Noah Hotham’s brilliant performance led the Crusaders to a decisive 32-12 victory over the Reds in the first-ever Super Rugby Pacific qualifying final, securing the team a home semifinal next week. Played in chilly conditions at Apollo Projects Stadium in Christchurch, the match marked the Crusaders’ 30th home playoff win.
The only setback for coach Rob Penney was the early exit of try-scoring prop Tamaiti Williams, who left the field injured in the 34th minute. The Reds managed to score two late tries while Ethan Blackadder was in the sin-bin, but overall, the Crusaders showcased their dominance.
Hotham, in stellar form, executed a brilliant chip-and-chase try in the 56th minute, adding to the Crusaders’ already significant lead, which had been built up by tries from All Blacks captain Scott Barrett and Williams earlier in the match. The Crusaders were leading 19-0 by that point, having capitalised on an attack-friendly environment after heavy rainfall before kick-off.
Despite the cold, a small group of spirited fans attended the match, while a more significant number opted for the comfort of watching at home. Both teams adopted a strategic focus on kicking during the first half, attempting to exploit the slippery conditions, evidenced by 38 kicks in play before halftime.
The Crusaders’ All Black front row demonstrated their strength, winning three first-half penalties in the scrum. The Reds had an opportunity to score early on, with centre Josh Flook almost breaking through the Crusaders’ line, but a knock-on quashed their chances. Barrett established an early lead for the Crusaders after capitalising on a mistake by the Reds’ lock, Josh Canham, scoring the first try with a video review confirming Barrett’s grounding.
Emboldened by this lead, the Crusaders opted to kick for touch instead of a goal after earning a penalty, which paid off when Williams barged through for a try following a well-executed maul. The Crusaders’ defence was solid, with Blackadder, Tom Christie, and Lio-Willie leading a formidable effort that thwarted the Reds’ attempts to breach their try-line before halftime.
As the second half progressed, Hotham extended the Crusaders’ lead with his try, complemented by a penalty and another try from Reihana. Although the Reds managed to score twice through Josh Nasser and vice-captain Fraser McReight when Blackadder was yellow-carded, it was too little too late. The Crusaders asserted their control throughout the match, showcasing their tactical acumen and physical prowess.