The Crusaders will play their first game after enjoying a first-round bye, but they will be on the road for their opener.

While there was thrilling rugby on display with the Highlanders beating the Chiefs 28-27, and the Blues beating the Canes 30-20, the high number of penalties in these two games is a cause of concern.

A staggering 58 penalties were conceded in these two games alone.

This is something that the Crusaders want to focus on this year, and their assistant coach, Andrew Goodman, says that the players will have to pay a lot of attention to their technique.

“The ball carrier has to, as he always had, make sure he wins the collision over the gain line to ensure he makes those race-lines into support much easier,” said Goodman in an interview with stuff.co.nz

“That is going to be crucial - winning those races on both attack and defence. I think after we have had a couple of rounds it will even out and everyone will get used to the new interpretations, and we will have a free-flowing game.

“We want to play with the ball, keep it alive. I don’t think you will see too much change.’’

“Players don’t intentionally try to give away penalties. It is just about going through the gate, staying on your feet and rolling away early. All those little things that have always been in the game, and that are getting policed a little bit heavier.

On Saturday the Chiefs will play their first home game when they host the Blues at the Waikato Stadium, with kick-off at 9:05.

On Sunday at 5:35, the Hurricanes will host the Crusaders at the Sky Stadium. The Highlanders will enjoy a second-round bye.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport