We’re expecting Crusaders to field a very strong team in Saturday’s Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific quarterfinal against the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua at Orangetheory Stadium in Christchurch, New Zealand.

This was the view of Drua head coach Mick Byrne when asked about the Crusaders being motivated to avenge their 25-24 loss in March.

“Crusaders are the 11-time champions and we’re first timers in the play-offs,” Byrne said.

“The intensity will definitely lift and we will have to be physical. We’ve learnt a lot and are prepared for this big game since we’ve haven’t been there before.”

The wily coach highlighted that the Drua is currently on a back-to-back win mode.

They had beaten Moana Pasifika 47-46 before walloping the Reds 41-17 last Saturday.

“We’re focusing on our game with our physicality and the boys want to get the job done right away.”

Byrne hinted he would not be making a lot of changes to the line-up.

“When we have a winning team it’s not good to make too many changes.”

He indicated that during the competition every coach always say it’s about taking one game at a time.

“But when we reach the quarterfinal, it’s all about anything can happen,” Byrne added.

Looking at the Crusaders, head coach Scott Robertson has confirmed the return of flanker Ethan Blackadder, halfback Willi Heinz and prop Oli Jager.

Robertson revealed that he had to scratch halfback Mitchell Drummond (calf injury) ahead of the Hurricanes match last week and substituted lock Sam Whitelock (Achilles) at halftime out of precaution so Crusaders get a couple of important players back ahead of the playoffs.

Both teams are expected to name their line-up today.

Byrne said they are expecting Crusaders to be very clinical, fast and much stronger in their set piece.

Story by: mereleki.nai@fijisun.com.fj