Queensland Reds 18-13 Canterbury Crusaders: Reds tickled pink to win Super 15

An expanded Super Rugby season ended with a new champion, a resurgence of rugby in Australia and questions marks again hanging over New Zealand sides' inability to close out important matches, all of which could have World Cup repercussions.

A record crowd of 52,113 were brought to their feet on Saturday when Wallabies scrumhalf Will Genia's electric 65-metre burst late in the second half gave the Queensland Reds a vital 18-13 lead over the Canterbury Crusaders, which they held on to for their first Super rugby title.

The win by the Reds, a side made up of mostly youngsters blooded under former coach Phil Mooney and brought to maturity by Ewen McKenzie, was highlighted by a stirring defensive effort as they tackled themselves to a stand-still.

They also seized what little chances they had as the Crusaders forwards constantly upset the attacking platform that Genia and Quade Cooper had enjoyed for most of the season and it was hardly surprising the Reds tries - both of which were sparked by Genia - came from broken play.

The Crusaders only had themselves to blame for their loss. They dominated territory and were camped in the Reds' 22 for sustained periods, but made far too many errors - most of which occurred at times when there was the suggestion a converted try would have given them the momentum to kill the game off.

The Reds' victory, however, could be seen as a portent of what is to come in just under two months when the World Cup begins in New Zealand.