Crusaders muscle up
May 9, 2002

The Crusaders have named a full-strength side as they chase a record 11 Super 12 preliminary round victories when they meet the Waratahs in Christchurch on Saturday.

The Blues were the first side to go through a season unbeaten in 1997, but they had one draw.

Flanker Richard McCaw returns after he was rested against the Hurricanes last week, while No.8 Scott Robertson returns from injury. Winger Marika Vunibaka has overcome a foot injury and centre Nathan Mauger gets a start with Mark Robinson nursing a rib injury.

Crusaders coach Robbie Deans said the Waratahs game was considered potentially the first of three legs on the road to secure their fourth Super 12 title.

"They are distinct opportunities. This is the last round robin game and the chance to do something significant by remaining unbeaten," Deans said. "Next week is one more opportunity. Outside that there are no guarantees.

"The Waratahs play well as a team. They are physical and well organised. They will bring some specific methods into the game designed to combat us."

Crusaders: Leon MacDonald, Marika Vunibaka, Nathan Mauger, Caleb Ralph, Aaron Mauger, Andrew Mehrtens, Justin Marshall, Scott Robertson, Richard McCaw, Norm Maxwell, Chris Jack, Reuben Thorne (captain), Greg Feek, Mark Hammett, Greg Somerville. Reserves: Corey Flynn, David Hewitt, Bradley Mika, Johnny Leo, Ben Hurst, Daryl Gibson, Ben Blair.

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