SUPER RUGBY QUARTER FINALS, 2023
CANTURBURY CRUSADERS (team2) v FIJIAN DRUA ( team7)
ORANGETHEORY STADIUM CHRISTCHURCH NZ June 10th 2023
In a highly anticipated encounter, the Canterbury Crusaders are set to face the formidable challenge of the Fijian Drua in the quarter-finals of the Super Rugby tournament. The pulsating showdown will unfold at the renowned Orangetheory Stadium in Christchurch, New Zealand.
As the Crusaders gear up for their sudden-death quarter-final, they welcome back Ethan Blackadder, whose return from a calf injury adds strength to their lineup. However, they will have to manage without the services of lock Sam Whitelock, who continues to recover from an Achilles niggle. Head coach Scott Robertson has made it clear that they will prioritize Whitelock’s long-term well-being by keeping him on ice for this crucial match. In Whitelock’s absence, Scott Barrett and Quinten Strange will take charge in the second row, determined to fill the void.
Alongside Blackadder’s timely return, the Crusaders also see the comeback of halfback Willi Heinz and prop Oli Jager. Heinz, who has recovered from a calf injury, will make his impact from the bench, injecting experience and composure into the team. Jager, overcoming an infected gash to his leg, will make his first start of the season at tighthead prop, adding stability to the front row.
The Fijian Drua, known for their thrilling style of rugby, created a major upset in Round Three by defeating the Crusaders with a close score of 25-24. However, that victory was fueled by the passionate support of the Fijian crowd. On the road, the Drua’s performance has been less consistent, as they have suffered seven consecutive losses outside of Fiji. Nonetheless, their attacking prowess and firepower cannot be underestimated, and they possess the potential to trouble the Crusaders’ defense.
While the Drua’s bursts of brilliance and exciting style make them a captivating team to watch, the challenge lies in sustaining their performance over the entire 80 minutes against the formidable Crusaders. The Crusaders, with their sharpened scrum and lineout, improved organization in defense, and exceptional individual talents, have been a force to be reckoned with throughout the tournament.
Rugby enthusiasts can expect an enthralling encounter, characterized by exhilarating running, skillful offloading, and lightning-fast ruck work from the Fijian Drua. Meanwhile, the Crusaders will rely on their collective strength, clinical execution, and calculated gameplay. Both teams are fueled by the desire to secure victory and advance to the next stage of the competition.
In a clash of powerhouses, the Canterbury Crusaders and the Fijian Drua will leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of glory. With their eyes set on victory, the stage is set for a thrilling battle at Orangetheory Stadium. Rugby fans can anticipate an intense showdown filled with skill, passion, and a relentless fight for dominance.
Crusaders: Will Jordan, Dallas McLeod, Braydon Ennor, Jack Goodhue, Leicester Fainga’anuku, Richie Mo’unga, Mitch Drummond, Christian Lio-Willie, Tom Christie, Sione Havili-Talitui, Quinten Strange, Scott Barrett (capt), Oli Jager, Codie Taylor, Tamaiti Williams.
Reserves: Brodie McAlister, Kershawl Sykes-Martin, Reuben O’Neill, Zach Gallagher, Ethan Blackadder, Willi Heinz, Fergus Burke, Chay Fihaki.
DRUA: Haereiti Hetet, Tevita Ikanivere, Mesake Doge, Isoa Nasilasila, Te Ahirwau Cirikidaveta, Vilive Miramira, Motikiai Murray, Meli Derenalagi (c), Frank Lomani, Caleb Muntz, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Teti Tela, Iosefo Masi, Selestino Ravutaumada, Ilaisa Droasese
RESERVES: Zuriel Togiatama, Meli Tuni, Samuela Tawake, Etonia Waqa, Elia Canakaivata, Peni Matawalu, Michael Naitokani, Eroni Sau
Referee: Angus Gardner
Assistant Referees: Damon Murphy, Matt Kellahan
PREDICTION
On a beautiful night in Christchurch where the temperature will be around 5degrees at kick off time the Crusaders will kick into semi final mood and win by 15 points.
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