The Crusaders surged in the second half to beat the Melbourne Rebels 14-19 in the final pre-season Super Rugby match held at AAMI Park on Saturday afternoon.

All Black star Israel Dagg scored two tries in the match, one in each half.

The Rebels scored tries through Gareth Delve and James O’Connor who was forced from the field after 45 minutes and immediately put ice on his left leg.

In another Super match, Fiji-born David Raikuna started his Super Rugby in style with the Blues after scoring a try in a final pre season warm up match against the Highlanders to help them win 29-12.

Meanwhile Sonny Bill Williams could not save his newly found Chiefs after they were humbled by the Hurricanes 29- 12 under heavy rain at Taupo Delany stadium.


Story by: Akuila Cama