Super Rugby Aupiki: Ayesha Leti-I’iga inspires Hurricanes Poua to first win against Matatū

The Hurricanes Poua recorded their first Super Rugby Aupiki win against Matatū after an inspired display from two-try Black Ferns winger Ayesha Leti-I’iga.

There was plenty at stake in the first of the final-round matches, albeit with the Chiefs Manawa and the Blues contesting the big prize, the first title, later at Hamilton’s FMG Stadium Waikato on Sunday night.

Neither the Hurricanes nor Matatū had previously won in the inaugural Kiwi women’s Super Rugby and fought tooth and nail in another entertaining spectacle that welcomed Black Ferns great Kendra Cocksedge into the historic competition.

Cocksedge started at halfback for Matatū after missing their two defeats to the Chiefs and the Blues but could not prevent a third, with international team-mate Leti-I’iga in stunning form for the Hurricanes.

READ MORE:
* ‘It means so much’: Blues relish Super Rugby Aupiki debut and finale with Chiefs Manawa
* Super Rugby Aupiki: Hurricanes Poua name team for debut match after nightmare buildup
* Super Rugby Aupiki preview: Star Sarah Hirini could be crucial for Poua

The latest loss for the southerners means they finish bottom of the pile after three rounds.

The Hurricanes failed to capitalise on pressure in their opening defeat to the Chiefs on Thursday, but they were impressive nonetheless after a Covid-19 outbreak ripped through the squad before the competition.

However, in a classic game of two halves, Matatū stormed back after a dominant first half from the Poua, who were clinical when it mattered.

The southerners were blown away physically against the Blues but got stuck into the Hurricanes, winding up the control with their forwards to keep th