'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.
In tough conditions, the Crusaders have once again proven too strong at home, keeping the Highlanders scoreless en route to a 17-nil victory.
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The Crusaders dominated territory and possession throughout the contest, and were aided by a very one sided penalty count. The Highlanders ill-discipline saw them lose a man to the bin early on and the Crusaders simply established the dominance required to attain victory.
In a forward oriented contest, the Crusaders pack as always was superb. They give nothing away and barely made any schoolboy errors. The Highlanders just couldn’t get into the game because of Canterbury’s intensity upfront.
The Crusaders will now host another home final next week while the Highlanders end their season on an underwhelming note after finishing the regular season strongly. Several All Blacks stars, however will rest up and prepare for the Rugby Championship.
Crusaders 17
Highlanders 0
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.