Hail to the Chiefs and their strong back three

Stevenson again provided glimpse of his special skills.

The Blues deservedly took most of the acclaim at the weekend, but the Chiefs look well equipped to give this competition a shake.

Here is Stuff’s team of the week. a

Looks like a more powerful athlete this year but hasn’t lost any of his pace or footwork.

Still just 23 and might have been just the sort of player NZ Rugby had in mind when it created the ‘All Blacks XV’ side.

Edges out the Blues’ Rieko Ioane on account of his distribution skills, but Ioane was a big threat with ball in hand.

Switched to No 13 in the second half to show his versatility. Always a threat on attack.

One of the finds of the season and took his try with aplomb.

The form No 10 in New Zealand at the moment with his authoritative and creative play.

A few wonky box kicks but is this the year Weber breaks the All Blacks duopoly of Aaron Smith and TJ

Perenara? Running ability could help the ABS’ game.

Nothing in it between Ioane and Chiefs big man Pita Gus Sowakula but in the context of a close game Ioane’s try was crucial.

Workaholic openside is part of that excellent Blues back-row unit that has real balance and a hard edge.

Made another 1000 turnovers as he outplayed the Waratahs’ Michael Hooper and appears destined for higher honours.

Can’t be too many other locks with Dunshea’s pace. Played a key linking role in

Leicester Faingaanuku’s try.

The captain is having his best Super season and is equally impressive during his post-game interviews, where he keeps a lid on the rising excitement levels about the Blues.

An asset around the paddock with his mobility and defensive work.

Another busy evening but there is no doubt the Reds won a few more collisions up front than Scott Robertson would have liked.

Missed a few tackles but had the edge on the Reds’ Taniela Tupou at scrum time.