Chiefs ready for Crusaders war

THE Chiefs are up for civil war against the Crusaders in tomorrow’s Super Rugby final in Christchurch at 9.05am. 

They enter the clash as David against Goliath, with the Crusaders being the giants of Super Rugby. 

The Canterbury team is the most successful team in the competition’s history with 14 titles, with Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan saying of the final: “We’ve built real continuity across the season, and that will serve us well in Christchurch.

“The Crusaders have proven time and again that they know how to lift in finals footy.

“They’re clinical, composed, and proud of their home record. We’re ready for a good final fight.”

The hosts, meanwhile, are bolstered by the return of All Blacks prop Tamaiti Williams in their chase for an eighth Super Rugby title in nine years.

Williams injured his knee during the playoff win against Reds and missed last week’s 21-14 semi-final win over the Blues.

Coach Rob Penney said: “He was on the cusp of being ready last week but it’s the blessing of having a great squad.”