Crusaders Outclass Fijian Drua with 11-Try Blitz in Christchurch Farewell

Codie Taylor scores four tries in his 150th match as the Crusaders hammer Fijian Drua in their final game at Apollo Project Stadium before moving to Te Kaha.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 6, 2026, 5:02 AM EDT

Source: RNZ

A Historic Night for Codie Taylor and the Crusaders

The Round 8 Super Rugby Pacific clash in Christchurch belonged to veteran hooker Codie Taylor. Celebrating his 150th cap, Taylor became the top try-scoring forward in the history of the competition, bringing his career total to 53 after crossing the line four times against a weary Drua defense. His clinical finishing at the back of the Crusaders' signature driving maul provided the foundation for a 69-26 victory. The win also marked the Crusaders' 100th triumph at the Apollo Project Stadium, providing an emotional farewell to the venue built in 2012 as the team prepares to relocate to the newly completed Te Kaha Stadium later this month.

Drua Captain Laments Lost Moments

Fijian Drua captain Isoa Nasilasila was candid in his post-match assessment, acknowledging that the defending champions were simply "too good" on the night. Despite a physical effort from the Drua pack, Nasilasila noted that the team failed to capitalize on key scoring opportunities and struggled to halt the Crusaders' momentum once it began. "We just couldn't stop them. They got a good roll on, good start, so they're a tough team to stop," Nasilasila remarked. The Drua did manage to find the try line four times, but these flashes of brilliance were overshadowed by defensive lapses and a lack of line speed that allowed the Crusaders' All Black-laden roster to exploit wide gaps.

First-Half Dominance Sets the Tone

The match was effectively decided in the opening 40 minutes as the Crusaders crossed for six tries to lead 38-12 at the break. Sevu Reece opened the scoring in the fourth minute, benefiting from a pinpoint long pass by captain Will Jordan. While the Drua initially threatened through Elia Canakaivata—who had an early try disallowed for a double movement—the Crusaders quickly reasserted control. Leicester Fainga'anuku and Chay Fihaki both added to the tally, while Taylor’s proficiency in the maul saw him bag a first-half double. Despite the halftime deficit, the Drua showed resilience with tries from Joseva Tamani and Canakaivata during a period where Crusaders' Johnny Lee was yellow-carded for repeated team infringements.