The Crusaders will remain in Christchurch as long as they stay alive in the Super Rugby playoffs but injures to Joe Moody and Ryan Crotty were their biggest concerns after beating the Highlanders 45‑22 last night.

The Crusaders win at "Wyatt Crockett Stadium" in Christchurch means they are now locked in at the top of the competition log, they cannot be overtaken regardless of the results from the final round.

All Blacks duo Moody and Crotty both had to leave the field due to separate injuries.

Meanwhile, it was a big night for the eight time champions' as All Blacks captain Kieran Read, played his first meaningful game since having undergone surgery in December and Wyatt Crockett, who became the first player to make 200 Super Rugby appearances.

They scored five tries and first five‑eighth Richie Mo'unga scored a try and kicked eight of his nine shots at goal to collect 25 points.

Other tries came from George Bridge, David Havili and Scott Barrett. The home side notched an 11th straight win.

The Highlanders tries came from Waisake Naholo, Tyrel Lomax and Ben Smith.

The scoreline matched the Highlanders' 45‑22 loss to the Chiefs last week as their record sunk to 9‑6.

Meanwhile in another match the Red beat the Rebels 37-23.

[Source:One News]

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