Blues No.8 Hoskins Sotutu, the son of former Flying Fijians vice captain Waisake, continued with his scoring form and got a hat-trick in their 37-29 win over the Highlanders in Melbourne last night.
After getting a double against the Fijian Drua in Round 1 of Super Rugby Pacific, Sotutu was again the Blues’ go to man in the torrid encounter.
Sotutu’s treble came as part of another impressive display from the Blues’ attack, who have so far perfectly combined power and pace to begin Vern Cotter’s tenure as head coach.
And as the icing on the cake, Sotutu’s efforts came with both All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson, and forwards coach Jason Ryan in attendance.
For the Highlanders, fullback Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens put in another impressive display after his move in the off-season.
The 22-year-old scored his third try of the season after a double against Moana Pasifika last week, and created another for fellow Fijian in the form of winger Timoci Tavatavanawai.
But his absence through a yellow card to end the first half proved the catalyst for the Blues’ attack, who scored twice while he was away.
Victory, albeit without a bonus point, sends the Blues to the top of the standings after their first two matches.
However, the Hurricanes, Brumbies or Reds could overtake Cotter’s side, provided they win with a bonus point over the coming days.
