Crusaders dominate Blues with 54-17 victory in Christchurch

Crusaders 54-17 Blues, AMI Stadium
Scorecard

Crusaders came up with an eight-try riot as they trounced Blues 54-17 in their Super Rugby encounter at AMI Stadium on Saturday.

This is Crusaders' 14th win from 16 games in the league stage as they finish at the top of the table while Blues with just four wins are the only New Zealand side to miss out on the play-off.

Crusaders got off to a promising start with Jack Goodhue crossing over in the fourth minute and that remained the only points in the first quarter from both the sides.

George Bridge, who was the standout performer this game further extended Crusaders' lead with his 23rd minute try but this time Richie Mo'unga converted to take the scoreline to 12-0.

The response from Blues came in the 30th minute when Melani Nanai Vai crashed over the line as they reduced the gap to seven points but his opposite number Seta Tamanivalu with his try in the 40th minute as the teams headed into the break with a 19-5 scoreline.

Crusaders further extended their advantage with Goodhue scoring his second try at the start of the second half but Blues were in the game as they were awarded a penalty try in the 50th minute and four minutes later, Nanai Vai strolled past the try line as the scoreline became 26-15.

The final quarter was dominated by Crusaders with Bridge (64' and 73'), Sam Whitelock (77') and Bryn Hall (80') scoring tries to complete a 54-17 victory.

The @crusadersrugby where absolutely ruthless in their demolition of the rival @BluesRugbyTeam with an impressive 54-17 win in Christchurch.#SuperRugby #Week19 #CRUvBLU pic.twitter.com/rN8XdNEsU3

— Super Rugby (@SuperRugby) July 14, 2018