Game Preview: Crusaders v Rebels Round 10

26 Apr 2024

We’re back home this week and pumped to connect with our members and fans at Apollo Projects Stadium for this Round 10 clash versus the Melbourne Rebels.

It’s Connection Week, there’s a two-for-one ticket deal on, and it’s Anzac Weekend Round – what better time to get down to the hallowed turf and shout for the boys. That’s what makes us stronger.

Key team news

Scott Barrett is back to captain the team in just their third game in Christchurch this season. He’ll start at lock.

Rivez Reihana will start at 10, now fully fit and ready to resume duties.

David Havili is also back in the colours, ready to make an impact off the bench. He’s providing cover at first five – a nod perhaps to the future direction of his game.

Cullen Grace will play his 50th game for the Crusaders on Friday.

Corey Kellow put in a huge shift in our win against the Chiefs in Round 6. He’s back in the 23.

Last time we met

We last met the Melbourne Rebels in Round 9 of the 2023 season in Melbourne, beating them 43-27. We scored five tries including two to returning All Black David Havili.

From our 11 meetings so far, the Crusaders have won nine with more than twice the number of points scored too (Crusaders 461, Rebels 218). The Crusaders have won the last five meetings.

Match ups to watch

Carter Gordon is a menace on the ball, and a known danger. Our boys will be on the first-five like a hawk. Rivez Reihana is the Crusaders counterpart, back in full flight and ready to dictate play.

Johnny McNicholl starts at fullback for us this week, brining huge rugby wisdom alongside fast line breaks and a huge boot to boot. He’ll be squared up against seasoned Wallaby and regular Rebels starter Andrew Kellaway.

Maciu Nabolakasi is a relative newcomer to the Rebels ranks, finding himself looking across the paddock at none other than Ethan Blackadder. Blackadder is in fine form for the red and black.

Darby Lancaster scored a hattrick for the Rebels against the Highlanders just two weeks ago so he’ll be one to keep an eye on, while Heremaia Murray gets the start on the Crusaders’ left wing. He’s showed impressive speed and ball carrying ability when given the opportunity – and Friday is just that.

Sevu Reece has a firm grasp on the right wing this season, having only last week become the club’s top try scorer in history. Meanwhile, Lachie Anderson finds himself in a similar position for the Rebels, his experience playing sevens for Australia no doubt a bonus.