Since that first game, the Crusaders have reached the top of the points table, while the Blues have had two wins to lift themselves off the lower reaches of the competition.
Crusaders coach Rob Penney is expecting another hard contest.
"They've got themselves into a position where they're still in control of their destiny, so it'll be another good match up."
The home team will welcome back All Blacks hooker Codie Taylor after his enforced stand down after a concussion, while his impressive replacement Ioane Moananu will be on the bench.
"Ioane has proved he is worthy of a place in this team and can regularly hold down his place. He's a well-respected team member, and his lineout throwing is classy; his scrummaging is impressive, and he always manages to get the crowd off their seats at games.
"This group is pretty determined and week after week they are showing their willingness to dig deep."
With consecutive wins in the last two weeks, Blues coach Vern Cotter said there was a little more confidence and a spring in the step of the side, but they were not underestimating how tough it would be against the Crusaders.
The Crusaders are back on the table and playing their game with confidence.
"They've structured their game. They've found a way to play from which they're getting results, and we've got to try to pick that apart.
"Traditionally, they've always been strong up front, and that's still the case. Their kicking game has become a big part of where they've got to this year. So, there'll be a bit of chess to be played and also a good physical battle.
"They love playing the Blues and one of our biggest challenges is in Christchurch playing against the Crusaders."
Having already lost to the Crusaders this year, they had absorbed the lessons they received and were hopeful of a better performance on Friday.
Wing Caleb Clarke is out with a thigh injury and will be replaced by Cole Forbes, while Zarn Sullivan will make his first appearance of the season at fullback.
Also set to make his debut at tighthead prop is Hamdahn Tuipulotu, captain Patrick Tuipulotu's younger brother.
"He's a big boy and has the right body shape for a tighthead prop. It's an amazing thing to be able to play with your brother."