Experience runs through the Crusaders ranks and that continues to set them apart from their Australian Super Rugby rivals.
The Christchurch-based side were forced to do it the hard way in Canberra on Saturday night, but still extended New Zealand teams' winning streak over their Australian opponents to 36.
Coach Scott Robertson made seven changes to his team ahead of the trip to play the Brumbies.
The Crusaders lost Israel Dagg to injury early and had two men in the sin bin at the same time but the Brumbies were still unable to force their way past the Canterbury juggernaut.
Robertson said his team's confidence and belief proved to be the difference, particularly when they had to play with 13 men for eight minutes.
"The guys that stayed out there during that period were extremely composed and confident in the process. We found a way," Robertson said.
"A little bit of confidence in the ability to execute and that's the key."
The result leaves the Crusaders at the top of the New Zealand conference and the entire competition.
Robertson was delighted to have a 7-2 record, with the Hurricanes, Chiefs and Highlanders making the conference a tight affair.
The only New Zealand team struggling is the Blues.
They will travel to Sydney next week, where the Waratahs have a golden opportunity to break New Zealand's stranglehold over Australian franchises.
