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Super Rugby returns this weekend and I am excited. Is this due to the Force being this close to a maiden finals appearance? Probably.
Anyway, I thought I’d have a crack at the tips and provide a few thoughts for debate.
At Round 17 of 19, it’s been many years since the top six (or top four before that) has been so open. I will have a crack at the games and look forward to my fellow Roarers’ thoughts.
Highlanders versus Chiefs, Friday 17:35 AEST Forsyth Barr Stadium
At home and with a strong line up, I am giving this one to the Highlanders.
Ben Smith will come back from the All Blacks full of confidence, as will the new Tongan torpedo Malakai Fekitoa. Aaron Smith will provide the link between the front eight and the explosive back line.
If the Chiefs can dominate up front than who knows, but I have the Highlanders by 10.
Rebels versus Reds, Friday 19:40 AEST AAMI Park
The Reds come in with some injuries, the Rebels with some extra experience from the June internationals. This one means nothing for the top six, but this is a battle between two sides that don’t want the Australian conference wooden spoon and will be a cracker.
I’ve seen Nick Frisby play club rugby – he is clearly a step above the rest of Brisbane premier grade and a talent for the future. Still, a new combination won’t help and I am going with the Rebels by eight – surely Richard Graham’s position needs a review.
Hurricanes Crusaders, Saturday 17:35 AEST, Westpac Stadium
Wow, the second of two cracking New Zealand derbies but maybe a little harder to pick. I am going to go the Hurricanes for a few reasons: Corey Jane, Beauden Barrett, the Savea brothers, greater desire and Corey Jane!
I also have a conspiracy theory that, because the Crusaders will make the six, they’ll let the ‘Canes have a win.
Canes by three.
Waratahs Brumbies Saturday 19:40 AEST, ANZ Stadium
Before the June internationals I would have looked to this game as a season breaker for the Waratahs. Unfortunately the Brumbies have picked up some key injuries with Stephen Moore and Matt Toomua (among others) out and I can’t help but feel that they are heading into a tussle against a Waratahs side that has actually had an opportunity to improve their combinations during the June break.
Tahs by 16.
Force Blues Saturday 21:45 AEST Force Field (NIB Stadium)
I am not sure how to comment on this one given my declared affinity for the Force. Pure and simple, this is a must win for the Force heading towards a maiden finals appearance.
The Blues have been excellent at home and terrible everywhere else. They have some huge strike power in Ma’a Nonu (who has reclaimed his form during the internationals), Jermoe Kaino and the rest.
But at home, I should pick the Sea of Blue. One thing I know is that, historically, we lose the games we should win, and often win the games we should lose!
I am going to reserve my judgement on this one game until 23:15 or so Saturday night.
As I said, I look forward to my fellow Roarers’ thoughts and hope to see you all on the live blogs!
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.