The Crusaders' pragmatic approach paid off in Christchurch on Friday, according to SARugbymag.co.za's Opta-powered stats.

Heavy rain fell throughout the first half of this match, and while it stopped during the break, conditions remained difficult in the second half.

It was no surprise then to see the hosts making good use of the boot during their 29-10 win. They kicked a whopping 49 times out of hand, with Richie Mo'unga's cross-kick resulting in Israel Dagg's try and Dagg's up-and-under almost leading to a second try for Johnny McNicholl (it was disallowed due to Matt Todd going offside).

Mo'unga kicked the most for the Crusaders out of hand (15 times), followed by Israel Dagg (13) and Andy Ellis (11).

However, the Saders did send the ball wide when the opportunity presented itself, including on one occasion during the second half from inside their deadball area. They took play all the way to the other end of the field, and eventually got over for their fourth try. The hosts would finish the game with 463 running metres and nine clean breaks.

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