They never forget: Crusaders seek revenge for big loss

As the Hurricanes tore around AMI Stadium like a horde of wild barbarians last year, it became apparent the Crusaders’ title hopes were shot.

Here’s a brief recap of that final round-robin clash at AMI Stadium: The Hurricanes bagged five tries to win 35-10, guaranteeing home advantage as they carved through the playoffs to win their first Super Rugby crown.

The Crusaders? Well, theirs was a sad story. If they had done a number on the Hurricanes they would have remained in New Zealand during the finals series, but instead were forced to fly to Johannesburg where the Lions KO-ed them in the quarterfinal.

Hell, that loss to the Canes must have hurt the Crusaders. Even now, 10 months later, just thinking about how the visitors’ used their rushing defensive line to ransack the Crusaders attack, and the way they seemingly grew a foot taller with each try scored, makes loyal redand- black supporters grip the kitchen table with fury.

No, the Crusaders players haven’t forgotten it either. Do they want to use it as motivation for the rematch at AMI Stadium tomorrow night?

‘‘Yeah, it is sort of that way,’’ first five-eighth Richie Mo’unga said. ‘‘But I think everyone realises this team is a lot of different from the one last year. It is not so much trying to prove anything, it is to just try and play our best footy.’’

Crusaders coach Scott Robertson, who has returned second five-eighth Ryan Crotty and loosehead prop Joe Moody to the starting side, wasn’t involved with the side last year.

But he made it clear that heavy defeat hadn’t been ignored.

‘‘We are well aware of the score last year, it has been mentioned,’’ Robertson said. ‘‘It is important we perform anywhere and at home, like any team, we want to make it as special as we can so people come along and see how much it means for us.’’

Since returning from the hand injury he suffered in round-one against the Brumbies, Mo’unga has started the last four games.

Mo’unga isn’t in the same class as Hurricanes No 10 Beauden Barrett, but who is? What is important is that he doesn’t kick too long and give the Hurricanes back three of Julian Savea, Cory Jane and Jordie Barrett precious seconds to counter-attack.

As the Crusaders ran in 10 tries to humiliate the Bulls 62-24 last weekend, it became apparent that the home side were exhausted in the final quarter. The Hurricanes have real guts; they won’t stop fighting.