The Crusaders are gaining vital momentum when it matters most after defeating the Brumbies in Canberra last night.
Crusaders captain Scott Barrett said the 37-26 win brought a period of erratic form to a close.
"I think the last three of four weeks we've been backed into a corner."
"We've probably dug a little bit deeper with our preparation and I guess what it means to play for the Crusaders."
Leading 23-4 at half-time, the Crusaders were pushed in the second half by the Brumbies who piled on the points.
But Scott Robertson's men held on for the 37-26 win.
The Crusaders sit third on the Super Rugby Pacific standings, with two regular season games to play before the finals.
In Dunedin, the Highlanders outclassed the Western Force 61-10, with coach Tony Brown pleased with the performance of experimental first-five Sam Gilberd.
The Highlanders scored nine tries with Gilberd securing eight conversions in the 61-10 win.
In other games in round 13, Fijian Drua play Moana Pasifika in Sydney this afternoon, while the Blues host the Queensland Reds at Eden Park tonight.
Photo: Photosport Caption: Richie Mo'unga
