Tag: Highlanders

Super 15 Rugby Round Ten Preview

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Super 15 Rugby Round Ten Preview

Round nine provided little in the way of upsets; the Lions holding off a late fight back from the Sharks and the Highlanders getting up on their Crusader neighbors. Round ten has some juicy fixtures line up.

 

Canterbury Crusaders v Waikato Chiefs

Crusaders – $1.75

Chiefs – $2.00

Crusaders were unlucky last round losing out to an impressive Highlanders outfit who know how to grind. The Chiefs should be fresh coming off the bye week. Both sides have the capability to score tries and boast packs with big engines. The Chiefs have more x-factor in their backline but the Crusaders more consistent purists. Even though the Crusaders lost last weekend, they’ll be better off for it and better prepared coming into this derby. Crusaders defense will be the difference, Crusaders by 1-12.

 

Wellington Hurricanes v New South Wales Waratahs

Hurricanes – $1.45

Waratahs – $2.60

The Hurricanes boasting 7 wins from 7 games, top of the Super Rugby table hosting the Waratahs at Westpac stadium. Coming off the bye the Hurricanes will hope to continue their great form pre the bye and the Tahs will be looking to get some respect back after they were bullied by a less fancied Stormers outfit. The breakdown is going to crucial; Hooper is a traditional fetcher and will cause havoc if he isn’t looked after. Both sides have the potential to score from anywhere on the park but the Hurricanes look more likely to do so. Hurricanes to wallop the Tahs, Canes 13+

 

Otago Higlanders v Auckland Blues

Highlanders – $1.45

Blues – $2.60

The Blues picking up their first win of the season last round visit a Highlanders outfit coming off a good win against the Crusaders. We should see a lot of attacking rugby as both sides boast skilled backs with loads of speed, it’ll come down to whoever can convert their opportunities and make less errors as the game will be pretty open. If its open and messy expect the Blues to walk away with the win, if Sopoaga and Aaron Smith lead their troops well the Highlanders will take it. Highlanders 1-12.

 

ACT Brumbies v Melbourne Rebels

Brumbies – $1.18

Rebels – $4.50

After a surprise loss to the Blues the Brumbies return home to GIO stadium hosting a Rebels outfit coming off the bye. The Brumbies have been hit with some injuries to crucial players Toomua, Kuridrani, and Mogg on top of other key personnel – this will certainly challenge their depth if they are out for a long period of time. The Brumbies still boast a good roster with Stephen Moore and Nic White leading the troops will be too good for the Rebels who will battle but will struggle to keep up. Brumbies win it late, 1-12.

 

Western Force v Stormers

Force – $2.45

Stormers – $1.50

The Force host the Stormers NIB Stadium in Perth. The Force coming off a loss to the Cheetahs face a Stormers outfit that humiliated the Waratahs last round. Expect to see a touring Stormers outfit batter this Force team around the park to finish their Australasian tour on a high. The Force sit second to last 1 point ahead of the Reds, Stormers 13+ .

 

Sharks v Bulls

Sharks – $1.70

Bulls – $2.05

The Sharks host the Bulls at Kings Park. Both sides coming off mixed fortunes in round 9. For the Sharks they’re still missing key personnel with B. du Plessis, Deysel, and F. Steyn still suspended and Lambie out with injury, the Sharks depth certainly being tested. For the Bulls they were a little loose on defense especially around the ruck, being caught out close in and around the fringes multiple times however the Bulls are choosing the run the ball more this season, and looking dangerous in doing so. This will be a traditional South African battle up front but the Sharks are going to struggle with depth off the bench so expect it to be a grinding affair but the Bulls will be too strong, Bulls 1-12.

 

Free State Cheetahs v Queensland Reds

Cheetahs – $1.40

Reds – $2.80

The Cheetahs host the Reds at Free State Stadium in the last game of the round. Cheetahs sitting a couple places above bottom of the table Reds, both sides with scratchy form over the first half of the season. The Red’s looked to be getting back on track last weekend against the Bulls but the result blew out, the Cheetahs have been on the back of 3 big loses before grinding out a win last round. At home the Cheetahs should take this but it will be an interesting battle up front as the Reds can generally hold their own at scrum time. Cheetahs will run away with the game, 13+.

 

Bye week – Lions

Super 15 Rugby Results Round 9 2015

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Super 15 Rugby Results Round 9 2015, catch all the results from the latest round and see how your predictions played out. We picked 50% of the results, not our best weekend of picks thanks to some upsets.

 

Super 15 Rugby Results Round 9 2015

 

Blues (16) v (14) Brumbies

Conference and league leader’s cellar dwellers the Blues hosted the Brumbies in Auckland. This game was potentially a banana skin for the boys from ACT as the Blues were due for a win. The game relatively messy in the first quarter with errors from both and ill discipline from the Brumbies allowing Dan Bowden to sink some easy penalties (4th and 7th). Bowden was at it again close to the break after the Blues had an attacking scrum 15 out with a huge open side to attack they spun it wide then some grinding work and good patience by the forwards close in was awarded moments later as Bowden took a beautiful gap beating the tackler to dive over (34th). The second 40 started much like the first, the Brumbies finally getting on the board with Leali’ifano slotting a penalty (45th). Some excellent patience, phase play, and ruck work saw the Brumbies put together 25 phases of hard grinding work close to the line, credit the Blues for strong goal line defense which was eventually sucked in and Nic White simply spun it wide for Taliauli to dot down uncontested (56th). Leali’ifano hitting a couple more penalties for ill discipline late in the game from the Blues (67th & 73rd) and Ihaia West (77th) bringing the deficit to two. The Brumbies had a chance in 79th minute to take the game as the Blues front row was penalized 50m out for collapsing the scrum. Nic White, renowned for hitting long buzzer beaters couldn’t convert; Blues pick up their first win of the season.

Hurricanes 
Tries – D. Bowden
Pen – D. Bowden 2, I. West
Con – D. Bowden

Brumbies
Tries – L. Taliauli
Pen – C. Leali’ifano 3

 

Canterbury Crusaders (20) v (25) Otago Highlanders

The Crusaders hosted the Highlanders, a local derby with both teams showing good form and exciting running rugby of late. The sure boot of Sopoaga put the visitors on the board first (5th) but the Crusaders were quick to reply with some hard running and quick recycling putting the fringe attack on the front foot, Nadolo attracting 3 defenders 10 out, offloaded nicely for Todd to crash over in the corner (7th). Sopoaga was also binned for a shoulder charge leading up to the try. An attacking Crusaders scrum 10 out was held nicely by the Highlanders, Nadolo taking the ball close, beating the first two tacklers, taken down 5 out and Taufua performing an excellent scoop and dive to dot down uncontested (19th). Sopoaga was out of the bin to convert a penalty (23rd). An aimless kick from the Crusaders was punished as the Highlanders counterattacked from inside their own half seeing Sopoaga get inside some forwards and offload nicely for Ben Smith to run away 4o out and dot down (38th). Into the second half what looked to be a promising Crusaders attack was cut short by a perfectly timed interception by Naholo who raced to dot down (44th). Naholo was at it again after a line out 5m out was spun infield and the Crusaders followed suit expecting the Highlanders to continue left but Aaron Smith ran right and spun it out wide where Nadolo cruised over uncontested (50th). Slade replied with a penalty after some good pressure from the Crusaders (56th), the second half proving to be a physical battle with both teams cancelling each other out with solid defense. Slade hit another penalty (76th) but were still 5 points behind with 3 minutes to go, Higlanders holding on with possession to kick it out for the win.

Crusaders
Tries – M. Todd, J. Taufua
Pen – C. Slade 2
Con – I. Dagg, C. Slade

Highlanders
Tries – B. Smith, W. Naholo 2
Pen – L. Sopoaga 2
Con – L. Sopoaga 2

 

New South Wales Waratahs (18) v (32) Stormers

The Waraths at home, well rested after their bye week face a Stormers outfit who have been on the wrong side of a tough battles with the Highlands and Hurricanes  but have looked progressively better each week. Catrakilis opened the Stormers account early taking the points with a converted penalty (6th). But the hosts replied through a great run from Beale and Folau out wide for Folau to feed a rampaging Naiyaravoro 22 who beat 3 defenders to dive over in the corner (12th). The Stormers pressing forward through their left hand channel sucking the Tahs defense in 5 out, some great hands back to the right hand side giving the Stormers and overlap and another 5 points courtesy of de Allende (20th).  Moments before halftime the Waratahs retained possession and pressure meters out from the line replicating the Stormers previous offense sucking the men in and feeding it wide to Horne who battled his way over (39th). Inside of halftime an excellent chip kick bounced favorably for van Wyk who raced away from 50 out to dot down (46th). Excellent defense from the Stormers smothered the Waratahs attack and nullified their playmakers around the field, de Jongh getting a hand out to intercept a Tahs attack fed de Allende on his inside        who ran away 40 out for 2nd of the night (70th). A Waratahs knock on just outside the Stormers 22 was scooped up by Kolbe who raced away to seal the victory for an impressive Stormers (76th).

Waratahs
Tries – T. Naiyaravoro, R. Horne
Pen – B. Foley 2
Con – B. Foley

Stormers
Tries – D. de Allende 2, J. van Wyk, C. Kolbe
Pen – D. Catrakilis, K. Coleman
Con – D. Catrakilis 2

 

Western Force (15) v (24) Free State Cheetahs

A desperate Western Force host the Cheetahs in Perth, the Force on a six game losing streak and the Cheetahs sitting at the bottom of the South African conference. The Cheetahs first to open their account with wing Raymond Rhule dotting down after some sustain pressure from the Cheetahs pack early (5th). The Force worked their way close to the line and replied with a try to Luke Morahan who was on the end of a beautiful offload from Dane Haylett-Petty (14th). The Force were dominant through the first half but could not convert on their possession, two penalties rounded the half out (Pietersen 36th and Burton 38th). The Force brought an unexpected approach to the 2nd 40 with an all in driving maul crashing that could not be stopped, Chris Alcock claiming the spoils (42nd). Pietersen took the points (46th) and a drop goal (49th) to make a 1 point game, the Force still dominant but lacking discipline. Brussow was over next with a dive close to the line (67th) and Pietersen slotting the conversion making it a 6 point game. The Force failing to capitalize on possession and opportunities gifted Pietersen another easy 3 points with a penalty (76th) which put the game out of reach for the hosts, sweet victory for the Cheetahs.

 

Force
Tries – L. Morahan, C. Alcock
Pen – L. Burton
Con – L. Burton

Cheetahs
Tries – R. Rhule, H. Brussow
Pen – J. Pietersen 3
Con – J. Pietersen

D/Goal – J. Pietersen

 

Lions (23) v (21) Sharks

The Sharks coming off a drubbing courtesy of the Crusaders and the loss of key personnel through injuries and suspension, the Lions a hard fought win over the Bulls last round. The Lions took points on offer early on after some good pressure, Jantjies (9th and 18th) but the Sharks were quick to reply with Renaldo Bothma crashing through to open the Sharks account (20th). Mvovo outran the Lions defense for their second, the speedster getting an overlap which he took full advantage of (31st). Before half time the Lions replacement wing Howard Mnisi dove over to open his account (39th). The Sharks starting slow in the second 40 leaked 2 tries inside 6 minutes to Frans de Klerk (43rd) and Harold Vorster (46th).  A quality battle resumed for the rest of the game, whilst not high scoring the game see-sawed with the Sharks getting the better of possession but unable to capitalize with the Lions showing a lot of heart on defense. Thomas du Toit did break the Lions hold crashing over (77th) with Zeilinga converting. Zeilinga did have an opportunity to convert an ambitious penalty on full time but his went wide, Lions taking the victory.

Lions
Tries – H. Mnisi, F. de Klerk, H. Vorster
Pen – E. Jantjies 2
Con – E. Jantjies

Sharks
Tries – R. Bothma, L. Mvovo, T. du Toit
Con – F. Zeilinga 3

 

Bulls (43) v (22) Queensland Reds

Loftus Versfeld hosted the Bulls and Reds, both sides coming off loses last round with the Reds injury toll climbing. The Bulls running the ball like they did against the Crusaders 2 weekends ago, Hougaard picking up the first try of the night (7th). Lachlan Turner was quick to reply as makeshift fly half Nick Frisby got a good bounce of the ball to offload pre tackle to Turner who gassed the Bulls 40 out (15th). The Bulls hot on attack replied minutes later with Spies crashing over close to the line (17th).  Hougaard added to his tally running away for another try catching the Reds asleep to round the half out (34th).  A fired up Reds outfit came out all guns blazing in early stages of the second half with Genia capitalizing on some good work from the forwards and lazy ruck time defense to crash through from 10 out (45th). Minutes later Genia put through a pin point grubber 5 out and Frisby claimed the spoils diving over (47th). The Reds losing their momentum when Adam Thompson was binned 3 minutes later for collapsing a maul and the Bulls took full advantage with Marcel van der Merwe being on the end of a man overlap to dot down (52nd). A huge bust from Samu Kerevi up the centre saw the big man run 45m only to be taken around the ankles but quick ruck time play saw Marco Kotze dive over (56th). Odendaal caught the Reds napping on the line as he darted through the fringe of the ruck to dive over (59th) and van Zyl replicated that try again catching the Reds napping (68th) to close the game out.

Bulls
Tries – F. Hougaard 2, M. Van der Merwe, B. Odendaal, P. van Zyl
Pen – J. Potgieter 4
Con – J. Potgieter 3, T. Schoeman 2

Reds
Tries – L. Turner, W. Genia, N. Frisby, M.Kotze
Con – L. Turner

Super 15 Rugby Round Nine Preview

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Super 15 Rugby Round Nine Preview

Round eight provided little in the way of upsets; the Lions beating the Bulls at the death would’ve ruined some punters picks and perhaps the Crusaders demolition of the Sharks was unexpected for some. All the games previewed for round nine as follows.

 

Auckland Blues v ACT Brumbies

Blues – $2.05

Brumbies – $1.70

A winless Blues outfit returns home looking to get their first win of the season, the challenge ahead is an inform Brumbies who look well structured and disciplined. For the Blues, Luatua is dropped to the bench; it seems Kirwan fancies a quicker Daniel Braid. The Brumbies remain unchanged. The Blues did look better last weekend against the Chiefs but are still a mile off as a team, it will be a scrap but the Brumbies will come out by 1-12.

 

 

Canterbury Crusaders v Otago Highlanders

Crusaders – $1.30

Highlanders – $3.30

The Crusaders coming off a long trip after thrashing the Sharks in Durban and the Highlanders had the bye in round eight. For the Crusaders, Dan Carter is back on the bench after taking some parental leave and the props are rotated with Joe Moody and Owen Franks starting. Jimmy Tupou slots into lock to partner Whitelock. For the Highlanders no changes this round. This is going to be epic derby, the Highlanders have been winning but also winning tough when they need to, the Crusaders have shown they can also play some exciting running rugby outside of their vintage play. It’s tough to call, the trip from South Africa may be the factor here with a fresh Highlanders side, Highlanders by 1-12 at the death.

 

New South Wales Waratahs v Stormers

Waratahs – $1.30

Stormers – $3.30

The Stormers have lost three on the trot now and their assignment doesn’t get any easier with a well rested Tah’s outfit who boast a 12 from 13 home win record.  The Waratahs starting 15 is unchanged with Adam Ashley-Cooper returning from injury onto the bench. The Stormers lose inspirational captain Duane Vermeulen who is being rested however they get back Juan De Jongh. This will certainly be a bruising encounter, for the Stormers to have a chance they need to turn up in the first 40 and play some rugby. The Waratahs attack from the get go and with so many playmakers will be very dangerous with ball in hand.  The Stormers are going to struggle without Vermeulens power and work rate, the Waratahs will be too slick and take the game 13+

 

Western Force v Freestate Cheetahs

Force – $1.50

Cheetahs $2.45

The Cheetahs coming over a drubbing last round courtesy of the Brumbies now continue their Australasian tour in Perth against the Force who should be relatively well rested after their bye week. Both teams are struggling to find any decent form this season with the Cheetahs bottom of the South African conference and the Force 2 points ahead of cellar dwellers the Reds. The Force will want to take the game away from the Cheetahs strength up front and avoid over committing at ruck time, the Cheetahs will benefit from a physical battle and set piece play. Either side could take this game, expect to see the Force run away with it in the later stages, Force by 1-12.

 

Bulls v Queensland Reds

Bulls – $1.10

Reds – $6.00

The Bulls host the Reds at Loftus, the Reds one win better off than the Blues at the bottom of the table and looking very shaky this season. The Bulls were unlucky last weekend, caught out at the death by a smart play from the Lions. For the Bulls it has been confirmed that Matfield has been ruled out for three to four weeks to have surgery on his knee but likely to see Pollard, Serfontein, and van der Merwe back in some form this weekend. The Bulls have blown hot and cold this season after destroying the Crusaders in round 7 they were caught napping in a last minute loss to the Lions last round. The Reds have lost Quade Cooper to injury and James Horwill to a suspension, both players crucial to the Reds. We don’t predict an upset here as the Reds have just played poor rugby, the Bulls 13+.

 

Lions v Sharks

Lions – $2.00

Sharks – $1.75

The Lions host the Sharks at Ellis Park, both sides lingering mid table. The Lions played a relatively good game against the more fancied Bulls last week, taking it at the death. The Sharks however were pumped by the Crusaders in an awful display with Jean Deysel sent from the field for contact with the head, continuing the Sharks ill disciplined season. The Lions make four changes with Julian Redelinghuys starting, Jaco Kriel to the flank, Faf de Klerk at scrum half and Super Rugby debutant Mark Richards on the wing. For the Sharks, losing Lambie to injury, Deysel to suspension where he joins Bismarck du Plessis and Steyn has forced wholesale changes – Sithole starts on the wing, Zeilinga to fly half, Lourens Adriaanse, Franco Marais and Dale Chadwick make up the new front row with Beast and Jannie being rested. Renaldo Bothma replaces Deysel and Wentzel is Captain. For the Sharks there is incentive for the new boys in this round to perform and show the coaches they want to be there but with the changes comes a new combinations and inexperience to consider. The Lions should be confident coming into this game but will need to bring structure and patience in what could be a scrappy game. The Lions will take this 1-12.

 

Bye week – Chiefs, Hurricanes, and Rebels

 

It has been confirmed that Argentine Captain Agustin Creevy will leave English club Worcester Warriors to join the Argentine based Super Rugby franchise that will come into the new look competition in 2016. Agustin is the first international to sign, we hope that many of his countrymen will follow.

Super 15 rugby results round 7

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Could the Hurricanes extend their unbeaten start to the competition and would the Blues finally get a win? Here’s how the round played out. Super 15 rugby results recapped!

 

Wellington Hurricanes (36) v (12) Melbourne Rebels

Conference and league leaders hosted the Melbourne Rebels at the Cake tin, Wellington. The Canes opened their account 11 minutes in with an overlap on the short side of the Rebels defense, TJ Perenara sitting on the shoulder to take the inside pass, converted by ex Rebel Jason Woodward. Both teams guilty throughout the half of breakdown infringements with Mike Harris and Woodward trading conversions, the half finishing 10-12 Rebels. The Hurricanes applied pressure early into the second half with good line out maul and grinding work finally spreading the ball out close and wide for Cory Jane to dot down (43rd) with Woodward slotting the sideline conversion. Midway through the second Callum Gibbons picked up his first super try after a turn over inside the Hurricanes 22 and a punt down field saw Cory Jane deflect the bounce of the ball with his chest and Gibbons scooping the ball up and running away for the try (57th). Perenara picked himself up a yellow card (68th) for continuous infringing around the ruck. The Rebels could not get the upper hand with the extra man and the Hurricanes subs made a strong impact with Milner-Skudder picking up his first try (76th) and a 2nd moments later through soft hands out wide (80th).

 

Hurricanes 
Tries – TJ Perenara, C.Jane, C. Gibbins, N. Milner-Skudder 2
Pen – J.Woodward
Con – J.Woodward 4

Rebels
Pen – M.Harris 4

 

Queensland Reds (17) v (18) Lions

Quade Coopers return couldn’t inspire the Reds, a relatively uneventful first half full of fumbles and mistakes. The Lions were on the board first with sustained pressure from the forwards and aggressive running from the backs, Vorster got slightly outside of his opposite in the far corner to gracefully dive with an outstretched arm to dot down (13th). Just outside of half time a poor line out throw by the Reds was claimed and the Lions counterattacked with a hard run by flank Tecklenburg saw him crash over by the posts with Jantes converting (48th). The Reds had the scrum feed 10 out from the line and powerfully drove through to be awarded a penalty try as the Lions pack disengaged (52nd), Cooper converting. The Reds were next to score again through more forward pressure and quick hands through the backs close in to see centre Kerevi crash over to put the Reds ahead (67th). 3 minutes later, ill discipline from the Reds cost them 3 points when Jantjies converted (70th). The game rounded off with the Reds in possession and lining up a field goal, yet Cooper too slow out of the blocks and his kick was charged.

 

Reds 
Tries – Penalty try, S.Kerevi
Pen – Q.Cooper
Con – Q.Cooper 2

Lions
Tries – H.Vorster, W. Tecklenburg
Pen – E.Jantjies 2
Con – E.Jantjies

 

Waikato Chiefs (37) v (27) Freestate Cheetahs

Waikato Stadium hosted the Chiefs v Cheetahs. A high scoring affair with ill discipline and red mist rearing its ugly head. The Chiefs opened their account inside the first 2 minutes with Sonny Bill Williams gaining the advantage line and with a short offload found the hands of Leitch who crashed over (2nd). What looked to be the Chiefs opening the flood gates saw Messam race away for another Chiefs try after what looked to be a regulation maul, Messam peeled away and dotted down (17th). Fitzgerald was binned (23rd) for sacking the support mauler and the Cheetahs hit back with a try to Prinsloo (27th) after the Chiefs were caught napping at the maul with no defenders driving the Cheetahs pack. Tameifuna was next in the bin after he sacked the maul illegally (32nd). The half rounding off 14-13 Chiefs, setting up an exciting 2nd 40. Cruden slotting penalty goals (45th & 52nd) in an uneventful opening. Fullback McKenzie blundering a grubber inside the Chiefs 22 which was deflected, Cruden attempted to clean up only to fumble the ball and Brussow pounced to score under the posts to even it up (53rd). Inside the final quarter Cheetahs lost Brussow for 10 minutes due to ill discipline (66th) and the Chiefs took advantage of the extra man at scrum-time inside the 22 with Leitch twisting off the back of the scrum and feeding Sam Cane who crashed over (67th). Augustine Pulu gutted the Cheetahs up the middle with a brilliant run, off loading in the tackle to a charging Horrell with the help of Sam Cane crashed over for the try (75th). Sustained pressure from the Cheetahs in the final minute saw them claw back a try with Brussow taking a quick tap and driving over (80th), too little too late.

 

Chiefs 
Tries – M.Leitch. L.Messam. S.Cane. A.Horrell
Pen – A.Cruden 4
Con – A.Cruden 4

Cheetahs 
Tries – B.Pinsloo, H.Brussow 2
Pen – J.Pietersen 2
Con – J.Pietersen 2. W. du Plessis.

 

Otago Highlanders (39) v (21) Stormers

The Highlanders hosted the Stormers at Forsyth Bar Stadium in Dunedin. The opening quarter was shaky from both sides; Highlanders slow to start were caught out through good retention from the Stormers albeit some dubious passes and knock on’s during the phases, de Jongh holding on nicely to an overhead pass, stepping inside for the try (18th). The Highlanders seemed to come alive after the try striking back with some fast thinking courtesy of Aaron Smith who planted the ball against the bottom of the posts. The Highlanders were on the board again after Naholo anticipated a Stormers pass perfectly and ran away to dot down under the posts (33rd). On the stroke of half time an Aaron Smith grubber just outside the Stormers 22 was deflected into the hands of Naholo who raced away for the line with one man to beat, Naholo steam rolled Kolbe to score. The hosts continued their first half dominance early into the 2nd half with great retention play from backs and forwards. Patrick Osborne first man off the ruck powered his way over the line (47th) courtesy of an excellent Aaron Smith short pass. Aaron Smith was binned for infringing at the breakdown (56th) resulting in Stormers hitting back through Rhodes (60th) driving over the line to eat away at the deficit. The host’s hard running was taking its toll on the visitors with replacement flank Dan Pryor splitting two defenders 22 out wide after the Stormers were caught short. Late into the half Kolbe cut up the Otago defense through a well run move from the backs which ended with de Jongh taking a pass 10 out to stroll over for his second (75th), Marty Banks rounded the game off went a converted penalty (79th).

 

Highlanders 
Tries – A.Smith, W.Naholo 2, P.Osborne, D.Pryor
Pen – L.Sopoaga, M.Banks
Con – L.Sopoaga 4

Stormers
Tries – J.de Jongh 2, M.Rhodes
Con – D.Catrakilis, K.Coleman 2

 

New South Wales Waratahs (23) v (11) Auckland Blues

The Blues winless so far in the competition were hosted by Waratahs in Sydney. Phipps opened the hosts account early on with a well constructed backline move opening the Blues up and Michael Hooper running a great angle back inside to feed Phipps who dotted down under the posts (7th). The Tahs continued to dominate but failed to convert their opportunities through the half. Daniel Bowden converted two penalties (13th & 23rd ) to see the Blues close in on their hosts in an uneventful, stop start half of rugby. The Blues hit back with a try of their own in the second half, an excellent pick and go by veteran Mealamu put the Blues on the front foot and some quick ruck play and slick hands saw Francis Saili dissect 3 Waratah defenders on the line to score (53rd). Ill discipline from the Blues saw Foley convert three penalties (57th, 60th, & 68th) to put the hosts back in front, Kaino was sent to the bin (71st) for a high tackle on Dave Dennis. The extra man proved vital for the Tahs who went from right to left stretching the Blues defence, Betham cruising over (74th) to put the game out of reach for the Blues.

 

Waratahs 
Tries – N.Phipps, P.Betham
Pen – B.Foley 3
Con – B.Foley 2

Blues
Tries – F.Saili
Pen – D.Bowden 2

 

Sharks (15) v (9) Western Force

Durban played host to the Sharks and the Force. Rain affected the possibility of a fluid running game however both teams resembled amateur outfits who decided to play a game of rugby. Ebersohn converting two penalties (30th & 38th) was all the action accounted for in the first half. Inside 2 minutes the Sharks were the first to dot down after Steyn through a dodgy pass where the pass interrupted the defense and Marais took advantage to run away for the try (42nd).  Ebersohn missed a penalty from out in front and the Sharks countered with Marais darting out of his 22 to pass off to Mvovo who gallantly raced away (67th). The Force playing for the bonus point took the points on full time with Burton slotting a penalty (80th). A dour game.

 

Sharks 
Tries – S.P.Marais, L.Mvovo
Pen – F.Zeilinga
Con – F.Zelinga

Force
Pen – S.Ebersohn 2, L.Burton

 

Bulls (31) v (19) Crusaders

The Bulls hosted the Crusaders in Pretoria. A surprise for both supporters with the visitors making so many uncanny mistakes and turnovers, the Bulls running the ball from the get go seeing early tries to Hougaard (3rd) and Odendaal (7th).  Carter struck back with two penalties (14th & 18th) and Nadolo crashed over minutes later (22nd) with Carter converting to put the Crusaders in the lead. Carter and Pollard traded penalties to go into the half with the Bulls up 18-16. Pollard (52nd & 55th) and Carter (63rd) traded penalties.  Carter attemped to fed an inside ball only to be struck at by Hattingh who juggled the ball and raced away 50 meters to dot down (65th) Pollard converted taking his tally to 16 for the night.

 

Bulls 
Tries – F.Hougaard, B. Odendaal, G.Hattingh
Pen – H.Pollard 4
Con – H.Pollard 2

Crusaders
Tries – N.Nadolo
Pen – D.Carter 4
Con – D.Carter

 

Many critics have called for a review of the Super Rugby officating and use of the TMO in light of the high amount of yellow cards and strange decisions. Dubious calls regarding the definition of a high tackle such as players ducking into tackles only to be caught high. Ruck and maul laws such as an uncontested drive from a line out to a maul, what is considered obstruction? With referees focusing heavily on cleaning up these area’s are they being to harsh? Let’s see what SANZAR referee boss Lydon Bray can do to help clear this up.

Super Rugby Round 6 Preview

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Check out the Super Rugby Round 6 Preview below with team news, odds, predictions and analysis.

Highlanders v Hurricanes

Highlanders – $1.87

Hurricanes – $1.77

Two New Zealand franchises in strong form face off in the first of the Super Rugby Round 6 action.  The Highlanders host the unbeaten Hurricanes at Forsyth Barr in what is set to be one of the closest games of the round.  The halfback matchup between All Blacks TJ Perenara and Aaron Smith may ultimately decide the battle of the H’s, as both teams turn to their number 9 live wires to spark the majority of their attack.  Speaking of individual battles, the lookalike Smith’s (Ben and Conrad) are also set to feature heavily for the respective teams.  We’ll go for Hurricanes in this one, by 1-12.

Rebels v Lions

Rebels – $1.45

Lions – $2.31

A shock win against the Blues was followed up by a pasting at the hands of the Crusaders in the Lions’ Australasian tour matches so far.  The contrasting performances make it difficult to predict which Lions team will turn up, especially faring off against the equally unpredictable Melbourne Rebels unit.  The Rebels did just enough against the Force next week; the match coming down to who had the most nerve in a tense finish.  We’ll go for a similar winning margin, 1-12, in favour of the Lions.

Crusaders v Cheetahs

Crusaders – $1.08

Cheetahs – $8.25

Israel Dagg has the biggest point to prove for the Crusaders as he returns at fullback for the seven time Super Rugby champions.  Dagg has shaken off injury concerns in a bid to maintain his All Black spot in the face of stiff competition from Ben Smith.  His return cancels out the resting of another influential All Black, Richie McCaw.  McCaw’s resting comes at the most strategic time given the Crusaders are unbackable favourites at just a smidgen over $1.  They beat the Cheetahs by 13+ on Saturday night.

Bulls v Force

Bulls – $1.11

Force – $6.95

In another example of a heavily backed team being expected to easily dispatch weaker opponents, the Bulls are the preferred team this time round.  Loftus Versfeld is always a difficult proposition for any touring team, and the Force have to make the trip with a solitary win and inconsistent form.  The solitary win came in Round 1 so its been a barren run of form ever since.  The Bulls have got better and better as the tournament has progressed, and are our pick to win the South African conference.  They’ll win this one by 13+.  Bulls 13+.

Sharks v Chiefs

Sharks – $1.72

Chiefs – $2.15

The match of the round features two enterprising teams near the peak of their games.  Firstly, the Chiefs, who were exceptional last week in beating the Stormers in their first match of their South African tour.  The Sharks just started to find some mojo after a crushing victory over the Cheetahs last week.  Expect the ball to get plenty of air in an exciting match with both teams promising running rugby.  The impressive wing duo of James Lowe and Bryce Heem continue to keep ex-All Black Hosea Gear on the sideline, and will probably cross the line for more tries this week too.

Waratahs v Brumbies

Waratahs – $1.72

Brumbies – $2.15

The Australian derby to close out the round features an impressive attacking team packed to the brim with pace and power, against a disciplined defensive unit without any real fear, but plenty of grunt.  Michael Chieka has at his disposable a quality collection of outside backs led by one of the competing best Israel Folau.  He’ll need to find a way to penetrate the best defence in the competition (the Brumbies having conceded 40 points less than any other side), and start putting some pressure on the wild card teams currently holding knockout spots.  We prefer the Brumbies in this one, also by 1-12.

Super Rugby Round 5 Review

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

We were one game short of the perfect round in our predictions last week.  The Cheetahs falling to the Sharks at home was the only match we tipped incorrectly.  In hindsight, it was an ambitious ask of the Bloemfontein franchise, however, we did the same to the Chiefs, Rebels and Highlanders and they served us well.

The rugby was slightly more watchable this week with a couple of crackers making up for a lacklustre few weeks.  Check out the individual results below:

Hurricanes (30) v Blues (23)

You have to admire the Blues’ desire to play even in the face of such massive adversity.  Without a win in the competition, and with the media turning on coach John Kiran (rather than questioning the player efforts), the Blues played with expansive abandon and tested and probed the Hurricanes often during the first 60 minutes.  However, the final 20 proved to be the winning and losing of the match as the Hurricanes  sealed the points with a late Julian Savea try.  The Hurricanes remain unbeaten, while the Blues are firmly rooted to the bottom of the table and rumoured to be feeling out Robbie Deans for a return to top level coaching.

Hurricanes: Tries – TJ Perenara, M.Proctor, J.Savea 2, Pen – B.Barrett, Con – B.Barrett 3

Blues: Tries – L.Visinia, F. Halai, Pen – I.West 3, Con -I .West 2

Force (17) v Rebels (21)

The Melbourne Rebels put a couple of unfortunate losses behind them to get back in the winners circle against fellow strugglers the Western Force. After an opening round win against the Crusaders, they have suffered narrow losses to the Waratahs and Brumbies.  Friday night was to be different though as they immediately benefited from their attacking intent.  Mike Harris and Mitch Inman scything through early; Harris scoring on his own and Inman teeing up Dom Shipperley.

The Force on the other hand couldn’t find much momentum of their own, and it took former All Black, Alby Mathewson to eventually cross the line; diving around asleep forwards close to the line.

The Rebels controlled most of the encounter despite not scoring themselves after the 66th minute, and even with a late late try to Tetera Faulkner.

Force: Tries – A.Mathewson, T. Faulkner, Pen – L.Burton, Con – L.Burton 2

Rebels: Tries – M.Harris, D.Shipperley, Pen – M.Harris 3, Con – M.Harris

Crusaders (34) v Lions (6)

Todd Blackadder stacked his side with All Blacks and was rewarded with the easiest win of his coaching tenure on Saturday afternoon.  The Black (and Reds) completely dominated their overwhelmed opponents in every facet and got decent returns out of Colin Slade and Dan Carter.  The 57th / 58th minutes were decisive at Christchurch Stadium as a penalty try for a collapsed scrum and a quick follow up to Kieron Fonotia effectively sealed the points (four try bonus point included) for the Crusaders.  The competition points take the Crusaders to just 9 points after their four games and languishing in 10th place.  The Lions three places worse on five points and facing a challenging couple of weeks in Australia.

Crusaders: Tries – A.Ellis. Penalty try, K. Fonotia, K.Read, Pen – D.Carter 2, Con – D.Carter 4

Lions: Pen – E.Jantjies 2

Highlanders (26) v Waratahs (19)

The first major upset of the round came courtesy of  an excellent performance from potential competition dark horses, the Highlanders.  The Otago outfit rolled on from beating the Chiefs at home to toppling the defending champions the Waratahs with a fine all round display.

The Waratahs got the better of the start.  Free flowing backline plays straight out of the playbook saw the Tahs hit the early lead.  Rather than lose composure the Highlanders gained in strength and tries to Wiasake Naholo, Ben Smith and Patrick Osborne – all who would do an All Black jersey justice this year – justified their hype and delivered them a deserved win.

The Tahs a bit too fumbly, too impatient to win this one.  They need to lift to compete with the Brumbies next week.

Highlanders: Tries – T. Franklin, W.Naholo, B.Smith, P.Osborne, Con – L.Sopoaga 3

Waratahs: Tries – N.Phipps, M.Carraro, S.Hoiles, Con – B.Foley 2

Reds (0) v Brumbies (29)

The Reds were held scoreless and resorted to wrestling moves to make an impact against the Brumbies.  Liam Gill impersonated WWE wrestler Batista when he “bombed” Brumbies scrum half Nic White when clearing a ruck in the only significant contribution to the match by a Reds player.  The move was super dangerous and, ironically, cleared the ruck long enough for Ben Alexander to dive over and score.

The Brumbies look as composed and controlled as ever.  They lead the competition outright after having played one more match than the Hurricanes.  The Brumbies look the only Australian team likely to feature in the qualifying rounds, and could possibly go all the way if there defence is anything to go by.

Reds:

Brumbies: Tries – S.Moore, B.Alexander 2, I.Vaea, C.Lealiifano, Con – C.Lealiifano 2

Stormers (19) v Chiefs (28)

The Chiefs were expertly guided to an away win against the Stormers by All Black first five eighth Aaron Cruden.  Cruden sparked an impressive turnaround for his side that had suffered a shock loss to the Highlanders only a week prior.  He was in everything as the Chiefs ran through and around a surprisingly sedate Stormers outfit.  Sonny Bill Williams survived a nasty head clash with Vincent Koch, James Lowe continued his try-scoring feats, and the entire Chiefs forward pack were staunch in the face of a first half onslaught.  The win capped off a great week for the New Zealand conference.

Chiefs still very much the team to beat in New Zealand.

Stormers: Tries – K.Van Wyk, Pen – K.Coleman 3, Catrakilis, Con – K.Coleman

Chiefs: Tries – A.Cruden, J.Lowe, S.Cane, Pen – A.Cruden 3, Con – A.Cruden 2

Cheetahs (10) v Sharks (27)

The Sharks have two playing temperatures; Hot and Cold.  The hot is good, South African conference winning good, but the bad that has reared its ugly head on too many occasions this year. They opted for the hot option in the final match of the round against the Cheetahs.  The solid win, just their second of the year was brought about thanks to a season high four tries, including two to the tournament’s joint top try scorer, Marcell Coetzee.

For Sharks fans the win will hopefully put their side’s season back on track.

Cheetahs: Tries – F.Venter, Pen – W.du Plessis, Con – F,Brummer

Sharks: Tries – F.Steyn, M.Coetzee 2, J.Wilson, Pen – P.Lambie, Con – P.Lambie 2