OPINION: Playmaker Richie Mo'unga's near-flawless game was the only reason his Crusaders were even close to stealing victory against the Hurricanes,
If it wasn't for the All Blacks first-five, the 'Canes would've won that Super Rugby Aotearoa clash by 25 points.
With nobody quite knowing where Beauden Barrett fits into the international backline, one thing is for certain - Mo'unga should play No.10.
Here are some others that stood out over this weekend's games:
1-Alex Hodgman (Blues)
Was a big part of the scrum domination, very nice game.
2-Asafo Aumua (Hurricanes)
Blues hooker Kurt Eklund was also very good this week, but once again, when Dane Coles is out, Aumua shapes as a star replacement - athletic and versatile, threw very well too.
3-Ofa Tuungafasi (Blues)
An absolute beast and a couple of great runs too, he started the attack that set up Christie's matchwinning try.
4-Sam Whitelock (Crusaders)
A tireless effort from the All Blacks lock, who dug deep for the entire match and didn't miss a tackle.
5-Scott Scrafton (Hurricanes)
Seems to be coming into his own in the post-COVID competition, much better in the lineout and put in some strong tackles.
6-Lachlan Boshier (Chiefs)
Dominance, the best No.6 going around New Zealand at the moment. Absolute animal at the breakdown and doesn't miss tackles.
7-Sam Cane (Chiefs)
Outstanding effort from the All Blacks captain and a mammoth performance on defence, with 19 tackles and no misses. Sure to have shut a few people up this week.
8-Ardie Savea (Hurricanes)
Another strong match - huge bump on Bryn Hall, strong carries and nine bruising tackles.
9-Brad Weber (Chiefs)
Was everywhere on attack, solid kicking game too. Constant threat, especially off the back of the ruck.
10-Richie Mo'unga (Crusaders)
One of the best matches you will ever see from a first-five. Took the ball to the line, beat defenders, distributed well, just needed to knock over that final kick to top off the night.
11-Solomon Alaimalo (Chiefs)
Went off injured, after scoring his impressive try, but he was the best left winger out there this weekend - solid game.
12-Anton Lienert-Brown (Chiefs)
Equally as impressive on both sides of the ball, making a couple of key turnovers and playing a huge part in Alaimalo's try. Unreal outing from the All Black.
13-Peter Umaga-Jensen (Hurricanes)
Looks the goods in the midfield and showed up Jack Goodhue big time. Perfect parter for Ngani Laumape.
14-Sevu Reece (Crusaders)
Very close between him and Wes Goosen this week. Reece was threatening all game, beat six defenders and ran for more than 100 metres.
15-Jordie Barrett (Hurricanes)
His most impressive kicking game this season, quickly putting his hand up as one of the best in the country off the tee too. Secured the match-winning turnover in the final minute.
Luke Robinson is a Newshub sports reporter. Join us next weekend for live updates of Super Rugby Aotearoa.
