'I'm holding onto this': Big smiles as Veteran Crusader Owen Franks breaks 14-year try drought
The big prop has only scored three tries in his career with the last coming in 2010.
The Crusaders have opened their season by scoring four tries to two in a 28-15 win over the Highlanders in their Super Rugby trial match in Motueka.
Heavy pre-match rain and a soggy field detracted from the spectacle although it didn’t stop the Crusaders racing 28-3 ahead midway through the third quarter.
The Highlanders responded with late tries to former Melbourne Rebels hooker Ged Robinson and centre Malakai Fekitoa.
Both teams made a series of changes throughout the game although the Crusaders gelled better, particularly on counter attack.
They were playing together for the first time, having conducted an inter-squad practice match last week.
It was the Highlanders’ second game of their pre-season campaign, having narrowly beaten the Brumbies in Queenstown.
All Blacks fullback Israel Dagg crossed early for the Crusaders followed by a try to halfback Andy Ellis, both of which were converted by five-eighth Tyler Bleyendaal.
A 14-0 quarter-time advantage became 21-3 at halftime after wing Nafi Tuitavake scored a long-range try in response to five-eighth Willie Ripia’s penalty for the Highlanders.
The Crusaders’ fourth try was scored by centre Kieron Fonotia, a member of their wider training group.
It was converted by Colin Slade, in his first appearance since returning to the Crusaders following three injury-disrupted seasons with the Highlanders.
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The big prop has only scored three tries in his career with the last coming in 2010.
The kick failed to pass the 22-metre line.
In the Canterbury region, it's not claret but pinot noir.
The Crusaders scrum was dominant, so rather than risk yellow cards or penalty tries, Melbourne's coach replaced the three forwards at once.
The referee initially awarded the try but had to overturn it - presumably on advice from TMO.
Melbourne's scrum was embarrassed by the push from the home side.