Blues a complete team: Mo’unga
Christchurch: The Crusaders say they are under no illusions about the challenge posed by a well-rested Blues side in Christchurch this Saturday as Super Rugby Aotearoa gets ready for a clash of the heavyweights.
The Super Rugby champions have collected three wins on the bounce against the Hurricanes, Chiefs and Highlanders, but No. 10 Richie
Mo’unga admits they have been keeping an eye on the rejuvenated Auckland franchise, who have started in similar fashion. “They’re awesome,” Mo’unga said after a hard-fought win against the Highlanders in Dunedin on Saturday.
“They are a complete team. They’ve got everything – the big boys up front and the razzle dazzle outside, and then someone like Beaudy [Barrett] and Otere [Black] to steer the ship.
“We’ll look forward to playing them next week,” Weather-permitting, the round five clash in Christchurch should be a cracker.
There will be some sore bodies in the Crusaders squad after the Highlanders hit them with everything for 76 minutes on Saturday, and backing up for four straight games in this competition is no easy feat. Black’s measured play at No 10 has also given the Blues the ability to construct a balanced game, and Mo’unga offered a glowing assessment of his understated strengths.
“He’s just doing what he needs to do, not overplaying his hand but kicking the goals he needs to kick, making his tackles and putting his team in good positions to attack from,” Mo’unga said.
“I’m really happy to see him play well. It’s great for their team and great for the game.”
Coach Scott Robertson will again go head to head with former Crusader Leon MacDonald in the coaching box.
The Crusaders beat the Blues
25-8 at Eden Park in February but it’s clear the Blues have improved since then, and Robertson was relishing the “hype” that was building around them.
“Obviously it’s been coming,” Robertson said.
“We’re fortunate to get out of this game what we wanted after a lot of hard work.
“It gives us an opportunity to head home for a top of the table clash.
It’s a different team isn’t it, the Blues.