Young Crusaders impress in big win over Moana Pasifika

Macca Springer of the Crusaders scores the second try during the Super Rugby Pacific match against Moana Pasifika
Photo: Photosport

An understrength Crusaders were chasing a bonus point win over Moana Pasifika to boost their Super Rugby Pacific playoff position, and they did it with ease in Auckland on Friday night.

Despite having four All Blacks on mandatory rest for this match, the Crusaders won 41-7 to move into second spot on the points table behind the Chiefs.

Loose forward Christian Lio-Willie, a late inclusion in the starting side due to an injury to Sione Havili Talitui in the warm-up, scored the Crusaders’ 50th try of the season when he crossed the line in the 10th minute.

Winger Macca Springer added to his impressive form, running in his fourth try across his last three starts to further extend the Crusaders’ lead at the 20-minute mark.

The Crusaders dominated possession in the first half with 76 percent of the ball, and were relentless.

All Black Will Jordan scored his first try of the season, after missing the early part of Super Rugby while he recovered from a migraine-related condition, to bring up the bonus point for the visitors before halftime.

The Crusaders did not let up as New Zealand under-20 representative Noah Hotham scored his first try for the franchise to take a 29-0 lead at the break.

Five minutes into the second half the Crusaders had a fifth try, hooker Brodie McAlister driving across the line.

Moana Pasifika’s Tima Fainga’anuku opened the scoring for the home side with a 53rd minute try to give their fans something to celebrate in their final home game of the season.

Crusaders captain Scott Barrett, who will have to sit out the next round against the Waratahs due to the All Blacks rest requirements, brought up the sixth try for his side and ended the scoring in their ninth win of the season.

The hefty loss continued Moana Pasifika’s terrible home record. Prior to this fixture they had lost their last five home games by 40 points or more.

Moana Pasifika are still seeking their first win of the season, and head to Lautoka next round to face Fijian Drua – whereas the Crusaders are back home in Christchurch against the Waratahs.