By Jim Kayes
Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has hit out at two refereeing decisions he says not only cost his team a win against the Hurricanes, but leaves the seven-time champions in danger of missing the Super Rugby playoffs for the first time since 2001.
Todd Blackadder wasn't happy with what he saw in the loss to the Hurricanes – two tries leaving the usually affable Crusaders coach fuming.
“The first try with the obstruction, to me that was not a try,” he says. “Even the second one, they had a guy in our defensive line with obstruction even though we weren't on song and put our hands up and take responsibility for what wasn't a very accurate performance. There are two tries that I don't think should have been allowed. Those things, they hurt you and they kill you.”
They hurt especially when the Crusaders are yet to secure a place in the playoffs. They may get a timely boost this week with the return of Dan Carter from a hamstring injury.
“The goal this week is to get back into team training, get through a couple of sessions and hopefully put myself in contention for this weekend,” says Crusaders first-five Dan Carter.
While he was on the bike today, Carter ran at 80 percent yesterday.
“With it being a Friday night game, it makes it a bit tough with sort of less time. But by Wednesday hopefully I'll be able to train with the guys, depending on what happens in the next couple of days, but I’m pretty confident.”
Israel Dagg is more certain, as he's over his ankle injury. But though number eight Kieran Read has had his first few days free of the effects of concussion, he's not certain he'll play.
“It'd be great to be back, but I'm not going to be rushing it,” says Read. “It's an injury you've got to look after, and if I'm not 100 percent I won't be playing.”
With the Crusaders keen to ensure they make the playoffs for the 11th successive year, they'll all need to be at 100 percent against the top-of-the-table Chiefs.
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