The Crusaders have locked in a Super Rugby finals berth and strengthened their chances of hosting a qualifying final after edging the Chiefs 36-32 in Christchurch.
Captain David Havili delivered the decisive moment late in the match, setting up field position with a crucial 50-22 kick before scoring the winning try with four minutes remaining.
The Chiefs threatened to snatch victory after the siren with a desperate counterattack from deep inside their own half, but the Crusaders held firm to preserve their unbeaten record at One NZ Stadium.
The match featured multiple momentum swings, with both sides trading tries throughout, including doubles from Johnny McNicholl for the Crusaders and strong performances from Samisoni Taukei’aho and Kyren Taumoefolau for the Chiefs.
The result leaves the Crusaders just two points behind the Blues in the standings.
