Crusaders reclaim top position after 57-24 win over Stormers

Crusaders 57-24 Stormers, AMI Stadium
Scorecard

Crusaders ran a eight try riot as they dominated their Super Rugby fixture against Stormers at AMI Stadium with a convincing 57-24 triumph on Saturday.

Robert du Preez scored the first points in the game with a penalty in the ninth minute for the Stormers.

However, that remained the only points for them in the first half as George Bridge (12, 28, 32) scored a hat-trick of tries followed by a double from Kieran Read (36, 40). With fly-half Richie Mo'unga adding four extras and a penalty, Crusaders headed into half time with a 36-10 lead.

Even though Stormers had a decent second half where they scored three tries - one each from Cheslin Kolbe (41'), Bjorn Basson (52') and replacement Oliver Kebble (66'), Crusaders replied back with touchdowns from replacements Michael Alaalatoa (59'), Peter Samu (61') and Manasa Mataele (77') to complete a 33 point victory for the hosts.

Crusaders have won all their eight games this season and have displaced Hurricanes at the top of New Zealand Conference while this is the second defeat for Stormers after their six-match winning streak as they continue to top Africa 1 Conference.