Crusaders beat Chiefs 36-32 in late thriller

Crusaders 36-32 Chiefs, One NZ Stadium

The Crusaders secured their Super Rugby Pacific finals place with a dramatic 36-32 victory over the Chiefs at One NZ Stadium.

Captain David Havili proved the match-winner, scoring with four minutes remaining after producing a crucial 50-22 kick to shift the pressure back onto the visitors.

The result also kept the Crusaders unbeaten at One NZ Stadium and strengthened their push for a home qualifying final.

Chiefs Strike First

The Chiefs made the stronger start and opened the scoring when quick hands released Kyren Taumoefolau in the corner.

The Crusaders nearly responded through Noah Hotham after a quick lineout move with Sevu Reece, but the try was ruled out after a superb defensive effort from Isaac Hutchinson.

The hosts kept pressing and eventually crossed through Leicester Fainga’anuku, who powered over from close range after repeated Chiefs infringements.

Chiefs Keep Answering

The Chiefs responded quickly through Samisoni Taukei’aho, who scored from a strong rolling maul to continue his impressive try-scoring season.

Jamie Hannah then crossed for the Crusaders, but the Chiefs again replied through Josh Lord. Christian Lio-Willie struck before halftime to reduce the Chiefs’ lead to two points and keep the contest finely balanced.

Crusaders Fight Back After Break

The Crusaders took the lead for the first time when Johnny McNicholl and Reece combined to send McNicholl over in the corner.

The Chiefs regained the advantage through a clever lineout move before Josh Jacomb added a penalty to extend the margin to eight points.

McNicholl’s second try brought the Crusaders back into the contest, setting up a tense finish.

Havili Delivers Winning Moment

With the match on the line, Havili stepped up. His 50-22 kick flipped field position, and the Crusaders capitalised soon after. Fainga’anuku kept the move alive with an offload, allowing Havili to dive over for the decisive try.

The Chiefs had one final chance after the siren, but after breaking into the Crusaders’ 22, they were isolated and turned over.

It sealed a vital 36-32 win for the Crusaders and confirmed their place in the finals.