Winger AJ Lam has scored two tries to help the Blues seal a physical 35-18 victory over Super Rugby Pacific newcomers Fijian Drua at Melbourne.
The competition leaders entered the contest riding a seven-game winning streak and have successfully extended that run, but not without some anxious moments, as the Pacific Islanders threatened a massive upset.
The Blues needed two length-of-the-field intercept tries from Lam and centre Rieko Ioane to pad their scoreline and emerge with a crucial bonus point that should see them stay atop the ladder after this 'Super Round'.
The Fijians probably surprised the Blues with their dominance in key areas, principally kickoffs, and trailled just 14-10 with halftime looming, before prop Marcel Renata - on the field, while Nepo Laulala underwent a head injury exam - scored a try.
The Drua actually dominated huge passages of play, but their unconventional style also cost their dearly, with loose passes often forcing them into retreat.
One of those errant passes was snaffled up by Lam for the opening try of the game and, behind just 21-13, another speculator was grabbed by Ioane to swing momentum back the Blues' way. Stand-in captain Beauden Barrett also enjoyed a perfect night from the kicking tee, converting all five tries to help his side's cause.
The Aucklanders were forced into persistent offending at breakdowns, which cost them prop Karl Tu'inukuafe for 10 minutes late in proceedings, but they were somehow able to keep the Fijians at bay to retain their grip on the competition lead.
Covid-permitting, the Blues will travel to Perth to face Western Force next Friday.
Blues 35 (Lam 2, Ioane, Renata & Darry tries, Barrett 5 conversions) Fijian Drua 18 (Dolkoto & Ratave try, Kuruvoli conversion & 2 penalties)
