Sport

Crusaders hold off spirited Melbourne Rebels

06:02 am on 29 April 2013

The Crusaders have held off a determined Melbourne Rebels 30-26 in their Super Rugby clash in Christchurch.

Zac Guildford and Tyler Bleyendaal got the Crusaders off to a promising start with two early tries before the Rebels came back into the game with a try of their own and two James O'Connor penalties.

The Crusaders led 18-11 at half-time but the Rebels came back strong after the break adding two tries, which put them five points in front.

But Tom Taylor continued to kick crucial penalties for the home side and a big defensive effort at the end gave the Crusaders the win.