The Crusaders have mounted a second half comeback to beat the Blues 33-24 in their Super Rugby match in Christchurch.
The Blues led 21-5 at halftime but could not maintain the momentum as the Crusaders roared back in the second spell.
The result means the second placed Crusaders remain unbeaten in their four matches so far, while the Blues have registered just one win.
Crusaders loose forward Whetu Douglas on the burst. Photo: Photosport
Bouncing back from large half-time deficits is becoming a habit for the Crusaders this season.
They were down at the break by 17 and 21 points respectively in their previous games against the Reds and Highlanders.
The Crusaders took a re-jigged backline into the match because of injuries to internationals Israel Dagg, Seta Tamanivalu and Digby Ioane.
Prior to kickoff they also needed a new centre due to the withdrawal of Jack Goodhue with a calf strain.
Augustine Pulu on the burst against the Crusaders. Photo: Photosport
The Blues haven't won in Christchurch since 2004 and with a 19-point halftime lead they may have thought their luck was about to change.
But their biggest problem in the second half was coping with the Crusaders lineout drives.
The Crusaders outscored the Blues five tries to three, with Manasa Mataele, Pete Samu, Ben Funnell, Mitchell Hunt, and Mitchell Drummond scoring for the home side.
While George Moala, Augustine Pulu, George Moala dotted down for the Blues.
