FORMER Wallabies flyhalf James O’Connor has proven the hero as the Crusaders claimed a crucial 25-22 win over the Blues in Christchurch.
The two teams were tied at the full-time siren as Super Point looked destined.
Both teams had penalty goals to take the lead before the half, but it was Will Jordan that gave the Crusaders the lead thanks to the lone line break of the half.
It sparked the Crusaders heading into the sheds and this confidence was only boosted when Christian Lio-Willie dived over to start the second half for a 19-7 lead.
The Blues had a mountain of time in the Crusaders’ half and eventually found the spark when needed the most through their inspirational number eight Hoskins Sotutu.
It set up AJ Lam to touch down and suddenly the game was locked at 19-all.
Beauden Barrett put the Blues in front with 13 minutes to go before O’Connor responded to level the scores.
