by RivalsDM

Updated: March 23, 2008, 9:02 AM EST Comment

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With the Christchurch-based franchise topping the table with 29 points out of a possible 30, it would be easy for the team to fall into the trap of believing they're invincible.

But Williams says it's a mark of the quality of Robbie Deans' Crusaders that they're never content to sit back.

"As a team you monitor yourself individually and then collectively you help and trigger each other so that you don't sit back on your laurels and you keep trying to improve," Williams told Sunday News in New Zealand.

"That's the beauty of this team, they always want to better themselves week in, week out," added the All Black lock.

Williams said in the aftermath of their 34-7 win over the Waratahs on Friday was they needed to improve their ball retention.

"The handling skills in the first half were pretty average," he said.

"Our execution was poor as well.

"The heart and passion was definitely out there.

"The forwards were very physical and took it to them and our defence was good," noted Williams.

"We gave up just one try and you're constantly working on set-pieces.

"It was definitely one of the tougher games this season.

"It was a mental challenge as well with what they brought to the game and what we had to bring to get the five points," he added.

Williams left the Blues last season in a move that has seen him playing some of the best rugby of his career.

His second row partnership with Brad Thorn is becoming increasingly formidable and he is clearly revelling in the environment.

"I'm just enjoying my rugby and enjoying being around a bunch of guys that are excited about playing and do the simple things right," he said.

"Next week obviously everyone has a look at a game between the Hurricanes and Crusaders.

"I'm very excited about playing the Hurricanes.

"I just want to add to what the team has already established and do the best I can," he added.

It has been a big weekend for the talented Williams family.

Ali's [Williams] younger brother Jay made his Super 14 debut for the Chiefs against the Bulls on Saturday.

The more experienced Ali said he had spoken to Jay several times in the build-up to Saturday's game in Rotorua and was thrilled for him to finally break into the Super 14.

"I've spoke to him a lot.

"He's thoroughly enjoying it," Williams said.

"The work he's done behind the scenes has been outstanding and now he's getting his reward for that, which is perfect.

"I'm sure he'll do well [for the Chiefs].

"He's a gutsy little character and definitely better than me," he quipped.

"I'm just excited for him.

"Everyone talks about me all the time but it's a family thing and to see him achieve is awesome," he went on to say.