In a gripping Good Friday clash at a rain-soaked Apollo Projects Stadium, the Crusaders edged out the Blues 25-22 before 11,400 fans.
Despite an early lead and a strong defensive showing, the Crusaders were pushed to the limit as the Blues clawed back to take a late lead.
James O’Connor kept his nerve, slotting two crucial penalties in the final minutes—including the match-winner—to seal victory.
The tightly contested match featured standout plays from both sides and was praised by Coach Rob Penney as a classic Crusaders-Blues showdown in testing conditions.
