Easy for Crusaders, not so Stormers

● A penalty try ensured the Canterbury Crusaders launched the defence of their Super Rugby crown with a win over the Waikato Chiefs yesterday while the NSW Waratahs snatched victory in the final minute.

The Crusaders beat the Chiefs 45-23, but it was harder work for the Waratahs who needed a last-ditch try by Ned Hanigan to clinch a 34-27 win over the Stormers.

In yesterday’s ’s earlier game, Australia’s Brumbies had to come from behind for their 32-25 victory over the Sunwolves in Tokyo.

The Crusaders’ score blew out after they were awarded a penalty try when desperately clinging to a 26-23 lead inside the last nine minutes. It put the defending champions 10 points ahead, forcing the Chiefs to take risks which backfired as they gave away two intercept tries in the closing minutes.

In Sydney, the Waratahs lost the lead five times against the Stormers, but clinched victory following a lineout steal after the final siren.

A strong run from reserve backrower Jed Holloway and passes from flyhalf Bernard Foley and debutant Harry Johnson-Holmes set up Hanigan, who crashed through two defenders to score in the corner.

The Sunwolves, now under the guidance of Japan’s national coach and former Highlanders mentor Jamie Joseph, looked a vastly improved unit to that which produced just three wins in the previous two seasons.

They took an early lead against the Brumbies courtesy of tries to Hosea Saumaki and Samoa-born Timothy Lafaele. When the Brumbies replied with their first try to Lachlan McCaffrey the Sunwolves countered with a second by Saumaki.

In the second half the Brumbies dominated with tries to Tevita Kuridrani, Josh MannRea and Thomas Banks.