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Martin Devlin: Crusaders likely to keep winning streak alive against Australia

Author
Martin Devlin,
Publish Date
Mon, 10 May 2021, 1:45PM

Martin Devlin: Crusaders likely to keep winning streak alive against Australia

Author
Martin Devlin,
Publish Date
Mon, 10 May 2021, 1:45PM

What did we learn from another whopping weekend of sport?

First up for all the football kids:  how not to take a penalty kick. Man City legend Sergio Aguero ended up apologising on social media post-match for a pathetic "Panenka-style" attempt that the 'keeper caught with one hand. This is where you stroll up, look like you're going to smack it, and instead chip it gently down the middle of the goal as the goalie dives the wrong way.

Well that's the theory anyway. Awfully cute when it works but when it doesn't you end up looking like the world's biggest plonker. The lesson here is obvious. Belt it, welly it, leather it as hard as you can and save the fancy tricks for the training ground when it doesn't actually count.

Rugby League is literally a game of two halves. And the Warriors have got to start playing the second like they do the first. The last couple of matches have seen the side fly out of the blocks, to claim worthy and well-deserved leads against North Q and Manly respectively, only to barely turn up in the second spell and pay the price.

Yes, the Cowboys were held off, just, but last night The Sea Eagles ran roughshod down the Warriors left side securing enough of a lead to hold off the inevitable fast finish. It was all too easy at times for Manly and leaves our lot still striving for the consistency that separates the good from the great in this comp.

Finally, the Crusaders are the kings of Super Rugby - still. Five titles in a row is unprecedented. Everything about this champion franchise is awesome. Coach Razor brings an individuality and personality to the job that seems to attract fans and foe alike while his players simply know how to win when it matters most.

Forget the mid-season "glitch", the Crusaders stepped up and took control just like they have done and were expected to do. The Chiefs fought gallantly but there was always an air of inevitability that the Christchurch mob would eventually triumph.

And now onto the Trans-Tasman comp where all roads to that final once again will go through the Garden City. The Queensland Reds will be worth keeping an eye on but the smart money says, although it won't be a cruise, the competition is the Crusaders to lose.

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