Crusaders vs Chiefs

The Chiefs prevailed over the Crusaders in a Super Rugby classic thanks to an 82nd minute try.

But the Chiefs monopolised possession for the remainder of the match and gradually wore down the resolute defence of the Crusaders to achieve their first win in Christchurch in six years.

Winger Shaun Stevenson scored his second try of the match in the 76th minute to bring the Chiefs within range of the Crusaders at 22-17. We just had to keep plugging, building phases and we stayed disciplined and managed to get what we needed just in the nick of time.

The loss was the first of the season for the 12-time champion Crusaders and their first in 11 matches over two seasons.

The Crusaders led 14-10 at halftime and went ahead 21-10 after a multi-phase attack which led to Ennor’s try.

The match slowly turned in the Chief’s favour throughout the second half as they won a larger share of possession and tested the tough Crusaders’ defence with phased attacks.

The Chiefs created an overlap for Stevenson’s second try and again overwhelmed the defence with numbers to set up the match-winner.

“I think they wanted to play a bit more and hold onto the ball in the second half,” Crusaders captain Codie Taylor said.

Rameka Pohipi dived over in the left corner three minutes after the full-time siren on Saturday to give the Hamilton-based Chiefs a 24-21 win over the Christchurch-based Crusaders in Super Rugby Pacific.

The Crusaders led 21-10 with a try to Braydon Ennor in the 46th minute.

Here's how the Crusaders rated in their 24-21 Super Rugby Pacific defeat at the hands of the Chiefs at Orangetheory Stadium in Christchurch.

A handy replacement to bring on at the 55th minute. Busted the line to create a lot of opportunities for his backline. Was always a threat with his elusiveness and quick turn of pace but was often forced to run back infield looking for space. After a great cameo of the bench last week, Hall started in the middle for this game and provided great service to his men outside him. Came on with 20 minutes left to face his old team. Immense in defence and saved a try by stripping Pita-Gus Sowakula over the try line. Set a good platform in the scrum for his fellow forwards and was tireless in defence. Was amongst the best in the forward battle and seemingly popped up everywhere to offer support whenever the Saders made a line break. He was combative at the breakdown throughout the match. Like a typical openside, Christie was tenacious at the breakdown. A few passes didn’t go to hand but otherwise he was influential for the Saders before being subbed shortly after half time. Despite making over 200 tackles, it wasn’t enough to keep the Chiefs from scoring the match-winner right on full-time to end the match 24-21.