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The Chiefs fronting up against the Crusaders promises to be an absolute blockbuster. Join The Roar for live scores and coverage from 5:35pm AEST.
Four of the last five matches between these old rivals have been decided by 10 points or less. Nine of the 13 matches in Chiefs territory have been decided by seven points or less.
The Crusaders spluttered their way through the first five rounds of the competition, dropping three games. However two big wins in South Africa suggest the seven-time champions are approaching their best form.
The Crusaders attack has produced 106 points in the last three games. Huge Fijian winger Nemani Nadolo has made a massive difference. He scored three tires against the Cheetahs and his power has added some much needed explosiveness to the Crusaders’ previously pedestrian backline.
Colin Slade is another who has stepped up. Slade scored 25 points against the Cheetahs and with Aaron Cruden out for several weeks with a broken thumb; Slade has a chance to push for an All Blacks jersey.
The Crusaders have returned from South Africa battered though. Corey Flynn, Willie Heinz, Tim Perry, Kieran Read, Luke Romano, Adam Whitelock and Luke Whitelock are all nursing knocks.
The Chiefs have only lost once this season, but slow starts and two draws are a concern for the defending champions.
The attack, even without Cruden, is fine. The Chiefs have averaged more metres (511) and offloads (14) than any other team in the competition.
However the defence is a real concern with 99 points leaked in the last three games.
Brodie Retallick has been passed fit to play. Retallick was forced to leave the field in Saturday’s ninth round match against the Melbourne Rebels after suffering a head knock.
Expect a tussle of Test match intensity. The Crusaders’ goal-kicking success rate (65%) is the lowest in Super Rugby so far this season. A couple of points could be the difference here.
Join us for all the action from 5:30pm AEST.
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.