The Blues are well aware that the Crusaders have dominated their recent match-ups.
The Blues have lost 10 of their last 12 games against the Canterbury side, turning what was once a fierce rivalry into a largely one-sided contest.
Blues head coach Vern Cotter admits it is something the team is conscious of.
He says it is a question the squad asks themselves, acknowledging that the Crusaders are among the toughest teams in the world to play.
Cotter notes that he has only managed to beat them once, and the record speaks for itself.
He says that reality highlights the challenge facing his players, but stresses the team does not want to approach the match with a negative mindset.
Instead, Cotter says the Blues want to focus on playing their game, making decisive decisions and enjoying themselves on the field.
He believes that mindset is key to helping the team move forward.
He adds that every team wants to beat the Blues, while the Crusaders have been the competition’s top-performing side over the past eight years, which naturally fuels the rivalry.
However, Cotter says his side is under no illusions about the task ahead.
The Crusaders will face the Blues tonight at 6.05.
In other action, the Brumbies take on the Reds at 8.35pm.
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