Match Report: Crusaders comeback v Hurricanes

18 Feb 2025

Antonio Shalfoon celebrates with Sevu Reece after the winger's second-half try

The Crusaders kicked off their 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season with a thrilling 33-25 victory over the Hurricanes at Apollo Projects Stadium on Friday night.

The Hurricanes struck first in a matter of minutes, while Scott Barrett's yellow card in the fourth minute set the tone for a challenging start. Jacob Devery powered over for the opening try, giving the Hurricanes an early lead. If the yellow card to Barrett wasn't enough, Noah Hotham limped off with a high ankle sprain, making way for Crusader #293 Kyle Preston.

Not only did Preston score three tries on debut, but he also box kicked incredibly well at crucial times.

"He was probably going to get 17 minutes, but he ended up with 72 and what a champion performance. But when you're running 4 minute 13 broncos, you're going to have plenty of fuel in the tank," says Head Coach Rob Penney on the 25-year-old former roofer's performance.

"Kyle knows how to win and there’s no substitute for that, particularly in an area where you're driving others. It was awesome to see him perform so well in his first genuine outing."

Despite the setbacks, the Crusaders fought back. Will Jordan's incisive run set up Preston for his first try, igniting the home crowd. Cullen Grace's try soon followed, leveling the scores. However, the Hurricanes regained momentum with Kini Naholo's athletic dive in the corner, extending their lead to 22-14 at halftime.

Will Jordan looks on during a scrum in his return to Super Rugby

youtube

The halftime break saw a celebration like no other, with two Crusaders fans getting married under the posts – love was truly in the air on Valentine's Day. A huge congratulations to Kelsey and Kanawa from the whole Crusaders whānau.

The Hurricanes came out strong into the second half, but the Crusaders' defense held firm. A bold counterattack saw Preston score his second try, reducing the deficit to just one point.

Tensions ran high as both teams exchanged penalties and physical play. Callum Harkin's penalty extended the Hurricanes' lead, but the Crusaders' resilience shone through. James O'Connor provided a spark with his classy touches as he stepped onto the field as Crusader #294. Sevu Reece's breakaway try, converted by O'Connor, put the Crusaders ahead for the first time.

In the final minutes, the Hurricanes were forced to defend relentlessly. Kyle Preston, the hero of the night, sealed the victory with his third try, diving beside the ruck to secure a memorable win for the Crusaders.

"It was really special to get the win at home for the spectators, that's the bit I'm rapt about," says Penney.

"But it's one victory in a long campaign, we're not getting too carried away with it and we have a massive challenge this week up in Hamilton."