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FULLTIME:CRUSADERS 58 defeated the REDS 17
The Crusaders started here strongly tonight and had leaped out to an early 15-3 lead however the Reds fought back through their forwards and in particular the setpeice to head into halftime behind by just the five points and the game was in the balance.
However the Crusaders hit the ground running and poured on the points in the second half, forty three of them in fact as the Reds defence completely deserted them, highlighted by a 60 meter effort to lock Sam Whitelock.
The Reds second half effort was woeful this evening after fighting so hard in the first half to keep themselves in the match, they simply ran out of endeavour in the second as the Crusaders piled on the pressure and cut loose in midfield and out wide and gave Dan Carter and Richie McCaw a send off to remember this evening.
The opening match of Round 13 of Super Rugby sees the Crusaders hosting the Reds from AMI Stadium in Christchurch. Join The Roar for all the action from 5:35pm (AEST).
This is a must-win match for the Crusaders who are still harbouring playoff aspirations, but a loss tonight will likely see them fall too far off the pace.
Their loss to the competition-leading Hurricanes last weekend showed signs to suggest the franchise are getting back to their best, with many commenting that despite the loss, it was their best performance of the season.
The Reds are unfortunately well out of consideration for the playoffs but still have plenty to play for after a less-than-satisfactory season, and with Wallaby positions up for grabs, a good performance against the Crusaders in New Zealand will count for much at the selection table.
As always, the battle up front will go a long way to deciding this match, and both teams boast solid packs with plenty of international experience.
Both sides’ major strength lies with their tight five and set piece so the static plays should provide a fascinating contest. The loose forward trios are also stacked with talent and international quality, with the battle between the two opensides – Matt Todd for the Crusaders and Liam Gill for the Reds – a potential highlight.
Both of these sides have struggled for continuity and cohesion in their backlines, with the Crusaders struggling to find their best combinations while the Reds have been hit hard with injury.
However the Crusaders seem to have found their best mix with Andy Ellis, Colin Slade and Dan Carter forming their 9-10-12 Axis and they looked more composed against the Hurricanes. In particular Slade was threatening with ball in hand and had sound decision-making. Being able to unleash their particularly threatening outsides, led by Nemani Nadolo, could see the Crusaders open the floodgates.
For the Reds a lot falls on experienced halfback Will Genia, and if he can get front-foot ball then the likes of James O’Conner and the promising Samu Kerevi can make inroads.
Tip
Crusaders.
The odds heavily favour the Crusaders, but the odds can count for little and this is a Reds side desperate to finish their season on a positive note.
Join The Roar as we cover all the action live, and don’t forget to weigh in with your thoughts below.
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.