RUGBY Blues Players Happy to Have Weekend Off

The Blues players are looking forward to having a weekend off to rest their battered bodies after a four tough weeks of Super 14 rugby.

Front-rower John Afoa says Saturday night's clash with the Crusaders was especially taxing - with a number of players coming away with niggling injuries.

"A couple of guys got a few injuries," Afoa says. "It was a tough game around the rucks and around the mauls and in the scrums, it was pretty full on.

"There were a few sore bodies, but we've got the bye this week and it gives us a chance to freshen up."

Afoa thinks this week's bye has come at the perfect time - with the team struggling to put a fit backline together.

Stephen Brett and Benson Stanley both took knocks to the head in the loss to the Crusaders, joining an injured list that already includes All Blacks Anthony Tuitavake and Luke McAlister.

Afoa says it would have been a bit of a struggle if the team had to play this weekend.

"I think our backs are getting a bit skinny these days.

"We had guys out before the game and a few guys getting head knocks that are going to put them out this week, so it's lucky we have the bye.

"Hopefully when we come back for that Brumbies week we're going to have a big backline to choose from."

The Blues host the Brumbies at Eden Park next Friday night.