The Newcastle Hunters have kept their slim playoffs hopes alive with a 16-point win over the Central Coast, while Maitland edged out the Hills Hornets by five.
At Broadmeadow, the home side made a solid start, Cameron Springall scoring two of his 11 points.
The Crusaders hit back through Callum Jenkins, but he struggled to maintain his first quarter form, eventually shooting 27 per cent for the night.
Down 15-13 at quarter time, Newcastle responded with an all-round effort.
Jon Howe had 10 points and 12 rebounds, while Adam Melmeth made a valuable contribution off the bench.
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