Force shock Crusaders
Western Force produced a storming comeback to topple the title-chasing Crusaders 24-16 in Perth.
Last Updated: 23/04/10 3:00pm
Western Force produced a storming comeback to topple the title-chasing Crusaders 24-16 in Perth.
The Crusaders needed just a point to go clear at the top of the Super 14 table and they looked good for a maximum points haul as they moved into a 13-0 lead by the interval.
However a stirring fightback after the break saw the Force, who have now put their early season misery behind them, to a superb win.
Kahn Fotuali'I had scored the opening try for the visitors after four minutes when poor defending down the blindside allowed him to cross.
Dan Carter slotted over a conversion before a drop goal from Fotuali'I extended their advantage.
Target
And the Crusaders reached half-time 13-0 up when Carter slotted over a penalty.
However the Force come back began five minutes into the second half when Ben Whittaker stretched over to score.
David Hill converted and he was target again seven minutes later as he added the extras when Pek Cowan broke off a rolling maul to score.
The Crusaders restored their lead with a Carter drop goal with 11 minutes left, however their joy was shortlived as the Force scored a cracking try.
Tom Hockings broke down the touchline before sending Matt Hodgson over.
Hill converted and was then on target with a late penalty with two minutes left to deny Crusaders the losing bonus point.
The defeat means the Crusaders remain locked on 34 points with the Reds, Stormers and Bulls.
