Crusaders captain Richie McCaw gave a post-match interview at Jade Stadium, Christchurch, last night after his side secured the Super 12 with a 35-25 win over the Waratahs.
"On behalf of the Crusaders, to the Waratahs team, I think you have set the pace all year. I think most teamsthink you deserve to be worthy finalists, and the way you guys played tonight especially when you were a few points down out there you kept on fighting and you made a real game out of it to the end.
"We salute what you have done all year. We realised coming into this week we had to be at the top of our game. We have proved that and we are pretty stoked to get the win…
"To the Crusaders team, it has been magnificent this year. Firstly, to be involved in a team with so much talent, going out there each week and showing what we can do and having fun.
"I would like to make a special mention to the guys who have played probably their last games for Canterbury - Justin Marshall, Norm Maxwell, Dave Hewett.
"You guys have been absolutely outstanding, you have given everything to this jersey, you have left some blood out here on this paddock every time you come out here and you will be sorely missed.
"But we will carry on hopefully and we appreciate what you have done…
"Finally, but not least, to the Canterbury crowd, not just the Canterbury crowd but everyone throughout the Crusaders franchise… your support this year has been outstanding.
"We are just glad we have been able to put on a performance tonight that we hope you can be proud of."
