Jordan Returns to Spark Crusaders’ Finals Charge

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The Reds face a daunting task, never having won a finals game in New Zealand, but Jordan knows they had a rare win over the Crusaders in Christchurch last year.

"In that early game in the season, they challenged us through the middle, their forward skills at the line, to be able to tip and play through us, challenged us. The difference in the end is they've got a couple of their key backs back as well, Jock Campbell, at the back, and Hunter Paisami, who are threats for them.

"It's about trying to nullify them by using our strengths to try and get momentum for our game."

Jordan said his enforced break allowed him to take the positive from it and take the chance to freshen up.

"Now that I'm back I can get back into the same flow I had through the year."

Making it to the playoffs was much better than missing out, as they did last year.

"The boys have appreciated the extra week that you earn. It's on us to go out there and earn another week. This time of year is when you want to be playing. There's a huge amount of excitement being at home for it.

"Having the home advantage is great for us.

As winter has set in with cooler conditions, wind and rain, he didn't expect any problems adapting. Being from Christchurch meant he had around 20 years of playing in the wet and cold up his sleeves.


"When it gets to June footy and it's win, it's a different game. The kicking game, your set piece, rolling up your sleeves and trying to get momentum through decisive carries are key.

"You probably get two or three moments in a game to execute your attack shape, so taking those opportunities is important. Being connected and working together is the key thing.

"I'm fizzed up for that different challenge on the weekend.

"In this environment and profession, there's always pressure. It's a results business, so every week, you've got to go out there and perform. Johnny McNicholl played well while I was out, so it's on me to come back in and keep up the good form he was doing.

"It's not trying to do too much as well, just fitting in where I can fulfil my role and help others do that as well."

Jordan said the form shown by first five-eighths Rivez Reihana had been impressive, which was reflected in the man of the match awards he had picked up, and as his running game has developed, his leadership ability was showing through.

"I'm stoked for him; hopefully, he can keep the form rolling this week.

"I've always enjoyed the attacking side of the game and he's a 10 [first five-eighths] whose assured in his role and he's happy to back himself. We've had that through the year with Taha [Kemara], Jock [James O'Connor] and Rivez all performing that role well, so for me coming back into the side I'm making sure that Rivez keeps his blow and I'm there to help him with any communications and stuff that he needs from the back."

Crusaders coach Rob Penney said Jordan was an essential part of the Crusader mix, and his capabilities were acknowledged worldwide in any team he played.

"He's such an asset and without putting any burdens on him, he'll be a point of difference for us."

Penney was wary of history heading into the contest.

"The Crusaders have got a great history in playoffs at home, but the reality is, it's a different season. The Reds have had a great year and they're coming here to do a job. They'll be determined, so history counts for nothing."

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