The Chiefs have delivered a remarkable 49-12 demolition of the Crusaders to book their spot in the Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final.
42 points came in the first half in an incredible show of attacking prowess from last year’s finalists.
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It’s the most points the Chiefs have ever scored against the Crusaders in the first half of a game, and their biggest ever win over the defending champions.
The onslaught left the Crusaders shattered, who had gone into the game unbeaten in their last seven semi-finals and their last five finals matches against the Chiefs.
With the memories of last year’s Grand Final riding in their ears like cowbells, the hosts were ruthless.
Quinn Tupaea set the tempo with a half break and steal to get them on the attack, with his centre partner Lalakai Foketi throwing a beauty to Kyren Taumoefolau for the opener.
The winger shortly had a double after soccering through Damian McKenzie's kick for his 10th of the season.
Former Waratah Foketi continued to piece apart the Crusaders' defence, setting up Isaac Hutchinson to dive over the line. It’d be Hutchinson’s last involvement, though, succumbing to injury.
But this didn’t stop the Chiefs from charging and when Samisoni Taukei’aho crossed, they had a 28-0 lead.
Chay Fihaki sought to slow the bleeding with the Crusaders' first try of the game. But it was no use as the hosts kept rolling.
Tries to replacement Leroy Carter and Tupou Vaa’i furthered their advantage for a stunning 42-5 half-time lead.
The Crusaders' pain furthered after losing Leicester Fainga’anuku (ankle) before the break, with the slimmest of comeback hopes dashed when Christian Lio-Willie’s try was denied for a knock on to start the second half.
The visitors eventually got themselves over the line as captain David Havili made one final statement with a powerful five-pointer.
In the end, the deficit was never in doubt as the Chiefs sealed the win and tied their highest points scored against the Crusaders with a late try to Xavier Roe.
It's the first time the Chiefs have defeated the Crusaders in a finals game since 2013.
They book their spot in their fourth straight decider against the winner of the Hurricanes or the Blues, who will face off on Saturday in Wellington.
