Super Rugby training in Newport

Christchurch Crusaders . (Ljubica Vrankovic) 391707_01

New Zealand Rugby Union Champions The Crusaders trained at Power House Junior Rugby Union Club grounds in Newport, before playing a huge Super Rugby Pacific weekend.

Beginning on Friday through to Sunday, 12 teams from Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific played a weekend of matches at AAMI Park.

In an upset, the Crusaders lost 24-37 to the NSW Waratahs on Saturday night.

Power House Junior Rugby Club will also be hosting the Wellington Hurricanes, Auckland Blues, Western Force (Perth) and the ACT Brumbies.

President Jason Andrew said The Crusaders are consistently ranked as one of the best sports teams across all codes in Australasia.

“They have a number of All Blacks in their midst,“ he said.

“We had nearly 150 professional athletes on our grounds in the last few days which was an amazing opportunity for our club.

“It is an inspiration for many boys and girls to be able to see these top international players in the western suburbs.

“We are fortunate to have two first class fields and club rooms at Blenheim Road, Newport where the teams will enjoy training.“