Brumbies threaten NZ dominance as Blues set pace with Rebels rout

The Auckland Blues showcased their title credentials, the ACT Brumbies displayed signs of being a serious threat and the Canterbury Crusaders proved they are not a spent force as the top three pulled clear in Super Rugby Pacific over the weekend.

In a high-scoring round, when three sides scored more than 50 points, the rampant Blues led the way with a 71-28 thrashing of Melbourne Rebels.

The Brumbies won their third straight game against a New Zealand side with a 38-28 victory over the Waikato Chiefs and the Crusaders overcame a Covid invasion to beat the Western Force 53-15.

Whether the Brumbies are serious contenders or destined for a minor medal will become clearer in the next two weeks when they play the Crusaders then the Blues.

In the race to fill the remaining berths for the play-offs, the Chiefs cling to fourth over the NSW Waratahs who have the same number of points, seven behind the Crusaders and one ahead of the Queensland Reds who slipped to sixth after losing to the Otago Highlanders.

The Wellington Hurricanes and Highlanders round out the top eight.

The Blues were rocked by the Rebels at the start of their clash in Auckland on Friday night when the Melbourne side scored two converted tries in the opening five minutes.

But it was one-way traffic from there as the Blues posted 47 unanswered points to lead 47-14 at half-time before the Rebels tightened their defences to slow the onslaught after the break.

It was a step up for the Blues who had been unconvincing in recent weeks.

Despite the runaway scoreline, Blues captain Dalton Papalii was not overly happy.

"Some games we defend really well but the attack is not there. This game we attacked well but there wasn't much defence. We have to find the balance," he said.