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The Lions have put up a comprehensive second half display, running on five tries to one, turning a 12-point halftime deficit into a 15-point victory to book their place in the Super Rugby grand final against the Crusaders next week.
Final score
Lions 44
Hurricanes 29
The second semi-final of the Super Rugby season is upon us with the Hurricanes travelling to South Africa to take on the competitions top qualifier, the Lions in Johannesburg. Join The Roar for live scores and coverage from 10:30pm (AEST).
The Hurricanes earned their spot in this fixture after managing to overcome a spirited Brumbies side in Canberra. The Lions, meanwhile were made to fight hard to subdue the challenge from local rivals the Sharks, a match-winning penalty goal from star winger Ruan Combrinck getting the Lions home at the same venue last weekend.
Interestingly, many pundits are picking the Hurricanes to win this match despite the Lions playing at home and knowing how good this side can be.
Both sides have named very strong line ups tonight, the Hurricanes in particular welcoming back Captain Dane Coles to the starting XV and Vince Aso back into midfield from injury. That pushes Jordie Barrett to fullback and Nehe Milner Skudder to the right wing while Wes Goosen swaps to the left wing, pushing All Black Julian Savea to the bench and Cory Jane dropped from the 23 altogether.
Both sides boast attacking threat, power and speed across the park so assuming the conditions play their part, we should see a fast and open affair.
Coles return, while a boost for the Hurricanes, will certainly not be a simple one up against arguably the form hooker of the competition in Malcolm Marx and he will have his hands full with his opposite number.
The match up at first five is one to keep an eye on as Elton Jantjies and Beauden Barrett try to weave their magic on this match. It will be an interesting prelude into the test matches to come with both most likely the starters for their respective nations.
Prediction
My obvious bias aside, I just think the Hurricanes will have more firepower this evening across the 80 minutes.
Hurricanes by 4.
Join us here live on The Roar as we cover all of the action from South Africa and don’t forget to leave your thoughts on the match below.
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.