A second-half momentum shift led the Crusaders to an exhilarating 34-19 win over the Chiefs in a blockbuster Super Rugby Pacific clash in Hamilton.
Crusaders try-scoring speedster Will Jordan Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The Crusaders made amends for their loss to the Crusaders earlier this month in Christchurch by scoring five tries to three at FMG Stadium.
Despite being within three points at half-time, the Chiefs were unable to close the margin.
Sevu Reece scored his 37th try for the Crusaders, to move ahead of Dan Carter on the Crusaders all-time try scoring list.
Crusaders captain Scott Barrett was pleased with his side's determination.
"We knew coming up here (Hamilton) is a tough place to come out on top," Barrett said.
"We had to turn up physically and I thought the boys showed plenty of heart in that area."
Chiefs captain Sam Cane was disappointed his team failed to capitalise on the support of a 7000-strong crowd at FMG Stadium.
Chiefs lock Brodie Retallick left the field during the first half after taking a a couple of knocks.
Blues hang on for win
Earlier the Blues held on to beat the Highlanders, 32-25, in Dunedin in a thrilling game at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
A poor first half on the scoreboard did not manage to blunt the enthusiasm of the Highlanders as they raced back from an 18-3 half-time deficit in search of their first win of the season.
The Highlanders attacked the Blues to score three tries in the second half, but Tony Brown's men were consigned to another loss despite their best effort of the season.
Hoskins Sotutu charges forward Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The Highlanders were spurred on by a boisterous home crowd of 7500, with the student population making the most of the removal of crowd restrictions.
Blues first-five Beauden Barrett suffered a head knock which forced the 30-year-old to leave the field. Barrett had returned to rugby recently following a concussion in November during the All Blacks' loss to Ireland, and tonight was his first start of the season.
The Blues were impressive early and ended the night with four tries on the board to Caleb Clarke, Barrett, Hoskins Sotutu and Barrett's replacement Stephen Perofeta.