Lio-Willie leads the Crusaders for Round 10 in Perth.
- 234
Christian Lio‑Willie will captain the Crusaders this week after being named to lead the side in Saturday night’s Round 10 match against the Western Force in Perth.
With David Havili unavailable as he works through concussion protocols, the responsibility passes to the loose forward who has steadily grown into a leadership role through his actions on and off the field.
Head coach Rob Penney says the appointment reflects what Lio‑Willie already brings to the group.
“First of all, he plays like a leader,” Penney says.
“He leads from the front. His actions are classic Crusader like. He works hard, is tough, has explosiveness and the ability to break the line and change momentum. But it’s also behind the scenes. He’s a genuine, lovely man and the boys love playing for him.”
For Lio‑Willie, the opportunity has come earlier than expected, but it’s one he’s embracing.
“It's huge. It wasn’t in the plan or anything with my vision, but I know the responsibility and the legacy that comes with it and I’m pretty excited, to be honest. It hasn’t really hit me fully yet, but I know I’ve got my job at hand, and I’ve got to lead myself first before I lead others.
“I’ve had great examples first-hand with Davey and the way he leads. That’s the standard I strive to.”
Penney says Lio‑Willie has led the Crusaders in moments before, but this week gives him the chance to own the role fully.
“He’s led from time to time and now he’s got a genuine opportunity to lead the whole week and put his own stamp on it.”
Dallas McLeod has been confirmed as vice-captain, continuing his involvement in the leadership group and providing support across the back line.
“Yeah, it’s a pretty special opportunity for me,” McLeod says.
“I’ve been part of the leadership group for the last few years and to get the VC with Christian leading the team is going to be pretty special. I’ll be around to help the guys in the back line and make sure everything’s running smoothly. We’ve got a good group of leaders around us, which makes the job a lot easier.”
There’s a change at halfback, with Louie Chapman earning the start in the No.9 jersey after showing control and confidence when called upon earlier in the season. He’ll combine with Taha Kemara in the halves as the Crusaders look to build rhythm on the road.
One of the most pleasing selections is the return of Macca Springer, who starts on the left wing for the first time this season after a long and frustrating injury layoff. Springer hasn’t played since last year’s Super Rugby Final and admits the past six months have tested his patience.
“Yeah, it’s been pretty tough,” Springer says.
“I’ve had about six months off since my last game, so it’s been about getting my rhythm back. It’s hard watching the boys train through pre‑season and the start of the season and not being able to do anything, but I’m slowly getting back into it now and I’m pretty excited to get back out there.”
Penney says Springer’s return adds more than just speed.
“Macca finished last season very strongly and had a cracker in the final,” he says.
“He’s extremely quick, has a genuine left foot on that edge and can do the early stuff really well. He’s also developed an edge around his toughness, which is exciting for us. He’s got a great future.”
Prop Kershawl Sykes‑Martin is also set to make his first appearance of the season, named on the bench.
The Crusaders head into Round 10 determined to respond after a narrow loss to the Reds, where late tries proved costly despite a strong finish.
“We were very disappointed,” Penney says.
“The error rate was too high, and the ball was slippery, which made things difficult, but we adjusted as best we could on the fly. We’ll be looking to be much better this week.”
Penney is clear belief in the group hasn’t wavered and says every match carries weight as the season tightens.
“Every week’s important. Every point you get is critical. We’re there or thereabouts and we need to start building rhythm sooner rather than later.”
Despite the challenges, Penney says the focus remains simple.
“We know what we’re capable of, now it’s about showing it.”
Crusaders team to face the Force
1. Finlay Brewis
2. George Bell
3. Seb Calder
4. Tahlor Cahill
5. Jamie Hannah
6. Dom Gardiner
7. Johnny Lee
8. Christian Lio‑Willie (C)
9. Louie Chapman
10. Taha Kemara
11. Macca Springer
12. Dallas McLeod (VC)
13. Leicester Fainga’anuku
14. Chay Fihaki
15. Johnny McNicholl
Reserves: 16. Manumaua Letiu 17. George Bower 18. Kershawl Sykes-Martin 19. Will Tucker 20. Corey Kellow 21. Noah Hotham 22. Rivez Reihana 23. Sevu Reece
Players unavailable for selection due to injury:
Kyle PRESTON: Knee, 1-2 weeks
Ethan BLACKADDER, Calf, 1-2 weeks
Braydon ENNOR: Hamstring, 2-4 weeks
Liam JACK: Hamstring, 2-4 weeks
Will JORDAN: Calf, 3-5 weeks
David HAVILI: Concussion, GRTP (Graduated Return to Play)
Aki TUIVAILALA: Concussion, GRTP (Graduated Return to Play)
Codie TAYLOR: Hamstring, Unclear – awaiting imaging
Cullen GRACE: Knee, Unclear
James WHITE: Shoulder, out for the season
Tamaiti WILLIAMS, Discitis, out for the season
