Blues claim third straight Super Rugby Aupiki title over Matatū

The Blues have won their third Super Aupiki title in a row with a 28-21 victory over Matatū in a thrilling final at Te Kaha Stadium in Christchurch.

It was a dramatic finale with Katelyn Vahaakolo breaking a 21-all score with a try in the 83rd minute as added time played out. Ruahei Demant converted.

The scores had been locked at 14-all for 26 minutes in the second half, before hooker Atlanta Lolohea scored her second try and Demant converted to turn up the pressure on Matatū.

But Matatū came back strongly and received an advantage when the Blues lost Maama Vaipulu to a yellow card for head-on-head contact on Georgia Ponsonby who promptly replied by crashing over for a try. Maia Joseph converted from wide out to lock up the scores again.

However, with extra time threatening, the Blues had the last laugh through the determined Vahaakolo.