When NZR upset the Crusaders

Leon MacDonald could thank NZ Rugby for saving him the anguish of being at Lancaster Park in Christchurch when Carlos Spencer famously rubbed his old team-mates’ noses in the ashes of defeat in 2004.

If MacDonald, who used the Crusaders as a springboard to his 56-test career with the All Blacks, had been available for that highly charged match against the Blues, he would have been an automatic selection at fullback for Crusaders coach Robbie Deans.

But an unpopular decision by NZ Rugby – in Crusaders country, that is – ensured that would never happen. MacDonald was contracted to Yamaha Jubilo after signing a two-year contract with the Japanese club, although that didn’t prevent Deans from trying to convince NZ Rugby he should be available for the Crusaders.

Because the Japanese season had been delayed, Deans wanted MacDonald to be granted permission to play Super 12. NZ Rugby were having none of that.

So MacDonald could only watch from a distance as the Blues’ marched to a memorable 38-29 triumph, capped off by Spencer scoring a late try and then giving the crowd the bird.

Later in the year MacDonald was granted a release from his Japanese contract; he returned to the Crusaders in 2005 and totalled 122 appearances for the side. Now he returns to Christchurch as the Blues coach, as the team seeks its first win in the city since Carlos went cray cray 16 years ago. convince MacDonald to join his coaching unit.

Later MacDonald told the Nelson Mail: ‘‘There was something about walking down the Blues’ corridor, it just didn’t feel like home, it’s fair to say.’’

3. Whatever happens between the Crusaders and Blues tomorrow night, the remarkable record created by Robertson’s men in Christchurch may never be bettered.

The Crusaders have never lost at Orangetheory Stadium under his guidance. That’s 34 wins and one draw.