Crusaders centre Ryan Crotty warns Chiefs ahead of Friday's match - Rugby News Update
Following their defeat against Hurricanes at Christchurch on June 30, the Crusaders are not willing to take any chances on Friday’s match with Chiefs.
The Crusaders are seven-time Champions of the tournament and have managed to defeat the Chiefs in 9 out of 12 encounters so far.
Having played 14 matches so far in the 2012 Super Rugby 15, the Crusaders managed to end up on the winning side 9 times. They are scheduled to face the Cheifs this Friday, afterwhich they go up against Western Force on July 14.
Crotty believes that their prestige is at stake and they definitely need to come up with a strong attacking strategy on Friday.
At the same time, the centre is not pleased with the fact that his team cannot make it to the top position in New Zealand conference anymore.
"We're desperate - we need to go up there and win. We know our backs are against the wall and we'll come out swinging," Crotty stated.
"There's no second chance any more as there's a lot of teams hot on our heels. It's frustrating we can't challenge for the number one spot in the New Zealand conference."
"Whatever midfield you come up against you always want to test yourself against the best. Sonny has the All Blacks number 12 jersey at the moment so there's no better person for me to go out and give a 100 [per cent]," he continued.
Moreover, he explained that they had been making opportunities for passes but plans haven't worked as expected.
A couple of key players will be rejoining the squad for Friday’s battle, including number eight Kieran Read and full-back Israel Dagg. However, Dan Carter’s return is not guaranteed.
In case Carter does not make it for Friday, Tom Taylor is going to show up as his alternative to balance out Sony Bill Williams.
Despite the disappointing loss to Hurricanes last friday, infront of their home crowd, the Crusaders are geared up to perform in their upcoming encounter this friday.
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