Crusaders stun Blues 25–22 with last-minute penalty in Christchurch
Will Jordan was one of the try scorer for Crusaders
©Steve Haag
The Crusaders edged out the Blues in a gripping Super Rugby Pacific Round 10 clash in Christchurch, winning 25–22 thanks to a late penalty by James O’Connor.
In a contest defined by momentum swings and high-pressure execution, the defending champions held their nerve to clinch a valuable win in front of a raucous home crowd at Apollo Projects Stadium.
The home side wasted little time making their presence felt, opening the scoring through Tamaiti Williams, who powered over in the early stages. But the Blues were quick to respond, as Josh Beehre crossed to level the score at 7–7 midway through the half.
The Crusaders continued to pressure the visitors and were rewarded when Will Jordan sprinted in for a try just before the break. With both sides trading physical exchanges and territory, the hosts took a 14–7 lead into halftime.
The Crusaders extended their lead shortly after the restart when Christian Lio-Willie muscled over to put the home side ahead 19–7. However, the Blues came charging back with a brilliant attacking spell.
Hoskins Sotutu finished off a powerful drive, and moments later, he turned provider with an audacious behind-the-back offload to AJ Lam, who finished spectacularly to bring the game level at 19–19.
A composed Beauden Barrett slotted a penalty to hand the Blues a slender 22–19 lead heading into the final ten minutes. But the Crusaders, ever composed under pressure, earned a penalty which James O’Connor coolly converted to level the scores at 22–22.
With just minutes left on the clock, another infringement by the Blues presented O’Connor with a shot to win it — and he delivered.
His penalty in the dying moments secured a tense 25–22 win for the Crusaders, sparking celebrations in the stands and on the touchline.
The result cements the Crusaders’ status as a top contender in this year’s competition, while the Blues are left to rue missed chances and late lapses. In a match filled with flair, grit, and tactical duels, it was ultimately O'Connor’s calm under pressure that proved decisive.
