Lions coach Swys de Bruin plans to meet with the match officials ahead of Saturday’s final against the Crusaders to ensure they get a ‘fair deal’.

This season, the Crusaders have proven to be a cut above the rest as they’ve powered their way to a home final. However, like many top teams, there is also a perception that they have become rather adept at treading a fine line when it comes to getting away with certain infringements.

Australian referee Angus Gardner has been placed in charge of Saturday’s final, and he will face a big test in ensuring it is not overshadowed by any officiating controversies.

Chatting to the media before the Lions jetted off to New Zealand on Monday, De Bruin did not shy away from discussing the subject.

‘One thing we have to be aware of is that the final is at their [the Crusaders’] home ground. I need to have a good meeting with the refs before the match. The offsides lines apply to both sides, and just because they are champions and people think they are good, it shouldn’t mean they can get away with certain stuff.

‘So I’ll make sure we meet with the refs about that. Going through their clips, and I speak from the heart, there is a lot that they get away with compared to other teams in the competition, like the offsides line and the hit on the left-hand side of the scrum on the loosehead. We need to have a fair deal and that’s all we ask for.’

WATCH: De Bruin on Super Rugby final

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