Self-belief to help NSW overcome history as Waratahs attempt to topple Canterbury

DAVE Dennis concedes Waratahs teams have gone to Christchurch in the past not believing they can win. But this time just might be different.

Dave Dennis

DAVE Dennis concedes Waratahs teams have gone to Christchurch in the past not believing they can win.

Now, based on the self-belief generated by a year of growth, Dennis flew across the Tasman yesterday sensing tonight could be a different story against the Kiwi heavyweights.

"The biggest thing in the last couple of years has been that belief. I think for some reason we've gone over there doubting whether we can win," Dennis said.

"We haven't had a good history there and we've probably flown over there thinking it's not possible.

"But with the young group we've got, there's no reason we can't achieve something special there. It's all about belief and I think this year we've got a bit more of that.

"In the way we can play, if we've got the right attitude, we can beat these guys."

Disappointment followed a poor effort against the Rebels last week, but a brutal contact session on Monday and a dose of perspective allowed the Tahs to regain confidence.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has made three changes. All Blacks hooker Corey Flynn returns from a hamstring injury in place of Codie Taylor, Dominic Bird replaces Test lock Sam Whitelock, who has a fractured finger, and Willi Heinz starts at halfback with Andy Ellis dropped to the bench.

Crusaders v Waratahs, 5.30pm, tonight. TV: Fox Sports 1.