Crusaders head to Hamilton with respect but ‘no fear’

GettyImages 1486231523

The prospect of a daunting seven consecutive Super titles is the prize for the Crusaders as they farewell their coach through that era Scott Robertson.

But for forwards coach Dan Perrin, in his first season with the side, it is a new experience.

In a year in which some cracks have appeared in the Crusaders' façade, Perrin said they were well used to the routines needed in finals week to prepare for the task ahead.

"We've got a fairly good process throughout the week in how we set the players up. We do our due diligence on the opposition and focus on us and what we can control.

"It's exciting that it's a final, but for me it's just getting about my work."

Given the forwards' role in the Crusaders' efforts through the years, Perrin's role is crucial for their hopes.

At the same time, he acknowledged the Chiefs had enjoyed a 'hell of a year'.

"They've been the form team throughout the competition, so we respect them and are looking forward to the challenge of going up there.

"We've got a couple of clear areas that we're focused on, and if we go up there and execute what we want, it should be a good day at the office.

"We respect what they've done throughout the year, but we don't fear it."

Emotions around the departures of Robertson, and assistant coach Scott Hansen, to the All Blacks and transferring All Blacks Sam Whitelock, Richie Mo'unga and Leicester Fainga'anuku would be kept in check until after Saturday's assignment.

"What's important is Saturday. Anything outside of that, or after that, will be addressed then.

"No doubt, after the final whistle blows, there'll be celebrations and we'll acknowledge who we need to acknowledge, but our focus is firmly on what happens inside those four white lines at FMG Stadium in Hamilton."

DHL Super Rugby Pacific Final: Chiefs v Crusaders, Saturday 24 June, 7.05pm NZT, FMG Stadium Waikato. Live on Sky Sport NZ.

LATEST NEWS

View all