The Crusaders suffered yet another setback in their Super Rugby Pacific campaign, falling to their fifth consecutive defeat as the Blues secured a commanding 26-6 victory at Eden Park. This defeat further extends the Crusaders' unprecedented losing streak, while the Blues celebrated captain Patrick Tuipulotu's 100th game with a sensational win. Fly-half Stephen Perofeta stole the spotlight with a stellar performance, catching the attention of All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson. The first half was closely contested, with Perofeta and Hohepa exchanging penalties before the Blues unleashed a dominant display in the second half.
Perofeta's tactical brilliance and accurate kicking proved instrumental as the Blues secured a convincing win. Despite injuries plaguing the Crusaders, their performance has raised questions about the coaching staff's effectiveness.