Gareth Anscombe has provided a performance for Auckland to turn heads, but it may not be enough to save his contract with the Blues.

Anscombe’s kicked eight from eight as his side posted a 43-32 win over Taranaki at Eden Park, proving the difference with the hosts outscored five tries to four.

Reports have suggested Anscombe has been de-listed by the Blues for next season, with his provincial coach Wayne Pivac unable to shed any light on the matter.

“I can’t comment on any contractual issues surrounding the player, but I can talk to you about his form and I thought he had a superb game.”

Anscombe was in and out of the Blues team this year, but assistant provincial coach Paul Feeney believes he’s coming into his own.

“He didn’t have much game time in the Blues and he had a 10-week injury, and as a 10 you need time in the saddle for the little automatic things – to make decisions quickly, and he’s gradually got into his game and got into his stride and got his confidence back.”

Anscombe was of limits after the match, only fuelling the speculation he won’t be playing his trade at Eden Park next Super Rugby season.

Assistant coach Paul Feeney says they dominated the Taranaki pack in their win at the Auckland ground.

“We played poorly and we were disappointed with the way we fronted up against Bay of Plenty and we wanted to put that ledger right and I’m just pleased for the whole group – the way they responded.”

Coach Pivac says despite conceding three tries in the last 10 minutes, he’s not too concerned as there were some injured bodies on the park.

“We were just holding on at the end there to be honest but we were desperate for them not to get a score again in injury (and get) within seven points and get two bonus points so really for us it wasn’t about what points Taranaki got, it was about getting the win and to get the bonus point we’re very happy.”

Auckland’s now level with Wellington and Taranaki at the top of the Premiership ladder.