Experienced Crusaders Aim to Upset High-Flyers Brumbies in Crucial Super Rugby Pacific Clash
Melbourne, Australia, March 02, 2024 – With their season hanging in the balance, former All Black Mils Muliaina believes the defending Super Rugby Pacific champions, the Crusaders, are the “one team” capable of potentially upsetting the high-flying Brumbies in Canberra.
The Crusaders, currently sitting second-last on the ladder, have three crucial matches ahead to save their season, including clashes with the Blues and Moana Pasifika. Following their defeat to the Highlanders in Dunedin last weekend, the Crusaders are under pressure to secure a much-needed win.
“At home as well, the way they play at home, (it’s) very hard to go to Canberra at beat (the Brumbies) but if there is one team that can do it’s the Crusaders.”
The Crusaders have received a boost with the return of first-five Fergus Burke, who will partner Noah Hotham in the halves after recovering from an Achilles injury. This move has allowed All Black David Havili to shift from the No. 10 slot and into the inside centre role, where he will link up with Jone Rova in the midfield.
Muliaina highlighted the significance of Burke’s return, stating:
“Fergus Burke. His return; to be able to allow (David) Havili to move out one into 12 and really run the cutter from there – don’t have as much responsibility on him in terms of that 10 role.”
However, the Crusaders will be without several key players, including All Blacks Tamaiti Williams, Scott Barrett, and Ethan Blackadder, from their forward pack. Hooker Codie Taylor will captain the side for the second week in a row.
As the Crusaders look to keep their season alive, Muliaina’s confidence in their ability to upset the high-flying Brumbies in Canberra provides a glimmer of hope for the defending champions. The upcoming clash promises to be a crucial test for the Crusaders as they fight to regain their position in the Super Rugby Pacific standings.
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