We have battled through 168 days, 124 games, 5,999 points (yes, that close to 6000), 610 tries, and over 10,000 minutes of the game they play in heaven, and all of it has come down to this monumental battle between the Waratahs and Crusaders.
This will be the third time these two teams have faced off in the final, and the first time on Australian soil.
Despite the Tahs losing both finals against Crusaders, the NSW boys remain firm favourites and are expected to put on a great show of the running rugby that got them to the final in the first place.
A Tahs win could see records broken. Sizzling Fullback Israel Folau is just a hat-trick away from equalling Joe Roff and Rico Gear’s record for most tries in a season, 15. Any win over seven points will see the home side break the record for best points difference.
A Crusaders win would see them push their record to eight titles. Dan Carter is also set to his impressive record tally, pushing further his records for most points, most conversions and most penalties – provided he scores that is.
Match-ups will play a key part in deciding who wins and loses. Michael Hooper versus Richie McCaw will determine the break down, while in the back line Folau takes on Israel Dagg at fullback, and young gun Alofa Alofa is up against the 122kg wrecking ball Nemani Nadolo.
If you run by patterns, and superstitious hoodoo, you would say that the Crusaders would win this final battle. But the Waratahs have fought too hard this year to give in to some mumbo jumbo curse.
Waratahs by 10.
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.
How GOOD is the Junkyard Dog?! Christy Doran and Matt Toomua are stunned at the incredible start to his Super Rugby career, on the…
Before the momentous events of Saturday night, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen was the only member of the Reds squad to have ever won in Christchurch. He…
The Queensland Reds have snapped a 25-year drought in Christchurch, holding on to beat the Crusaders 33-28 on Saturday afternoon. With the scores locked…
The icing on the cake in the Western Force's win over the Crusaders was the return of Kurtley Beale. For former teammate Matt Toomua,…
As the Crusaders’ season went from bad to worse, Kurtley Beale and Izack Rodda made bright returns to Super Rugby to help the Force…
Hey Joe, did you see that? The Wallabies could have a new No.10 contender in Will Harrison, who rose to the occasion brilliantly as…
