'Gold to us': Rob Penney hails surprise qualifying final hero against Blues

Two weeks ago, Crusaders head coach Rob Penney would have been sweating on the fitness of All Blacks fullback Will Jordan.

Fast forward to semi-final week, Penney and the coaching staff will feel more confident with their chances without their star fullback, after former Welsh international Johnny McNicholl provided their side with two stellar performances.

McNicholl, who dotted down for a hat-trick on Saturday afternoon against the Blues, returned home to New Zealand in 2025 after five years with Scarlets.

Having played eleven Tests for Wales over a three-year period, McNicholl is no stranger to the big occasions, and played his role to perfection against Vern Cotter’s Blues at One New Zealand Stadium.

The fullback’s first was a smart line off the shoulder of Christian Lio-Willie, while his second was built off a line break by David Havili.

His third and final try of the evening was created by Rivez Reihana and Chay Fihaki, but it was McNicholl who was in the right place at the right time to apply the finishing touches.

The 35-year-old Crusaders fullback seemed to have a hand issue towards the end of the game, and told Sky Sport post-match that he’ll “hopefully” be able to play against the Chiefs next week in Hamilton.

Penney, who spoke to Christchurch-based media after their 52-31 victory over the Blues, couldn’t speak more highly of McNicholl.

“He’s an ultimate competitor, he’s still got that ruthless edge that he wants to win, no matter what,” Penney said.

“You can see that in what he does, and I think what David’s alluding to, the joy that you see when he’s getting, you know, behind the horns of the ball, and the excitement that he has to score with the lads.

“The boys celebrate with him, and it’s a great energy boost for everybody, and you know he’s worth his weight in gold to us.”

Player Line Breaks

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Johnny McNicholl

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David Havili

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Taha Kemara

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“Yeah, he’s been outstanding, and he’s certainly not a fill-in, like he’s played numerous amount of Tests for Wales all around the world, so he knows what big moments look like,” Havili said post-match.

“For someone that’s doing it at his age, he’s just enjoying it, you can see the smile on his face, and I think just being back at home for him has been a massive shift in the way he prepares.

“We’re really blessed to have someone like him in our team.”