Super Rugby: The Chiefs cut loose after half-time to topple the Cheetahs

Gareth Anscombe dives over for his try

Adriaan Strauss attempts to break away for the Cheetahs

Sam Cane on the charge for the Chiefs

The Chiefs had to weather an early storm before securing a 45-3 win over the Cheetahs in Hamilton.

The defending champions had been on the back foot for long periods of the first half but they remained patient to claim their second win of the campaign.

The Cheetahs played with a real intensity - particularly during that opening 40 minutes - but although their high octane style was entertaining to watch, it failed to reap rewards.

Their cause was not helped, though, by a woeful kicking display from Johan Goosen, who missed three of his four shots at goal.

Bonus point

Had he been successful, the Cheetahs would have led 12-10 at the break - instead it was the Chiefs that led and they were able to cut loose in the second period.

Captain Liam Messam burrowed over for their only try in the first half to give them a 10-3 advantage.

And in the second period they were able to show the sort of form that took them to a maiden title last year, with Ben Afeaki, Asaeli Tikoirotuma, Gareth Anscombe, Rhys Marshall and Ben Tameifuna all scoring to seal the bonus point.

Anscombe also added a penalty and six conversions to bing his personal tally to 20 points.

The win means the Chiefs, who beat the Highlanders in their opening game last week, join the Blues at the top of the New Zealand Conference on 10 points.

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