WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — After dominating Super Rugby for more than two decades, the Christchurch-based Crusaders have fallen into a funk this season from which they seem unable to extract themselves.
The Crusaders are in last place after nine rounds of the current Super Rugby Pacific season with only one win. They face the fourth-place Melbourne Rebels in the 10th round on Saturday.
The Crusaders’ sudden fall from grace has come with the usual baggage: fan anger and resentment, bitter recriminations from former players and calls for current head coach Rob Penney to go.
The Crusaders’ management have pushed back strongly against critics and pointed out with justification that Penney can’t be expected to carry the can. There are many issues contributing to the Crusaders’ decline and sacking the coach likely won’t turn things around.
China biggest contributor of green technologies: WIPO chief
Egyptian builds China's Temple of Heaven with 22,000 matchsticks
Xiaomi SU7 heats up EV segment
Louisiana dolphin shot dead; found along Cameron Parish coast
As China assures bright future, multinational firms eye win
Xi'an to host Digital Silk Road Development Forum
Homegrown chatbot throws hat in AI ring
China completes selection of about 38,000 local gov't special bond projects
Wukesong Sports Center for 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics completed
Paris Hilton excited to 'reclaim her narrative' by producing Toxic docuseries about 'pop
Painting exhibition featuring China's natural beauty kicks off in Egypt's Opera House