Crusaders too good for brave Chiefs

THE Crusaders reclaimed their crown by edging out the Chiefs in an intense final battle in Christ church as the Chiefs to defeat in the final for the third straight year.

- SAM JACKSON

Leading 13-12 at the break, a fierce arm-wrestle ensued with a penalty from Rivez Reihana enough to secure the Crusaders the title — their 15th in 30 years of the Southern Hemisphere competition.

Hooker Codie Taylor scored a try and Reihana kicked 11 points to put the Canterbury outfit back on top after missing missing the playoffs last season.

“We had a shocking year last year but we’re back at the top,” said fly-half Reihana, who was named Player of the Match.

“Just so stoked to be a part of this team... lucky we've got some world-class players that we're able to rely on in those crunch moments.”

The Chiefs, hungry for a first title since 2013, scored first after Crusaders skipper David Havili was sent to the sin bin in the 11th minute for a high tackle on Emoni Narawa and prop George Dyer and crashed over for a converted try.