A look at the Blues ahead of the Final

The Blues emerged out of the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific season as one of the most dominant sides.

Although they missed out on top spot due to points difference, results that panned out in their favour will see Auckland side host the final at home, as they look to win their first Super Rugby title since 2003.

The Blues began their campaign well, earning wins over the Drua and Highlanders before they were stopped in their tracks by the Hurricanes in Wellington.

The Hurricanes were out to send a strong message as they immediately got out to a 24-7 lead just after the half-time break.

The Blues tried to fight their way back into the contest but ran out of time as Riley Higgins’ 67th-minute try sealed the win.

The Auckland based side would go on a tear, not losing a single game for another two and a half months.

After three straight 35+ point victories, The Blues were on a high, right before facing a brutal encounter against the Queensland Reds at Suncorp Stadium down under.

It seemed as though the home side would push the Blues all the way, and even looked likely to seal the win when Tim Ryan’s third try on starting debut gave them an 11-point lead with 17 minutes to go.

However, the resilience of the Blues shone through, which would prove critical heading into the back end of the season.

They scored three straight tries, including two in the final five minutes to steal victory after the siren.

The Blues had revenge on their mind as they battled the Hurricanes in a top-of-the-table clash. A top of the table clash between the Blues and Hurricanes, would see the Blues looking to avenge their loss earlier in the season.

The Blues were the ones started fast this time around, and had to withhold a late charge from the Hurricanes.

Harry Plummer’s 75th-minute penalty gave them some breathing room as the Hurricanes pressed their line late for a winner, however the Blues held tough to keep their hopes for a home semi-final alive.

The men from Auckland will go into Saturday’s Final with confidence, having beaten the Chiefs in their last encounter.

They needed a bonus point victory to claim the minor premiership and looked set to secure it when Akira Ioane crossed for a commanding lead.

A late Josh Ioane try spoiled their campaign to finish top, stuck behind the Hurricanes on points difference.

However, it would mean little as the events of the semi-finals presented them with hosting rights.

The Brumbies came to Auckland eyeing off revenge but they were blown out of the park by a Blues.

They targeted the visitors early as they controlled the restart game to race out to a convincing lead.

Despite the Brumbies fight, the Blues were never troubled as they cruised to victory and the Final.