Hurricanes dominate Moana Pasifika in Super Rugby Pacific showdown
Moana Pasifika opened the scoring in their Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Hurricanes at Sky Stadium. Despite an early lead, the visitors struggled to contain a dominant Hurricanes side. The match marked the return of All Black Jordie Barrett after his 2025 sabbatical.
The Hurricanes ran in eight tries to Moana Pasifika's two, securing a comfortable win. Both teams fielded fresh faces, with the Pacific side giving debuts to seven players in the fixture.
Moana Pasifika struck first when Tuna Tuitama crossed in the 7th minute. The early try gave them momentum, but their advantage was short-lived. Broncos convert Israel Leota left the field after 15 minutes with a suspected knee injury, disrupting their rhythm.
The Hurricanes quickly took control, with winger Fehi Fineanganofo scoring twice in the first half. Teammate Josh Moorby also bagged a double, one of which came from a Fineanganofo assist. Captain Jordie Barrett, playing his first game since returning from a year-long break, helped steer the attack.
Moana Pasifika showed resilience under captain Miracle Failangi, who led by example. Flyhalf Patrick Pellegrini added their second try late in the game, but it wasn't enough to close the gap. The Hurricanes' pace and finishing proved too much, as they extended their lead with further tries.
This season has seen Moana Pasifika blood 12 new players, including four loose forwards, three hookers, two props, two backs, and a midfielder. Seven of those debutants took the field in this match, gaining valuable experience against a strong Hurricanes outfit.
The Hurricanes' eight-try haul secured them a decisive victory. Moana Pasifika's two tries—from Tuitama and Pellegrini—highlighted moments of promise despite the loss. The match also served as a key milestone for their young squad, with multiple players making their first appearances in the competition. The result leaves the Hurricanes in strong form, while Moana Pasifika will look to build on their debutants' experience in upcoming fixtures.
