Crusaders down Blues
The Crusaders locked up top spot for the next month but hardly enhanced their title credentials with a far from convincing win over the Blues at Eden Park.
Todd Blackadder will have some concerns over the June break. At the top of his list will be his team’s struggles against Kiwi opposition. The Crusaders’ only losses this year have come against the Highlanders and Chiefs – and their 26-21 victory over the Blues owed much to Richie Mo’unga’s steady boot which collected 16 valuable points than anything else.
Sitting atop the Super Rugby table after a fifth straight win over the Blues is certainly a desirable place to be as the competition takes its frustrating month-long hiatus. But after a patchy performance like this, Blackadder won’t be getting ahead of himself.
Credit must go to the Blues, though. They fought hard all night, showing character and resolve. Tana Umaga’s men had more hunger, aggression and physicality in everything they did but their discipline and some late one-onone misses in defence let them down.
Kieron Fonotia’s bust through Ihaia West which set up Andy Ellis’ try in his 150th Super Rugby match was the turning point. Before that the Blues managed to dig deep and defend against a mountain of possession.
As far as Kiwi derbies go this wasn’t one of the instant classics. The attacking play left a lot of be desired, with passes regularly going behind the intended receiver but there was enough to get the 21,000 crowd enthused.
The locals weren’t happy when Blues second five-eighth Piers Francis was penalised for taking out Mo’unga after the whistle – a crucial decision which gave the Crusaders a five-point buffer in the final 10 minutes.
When Mo’unga knocked over another penalty minutes later, the fickle faithful prematurely headed for the exits.
In a week that focused on All Blacks selections it was a Fijian who stole the show early. Everything Nemani Nadolo touched turned to gold. Back from a month-long suspension he sparked a breakout from his own line, flicked freakish offloads at will, forced a charge-down and scored the opening try. You could not