Crusaders coach Rob Penney has hailed his team's resilience in the late stages of their 25-22 Super Rugby win over the Blues in Christchurch. 

The home side led 19-7 early in the second half before the Blues clawed back to take a 22-19 lead. 

Two late penalties from Crusaders replacement first-five James O'Connor, including one after the final hooter, saw the competition leaders steal the victory. 

Penney says his team's defensive effort was a standout in wet and windy conditions. 

He spoke with Nick Bewley the morning after, saving special praise for his side's defensive efforts and that of Fletcher Newell with the big prop going 80 minutes. 

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