Sotutu inspires Blues as Crusaders kick off in style

BEAUDEN Barrett again played a key role for the Blues as they claimed a 24-12 win away at the Chiefs – their first in nine years.

Then on Sunday, the Crusaders showed no signs of letting up from 2019 in their first game in the new-look

Aotearoa competition as they overcame the Hurricanes 39-25 in Wellington with a two-try late surge.

A burrowing first-half try by No.8 Hoskins Sotutu helped the Blues to a onepoint half time lead, and in the second Sotutu showcased his skills with a left-to-right spiral cut-out pass to put Mark Telea in for the winning score.

Otere Black and Barrett added the remaining points with the boot while Damian McKenzie kicked all the points for the ‘Canes.

Crusaders’ All Black wing Sevu Reece finished a sweeping team attack from 60 metres inside 60 seconds and Braydon Ennor scored after another full team effort within 15 minute.

Only the Crusaders illdiscipline kept the ‘Canes in the match. Jackson Garden-Bachop levelled the scores with three penalties and a drop-goal before a Jack Goodhue try gave the Crusaders some breathing space.

Asafo Aumua’s try kept the ‘Canes in the match but late tries from Richie Mo'unga and David Havili sealed the win.

Meanwhile New Zealand Rugby (NZR) said on Thursday they are interested in a proposal that would see the All Blacks take on Australia’s Kangaroos in a ‘Union vs League’ clash.

The match has been mooted for December 5 as both codes look to generate much-needed revenue.

“We have had an approach,” NZR chief executive Mark Robinson said.

“We’re interested in learning more and we will work that through and go through the proper process of making a decision if it has got merit to go further."

Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga told Australian media he was keen on the idea for the game, which would involve 14 players on each team.