CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand (AP) The Christchurch-based Crusaders ran in 13 tries against the Melbourne Rebels on their way to an 85-26 win which continued a series of crushing victories by New Zealand teams over Australian opponents in Super Rugby's 16th round.
From the second minute when All Blacks lock Sam Whitelock marked his 100th Super Rugby match with a try, the Crusaders were rampant, scoring seven tries and more than a point a minute before halftime.
Whitelock fielded the opening kickoff, barged downfield through insipid defense, then reappeared to score the night's first try and unleash an avalanche of scoring by the Crusaders which overwhelmed the hapless Rebels.
All Blacks center Ryan Crotty had a double and Sam Barrett, Alex Hodgman and wingers Nemani Nadolo and Johnny McNicholl also scored as the Crusaders took a 43-7 lead to halftime.
