Blackadder lays down the law

Editor

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has come out with stern words as he looks to shake his underperforming team into shape.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has come out with stern words as he looks to shake his underperforming team into shape.

Second last in the New Zealand Conference and outside of the play-off places after last week's shock loss to the Force, the seven-time champions are under pressure as they host the winless Highlanders in Christchurch on Saturday.

Blackadder shook off his usually calm demeanour this week and made it clear it was time for his players to take responsibility for their destiny.

“We're not where we need to be, the players recognise that and they've got to drive that,” Blackadder told Newstalk ZB

“When there's a little bit of angst, I think a bit of anxiety, a little bit of tension's probably a good thing and it's probably where this team needs to be because we're far from happy.”