BLUES INTO SEMI FINALS DESPITE CRUSADERS LOSS
The Blues are heading to Wellington for a Super Rugby Pacific semi final showdown with the Hurricanes.
Despite falling 52-31 in their Qualifying Final against the Crusaders on Saturday night, results elsewhere ensured Vern Cotter's side secured their place in the competition's final four, setting up a blockbuster clash against the Hurricanes next weekend.
Facing one of the toughest assignments in Super Rugby, the Blues made a flying start in Christchurch.
A clever lineout move created space for AJ Lam to break through the defensive line before finding halfback Sam Nock in support for the opening try. Zarn Sullivan converted to give the visitors an early 7-0 lead.
The match took a significant turn in the 18th minute when loose forward Malachi Wrampling was shown a red card following a tackle on Crusaders centre Leicester Fainga'anuku.
Reduced to 14 men for more than an hour, the Blues were forced to produce a gritty defensive effort against a Crusaders side determined to make the most of the advantage.
The visitors responded admirably. After the Crusaders hit back through Sevu Reece and Johnny McNicholl, Anton Segner crashed over to keep the Blues firmly in the contest.
The home side built momentum late in the first half, crossing three more times to establish a 33-14 advantage at the break, but the Blues continued to fight throughout the second period.
Tries to Xavi Taele, Caleb Clarke and Payton Spencer highlighted the attacking quality and resilience within the squad.
Clarke's powerful finish and Spencer's late effort ensured the Blues remained competitive right through to the final whistle despite the numerical disadvantage.
Attention now turns to Wellington, where the Blues will meet the Hurricanes for a place in the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final.
During the game prop Ofa Tu’ungafasi ran out in his 165th game to become the most capped Blues player of all time.
Blues 31: Tries: Sam Nock, Anton Segner, Xavi Taele, Caleb Clarke, Payton Spencer. Conversions: Zarn Sullivan (3)
Crusaders 52: Tries: Johnny McNicholl (3), Sevu Reece, David Havili, Taha Kemara, Chay Fihaki, Ioane Moananu Leitu. Conversions: Taha Kemara (5), Rivez Reihana