WELLINGTON – The Crusaders downed Western Force 29-21 in Christchurch Friday but were frustrated that a late try to the visitors cost them a potentially vital Super Rugby Trans-Tasman bonus point.
The Crusaders scored five tries to three against a much-improved Force, who refused to give up and were rewarded when Jordan Olowofela crossed the line in the final minute.
The result puts the Crusaders at the top of the table but the lack of a bonus point could allow the Auckland Blues and Wellington Hurricanes to edge ahead of them in the race for a berth in the final.
“It’s been a bit of a theme in the last couple of games leaking late points and that one really hurts, especially when it’s tight at the top of the table,” Crusaders skipper Scott Barrett said.