The Crusaders powered into the Super Rugby semi-finals with a commanding 52-31 victory over the Blues in Christchurch, extending their unbeaten record in home finals.
The contest swung decisively after Blues loose forward Malachi Wrampling was sent off for a high tackle on Leicester Fainga’anuku midway through the first half. Although the Blues started brightly and briefly matched the hosts, the Crusaders capitalised on their numerical advantage, building a 33-14 halftime lead and never looking back.
Johnny McNicholl starred with a hat-trick as the home side crossed for eight tries, while captain David Havili and Sevu Reece also featured among the scorers.
The result leaves the Blues reliant on other results to keep their season alive, while the Crusaders now await confirmation of whether they will travel to Hamilton to face the Chiefs or host the Queensland Reds in the next round.
