Our Super Round Learnings Heading into Fiji

The Crusaders came out of Round 2 of Super Rugby Pacific 2023 buoyed by a win against the Highlanders at Super Round in Melbourne.

The 52-15 win came off the back of seven tries and a debut appearance by halfback Noah Hotham. 
Dan Perrin, Crusaders Forwards Coach, spoke to media at Rugby Park in Christchurch on Tuesday before the team jetted off to Fiji to face the Drua on Saturday 11 March. 

“Obviously it was pleasing to get the win in Melbourne, but there are still areas of our game that we need to get better at,” Perrin said. 

“Our areas of focus following that game really come down to discipline and completing our sets with ball in hand. There were a few opportunities in those first 20 minutes where a different team would have put us under a bit of pressure, so we need to be better in that first quarter.” 

Asked about David Havili returning to the 12 jersey after donning 15 for Round 1, Perrin said the veteran brings so much to the boys’ game. 

“It was awesome to see his performance there, he has a great connection and relationship with Richie Mo’unga, and really adds so much to our game when he’s a bit closer to the ball.” 

The Crusaders squad to play the Drua will be announced on Thursday morning from Fiji, with Perrin saying they expected a big contest. 

“We’ll put out a fairly strong team over there. It’s going to be a tough test at home in Lautoka, Saturday afternoon in the heat, so we’ve got to head over there with the right solutions and the right attitude.”