Crusaders put Canes away – Highlights

The Crusaders put down a marker at home, bringing to an end the Hurricanes ten match winning streak with a victory of 24-13 over the side from Wellington, bettering their chances of a home advantage in the knockout stages.

It was the Barrett brothers contributing to the majority of the first half’s points, with Scott Barrett touching down early in the half for the Crusaders, and Beauden Barrett kicking two penalties to keep the Hurricanes in it at half time. A tightly contested first half saw the Crusaders go into half time with only a one point lead of 7-6, as they opted to not take points at then end of the half and went for the corner, only for their forwards to be demolished by the Hurricanes’.

Richie Mo’unga drew first blood for the Crusaders in the second half, scoring early but missing the conversion. Mike Alaalota then crossed over for his try just three minutes later, to be converted. The home side then struck again with a converted try from Bedwell-Curtis to stretch their lead to  24-6.

A late try from Reed Prinsep and conversion from Barrett added seven points to the Hurricanes score but they were unable to come back against the champion Crusaders, who remain top of the table.

Crusaders – Tries: Scott Barrett, Mike Alaalatoa, Heiden Bedwell-Curtis. Conversions: Richie Mo’unga (3). Penalty: Mo’unga.
Hurricanes – Try: Reed Prinsep. Conversion: Beauden Barrett. Penalties: Jordie Barrett, Beauden Barrett.