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So, Round 13 of Super Rugby kicks off at the Ecolight Stadium in Pukekohe tonight as the Chiefs host the Western Force. We’ll have live scores and a blog from 5.35pm AEST.
According to Wikipedia, Pukekohe is located in the Auckland region of New Zealand.
So quite what the Chiefs, who allegedly hail from the Waikato, are doing playing a home game here, I have no idea.
Perhaps one of our more knowledgeable brethren from across the ditch can enlighten me during the match – it would be much appreciated.
On with the rugby however!
There are only three rounds left until the June international window (four for the Australian teams), and the Chiefs will be very keen to cement their position atop the New Zealand conference before that enforced break.
As it sits now, they are only just ahead of the Blues, who have a game in hand.
Although they are still championship contenders, last season’s winners have never quite hit their stride this year. The Chiefs of this year are both less threatening and less disciplined.
They also have some injury concerns, with Richard Kahui in need of a seventh shoulder surgery and Ben Afeaki still out of action due to a high ankle sprain suffered at the end of March.
Adding even more to coach Dave Rennie’s worries is the fact that over the last few weeks the Chiefs’ defence has been oddly suspect.
The Reds ran in four tries, the Waratahs three tries, the Sharks four tries and the Rebels five tries. He will be looking for a much-improved defensive performance this week.
Thankfully, playing the Force is a different kettle of fish altogether, as describing their attack as anaemic is being generous.
Remember that they’ve just parted ways with their most potent attacking weapon in Alfie Mafi over disciplinary issues.
The Force rarely string together two good performances, and consistency has never been their strong point. They lost to the Rebels in Perth but beat the Crusaders a couple of weeks later.
They turned in a truly pathetic performance against the Brumbies, followed by a very spirited showing where they held the Reds to a draw. Therefore, they are due for a shocker this week.
As always, we will await the appearance of Rory Walton with barely concealed eagerness. However, even that monster won’t be able to stop the home side from claiming the points here.
Join us here from 5.35pm AEST for all the action.
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.