Finishing power points to Crusaders
WELLINGTON: An ability to close games in merciless fashion is what sets the Crusaders apart from the Lions, heading into the Super Rugby final.
There will be countless factors stacked against the South African visitors in tonight’s decider in Christchurch but the most compelling is the Crusaders’ latefinishing power.
It is a weapon that looks potent enough to hand them a ninth title.
Through a combination of fitness and bench strike, the Crusaders have outscored opponents by 26 tries to five in the final quarter of matches throughout the season.
The nearest any team comes to that in any quarter is the 24to12 achieved by the Lions themselves, in the second quarter of games.
Their long flight on Tuesday could count against the visitors at the 60minute mark, making their task of clinching a maiden crown even stiffer.
While the Crusaders are shortpriced favourites to repeat their 2017 heroics — they repulsed the Lions at Ellis Park a year ago — they are taking little for granted.
Star fiveeighth Richie Mo’unga said there will be no letup in their defensive focus, with coach Scott Robertson content to give his players leeway to improvise on attack.
‘‘There’s no real structure. We look up and play what we see,’’ Mo’unga said.
‘‘But defence wins championships. We put it down to how much we want to work for each other.
‘‘We’re willing to work harder and longer.’’
Robertson, in his second year in charge, is yet to oversee a home Super Rugby loss.
He was delighted Christchurch would host a final for the first time since 2008, when Robbie Deans’ team saw off the Waratahs in the last game of a triumphant coaching tenure.
Former Crusaders captain Reuben Thorne believes Robertson should be lauded for restoring a winning culture.
They could not clasp the silverware for eight seasons under Deans’ successor Todd Blackadder, despite going close several times.
‘‘Razor [Robertson] has just brought a bit of energy to the group with his style and his approach,’’ Thorne said.
‘‘Some of the players that have come through; there’s some real quality with the likes of [backs] Richie Mo’unga, Jack Goodhue and George Bridge.
‘‘The pack has performed well for a long time now so he’s found the right balance.’’