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March 23, 2026
#hakinakina: Crusaders run riot in second half to overpower Moana Pasifika in Albany
Matthew Tukaki
Posted On March 23, 2026
The Crusaders have delivered a commanding second-half performance to defeat Moana Pasifika 50–21 in their Super Rugby Pacific clash at North Harbour Stadium in Albany.
In what began as a competitive contest, the defending champions pulled away after the break, scoring a flurry of tries to turn a narrow halftime lead into a comprehensive victory.
The Crusaders held a slim 17–14 advantage at halftime after both sides traded momentum in an entertaining opening spell. Moana Pasifika showed resilience early, responding to the visitors’ fast start with tries that briefly put them in front and kept the match within reach.
However, the second half told a different story.
The Crusaders dominated possession and territory after the restart, running in multiple unanswered tries as their attacking game opened up. Strong carries, quick ball movement and clinical finishing saw them stretch the scoreline well beyond reach, underlining the gap between the two sides as the match wore on.
Winger Chay Fihaki was among the standout performers, crossing for two tries in a lively display out wide, while George Bell added two of his own as the Crusaders’ forward pack began to assert control. Leicester Fainga’anuku and debutant Kurtis Macdonald also contributed to the scoring as the visitors piled on points.
Earlier in the match, Moana Pasifika had shown promise, with tries to Tevita Ofa and Joel Lam helping to keep the scoreboard tight in the first half. Patrick Pellegrini added the extras and played a key role in orchestrating their attack.
But any hopes of an upset faded as the Crusaders lifted their intensity after halftime, capitalising on opportunities and exposing defensive gaps to secure a bonus-point win.
Moana Pasifika were also dealt an early setback, losing Julian Savea to injury in the opening stages, adding to the challenges faced by the home side.
The result sees the Crusaders continue to build momentum in their campaign, while Moana Pasifika remain near the bottom of the standings and searching for consistency as the season progresses.
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