The phony war of pre season fixtures is over but Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder is hoping the start of the Super Rugby competition isn't disrupted by blasts from the referees' whistles.

The referees have once again been instructed to take careful note of the breakdown and this season players “sealing off”, or losing their feet and preventing the opposition from getting the ball, are under extra vigilance.

Blues coach Pat Lam and Jamie Joseph of the Highlanders commented on the referee's performance in this area after their match at Unitec in Auckland on Friday.

Blackadder yesterday added his voice to the chorus after his side beat the Melbourne Rebels 19-14 at AAMI Stadium on Saturday.

The Crusaders take on the Blues in the season opener at Eden Park this Friday night at 6.35pm.

At 8.40pm the Brumbies will face Western Force.

On Saturday at 6.35pm, the Chiefs face the Highlanders while the Waratahs take on the Reds at 8.40pm.

Story by: Dreu Vukailagi
Source: NZ Herald