The Crusaders will enter Saturday's Super Rugby Pacific Final with plenty of confidence, knowing how close they were to toppling the Blues in round nine.
Down to 13 men when David Havili was yellow carded and before Scott Barrett was sent-off for a high shot, the Crusaders set up a grandstand finish with Sevu Reece diving over for his second try.
The Blues' escaped with the win when Dominic Gardiner was held up on the try line.
With the Christchurch side producing one of the finest defensive performances in Super Rugby history last Friday against the Chiefs, Crusaders coach Scott Robertson believes that defence wins championships and it has given them another chance this week.
The Crusaders is expected to name their side to take on the Blues today.
The Crusaders will meet the Blues at 7.05 pm Saturday.
[Source: Super Rugby]
