ZCZC
BSP-04
RUGBYU-SUPER-WEL
Hurricanes say forward clash the key in Crusaders semi
WELLINGTON, July 27, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Wellington Hurricanes need a huge
effort up front to steal an upset win in their Super Rugby semi-final against
defending champions Canterbury Crusaders, assistant coach John Plumtree said
Friday.
The Hurricanes go into the match on Saturday as underdogs against an in-
form Crusaders outfit that has never lost any of the 19 finals matches staged
in Christchurch.
Plumtree, who will take over as Hurricanes head coach from Chris Boyd next
season, said the match would be decided in the forwards.
Asked to nominate a Crusaders’ dangerman, Plumtree relied: “The whole pack.
“I can’t single out anyone. It’s pretty much an international pack, so
we’ve got to do a job up front,” he told Radio Sport.
“Both sets of backs are excellent but the ones that flourish on the night
will have the better platform (set by the forwards).
“The pack is the key for us. We’ve got to make sure we have a big effort up
front.”
The Crusaders’ pack has more than 400 international caps among seven
players, led by Kieran Read with 109. Sam Whitelock has 99 and Owen Franks
98.
The Hurricanes will field just two international forwards in Jeff Toomaga-
Allen and Brad Shields, who have three caps between them.
Meanwhile, governing body SANZAAR has announced Australia’s Angus Gardner
will referee next week’s competition decider, regardless of who wins the
semi-finals.
The winner of the Crusaders-Hurricanes semi will ensure a New Zealand
presence in the final but Gardner could also find himself officiating an
Australian team if NSW Waratahs beat the Golden Lions in their final four
match.
“It is his maiden Super Rugby final appointment and is reward for his high
quality performances throughout the season,” SANZAAR said.
The venue for the decider will depend on which teams win the semi-finals.
BSS/AFP/MR/1003 hrs