Moana Pasifika coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga and captain Ardie Savea have admitted their side was thoroughly outclassed in their 85-7 loss to the Chiefs at FMG Stadium in Hamilton on Saturday.

In front of over 17,000 fans, the Chiefs delivered a dominant performance; clinical, precise, and relentless- leaving Moana Pasifika unable to find any consistent momentum or possession.

Moana Pasifika managed just 20% of the ball, and two yellow cards proved costly. The Chiefs capitalised on the numerical advantage to score heavily, racking up around 20 points during those spells.

Savea, who scored their only try early in the second half, acknowledged that while they tried various tactics, the Chiefs were simply too strong.

Umaga echoed that sentiment, crediting the Chiefs for their discipline and intensity. “They were ruthless and clinical,” he said. “We need to grow into a team that can match that.”

The defeat followed an emotional victory over the Blues last weekend, raising questions about whether fatigue or a mental lapse affected Saturday’s performance.

With one round remaining, Umaga and Savea have called on their players to reflect, regroup, and prepare for their final match against the Hurricanes; a must-win if they are to keep hopes of a top-six finish alive.

Five Key Takeaways:

1. Possession is Key – Moana Pasifika struggled with just 20% ball possession, limiting their ability to build momentum.
2. Chiefs Were Ruthless – The home side’s physicality and set-piece dominance left little room for error.
3. Handling Pressure – Moana Pasifika could not respond to the relentless pressure, something Savea says must improve.
4. Learning From Defeat – Despite the scoreline, the coaching staff is focused on turning setbacks into growth.
5. The Bar is Higher – Umaga admitted the Chiefs have lifted the standard heading into the playoffs.

The team now enters a critical final week of preparation, aiming to put lessons into practice and close their season on a high.