Highlanders vs. Crusaders: Crusaders Looking to Continue their Winning Run

With DHL Super Rugby Pacific League moving into its next stage, teams are gearing up to consolidate their position in the points table. The upcoming fixture was played between Highlanders and Crusaders in Dunedin. Crusaders were able to secure a decent win in their first opening game and keep their winning form alive. Considering the sheer importance of winning momentum, teams are focusing on being consistent and determined in their gameplay. Highlanders haven’t played with consistency in home and away games. The upcoming game would be definitely important for Highlanders, who are likely to play with few changes to their previous lineup, aiming to gain two important points. It’s time that Highlanders get some consistency among their ranks to benefit the team’s winning form. In the head-to-head statistics, Crusaders have won 9 whereas Highlanders have won 3 games.

After losing the first game, Highlanders would be looking to come back and come back hard. Be it any Rugby league; teams need to be consistent and determined in their approach. The X factor is still missing from the Highlanders lineup or gameplay. Considering the head-to-head statistics, Highlanders are the underdogs going in the game against the crusaders. In the 2021 league match, Crusaders managed to defeat Highlanders with a margin of 33-13. The two back-to-back losses before the upcoming game have certainly dulled the morale of Highlanders.

• Liam Coltman;
• Shannon Frizell;
• Daniel Lienert-Brown;
• Marty Banks;
• Thomas Umaga-Jensen.

Crusaders are certainly keeping the game standards very high and ensuring to play the right combination throughout. For the upcoming game, Crusaders have named 9 black players in their lineup, emphasizing the match-winning combination. Mitchell Drummond is on the side for the game, replacing Bryn Hall. Sevu Reece also gets a game, replacing George Bridge. However, a few famous players might be benched for the upcoming game, but this won’t affect Crusaders as they are in a fine winning form. Considering the heavy experience Crusaders have in their front lineup, they are likely to dominate and win the game against Highlanders. Corey Kellow is also all set to make an official debut for the Crusaders and prove that he is one among them.

• Mitchell Drummond;
• Sevu Reece;
• Corey Kellow;
• Fergus Burke;
• Cullen Grace.

Comparing the statistics of these two teams and their previous track record, Crusaders are certainly the favorites of winning and extending their head-to-head lead against the Highlanders. With young players inducted in the lineup, it represents the confidence of Crusaders for the upcoming game.