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Backs-to-the-wall Crusaders win extra special, says Robertson
By Ben Spratt
Breakdancing Crusaders coach Scott Robertson felt their Super Rugby title win was particularly sweet because of the quality of the final in Christchurch.
Overwhelming favourites ahead of the match, the Crusaders saw off the Lions for the second year in a row, but were under the cosh for much of the match as a brave defence kept the visitors at bay.
Robertson, who celebrated in trademark fashion with a breakdance on the pitch, was delighted with the way his players fought to secure victory.
"It's massive for us in a number of ways," he said. "To do it back to back, in a style like that.
"We made the most tackles we have all year, so that means the quality of the game was high. And to do it here, it had been 10 years since a home final in Christchurch.
“It's always special because some of these guys have been with us a long time. To do it last year and do it again is very special."
Captain Sam Whitelock had few words as the celebrations began on Saturday night, but Richie Mo'unga agreed with his skipper's brief assessment that back-to-back titles "sound pretty awesome".
"[The performance of] the defence goes to show how much we love each other, how much we care," Mo'unga said. "We knew the Lions were going to keep coming and they did.
"To invest so much in one season and give every bit of yourself, for it to pay off, is just an awesome way to finish the season."
Crusaders flyhalf Richie Mo'unga was man of the match in an influential all-round performance.
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Latest Comments
The New Zealand performance in the return fixture in 2016 was filthy. A lot of Irish supporters were pretty shocked by it, viewed it as de facto cheating just to avoid another defeat.
Also shocked by the abuse to Ireland, captain, vice-captain and spectators after the full time whistle in Paris defeat, last match.
Sledging is sledging, but that happens during the game and targetting spectators should be completely out of bounds.
The Irish public used to enjoy these matches, even in defeat. Now they are necessary but unpleasant, because NZ apparently cannot accept or respect successful challengers.
Go to commentsThanks for the analysis Nick, thought provoking as usual. Couple of queries though, in the pic where you've circled Williams bind , I'm pretty sure it shows Stuart's knee on the ground, surely that's a NZ penalty? Also having had the chance to watch it again the All Black scrum seeems to improve after halftime, but before either England or the All Blacks replace their props. Not sure if that was the result of Tuipolutu coming on or some halftime tips. Either way this is only Williams second international season, so he'll be better for the experience.
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