Crusaders beat Hurricanes to boost home final hopes

Crusaders 47-14 Hurricanes, One NZ Stadium

The Crusaders kept their hopes of a home qualifying final alive with a commanding 47-14 win over the Hurricanes at One NZ Stadium.

The result also preserved their unbeaten record at the new venue since it opened in April. The Hurricanes, already assured of their finals position, made several changes to their side, and the Crusaders took full advantage with a sharp attacking display.

Reece Marks 100th Match With Double

The night carried special meaning for Sevu Reece, who was making his 100th appearance for the Crusaders. He celebrated it in trademark fashion, scoring twice and extending his place at the top of the club’s all-time try-scoring list.

Reece opened the scoring before the Hurricanes responded through captain Brad Shields, who crossed to level the match. But the Crusaders soon took control through a brilliant attacking spell led by captain David Havili.

Havili broke from near his own 22 and kept the move alive, with Reece involved before Noah Hotham finished the try. Havili then combined with Chay Fihaki to set up Johnny McNicholl, before McNicholl turned provider for Christian Lio-Willie.

That three-try burst in 11 minutes gave the Crusaders a strong 26-7 lead at half-time.

Crusaders Pull Away After Break

Both teams began using their benches early in the second half, with the finals already locked in for both sides. Cooper Roberts impressed on debut for the Crusaders and nearly created a try with a clever offload.

The Crusaders extended their lead in the 62nd minute when Manumaua Letiu finished after a break involving Oli Mathis and Roberts.

Pouri Rakete-Stones crossed for a consolation try for the Hurricanes in the final quarter, but the match was already beyond them. The Crusaders finished strongly, adding late tries through Kyle Preston and Reece’s second to seal the 47-14 win.

The only concern for the Crusaders was their growing injury list. Prop Fletcher Newell left early in the first half with a knee injury after an awkward tackle.

Ethan Blackadder was also withdrawn before half-time as a precaution, while fly-half Rivez Reihana lasted only eight minutes after failing a head injury assessment.

The Crusaders now wait on other results to confirm whether they will host a qualifying final, with a Chiefs win over the Blues needed to keep that possibility alive.