The Crusaders delivered a decisive psychological edge ahead of the Super Rugby playoffs, with prospects of a 2026 rematch on the horizon. In the final regular season game, they marked Sevu Reece’s 100th game with an emphatic 47-14 victory at Te Kaha.
Despite missing key players Will Jordan and Ethan Blackadder, the Crusaders dominated their opponents at their newly established fortress. This win catapults them to third place on the table, while the Blues must secure a victory in Hamilton to retain a home advantage for the upcoming weekend.
Reece, celebrating his milestone, initiated the scoring with an opening try, diving over from the base of the ruck. The Hurricanes quickly responded, with Brad Shields forcing his way over after Cam Roigard’s tactical play drew in defenders.
What followed was a Crusaders’ scoring blitz. They tallied three unanswered tries before halftime, the highlight being a spectacular counter-attack. After a prolonged Hurricanes assault, Chay Fihaki intercepted, setting up David Havili for a powerful break. Christian Lio-Willie then provided an excellent offload to Noah Hotham, completing the full-field play.
Johnny McNicoll controversially extended the lead, with replays suggesting he might have lost control while grounding the ball. Before the break, Lio-Willie added another try, capitalizing on Reece’s break and McNicoll’s precise pass.
Post-halftime, the game both expanded and unraveled. With substitutions made early, the match turned chaotic, as described by Sky commentator Justin Marshall as a “lolly scramble.” Despite the disorder, both teams managed three additional tries. The first materialized after 15 minutes of tumult, involving replacement hooker Manumaua Letiu.
The Hurricanes managed a consolation try when Pouri Rakete Stones powered over from close range. However, the Crusaders quickly countered through a McNicoll linebreak, connecting with Kyle Preston. Reece capped his 100th game with a second try, effortlessly scoring after the Hurricanes’ deep-running attempt ended in a turnover.
The defending champions have issued a warning to their rivals.
