Crusaders edge Brumbies 33-31 in Super Rugby thriller

In one of the most exhilarating matches of the Super Rugby Pacific season, the Crusaders held off a fierce Brumbies fightback to seal a narrow 33–31 win in Canberra.

The result guarantees the Crusaders a home semi-final while the Brumbies, despite the loss, will still host a qualifying final.

The contest exploded into life in just the first minute when Brumbies prop Feao Fotuaika crashed over to give the hosts an early lead. But the Crusaders responded rapidly, with Christian Lio-Willie powering across the line in the 7th minute. Rivez Reihana slotted the conversion and added a penalty soon after to shift momentum in the visitors' favour.

Ethan Blackadder extended the Crusaders’ advantage in the 13th minute with a determined close-range try, and although the Brumbies hit back through centre Len Ikitau, Reihana kept the scoreboard ticking with another penalty and a pinpoint drop goal.

Sevu Reece, stepping into a playmaking role, contributed effectively as the Crusaders capitalised on possession and territory. At halftime, the visitors led 25–14, looking firmly in control.

After the break, the Crusaders continued to apply pressure and stretched their lead with another penalty. But the Brumbies, needing a response, surged back into the contest.

Rhys Van Nek scored a powerful try in the 50th minute to reduce the gap. Moments later, Andy Muirhead finished a sweeping move to bring the Brumbies within touching distance.

Noah Lolesio then converted a penalty in the 73rd minute to give the Brumbies a 31–28 lead, turning the match on its head and sending the home crowd into raptures.

But the Crusaders weren’t finished. With time winding down, a rolling maul proved decisive as George Bell emerged from the pile in the 76th minute to touch down, restoring the lead to 33–31. Reihana's missed conversion left the door slightly ajar, but the visitors held firm in the closing moments to claim a crucial win.

The win confirms the Crusaders as second in the standings, handing them the all-important home semi-final advantage. Their blend of early intensity and late-game composure underlined why they remain title contenders year after year.