The Fijian Drua were outgunned in Christchurch as the Crusaders delivered a dominant 69-26 victory to mark an emotional farewell to their Addington home ground.
Hooker Codie Taylor starred in his 150th appearance, scoring four tries in a clinical performance that underlined the Crusaders’ dominance. The hosts ran in 11 tries overall, overwhelming the Drua early in the contest.
The Crusaders wasted little time asserting control, crossing for five tries within the opening 31 minutes. Taylor struck twice from driving mauls, while winger Sevu Reece added an early double to blow the game open.
Further tries from Chay Fihaki, who finished with two, and accurate kicking from Taha Kemara kept the scoreboard ticking as the Crusaders showcased their attacking depth.
Taylor completed his four-try haul early in the second half, extending his record as the highest try-scoring forward in Super Rugby history. He was later substituted to a standing ovation in a fitting moment during the venue’s final match.
For the Drua, No.8 Elia Canakaivata provided a bright spot with two tries, as the visitors showed improved resistance after the break. However, the damage had already been done in a one-sided first half.
The result marks a third consecutive win for the Crusaders, lifting them to fourth on the standings as they prepare to shift to the newly completed Te Kaha Stadium.
For the Drua, the heavy defeat highlights ongoing defensive concerns, particularly away from home, despite glimpses of promise in the second half.
