Moana Pasifika creates a major upset defeating Crusaders 45-29

In a season full of drama already, Moana Pasifika has pulled off the most significant upset so far by beating the Crusaders 45-29 in Christchurch.

It was, without a doubt, the most complete performance in their history, with the most difficult part being naming a man of the match, as captain courageous Ardie Savea scored two tries for Moana.

Every single player on the Moana side played out of their skins against a Crusaders team that had convincingly won three matches in the lead-up and was the heavy favourite.

The Crusaders were constantly offside, however they hit back straight away with a lineout drive try to Ioane Moananu.

But, that's as good as it got in the first half for the Crusaders.

Moana took a massive lead at the break and continued the impressive performances in the second half to defeat the Crusaders at their home ground.

Crusaders now travel to Fiji to face the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua at 3.35pm on Saturday at HFC Bank Stadium.

Moana Pasifika will be brimming with confidence when they meet the Waratahs in Albany next Saturday.