Blues Miss Playoffs, But Show Improvements

The Blues have continued to lay the foundations for 2017 after seeing off a second Australian conference contender in as many weeks.

They've beaten the Waratahs 34-28 at Eden Park to round out their Super Rugby season, after humiliating the Brumbies last week.

Coach Tana Umaga's lauding a determined effort that got them over the line.

Umaga says they still have things to learn and build on for next season but he's happy with the way they managed to grind out the win.

Flanker Jerome Kaino says despite finishing strongly, the reality is they missed the playoffs.

The Sharks have booked themselves into the playoffs after seeing off the Sunwolves 40-29 in Durban, running in six tries to four to clinch the African division wildcard spot.

They'll face either the Lions in Johannesburg or a trip to New Zealand in the quarter finals.

The Melbourne Rebels have held on for a 31-28 win over the Reds in their meaningless match in Brisbane.

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