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The Highlanders will be looking for their first win in 2013 when they play Queensland Reds tonight at Forsyth Barr Stadium. Join us for live scores and commentary this Good Friday from 5.30pm AEDT.
Three out of four losses for the Highlanders have been at home, in a season where they’ve got all the talent and none of the results.
Expectation is a new thing for the Highlanders, however they will need to get used to it with nine All Blacks in their starting team.
That’s right, nine All Blacks. And yes, they’re last on the log.
Ma’a Nonu is playing average for the Highlanders, a phenomenon you might come to expect from a player who did nothing with the Hurricanes and Blues in about 25 seasons.
Brad Thorn is coming back into form with the captaincy and imposed himself well last week against the Chiefs.
Colin Slade looked solid in the field albeit a little shaky with the boot. He gives off a nervous vibe when he’s lining up a kick and looks more like a sunflower swaying in the wind than an indestructible All Black.
It’s not a good look for the bloke. But when he’s on he’s on, so let’s hope he can get back into the swing of things.
Hosea Gear had an uncharacteristically quiet night against the Chiefs and will be looking to throw his thighs into a couple of chests and see what comes of it.
Ben Smith is the form fullback in world rugby so let’s hope he sees plenty of ball, along with Kade Poki who has to be one of the outside backs of the tournament so far.
With all this fire power in the backs they’ve only managed eight tries this year in seven games, the third lowest in the competition.
Curiously, they have the second highest number of defenders beaten at 16 per game.
It appears they can’t finish off their opportunities.
On to the Reds, who are four wins from six games.
Last week they looked average at home against the Bulls, but a win against the marauding bovines is always a good win.
Quade Cooper appears to be developing maturity this season, less of the tricks but more consistent and conservative gameplay has provided a bit of stability at the back.
What’s most impressive is his defense, which last week was superb.
The Reds have the second highest offloads count, the highest number of carries, the greatest running meters and most defenders beaten of any team in the comp this year.
That’s some pretty impressive reading in a tournament defined by its ballistic pace.
We’re likely to be in for a treat tonight. Join us at 5.30pm AEDT tonight on The Roar, the place to be for live scores and where you can have your say on the go.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.