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Dejection: Chiefs reflect - Source: Photosport -
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The Chiefs know that they will have to rebound quickly when they take on the Crusaders at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton in round five of the Super 14.
Following last weeks shock lost to the Reds, the previously unbeaten Chiefs are aware that this match will be another step up in intensity.
"We're looking forward to our first New Zealand derby game, as they are always intense and competitive," coach Ian Foster said in a statement.
"It has been good to have a full training week after last week's short turnaround.
"There's been an opportunity to reflect on our first four games, and whilst we were frustrated with our last performance, overall the squad has made great progress."
This week, the Chiefs welcome back lock Craig Clarke into the forward pack, having recovered from a groin strain suffered in the round two match against the Lions.
Clarke, with 17 Chiefs caps to his name, is one of two changes in the Chiefs tight-five this week. The other is hooker Aled de Malmanche starting in the number two jersey.
Vern Kamo comes into the reserves bench as cover at hooker, with Hika Elliot suffering a hamstring strain at training earlier in the week.
"Craig Clarke's return is a result of him doing a great job with our medical staff. This has ensured his return at the best case scenario we gave him of three weeks, rather than the longer, but expected four to five weeks, " Foster said
"I expect a real lift in our intensity, back to the levels we achieved in the first couple of weeks. Certainly there were some individuals last week that didn't get to the level they would have wanted," said Foster.
Meanwhile, Sione Lauaki was not considered for the side after being charged with assault on Thursday.
Chiefs: Mils Muliaina (captain), Lelia Masaga, Richard Kahui, Callum Bruce, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Stephen Donald, Brendon Leonard, Colin Bourke, Tanerau Latimer, Liam Messam, Romana Graham, Craig Clarke, Nathan White, Aled de Malmanche, Sona Taumalolo.
Reserves: Vern Kamo, Ben Afeaki, Culum Retallick, Luke Braid, Junior Poluleuligaga, Mike Delany, Dwayne Sweeney.
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