Cullen and Lomu doubles too much for Crusaders
April 7, 2000

In a pulsating game in Wellington, the Hurricanes denied the Crusaders a Super 12 record with an epic 28-22 victory.

Two tries apiece for Christian Cullen and Jonah Lomu inspired a revitalised Hurricanes side to score their first ever Super 12 victory over the Crusaders.

Lomu made a sensational start, crashing through Vunibaka's tackle for a second minute try. Three Mehrtens penalties were the outcome of the Crusaders' comeback and a Vunibaka try after 27 minutes, Lomu's tackle this time proving ineffectual, took the Crusaders into a seven point lead. A great individual try from Cullen, cutting the defence apart from 45 metres, took the sides into half time level on 14-14.

Cullen's second try was the reward for early second half pressure, but then the Crusaders launched a series of mighty attacks, only held out by heroic defence. Blackadder's 65th minute try looked likely to see the Crusaders home but Lomu's second try, the result of brute force from four metres, and Holwell's magnificent touch line conversion, nudged the home side ahead.

The Hurricanes take the maximum five points, the Crusaders must be satisfied with one bonus point. The Hurricanes are back in business.

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