Crusaders look to get back on track

There are two welcome returns to the Crusaders starting lineup for Friday’s Super 14 rugby clash against the Blues in Christchurch. After being knocked out against the Chiefs last Friday, Casey Laulala has recovered and been named in the starting 15.

However, he will have to undergo further psychometric and impact testing tomorrow morning. Also named is fullback Leon MacDonald, who has missed the last two games with a thigh injury.

Last Friday’s 5-18 loss to the Chiefs was the Crusaders first loss this season but despite the hiccup, coach Robbie Deans says the team has remained positive.

“It was spoken about and we are looking forward to our next opportunity,” Deans said on the team’s website.

“We can’t change the outcome in Hamilton.

All we can control is how we react to that experience, and how we respond. That was the theme to come out of our debrief, and will be the key indicator for us as a team this week.”

Crusaders:

Leon MacDonald, Kade Poki, Casey Laulala, Tim Bateman, Sean Maitland, Stephen Brett, Andrew Ellis, Mose Tuialii, Richard McCaw, Kieran Read, Ali Williams, Brad Thorn, Greg Somerville, Corey Flynn, Ben Franks

Reserves: Tii Paulo, Wyatt Crockett, Ross Filipo, Nasi Manu, Kahn Fotualii, Hamish Gard, Scott Hamilton.

Sapa – Super14.com