Defending Super Rugby Pacific champions the Crusaders have secured back-to-back wins for the first time this season with a commanding 21-50 victory over Moana Pasifika at North Harbour Stadium in Albany.
Despite missing key playmakers and captain David Havili, with Will Jordan leading the side, the Crusaders struck early through Braydon Ennor and quickly built momentum. Moana Pasifika responded with tries to Tevita Ofa and Joel Lam to briefly take the lead, but it remained a tight contest at halftime.
A powerful second-half surge, highlighted by Leicester Fainga’anuku’s break and two tries from hooker Bell, saw the Crusaders pull away, with Chay Fihaki also scoring twice in a dominant finish.
