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The Crusaders took a five-point win over the Blues at Eden Park on Saturday afternoon, finishing the match with a 26-21 scoreline.
REPORT: CRUSADERS GO TOP WITH OVER BLUES
Final score
Blues 21
Crusaders 26
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The early Saturday night game sees the Blues playing the Crusaders at Eden Park in Auckland. Join The Roar from 5:35pm (AEST) for all the action.
These sides bring contrasting form to this match; the Crusaders have arguably been the most consistent side this season and are locked in a race to win the New Zealand conference, while the Blues have been a bit all over the place and are bringing up the rear on the New Zealand table.
Still, this is a must-win for the Crusaders. Away wins are like gold, particularly derby matches, and victory would add further pressure to the chasing sides within their conference.
While the Blues’ form has been less than convincing of late, they will be boosted with a return to their Eden Park fortress. They are a different proposition on their home track, and will be motivated to perform in front of their fan-base.
The biggest issue for the Blues is playing with cohesion, particularly within their tight five and halves, where they have struggled. In direct contrast, the Crusaders’ tight five and halves have been superb. Young Richie Mo’unga is in tremendous form, and his fortunes up against Ihaia West will go a long way to determining the result.
Another intriguing match-up will be at blindside, where the highly touted Jordan Taufua of the Crusaders is up against Jerome Kaino of the Blues. Taufua has caught the eye this season, with his excellent form causing many to suggest he is a potential All Black bolter for June, particularly since Kaino has not been in the best form.
In a further headache for the Blues, the Crusaders regain the services of Nemani Nadolo, their destructive left wing, and Matt Duffie will have his work cut out for him containing the Fijian international.
Prediction
The Crusaders form is too good to ignore, especially when compared to the Blues’ recent efforts.
Crusaders by 16.
Join us here on The Roar as we cover all the action live from Eden Park, and don’t forget to utilise the comments box below for your thoughts on the match.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.