I must admit that after being 0/2 after the first two games last weekend I was a very nervous armchair-expert. Thankfully 5 from 7 now pulls me level with Taps.
The Chiefs had probably the biggest turnaround in form from the first game, and although I thought their injuries would make them a weaker side, I’m glad I was wrong. The way they played, particularly in the first half, was great to watch. I still think depth may be an issue for them in key positions, so any further injuries to their squad could make things difficult for them, particularly as the season goes on.
Crusaders v Chiefs – Napier
The Crusaders looked more impressive the longer the game went on against the Highlanders, and I think they will definitely be around at the business end of the season. I really liked seeing true attacking rugby from the Chiefs, especially in their first half. I’m tipping the Chiefs here for their pure attacking ability. I do know that the Crusaders could make me look very stupid if their classy backline starts really clicking, and if their backrow has a real crack and slows down the Chiefs’ ball.
Force v Hurricanes – Perth
The Force boys will be rapt to play in front of their first home crowd of the year. They can count themselves fairly unlucky to not come away with any points against the Reds last round. I think I said last week that they had a really good game plan, but their execution lets them down at crucial times. I think they’ve been improving each week and a win isn’t far away, but I don’t think it’ll come this weekend. The Hurricanes are coming back from a tough trip to South Africa, but I think that the trip has really bonded the team together. It’ll be a close game, but I’m predicting that the boot of Beauden Barret will prove decisive.
Brumbies v Cheetahs
The Brumbies scored a grinding, un-pretty win against the Force in the first round then had the bye to heal up the aches and pains and niggles. The Cheetahs had a shocker last week, but they’re a better team than that – with the exception of last week, the Cheetahs have lost a lot games by not many points. Without a strong goal kicker, the Brumbies may struggle to get over the top of the Cheetahs in a close one. I also think the Cheetahs will be able to find some space against the Brumbies.
Highlanders v Waratahs
The Highlanders didn’t let me down against a highly-regarded Crusaders last week, and they didn’t give me any reason to tip against them. I think their forward pack will pose the biggest challenge the Tahs have faced this year, and especially in Dunedin the Tahs backline may not see much ball. I was surprised to see Carter dropped to the bench after scoring 2 tries, but I have no doubt he’ll see game time while Berrick’s regaining his match fitness.
Reds v Rebels – Brisbane
The Reds continue to prove that good teams win even when they’re not playing flashy rugby. With Harris kicking as well as he is, teams will know that any infringements inside the Reds half will be punished (and occasionally, from just inside their own half too). Last year the Rebels were very competitive for much of the match, but Harris’ injection into the game (scoring 2 tries and all the conversions) in the last 15 minutes made it look like a drubbing. I’m really happy Richard Kingi’s been given the start at 9 for the Rebels – he’s always dangerous in attack and he’s a solid defender. He’ll add something this weekend.
Sharks v Lions – Durban
This is a tough one to pick – the Lions couldn’t hold onto a lead against the Canes last weekend, but the Sharks haven’t won yet, and unlike in previous years, they’ve looked like they’re struggling to score tries. I’m tipping the Sharks because they have a home ground advantage, and they’re a better side than how they’ve been playing, but I am not confident at all in this one.
Bulls v Blues – Pretoria
I’m tipping an upset here – Blues away from home. I think they have a better attack than the Bulls have come up against so far and they’ll be stinging after last weekend’s loss to the Chiefs. I also think the Blues will also be playing for Michael Hobbs who flew back from South Africa to be with his father, Jock, who is critically ill in hospital. It will be a big ask, but the Blues won’t want to let their teammate down.
Taps’ Tips
Taps tipped 4 from 7 last week, putting him on 9 from 14 for the season. This week he’s gone for:
Crusaders
Brumbies
Hurricanes
Highlanders
Sharks
