Chiefs v Reds player ratings: Damien McKenzie steps up when team needs him most
How the Chiefs players rated in their 46-24 win over the Reds in Hamilton
1. Ollie Norris - 8
The prop produced an outstanding performance, dominating at scrum time and finishing with a game-high 20 tackles without missing one.
2. Samisoni Taukei’aho - 8
After a shaky start that included a wayward lineout throw, he bounced back strongly with an industrious 60-minute stint, making 15 carries and 10 tackles. He also crossed for a try to cap an impressive performance.
3. Sione Ahio - 7
Like his fellow prop, he was strong at scrum time and earned his side a penalty early in the second half with a dominant scrum.
4. Josh Lord - 5
Not his most convincing performance overall. He was beaten a few times defensively during the Reds’ attacking sets but remained a reliable option at lineout time.
5. Tupou Vaa’i - 7
The All Blacks lock was relatively quiet early on but grew into the contest, making his presence felt with several strong contributions both with and without the ball.
6. Simon Parker - 7
The loose forward had a limited impact on attack but was a menace on defence, finishing with 16 tackles, including a bone-rattling hit on Fraser McReight.
7. Luke Jacobson (c) - 8
A true captain’s performance, with his influence growing as the match wore on. His work rate was highlighted by 15 carries, consistently getting his side over the advantage line.
8. Wallace Sititi - 3
Had some nice carries and won a couple of lineouts before his night ended after 17 minutes following a sickening head clash. Can’t imagine seeing him take part again this season.
9. Cortez Ratima - 8
The halfback produced one of his best performances of the season, with his all-round game helping lay the platform in the first half. He mixed his play well, producing several smart kicks and making a number of sharp breaks with the ball in hand.
10. Damian McKenzie - 9
In his 150th Super Rugby appearance, and with plenty of debate over who the All Blacks No 10 should be, McKenzie did an excellent job controlling the match and stepping up when his side needed him. Scored a second half brace, for a total points haul of 26. His first came at a pivotal moment from some quick thinking, and his try assist pass was special.
11. Kyren Taumoefolau - 7
Given the opportunity to showcase his full potential, he rose to the occasion in impressive fashion. He showed excellent strength to score both of his first-half tries and was a constant threat with the ball in hand, particularly in the opening 40.
12. Quinn Tupaea - 8
The midfielder continues to show why he is regarded as one of the best in his position in the world. He brought plenty of energy and physicality to the contest, making his presence felt throughout and finishing with 18 tackles.
13. Kyle Brown - 5
Was unfortunate to be shown a yellow card for head-on-head contact. Solid without being spectacular.
14. Daniel Sinkinson - 3
A late inclusion after replacing Liam Coombes-Fabling in the starting side, the winger had limited opportunities to make an impact, finishing with just two carries.
15. Isaac Hutchinson - 7
A solid performance at the back, where he ran for 122 metres and was rewarded with the first try of his Super Rugby Pacific career.
Bench
16. Brodie McAlister - 6
Did his job well after coming off the bench, holding his own and making a solid contribution when called upon.
17. Jared Proffit - 7
Made an immediate impact off the bench, winning a crucial scrum penalty that helped swing momentum in the Chiefs’ favour.
18. George Dyer - 6
A menace on defence, finishing with 10 tackles without missing one and providing plenty of energy around the field.
19. Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi - 4
Had limited involvement after coming on, but did his job at lineout time, securing two throws cleanly.
20. Samipeni Finau - 7
Played more minutes than expected following Sititi’s injury and showed his class. After a shaky start that included a couple of errors, he settled into the contest and proved highly influential on both sides of the ball.
21. Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi - NR
Came on for a very brief cameo at the end.
22. Josh Jacomb - 4
Came on late in the match and had limited involvement, with a couple of kicks and runs, but largely took a back seat as McKenzie closed out the contest with composure.
23. Lalakai Foketi - 3
A late inclusion on the bench in place of Leroy Carter, he had limited opportunity to make an impact and didn’t see any ball.
Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news.