Blues simply lack 'composure'
The Blues' horror run stretched to seven straight losses with a 19-35 Super Rugby defeat to the Hurricanes in Wellington on Friday, a game that again displayed all the worst traits of the bumbling Blues.
The men from Auckland conceded five tries to one as they fell apart in the second half, giving the three-time champions one win from 10 games this season and heaping further pressure on coach Pat Lam.
The Hurricanes, coming off two losses themselves, showed attacking flair and exploited the Blues' defensive frailties to secure a much-needed bonus point that represents a lifeline for their finals ambitions.
Blues skipper Luke Braid said his side performed well to create pressure in the first half, but the wheels fell off when they went behind just before the break.
"As soon as we start chasing games we start to lose our composure a bit," he said.
"It's just individual errors creeping in, guys trying to push stuff when they're not there."
The match still hung in the balance at half-time, as the Blues competed strongly in set-pieces and held at least equal shares of territory and possession.
However, the Hurricanes fastened onto a couple of fleeting chances to score second-half tries which extended their advantage and turned the match in their favour.
"We just held it together enough," Hurricanes captain Smith said.
"The Blues are a tough team to play.
"We wanted to make sure we kept our game together, kept our structure together and knew we'd get points and that's what happened.
"The Blues defended very well. But I just think we adjusted our game, read the way they were playing and that's what got us some good headway."
