nib BLUES BOOK SPOT IN AUPIKI GRAND FINAL
The nib Blues are through to the 2026 Super Rugby Aupiki Grand Final after producing a composed and courageous 38-29 victory over top-of-the-table Matatū in Christchurch.
Needing a win to secure their place in the championship decider, the two-time defending champions delivered when it mattered most.
The result locks in a third consecutive Grand Final appearance, setting up a rematch with Matatū next weekend in Christchurch.
Captain Maiakawanakaulani Roos praised the character her side has shown throughout a challenging campaign.
“It's been a really challenging season for us but I think the grit that we’ve shown, the determination and just the want to be better week on week for each other has gotten us to where we are now. I'm really proud of this result and we’ve got another week to build.”
It was an entertaining contest from the opening whistle, with both teams trading blows throughout the first half.
The Blues capitalised on their opportunities, while the accurate boot of Braxton Sorensen-McGee proved crucial as the visitors took a narrow 21-19 advantage into the break.
The arm wrestle continued after halftime, but a defining moment came through outstanding defensive effort.
Winger Jaymie Kolose produced a desperate try-saving tackle to dislodge the ball from Matatū captain Grace Brooker over the line.
Moments later, the Blues turned defence into attack, with Katelyn Vahaakolo finishing a stunning length-of-the-field movement that swung momentum firmly in favour of the visitors.
From there, the Blues held their composure, defending resolutely and taking their opportunities to close out a deserved nine-point victory.
Sorensen-McGee crossed twice and added four conversions in an influential all-round performance, while Ruahei Demant, Jaymie Kolose, Taufa Bason and Vahaakolo also found the try line.
Having now shared one win apiece with Matatū during the regular season, the stage is set for a blockbuster Grand Final between the competition’s top two sides as the Blues chase a third straight Super Rugby Aupiki title.
nib Blues 38: (Braxton Sorensen-McGee 2, Ruahei Demant, Jaymie Kolose, Taufa Bason, Katelyn Vahaakolo tries; Sorensen-McGee 4 cons)
Matatū 29: (Kaipo Olsen-Baker 2, Maia Davis, Charntay Poko, Binky Muamua tries; Davis 2 cons)