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.
Drew
Guest
The ref and the commentary team got it wrong. It was not shepherding but it was accidental offside. The 2 players touched.
Mark
Guest
Crusaders handed game by one of the most corrupt performances by a ref since Joubert or Barnes last took the field
Rugby Tragic
Roar Rookie
I'll talk you around to him!... lol
taylorman
Roar Guru
Saders got rattled RT, don't think I can remember the last time that happened...things are looking better. I knew my complete faith in Tana would pay off...ha ha (not!)?
taylorman
Roar Guru
He he, easier for us Blues fans to answer that one...toss a coin! Mind you, I'd like to see Blackadder win his last attempt to silence a few critics.
taylorman
Roar Guru
Yes that could be interesting. Both at Eden park , and based on last night both very winnable. They'll get stronger for that match. Lose to both the Tahs and brumbies and that could let a second oz side in ahead of the forth kiwi side, but win one and only the other oz side as conference top goes through. Might depend on other NZ matches but the outcome of those two Blues matches looks critical.
Old Bugger
Guest
Nah not really. If the Oz derby can turn up as much rugby as what we've seen so far, weather considered, then it'll all be worthwhile waiting for it....don't you think....??
lassitude
Guest
3 point lead
WEST
Roar Guru
The Crusaders have stormed to the lead in the New Zealand Super Rugby conference after a tough win over the Blues. The Crusaders enter the June break with a four point lead over the Chiefs at the top of the New Zealand conference. Bad luck Blues, best game you've had so far, still not good enough to beat the Crusaders.
Paul
Guest
Bit touchy aren't we? All I said it was a bit dull by usual NZ standards. Rebels v Force game is irrelevant.
Harry Jones
Expert
Ah! That makes sense.
Rugby Tragic
Roar Rookie
Super 12 from 1996 ThugbyFan ... basically it was when Rugby turned professional August (?) 1995 .. yeah they were a good side... even before that they were a might province...
chucked
Guest
Blues would help other kiwi teams by winning the last two against Tahs and Brumbies...The Reds have had a similar habit for years as well..nothing to lose
Digby
Roar Guru
Almonds.
chucked
Guest
I used to get riled p when someone mentioned Marshall's annoying commentary habits,..tonight I gave in though..Marshall belongs alongside Kearnsey and Marto. enough of this matey stuff or when you played...boys own jokes. not funny anymore. Similiarly his harping on for nearly two minutes about an accidental shepherd.
Digby
Roar Guru
The team I thought we could beat OR the team that didn't knock us out.
Rugby Tragic
Roar Rookie
Good fun?.... it WAS good fun until the the Saders took the lead!.... LOL
Rugby Tragic
Roar Rookie
Haha!... I was having a good time mate, after all, we Blues.. ARE the easybeats in NZ...
taylorman
Roar Guru
Gotta get me some of that wine, me cheap expresso's didn't quite work tonight!?
taylorman
Roar Guru
Good fun Marius, enjoyed it.