Blues shock Crusaders at Eden Park

The Blues returned to Eden Park in great fashion as they defeated the Crusaders 35-14 in a convincing win for the Auckland side.

The Blues side looked ready for a big game as they marched onto the field, and showed the motivation in their play.

An early attack in the opening minutes saw Culum Retallick pulled down just before the Crusaders line. A quick recycle and pass by Weepu found big flanker Steven Luatua, who leaped over the visitor’s tryline.

The Blues added another try when some slick handling by the backs put big winger and sevens star Frank Halai into some space to find the corner.

The Blues continuous attacking  paid off again, as Chris Noakes put through a great chip kick which Frank Halai picked up for his second.

Dagg did get over the tryline for the Crusaders, but the try was disallowed as he was held in an earlier tackle.

Carter chipped away at the score with some penalty shots, but the Blues hit back with another try through Luke Braid, making it a lot tougher for the Crusaders.

The Blues weren’t done just yet, and another brilliantly placed chip kick by Chris Noakes was picked up by left winger George Moala who raced away to score the fifth try.

Player of the match: Rene Ranger – Ranger was just phenomenal, breaking the line with ease and always delivering safe off-loads or passes to supporting players. He showed his worth every time he touched the ball.

For the Blues:
Tries: Luatua, Halai 2, Braid, Moala
Cons: Weepu, Noakes, Kerr
Pen: Weepu

For the Crusaders:
Pens: Carter 5