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Good evening and thanks for tuning in here on The Roar for the first New Zealand derby of Super Rugby 2015 as the Blues host the Chiefs live from QBE Stadium on Auckland’s North Shore from 5:35pm (AEDT).
Both teams have incredibly talented and exciting backlines and with two evenly matched forward packs tonight’s clash between these two neighbouring franchises promises to be an exciting affair.
Many have tipped the Chiefs as a pre-season favourite to challenge for the title and on paper they certainly look the part. Some serious recruiting in the off season sees a rather beefed up and intimidating backline ready to be unleashed by Coach Dave Rennie.
The return to New Zealand rugby of Hosea Gear adds some potent finishing power and the signing of Seta Tamanivula from Taranaki, voted as the ITM Cup player of the year for 2014 provides some real punch and power at centre and his combination with Sonny Bill Williams, himself returning to the Chiefs after two seasons in the NRL, will be one to keep an eye on.
With the long term injury to Tawera Kerr Barlow, Augustin Pulu is promoted to first choice halfback and his combination with Aaron Cruden will be pivotal to the Chiefs for not just tonight, but the Super season. Many have tipped Pulu will work his way into regular All Black contention in conjunction with Aaron Smith and this season certainly provides him with a golden opportunity.
The Blues Coach John Kirwan is certainly under pressure this year to produce a successful year after unsatisfactory results for the franchise over the past several years. With the services of a number of All Blacks and exciting backline talent the results simply have not been good enough and JK will certainly feel the brunt of public expectation if the inconsistent results continue.
The ace up Kirwan’s sleeve is the mercurial talent of Ihaia West who appeals as a first five capable of playing a game which suits this Blues outfit and their attacking style. West, in his first full time contract at Super level, is a player with exciting potential and his ability to perform at this level will be crucial for the Blues, as will his combination with Bryn Hall, another exciting prospect at halfback.
All of this won’t matter if the pack cannot provide him with quality ball, but this should not be a problem for the Blues with a number of seasoned All Blacks up front. Perhaps this can be the season the Blues finally deliver on their promise and challenge for the finals.
Join us live as we cover all the action from 5:35pm (AEDT) with live updates and don’t forget to provide your thoughts on the match in the comments section below.
Tip: Chiefs.
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.