Macca Springer’s remarkable performance, scoring five tries against the Western Force, positioned him as a strong contender to maintain his wing spot. This achievement highlighted rare company, as only one other player in Super Rugby history, the late Sean Wainui, managed this feat with the Chiefs in 2021. However, despite Springer’s significant contribution, Crusaders coach Rob Penney opted to reinstate Chay Fihaki into the starting lineup for the match against the Blues on Saturday night.
Penney justified his decision, stating that Fihaki’s previous match performance, where he nearly earned the player of the match title against the Reds, played a critical role in the selection. Even after Springer’s impressive display, Penney felt that bringing Fihaki back was a straightforward choice. Initially, Springer was not even slated for the bench until Brayden Ennor sustained an injury during training.
Reflecting on the team dynamics, Penney remarked on Springer’s reaction to the demotion, indicating that Springer was disappointed yet eager to play, a sign of his competitive spirit. The coach acknowledged that Fihaki’s prior effort opened the door for Springer’s opportunity, which he capitalised on exceptionally well.
As the Crusaders look to bounce back from missing out on finals last season, they currently hold the second position in the standings after five rounds this year. Penney emphasised the importance of utilising the full squad while balancing the recovery needs of the All Blacks players and achieving favourable results essential for success later in the season.
This upcoming match against the Blues will take place at Eden Park, Auckland, with kick-off scheduled for 5:05 pm AEDT on Saturday, 22 March. The line-ups for both teams were announced, with the Blues set to field a strong side including players like Caleb Clarke and Rieko Ioane, while the Crusaders lineup features key players such as David Havili and Sevu Reece, alongside the returning Fihaki.
In summary, while Springer’s recent performance showcased his capabilities, the team’s tactical decisions and the need for strategic squad management ultimately dictate selection outcomes in the competitive landscape of Super Rugby.