Defending Super Rugby champions the Crusaders finally ended an uncharacteristic five-game losing streak last night with a 37-26 home win over the Chiefs in Christchurch.
The Chiefs had been widely tipped to put away a struggling Crusaders side, but ran into a much improved version of the red-and-blacks, who rediscovered their side’s more typically winning mojo to run in five tries to four.
Veteran Johnny McNicholl marked his return to Christchurch with an excellent game for the home side, scoring two tries.
The Chiefs, who rested star first five Damian McKenzie, did all they could to try to stay in the contest, but were chasing the game throughout.
