Crusaders beat Highlanders in trial game

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.