Super Rugby trial
Chiefs hold off Hurricanes in trial
February 16, 2013
The Hurricanes' Julian Savea fends Tim Nanai-Williams of the Chiefs during the Super Rugby trial match between the Hurricanes and the Chiefs at Mangatainoka.
The Hurricanes' Julian Savea fends Tim Nanai-Williams of the Chiefs. © Getty Images
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Defending champions the Chiefs have held off the Hurricanes to win their Super Rugby pre-season match 25-21 in Mangatainoka.

The Hurricanes, down 22-7 midway through the second half, set up a tight finish by closing to 22-21 with 10 minutes remaining.

The Chiefs, with a strong wind at their backs, took a 10-0 lead into halftime through tries to halfback Tawera Kerr-Barlow and winger Asaeli Tikoirotuma.

Inside centre Bundee Aki crossed to make it 17-0, before the home side finally got on the board through winger Julian Savea.

Centre Tim Nanai-Williams edged the Chiefs out to 22-7 when he dotted down.

But the Hurricanes responded with touchdowns to loose forwards Ardie Savea and Faifili Levave to make it a one-point game.

Chiefs five-eighth Gareth Anscombe knocked over a penalty to complete the scoring.

Both teams open their Super Rugby campaigns next weekend, the Chiefs away to the Highlanders on Friday, while the Hurricanes host the Blues the following day.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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