Having picked up a good win over the Cheetahs which helped put us on top of the table, I think it’s time for a little celebration.
Too often in New Zealand we don’t celebrate our successes but the Crusaders are on top for good reason – so let’s recognise that instead of looking for any potential negatives.
On the way to work yesterday I was listening to a sports radio station which was talking about injuries to players and wondering whether too much rugby is played. They also suggested there was every chance there will be no New Zealand team in the Rebel Sport Super 14 play-offs.
Also, some commentators are already talking down the All Blacks chances ahead of the Tri Nations because of the form of teams in the Super 14. I would say that it’s a bit early for that. The Tri Nations is three months away and there is a lot of rugby to be played yet.
My philosophy is: what you focus on is what you get. Moaning about injuries, lack of form and other negative things puts you on a fast track to mediocrity.
The Crusaders expect to make the play-offs this season - we expect to every season.
While we haven’t put together a total 80-minute performance yet, we have shown adaptability, determination, heart and a fair bit of skill. And, as I’ve mentioned, we’re on top of the points table. These all put us in good stead for our three matches away.
We leave for Perth this morning and play the Force on Friday night before playing the Stormers in Cape Town and Bulls in Pretoria.
A daunting road trip? No, not really. We’re looking forward to the challenge and opportunities this trip presents.
The Crusaders prepare very well for trips to South Africa. We have some of the best medical staff in the competition and have planned for the sleep disruption and jet lag, the nutritional requirements and playing at altitude. None of these things are unexpected and so we just get on with it.
For instance, we play the Force at 7.45pm Perth time (11.45pm NZ time) so this week we have been training later in the day and have recommended that the players go to bed later and sleep in a little bit more.
Us coaches always look forward to getting away on the road because the players become more of a captive audience – they can’t escape!
But seriously, you have more opportunities for one-on-ones with players and the whole travelling scenario brings you together as a group.
Two Crusaders made their debuts last weekend – Dan Bowden and Tu Umaga-Marshall. Dan played extremely well when starting at first-five and Tu did everything right when coming on to the wing as a replacement.
As always for players making their debuts, there was a presentation in the changing room after the match for them – Dan is Crusader number 147 and Tu is number 148.
I was really pleased with that performance against the Cheetahs. We were aiming to play with tempo and pace and did so, creating a lot of opportunities.
Our defence too was very good – we have conceded the second lowest number of tries per game after the Stormers.
By the way, if you’re wondering who has the lowest Crusader number in the current squad, it is Chris Jack who is No 63.