Trying to go where no Chiefs have ever gone

The Chiefs tonight try to do what their predecessors have failed to do in four attempts when they head south in search of a maiden victory in Christchurch.

But the odds are against them. Although both teams lost their opening round Super 12 games, the Crusaders were in the hunt against the Brumbies in Canberra for much of the match.

The Chiefs, too often treating the ball as if it were a piece of wet soap at the ruck and tackle situations, were off the pace against the Waratahs.

Rather than spend the week moping about their lot, the Chiefs have determined what went wrong and worked to rectify it.

"Monday was a day of reflection for us. We got all our disappointment over and done with and I've been proud of the way the guys have hoed into their work this week," coach Ian Foster said.

So how to do you get your players fired up to go where no Chief has gone before? There's the "two arms, two legs" line, or point to the Crusaders record as one of the dominant teams in the history of the competition and stress that a superhuman effort is required.

"Whatever way you look at it, it hasn't worked in the past," quipped Foster. "There's no point getting too concerned at how the Crusaders do things."

His focus has been more on the Chiefs, less on their opponents this week. The skill level has to improve tonight, plus it's a given that every opportunity must be grabbed.

The Crusaders haven't achieved their standing in the competition by being generous to opponents. On the positive side, captain Jono Gibbes, prop Deacon Manu and fullback Loki Crichton, all having had injury troubles in the leadup to the campaign, will be the better for good blowouts against the Waratahs.

Hard-running centre Keith Lowen benefits from Mark Ranby's groin strain to get his first game of the season. He will be up against Casey Laulala, a gifted attacker but with question marks over his defensive muscle.

Then there's the battle of the No 9s, Byron Kelleher against Justin Marshall. They'd both deny it, but there's a backdrop to their tussle. In about three months' time there's a test jersey against the Lions to be won. It should be a lively square-off.

"You've got two quality halfbacks, both pretty determined to implement their game plan," Foster said. "I'm sure both will admit it's what happens in front of them that counts."

And in that respect, no amount of rule tinkering, hype, packaging and marketing will change one of the basic elements of the game. The Chiefs' pack will need to stand tall tonight.