Crusaders stretch winning streak to 12 after 24-31 win over Chiefs

Chiefs 24-31 Crusaders, ANZ National Stadium
Scorecard

Crusaders managed to maintain their winning streak going this season as they came up with a clinical second half performance to come from behind and complete a 24-31 win over Chiefs in their Super Rugby encounter at ANZ National Stadium on Friday.

Even though, a double penalty from Richie Mo'unga got Crusaders off to a six point lead, tries from Tim Nanai-Williams and James Lowe got Chiefs to a four point lead by the end of 23rd minute. Although the Chiefs failed to add conversions on both the occasions.

Flanker Heiden Bedwell-Curtis helped Crusaders reclaim the lead with a 26th minute touchdown but it was negated by efforts from Kane Hames, who strolled past the post for Chiefs in the 30th minute. The visitors were trailing by four points at half-time.

Crusaders showed more intent in the second half as fullback David Kaetau Havili and replacement Ben Funnell scored the tries in the third quarter while Mo'unga kicked a conversion and a penalty to increase their lead to 11 points heading into the final 10 minutes.

All Blacks star Aaron Cruden raised the hopes of Chiefs when he crossed over in the 71st minute and after a conversion from Damian McKenzie, the hosts brought down the gap to four points but Mo'unga held his nerve and ensured a seven point win for Crusaders with his fourth successful penalty that came in the 75th minute.

With 12 wins from as many games, Crusaders dominate the New Zealand Conference while Chiefs are positioned second.