Crusaders face Lions in Super Rugby finale

SUPER RUGBY FINAL

SATURDAY, AUGUST 4:

CRUSADERS v HURRICANES at AMI Stadium, Christchurch, 5.35pm (AEST):

Head to head: Played 20, Crusaders 16, Lions 4

Crusaders at home: Played 8, Crusaders 7, Lions 1

Last clash: Round 7, 2018, Crusaders 14-8 in Johannesburg

It will take something special for the South Africans to avoid earning the bridesmaid tag for a third straight season. For all their quality, the Lions will need everything to fall their way to become the first side to travel to New Zealand and win a final. The Crusaders machine has steamrolled all in their path, whether through their All Blacks-strength pack, their brilliant young backline or the grit of their defence. A ninth title looms for the competition's supreme franchise.

Tab Sportsbet: Crusaders $1.09 Lions $8

Tip: Crusaders by 22