Highlanders vs Crusaders: Top Performers
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Highlanders vs Crusaders: Top Performers
Sam Gilbert - Highlanders:
Gilbert delivered a masterclass in the backline of the Highlanders. He helped his team to get 65 metres upfield across 7 carries, getting a try in and beating 3 defenders. He was a powerhouse in getting his team into the right positions and also managed to get 5 tackles and a turnover in to make sure that the Crusaders did not get the upper hand.
Sevu Reece - Crusaders:
Reece has become quite the powerhouse in the game of rugby and today was no different. He helped his team to take the lead when they needed it in the first half as he got them the ten points required to do so. He managed to get 35 metres over 7 carries and also beat two defenders in the process. His defensive efforts meant he was able to put in 6 tackles and win 1 turnover.
Mitchell Hunt - Highlanders:
An incredible player that has also cemented himself into the Highlanders team. Hunt led the backline well as he put them in the right positions and got the ball to them in the right spots. He managed to carry the ball 53 metres across 5 carries. He was also involved in the build up of a try and also put in a defensive effort with 5 tackles.
Will Jordan - Crusaders:
Jordan deserves a spot in the top performers list for his 66th minute try alone! He beat four defenders while powering himself over the line. An incredible try, part of an incredible performance from the fullback. Making 78 metres across 9 carries, Jordan was the man to make the most metres of anyone in the match. He too got a try assist and made a solid 6 tackles throughout the match.
Aaron Smith - HIghlanders:
For Smith, a lot of his skill is evident, but some of it is hidden in his on-field decisions that lead to points-scoring opportunities. Smith's ability to quickly read the game combined with his unbeatable speed at getting back to the breakdown allowed the Highlanders to get multiple point-scoring opportunities. He made only 5 metres but got his backline and forwards into the right position almost every time throughout the match!
Leicester Fainga'anuku - Crusaders:
Fainga'anuku, along with his fellow backs, found himself in the perfect position on multiple occasions throughout the match. He assisted Jordan in his try and continued to make 47 metres over 7 carries. He also managed to put in 9 tackles, good stats for a winger.
Crusaders Team:
The Crusaders started the game on the back foot and looked as though they might've met their match, but thy fought back hard to take over their opponents and showed good resilience to win the match. They maintained a level head throughout the match and didn't allow the early points from the Highlanders get to them as they powered ahead to take the win!
