Macilai powers Crusaders to 38-5 victory over Reds

Crusaders 38-5 Reds, AMI Stadium
Scorecard

A hat-trick of tries from winger Jone Macilai-Tori propelled the Crusaders to their eighth consecutive victory in the Super Rugby after defeating Reds 38-5 at the AMI Stadium.

Despite losing Nemani Nadolo to a suspension last month, the Crusaders looked in no trouble as Macilai-Tori scored two tries in the first seven minutes.

Things just got better for the New Zealand team as their lock Scott Barrett burst through Reds’ defence and scored the third try in the game to ensure a 21-0 lead for the Crusaders at the end of the first-half.

Following the third try from Macilai-Tori in the 42nd minute, Reds made a brief comeback in the game with a try from Campbell Magnay. However, the conversion was a disaster.

Despite losing their skipper Kieran Read who was sin-binned in the 57th minute for infringement, the Crusaders extended their margin of victory with tries from Jordan Taufua and Codie Taylor.

The 38-5 victory has taken the Crusaders to the top of the table with 37 points from nine games.