The Blues’ finals hopes were dashed weeks ago but they still have an important role to play in terms of the final standings.
If they beat the Crusaders this week at Eden Park, it will end the Crusaders chances of reaching the playoffs.
The Crusaders, currently in eighth place, can still make the top six, but must beat both the Blues and the Brumbies the week after in Canberra while hoping other results go their way.
It is foreign territory for the Crusaders, who have made the playoffs every year since 2001.
There was a ruthlessness in their performance against the competition leading Hurricanes which has been missing all year.
They have also realized that Dan Carter, Nemani Nadolo, David Havili, Robbie Fruean and Nafi Tuitavaki are the difference in the side.
2001 was the only year that the Super Rugby playoffs did not include either the Blues or the Crusaders.
The Blues will host the Crusaders at 7.35pm Saturday.
Source: nzherald.com
