Crusaders Edge Brumbies in Thrilling Encounter: Five Key Talking Points
A Battle for Second Place
In a closely contested Super Rugby Pacific clash at Canberra’s GIO Stadium, the Crusaders narrowly defeated the Brumbies 33-31 in a match full of momentum swings. With the Chiefs having secured top spot earlier in the day by beating the Highlanders, both teams entered this fixture eyeing second place on the table. The Brumbies struck first through Feao Fotuaika just two minutes in, but the Crusaders responded quickly, eventually establishing a 25-14 lead at the break thanks to scores from Christian Lio-Willie, Ethan Blackadder, and Rivez Reihana, as well as a surprise drop goal from Sevu Reece.
The Crusaders looked in control early in the second half after Reihana added another penalty, but the Brumbies stormed back with tries from Rhys Van Nek and Andy Muirhead to level the game at 28-28. Although Noah Lolesio’s late penalty appeared to have sealed it for the hosts, George Bell’s late try secured a dramatic win for the visitors.
Crusaders’ Predictable Game Plan
Despite their star-studded forward pack, featuring four All Blacks, the Crusaders remain overly reliant on their physical dominance and structured set-pieces. Without key backs like Will Jordan and experienced playmakers such as Dan Carter or Richie Mo’unga, their current attacking structure lacks variety and sharpness. Although Noah Hotham’s kicking and Reihana’s efforts have been solid, the backline continues to struggle for fluidity, especially during phase play. Their powerful first-half performance was enough against the Brumbies, but it raises questions about how they’ll fare against top-tier opposition like the Chiefs in the play-offs.
Lolesio’s Encouraging Comeback – But With a Late Misstep
Just over two weeks after a frightening spinal injury scare, Noah Lolesio made a commendable return to action and delivered an impressive performance for most of the match. He orchestrated the Brumbies’ attack well, kicked accurately, and was central to their comeback. However, in the game’s dying moments, with the Brumbies in a prime position to seal the win, Lolesio chose to spread the ball wide rather than attempt a drop goal. The decision backfired when Corey Toole lost possession in contact, handing the initiative back to the Crusaders. It was a harsh lesson in decision-making under pressure.
Blackadder’s Milestone Effort
Ethan Blackadder marked his 50th appearance for the Crusaders with an impactful first-half display. The dynamic flanker scored a try in the 13th minute and was a standout on defence, registering 11 tackles in just 40 minutes. His relentless work at the breakdown, including two crucial turnovers, underlined his value to the team. Although he didn’t feature in the second half, his all-action performance laid the foundation for the Crusaders’ win and offered encouraging signs ahead of the play-offs.
More Than a Try Machine – Sevu Reece Shines
Known for his prolific try-scoring, Sevu Reece demonstrated another facet of his skillset in this match. In a surprising move, the All Blacks winger calmly executed a drop goal from 30 metres out late in the first half—a rare and audacious play that extended the Crusaders’ lead to 25-14. Already holding the record for most tries in Super Rugby history, Reece showed he can influence games in more ways than one, underlining his all-round ability and importance to the team.
