The Crusaders have cemented their status as the most dominant team of the Super 12 era with a nerveless 35-25 win over the Waratahs at Jade Stadium.

Despite a belated three-try comeback from the Waratahs, the short-priced favourites deservedly claimed their fifth title in the tenth and final year of the competition before it changes to Super 14.

The visitors knew the match would be won and lost at the breakdown but could do little to stop the home side's peerless display at the tackle contest.

It was a typically powerhouse 80 minutes by the seven-time finalists, vital turnovers by the likes of captain Richie McCaw and quick work at the breakdown ensuring a steady stream of ball to their fluid backs.

The home side took a 14-6 halftime lead, scoring the only try of the first half through Scott Hamilton in the 13th minute after an explosive break and kick through by winger Rico Gear.

Two tries in the opening 23 minutes of the second half broke the back of the visitors before centre Caleb Ralph's 67th minute effort gave the Crusaders a 35-6 lead.

Ralph's try was typical of how Canterbury punished mistakes all evening.

The Waratahs had been on the attack before replacement Al Kanaar spilled a ball 10 metres out from the tryline.

The play then went 90 metres before Ralph scored.

"They scored three tries from turnovers and you can't do that against the Crusaders," Waratahs captain Chris Whitaker said.

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