Super Rugby Pacific: Crusaders out to snap Brumbies' unbeaten NZ streak, clinch home playoffs

The Crusaders realise the magnitude of their clash with high-flying ACT Brumbies this weekend.

A bonus-point win would move the Crusaders into second spot on the ladder and - crucially - set them up to play at home during the Super Rugby Pacific playoffs.

"Some round robin games are bigger than normal," said coach Scott Robertson. "When it's coming down to the pointy end, we understand this is currently No.2 and No.3 on the ladder.

"It's pretty simple the equation around the result."

But a win of any sort against the Brumbies has proven too tall an order for Kiwi opposition this season, with the Canberra-based side unbeaten against NZ teams.

"We're well aware of what's gone before and the way they're performing at the moment," said Crusaders hooker Codie Taylor. "They have huge emphasis on the physical game.

Following their shock loss to the Waratahs, the Crusaders found their feet at Perth with a win over the Force, but Robertson knows a hostile home crowd in Canberra won't let them have it their own way

"We want the Viking clap," said Robertson. "That's what we need a bit of hype, get a few [Canberra] Raiders fans in there."

Robertson may want to be careful what he wishes for, as the Brumbies eye four wins on the bounce over Kiwi opposition.

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