in a crunch

In stressful, high-pressure situations; when things are especially difficult or hectic. Look, having someone with a lot of experience is always great, but I think it's even more important to have someone who can perform well in a crunch. I don't care if my computer is super sleek looking or has top-of-the-line specs, so long as it won't slow down in a crunch. I'm in a crunch here—I need to be at a job interview in an hour, and my car won't start.