An outstanding servant for Taranaki rugby during two separate playing stints, Daryl Lilley also proved a big game player for Canterbury and the Crusaders across three years in Christchurch between 1997 and 1999. Lilley had scored 359 points from 41 Taranaki games, including a try in the province’s historic 42-39 win over Auckland in a 1996 Ranfurly Shield challenge at Eden Park, prior to heading south. His versatility, in terms of being able to function at both fullback and on the wing, added great balance to the Crusaders squad, as did his ability to take on the goal kicking duties when required. Also a dangerous attacking player from the back, Lilley contributed 81 points from 29 appearances for the Crusaders, and 51 from 20 for Canterbury, prior to returning to Taranaki in 2000.