Photo highlights from the Super Rugby Pacific Round 16 clash between the Hurricanes and Moana Pasifika which was played on an electric night in the Sky stadium in front of over 20,000 fans.
The Hurricanes were in scintillating form denying their legendary loose forward Ardie Savea 's new team a first trip to the Super Rugby Pacific playoffs. The visitors needed a bonus point to seal sixth spot however the Hurricanes spoilt the party in emphatic fashion in the final round of the regular season, claiming the bonus point win for themselves with a 64-12 demolition at Sky Stadium to finish in fourth and end what was a largely memorable season for the Moana Pasifika in what was vastly improved campaign the highlights of which saw them beat the likes of Crusaders, Blues and Highlanders.
The game started brightly after Number 8 Semisi Tupou Ta'eiloa intercepted a loose pass from Ruben Love and then proceeded to sprint through to score inside six minutes. The Hurricanes however responded in emphatic fashion scoring four unanswered tries and went into the break with a commanding 28-7 lead. Peter Umaga-Jensen was the standout player scoring the try of the game after catching the ball on halfway and then proceeded to brush off seven tackles to score after a determined 50-metre run. Umaga-Jensen then scored his second try of the game 10 minutes into the second half before Hurricanes coach Clark Laidlaw as the Hurricanes turned their attentions to next week's clash against the Brumbies.
Former Hurricane Savea then ended a run of six straight Hurricanes’ tries when he dived over from a lineout however it was a short lived renaissance from the visitors as the points added up for the Hurricanes before debutant Tjay Clarke finished off what was a professional and emphatic display with a trademark flying finish in the corner, to score the Hurricanes’ 10th try of the night.
After the game Hurricanes player Tyrel Lomax was presented with an award after his 100th cap for the Cane's accompanied by his family and two daughters in tow. Ardie Savea was also presented with the Super Rugby player of the season trophy accompanied by his teammates and family.
The Hurricanes will now travel to Canberra for the second time this season to face the third-place Brumbies in the first round of the playoffs.
Photos were taken for Speed Media AU / Icon Sportswire
Result:
Hurricanes 64-12 Moana Pasifika
You can also view a selection of photos from this series of images via my social media pages respectively for more content social media handles below. If you are interested in my services for your upcoming event, I have a range of event packages including a bespoke package service which can be viewed via the package section.
