The history chapter on Super 12 rugby is now complete with the Crusaders 35 triumphant over the Waratahs 25 in Christchurch on Saturday night. I didn't even get my tip in - I was busy celebrating a very long awaited win for a team of U12s. Not even the Tahs loss could dampen my delight :)

Peter Hewat drew first blood for the Waratahs by slotting a penalty goal, which Carter soon replied to successfully. Hewat put on another penalty goal, but Scott Hamilton soon scored for the Crusaders and it was 11-6 to the home side. Aaron Mauger added a further 3 points for the Canterbury lads before half time with a field goal. Smarty pants :)

After the half time break the game was dominated by the Crusaders with tries from Dave Hewett, Leon McDonald and a length of the field run from Caleb Ralph. All over Red Rover!

But, I take my hat off to the Tahs, they could have just let it get worse from there, but they put up a good fight and managed to get Phil Waugh over the tryline for their first try - with only 12 minutes left on the clock. Matty Rogers went over for two more Waratah tries, but it was all too late.... the Crusaders becoming champions for the fifth time.

The Aftermath:
Lote Tuquiri has been cited for a shoulder charge on Scott Hamilton in the first half - good luck!
Daniel Vickerman is off for shoulder surgery and is expected to be off for a month meaning that he is probably going to be unavailable for the first two tests games this year.

The Waratahs farewell: Nathan Grey, Brendan Cannon, Justin Harrison, Lachlan MacKay and Gareth Hardy.

The Crusaders farewell: Justin Marshall, Dave Hewett and Norm Maxwell.

Right - I'd better have a look at this tipping comp....