009

The Chiefs have reached their first Super 14 rugby final with a 14-10 victory over the Hurricanes in Hamilton.

The semi-final was decided by a sweeping 60-metre counter-attack ending in a try for Mils Muliaina.

Stephen Donald converted the Chiefs captain's try and the Chiefs withstood a late onslaught to claim a place in the final against the winner of tomorrow's semi-final between South Africa's Bulls and the champion Crusaders.

The Chiefs produced an outstanding defensive effort in the final 15 minutes when Waikato Stadium became enshrouded in a thick blanket of fog and the Hurricanes were hammering at their lines.

All Blacks centre Ma'a Nonu scored the visitors' only try, while halfback Piri Weepu added the conversion and a late penalty to bring his side back into the match.

Chiefs number eight Sione Lauaki scored the other try for the hosts in the first half when Hurricanes prop John Schwalger was in the sinbin after being yellow carded for a professional foul with his side pinned to their tryline.

First five eighth Donald added the sideline conversion to ensure the score was locked at 7-7 at the break.