Photo: PhotoSport / Martin Hunter
The hosts secured a 12th Super Rugby title, a second in the domestic edition and the fifth in a row.
Winger Sevu Reece and fullback Will Jordan scored tries in the first 16 minutes but the Crusaders - reduced to 13 men in the second half - then had to rely on the boot of Richie Mo unga to keep the Chiefs at arm s length.
Photo: PhotoSport / Martin Hunter
Damian McKenzie scored all the points for the Chiefs with a converted try and two penalties, but the fullback will rue his usual accuracy from the tee deserting him for a period around halftime when he missed three shots at goal.
Thorn was all smiles afterwards, speaking to Sonny Bill Williams on Stan’s coverage.
“Crazy, crazy game,” Thorn said. “You think playing is hard. Oh my goodness. You’re just sitting in there and your guts are turning inside out. Absolute heart got them over the line.”
Down 13-6 at half-time, the Reds found a spark. They forced a Tom Wright knock-on through line speed pressure before Jordan Petaia’s chest flicked the sideline, otherwise he would’ve had a contender for try of the year.
The Brumbies were reduced to 14 men from the 60th to 70th minute when Rob Valetini went to the bin for a high shot.
VICKI ANDERSON offers a few highlights of events in Ōtautahi Christchurch this weekend and beyond. Have you made time to see the Ralph Hotere exhibition at Christchurch Art Gallery yet? When I visited recently, after checking out CoCA next door, I saw a couple crying quietly with their arms around one another in front of a painting. It is that moving. Christchurch tip of the week: The $6 tacos from Cactus in Barbadoes St. Also visit for the A+ banter. The Christchurch song of the week:
What A Friend by Terrible Sons, husband/wife duo Matthew Barus (Dukes) and Lauren Barus (Fly My Pretties). They play at The Piano on Friday.
Join Canterbury Mornings live from Christchurch Home Show
Join Canterbury Mornings live from Christchurch Home Show
Join Canterbury Mornings live from Christchurch Home Show Thu, 8 Apr 2021, 4:28PM
Join Newstalk ZB’s Canterbury Mornings with Chris Lynch as we broadcast the show from The Christchurch Home Show.
Whether you’re building, renovating or just looking for some fresh ideas to transform your home, you`ll find plenty of inspiration at the Christchurch Home Show.
Get your free tickets from christchurchhomeshow.co.nz or at the door.
Chris Lynch broadcasting live Friday April 16th 9am - 12pm
Where? Christchurch Arena, Addington The Christchurch Homes Show
Join Canterbury Mornings live from Christchurch Home Show (1)
Join Canterbury Mornings live from Christchurch Home Show (1)
Join Canterbury Mornings live from Christchurch Home Show (1) Thu, 8 Apr 2021, 5:21PM
Join Newstalk ZB’s Canterbury Mornings with Chris Lynch as we broadcast the show from The Christchurch Home Show.
Whether you’re building, renovating or just looking for some fresh ideas to transform your home, you`ll find plenty of inspiration at the Christchurch Home Show.
Get your free tickets from christchurchhomeshow.co.nz or at the door.
Chris Lynch broadcasting live Friday April 16th 9am - 12pm
Where? Christchurch Arena, Addington The Christchurch Homes Show