Try doubles to flanker Tom Christie and fullback Will Jordan have helped the Crusaders rally to a 40-20 local-derby victory over their southern neighbours, the Highlanders, in Dunedin.
The result sees the three-time defending Super Rugby champions maintain their unblemished record in the revamped Aotearoa competition and set up a mid-season 'final' against the unbeaten Blues in seven days.
After a penalty and try gave the Crusaders an early advantage, their rivals struck back with converted tries to Shannon Frizell and Ngani Punivai within six minutes of each other, providing a six-point lead that was still three (17-14) at halftime, despite a lopsided penalty count against them.
But after the resumption the tide turned, with Christie grabbing his first try to take momentum back.
Flying winger Sevu Reece dived over in the corner to continue the comeback, and by the time Christie and Jordan snatched their seconds in the dying moments, the Crusaders had stamped their class on proceedings.
Since drawing the opening-round bye after coronavirus lockdown, Scott Robertson's team have barely missed a beat and their relentless style simply ground down the plucky Highlanders defence.
With three wins under their belt, next week's home game against the resurgent Blues looms as a potential blockbuster.
Crusaders 40 (Christie 2, Jordan 2 & Reece tries, Mo'unga 3 conversions & 3 penalties) Highlanders 20 (Frizell & Punivai tries, Hunt 2 conversions & 2 penalties)
Join us at 3:30pm Sunday for live updates of the Chiefs v Hurricanes Super Rugby Aotearoa clash
