Crusaders' half-back Andy Ellis has said the side will be mindful of their mistakes as they head to South Africa for a must win two-game tour, meeting the unpredictable Lions in Johannesburg before tackling the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein. Off the back of another frustrating defeat, the Crusaders' visit to South Africa will be paramount to the sides' revival, but the team will be wary of a dangerous Lions side at home.

"Of what we have seen of the Lions this season they have certainly showed that when their tails are up they can be dangerous," Ellis told Fairfax Media. "So we need to prepare for pretty much anything once we get over there. If we can sort out a few of the minor issues like silly mistakes and trying to build some continuity, then I think things will change for us."

Following their South African trip the Crusaders have little time to rest before heading to Hamilton to face the New Zealand conference leaders, which adds to the pressure of securing several competition points over the next two weeks. The side flew out first thing on Saturday morning and Ellis is adamant the long-haul flight and extended camp time will bring the side together and give the side the added boost they need.

"I really think it's going to help us get things back to the way they should be," Ellis said. "There will be a lot of time together drinking milkshakes and playing cards and just being a team which will be good. We are well aware things aren't quite going the way they should be and this trip will give us the chance to try and sort that out."

Crusaders squad: Backs: Israel Dagg, Johnny McNicholl, Nemani Nandolo, Nafi Tuitavake, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Rey Lee-Lo, Kieron Fonotia, Ryan Crotty, Tom Taylor, Colin Slade, Tyler Bleyendaal, Andy Ellis, Willi Heinz Forwards: Kieran Read (captain), Matt Todd, Luke Whitelock, George Whitelock, Sam Whitelock, Jordan Taufua, Dominic Bird, Jimmy Tupou, Owen Franks, Nepo Laulala, Wyatt Crockett, Mike Kainga, Corey Flynn, Ben Funnell