The Blues’ Super Rugby Pacific title defense continues to unravel after a crushing defeat to the Crusaders at Eden Park, marking their fifth loss in six matches.
Plagued by injuries and disjointed play, the Blues struggled to match the Crusaders’ intensity, with basic errors and poor discipline compounding their woes.
Despite early promise from Dalton Papali’i’s try, the Blues fell behind as the Crusaders capitalised on turnovers and breakdown dominance, with Chay Fihaki and Kyle Preston crossing the line.
Coach Vern Cotter acknowledged the team’s struggles, calling for a “reset” to salvage the season, as the Blues face an uphill battle to make the playoffs.
