Chiefs Prepare for Blues' Fightback: McMillan Warns Against Underestimating Champions
The Chiefs are gearing up for a fierce battle against the Blues this Saturday night in their playoff clash, but coach Clayton McMillan insists their recent form shouldn't fool anyone. Despite the Blues’ struggles, McMillan is keenly aware of the defending champions' pedigree and the danger of underestimating them.
“It doesn’t matter whether it’s an inch or a mile,” McMillan stated firmly. “They’re champions for a reason. They’ve got the quality and the experience to turn things around quickly.” This sentiment underlines a deep respect for the Blues and a refusal to take their current situation lightly.
The Blues have faced a challenging season, with injuries and inconsistent performances impacting their overall results. However, McMillan is adamant that playoff rugby is a different beast entirely. The pressure is immense, the stakes are high, and past form often counts for little.
“Playoffs are about peaking at the right time,” McMillan explained. “It’s about bringing your best game when it matters most. The Blues have been there before, and they know what it takes to perform under pressure. We need to be ready for their best.”
The Chiefs, meanwhile, have enjoyed a strong season themselves, securing a home playoff and building momentum heading into the knockout stages. However, McMillan is focused on the task at hand and insists his team won’t be complacent. He's emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline, executing their game plan effectively, and staying focused throughout the 80 minutes.
Beyond the immediate playoff match, McMillan is also preparing for a significant life change. He will be leaving the Chiefs at the end of the season to join an Irish province, a move that has been long in the planning. While his departure is bittersweet, he remains fully committed to leading the Chiefs as far as they can go in the playoffs.
“My focus right now is entirely on this team and this season,” McMillan said. “We’ve worked incredibly hard to get to this point, and we want to make the most of it. We owe it to our fans, our sponsors, and ourselves to give it everything we’ve got.”
The clash between the Chiefs and the Blues promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams desperate to secure a spot in the semi-finals. McMillan’s warning about the Blues’ potential for a fightback serves as a clear indication of the respect he holds for his opponents and the challenge that lies ahead. Expect a high-intensity, physical match as both sides battle for supremacy on Saturday night. The Chiefs will need to be at their absolute best to overcome the defending champions and keep their playoff dreams alive.
