The Blues are on the verge of claiming their first Super Rugby title in over two decades, having last won the championship 21 years ago.
The Super Rugby champions will be decided at Eden Park tomorrow night as the Blues aim to defeat the Chiefs and secure their first title in over twenty years. The Blues have achieved an impressive record of 15 consecutive victories at Eden Park, including a decisive win over the Chiefs in the final round of the regular season.
Chairman Clayton McMillan expressed his belief that playing at home does not always guarantee an advantage, citing their defeat by the Crusaders in last year’s title decider in Hamilton. He hopes to establish a legacy for the team by demonstrating their ability to secure victories at home and away on the grand stage.
Despite the Chiefs’ readiness to challenge the Blues at their Auckland stronghold, they approach the match without trepidation.
Blues prop Angus Ta’avao, who previously played six seasons with the Chiefs, highlighted the intense rivalry that has developed between the neighboring teams and expressed anticipation for the competition.
The Chiefs will be without injured All Blacks hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho for the final, whereas the Blues will welcome the return of their captain, All-Black Patrick Tuipulotu, who has played a crucial role throughout the season.
Loose forward Akira Ioane is set to bid an emotional farewell to the franchise, acknowledging that winning the championship would be a fitting conclusion to his time with the Blues. He is content with his decision to move to Japan, hoping to pave the way for younger players to enter the sport and enjoy success.
The final match sold out within hours after tickets were released on Monday, with a crowd of 47,000 fans expected to gather at Eden Park. Blues supporters are hoping for one more victory, seeking to secure their first Super Rugby title since 2003.
