The Maitland Mustangs have beaten Sutherland in round 19 of the Waratah Basketball League.
Meanwhile the Hunters’ men suffered a disappointing loss at the hands of the Central Coast.
The Crusaders were rarely troubled – leading at every quarter.
Dane Suttle top scored for Newcastle with 18 points.
The Hunters are second last on the ladder, with just one round of the regular season remaining.