Tag: Force

Super Rugby Round 13 Preview

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Another round of Super Rugby is upon us, albeit a shortened week with three teams enjoying a bye.  Check out all the team changes and predictions in this week’s Super Rugby Round 13 Preview below:

Crusaders v Reds

Crusaders – $1.07

Reds – $9.25

Richie McCaw’s career mind be grinding to an early concussion conscious halt, but the Crusaders season is just starting to heat up.  Despite losing to the Hurricanes last week, the Crusaders returned to some decent form and should make a late run for a playoffs spot over the closing weeks, starting with a comfortable victory over the Reds on Friday.

The below par Reds are still without Cooper, Hunt and Fainga’a who are all still out injured.  Therefore the bookies have given them no chance at all.  In fact they’re the least favoured team of the round even with Jake Schatz returning.

The match is probably the last time the Canterbury faithful will see heroes Dan Carter and McCaw at home.

Crusaders by 13+.

Rebels v Blues

Rebels – $1.52

Blues – $2.60

The Blues have revamped the side that easily beat the Force last week for this week’s head to head with the Melbourne Rebels in Friday’s latter game.  Steven Luatua has been instilled as captain and Ihaia West returns to the pivotal number 10 position as Dan Bowden overcomes a groin injury.   Charles Piutau, Luke Braid and Jerome Kaino are also out, but the Blues get a boost in the strange form of concluded legal proceedings as George Moala avoided an assault conviction and can now put the three year distraction behind him.

The Rebels are favourites thanks to a surprise win against the Chiefs last week and their five win and five loss records in this year’s competition.  Mike Harris is a key addition this week and will resume the goal kicking from Debreczeni.

Blues by 1-12.  (But great money on the Blues 13+ if you’re brave – $7.25)

Hurricanes v Sharks

Hurricanes – $1.24

Sharks – $4.20

The table topping Hurricanes franchise have rewarded some of their stars with a week off when they take on the Sharks at home on Saturday night.  Wing Julian Savea and halfback TJ Perenara will sit this one out, replaced by Chris Smylie and Matt Procter.  Beauden Barrett is also injured, meaning James Marshall comes into the run on side.  Victor Vito and Blade Thomson also start ahead of regulars Brad Shields and Callum Gibbins.

The Sharks get a boost too, from international quality utility back Frans Steyn and other key contributors Jannie du Plessis and Renaldo Bothma.

Interestingly, the game will also feature royalty in the crowd.  Literally, royalty, with Prince Harry watching from the stands.

Hurricanes 13+.

Force v Waratahs

Force – $3.75

Waratahs – $1.29

The Waratahs are odds on favourites to make it four wins on the bounce when they travel to Perth to take on the competitions worst side.  The Waratahs are expected to be much too strong for a side who won a solitary match in 2015.

The Waratahs have made a switch out wide with Taqele Naiyaravoro coming in to replace Peter Betham and another in the front row that sees Tolu Latu replacing the concussed Tatafu Polota-Nau.

Notwithstanding a couple of point scoring splurges, the Force have struggled to match the name of their home ground (‘Force Field’) and have leaked far too many tries to come close to a second win.

Lock Adam Coleman is the only major change to the side that suffered a heavy defeat to the Blues last week.

Waratahs 13+.

Lions v Highlanders

Lions – $1.88

Highlanders – $1.96

The entertaining Highlanders team face their most difficult portion of their season as they embark on a couple of tricky South African and Australian assignments in the race home.  First up is the a Lions team who will be smarting from their first loss in six games last week to the Bulls.  They have reacted by making a handful of changes to their team including Schalk van der Merwe starting at loosehead and Robbie Coetzee, included at hooker.

In the backline, Ross Cronje will start at scrumhalf and will play alongside Marnitz Boshoff.

The Highlanders attracted more support as the week has progressed and it’s close to even-stevens between the two teams in the bookies eyes.  We like the Highlanders here, building on their impressive effort against the Sharks last week.

Highlanders 1-12.

Stormers v Brumbies

Stormers – $1.57

Brumbies – $2.45

The Brumbies look to have their work cut out for them at Newlands early Sunday morning.  The Cape Town venue is one of the competitions toughest to travel to and has become a fortress this season.  Although the Brumbies get back Rory Arnold and Nic White, we can’t see them having the firepower to get past a strong Stormers side that has been strengthened even further with the return of Eben Etzebeth – who sat out last week under instruction by the SARU.

Stormers 13+.

This Weeks Multi

Head to Head pays $12.54

Margin pays $234.06

Odds taken from Luxbet.

Super Rugby Round 12 Results

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

The Super Rugby season just got a whole lot more exciting with arguably the most dynamic round of the competition – full of entertaining rugby and close finishes.  Worryingly, for New Zealand fans, the round also featured injuries to several high profile players including Charles Piutau, Jerome Kaino and Beauden Barrett.  They join an already full list of injured World Cup contenders that feature names such as McCaw, Dagg and Cruden.

Injuries aside, here’s our take on the Super Rugby Round 12 Results:

Highlanders (48) v Sharks (15)

The Highlanders turned in the most comprehensive performance of the round with a dazzling display of skill and audacity.  The often overlooked Otago franchise shocked a timid Sharks outfit with an array of speculative offloads, ridiculous chip and chases and fleet feet, and ran in seven tires to their opponents two.  Lima Sopoaga showed just why he’s being considered an All Black bolter to replace Aaron Cruden with a silky performance at the focal point of the Highlanders attack.

The win moves the Highlanders in to 5th on the Super Rugby ladder.  Their ability to keep in touch with the leaders will be determined on their South African excursion which begins this week with a trip to the Lions den.

Highlanders: Tries – G.Evans, W.Naholo, P. Osborne, M.Reddish, A.Smith, B. Edmonds, E.Dixon, Pen – L.Sopoaga, Con – L.Sopoaga 5

Sharks: Tries – T.Mtawarira, B.du Plessis, Pen – F.Zeilinga, Con – F.Zeilinga

Brumbies (10) v Waratahs (13)

The Waratahs wrapped up consecutive victory number three with a gritty come from behind win over the Brumbies in Canberra on Friday night.  The win means the Waratahs are currently one of only two sides who have enjoyed multiple wins on the bounce (the other being the Hurricanes).

The match didn’t quite live up to the hype of the Dunedin blockbuster played earlier the same night, but did feature several intriguing matchup and resolute defence all round.  In particular, the battle between Michael Hooper and David Pocock set tongues wagging.  As was the first five eighth battle featuring Bernard Foley and Christian Leali’ifano.

Foley’s late penalty was enough to seal the win, but the real hero of the win was the desperate defence displayed through the majority of a pressure filled second half.  The Waratahs have now closed the gap at the top of the Australian conference to just a solitary point, but also remain in the hunt for a wildcard playoff spot – currently sitting in 6th overall.

Brumbies: Tries – J.Tomane, Pen – C.Lealiifano, Con – C.Lealiifano

Waratahs: Tries – A.Ashley-Cooper, Pen – K.Beale, B.Foley, Con – B.Foley

Blues (41) v Western Force (24)

The Blues doubled their win tally for the season with a costly victory in Auckland.  The Blues turned in their best effort of the season on a cool Auckland night that also turned cruel as they lost both Kaino and Piutau for the season. In a match that mimicked the Force’s effort against the Chiefs earlier in the season, the Force gave up too many points early before trying frantically to make it up in the last quarter before eventually finding it all too much.

The Force scored four of the last five tries, but the damage had already been done at 31-0 to the Blues in the first half.  Plenty of Blues faces managed to get themselves on the scoreline, but none were worthy of headlines considering they were up gains the Force’s touch rugby defence.  Much like the Blues, the Force will be hoping they can double their win tally next week.

Blues: Tries – M.Nanai 2, S.Luatua, A.Ioane, I.West, Pen – D.Bowden, I West, Con – D.Bowden 2, L.Visinia, I.West 2

Western Force: Tries – P.Cowan, M.Hodgson, R.Louwrens, B.McCalman, Con – L.Burton

Hurricanes (29) v Crusaders (23)

The game of the round culminated in a narrow home win for the runaway competition leaders.  Wellington’s Hurricanes ran in a bonus point worthy four tries in a topsy turvy ma of rugby that also saw All Black Colin Slade turn in a scintillating first half effort.

The pivot set Dan Carter up for try number one and followed it with one of his own while leading his team to an early lead before the class of the Hurricanes proved too much.  Tries to Reggie Goodes and Blade Thomson sealing it.

The victory came at a cost however.  Star playmaker Beauden Barrett out for four weeks after being sandwiched in a nasty tackle.  The Crusaders chances of making the playoffs appear to be over.  They find themselves back in 9th with only a few rounds remaining.

Hurricanes: Tries – B.Barrett, B.Shields, R.Goodes, B.Thomson, Pen – B.Barrett, Con – B.Barrett 3

Crusaders: Tries – D.Carter, C.Slade, Pen – C.Slade 3, Con – C.Slade 2

Rebels (16) v Chiefs (15)

A brilliant first half was the foundation for the Melbourne Rebels upset win over the more fancied Chiefs side at AAMI park.  The Rebels led 16-3 at the break courtesy of Scott Higginbotham and Nic Stirzaker tries and withstood a late Chiefs comeback (including when fly-half Damian McKenzie had the opportunity to take the lead when attempting the conversion of Michael Leitch’s try).  As they so often do, the Rebels squeezed in another season upset and may now be asking to be taken seriously as finals contenders.  They have a gentle run in with games against the Blues and Reds and could surprise if they can muster some bonus points.

The Chiefs are still comfortably inside the top 6 but will need to find a higher gear to forget this performance.

Rebels: Tries – S.Higginbotham, N.Stirzaker, Pen – J. Debreczeni 2

Chiefs: Tries – C.Ngatai, M.Leitch, Pen – A.Horrell, Con – D.McKenzie

Cheetahs (25) v Stormers (17)

The Cheetahs victory over the Stormers at Bloemfontein was also considered an upset.  The Stormers blew countless kicking opportunities – it didn’t help that the ever-reliable D.Catrakilis was off injured – before finally succumbing to a nail in the coffin late Clayton Blommetjies try.

The Cheetahs were terrific in establishing an 18-3 lead, helped by an uncharacteristically slow start from the former competition playoff shoo-ins.  The lead didn’t stand but the Free State side did enough to take the competition points.

The loss puts the Stormers back to 7th and outside a playoff spot.  They have plenty of work to do before meeting the Brumbies this week.

Cheetahs: Tries – M.Van der Spuy, R.Benjamin, C.Blommetjies, Pen – J.Pietersen 2, Con – J.Pietersen 2

Stormers: Tries – D. Leyds, D.Vermeulen , Pen – D.Catrakilis, Con – D.Catrakilis, K.Coleman

Bulls (35) v Lions (33) 

A compelling match played at Loftus Versfeld saw the Bulls take the spoils over shock playoff possibles, the Lions.  An early double to Piet van Zyl appeared to be enough to send the Bulls towards a convincing win, before Elton Jantjies’ boot brought the Lions right back into the game.

Any nerves however were dispelled when the Bulls finished the stronger of the teams.  Experienced heads Pierre Spies and Handre Pollard steering them to second on the Super Rugby ladder and four points clear in the race for South African conference honours.  The Lions are still within striking distance of 6th.  They find themselves just 4 points shy of the Waratahs (and play all of their remaining games in South Africa).

Bulls: Tries – P.van Zyl 2, JJ Engelbrecht, Pierre Spies, Pen – H.Pollard 3, Con – H.Pollard 3

Lions: Tries – F.de Klerk, J.Van Rooyen, J. Kriel, Pen – E.Jantjies 4, Con – E.Jantjies 3

Super 15 Rugby Results Round 9 2015

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Super 15 Rugby Results Round 9 2015, catch all the results from the latest round and see how your predictions played out. We picked 50% of the results, not our best weekend of picks thanks to some upsets.

 

Super 15 Rugby Results Round 9 2015

 

Blues (16) v (14) Brumbies

Conference and league leader’s cellar dwellers the Blues hosted the Brumbies in Auckland. This game was potentially a banana skin for the boys from ACT as the Blues were due for a win. The game relatively messy in the first quarter with errors from both and ill discipline from the Brumbies allowing Dan Bowden to sink some easy penalties (4th and 7th). Bowden was at it again close to the break after the Blues had an attacking scrum 15 out with a huge open side to attack they spun it wide then some grinding work and good patience by the forwards close in was awarded moments later as Bowden took a beautiful gap beating the tackler to dive over (34th). The second 40 started much like the first, the Brumbies finally getting on the board with Leali’ifano slotting a penalty (45th). Some excellent patience, phase play, and ruck work saw the Brumbies put together 25 phases of hard grinding work close to the line, credit the Blues for strong goal line defense which was eventually sucked in and Nic White simply spun it wide for Taliauli to dot down uncontested (56th). Leali’ifano hitting a couple more penalties for ill discipline late in the game from the Blues (67th & 73rd) and Ihaia West (77th) bringing the deficit to two. The Brumbies had a chance in 79th minute to take the game as the Blues front row was penalized 50m out for collapsing the scrum. Nic White, renowned for hitting long buzzer beaters couldn’t convert; Blues pick up their first win of the season.

Hurricanes 
Tries – D. Bowden
Pen – D. Bowden 2, I. West
Con – D. Bowden

Brumbies
Tries – L. Taliauli
Pen – C. Leali’ifano 3

 

Canterbury Crusaders (20) v (25) Otago Highlanders

The Crusaders hosted the Highlanders, a local derby with both teams showing good form and exciting running rugby of late. The sure boot of Sopoaga put the visitors on the board first (5th) but the Crusaders were quick to reply with some hard running and quick recycling putting the fringe attack on the front foot, Nadolo attracting 3 defenders 10 out, offloaded nicely for Todd to crash over in the corner (7th). Sopoaga was also binned for a shoulder charge leading up to the try. An attacking Crusaders scrum 10 out was held nicely by the Highlanders, Nadolo taking the ball close, beating the first two tacklers, taken down 5 out and Taufua performing an excellent scoop and dive to dot down uncontested (19th). Sopoaga was out of the bin to convert a penalty (23rd). An aimless kick from the Crusaders was punished as the Highlanders counterattacked from inside their own half seeing Sopoaga get inside some forwards and offload nicely for Ben Smith to run away 4o out and dot down (38th). Into the second half what looked to be a promising Crusaders attack was cut short by a perfectly timed interception by Naholo who raced to dot down (44th). Naholo was at it again after a line out 5m out was spun infield and the Crusaders followed suit expecting the Highlanders to continue left but Aaron Smith ran right and spun it out wide where Nadolo cruised over uncontested (50th). Slade replied with a penalty after some good pressure from the Crusaders (56th), the second half proving to be a physical battle with both teams cancelling each other out with solid defense. Slade hit another penalty (76th) but were still 5 points behind with 3 minutes to go, Higlanders holding on with possession to kick it out for the win.

Crusaders
Tries – M. Todd, J. Taufua
Pen – C. Slade 2
Con – I. Dagg, C. Slade

Highlanders
Tries – B. Smith, W. Naholo 2
Pen – L. Sopoaga 2
Con – L. Sopoaga 2

 

New South Wales Waratahs (18) v (32) Stormers

The Waraths at home, well rested after their bye week face a Stormers outfit who have been on the wrong side of a tough battles with the Highlands and Hurricanes  but have looked progressively better each week. Catrakilis opened the Stormers account early taking the points with a converted penalty (6th). But the hosts replied through a great run from Beale and Folau out wide for Folau to feed a rampaging Naiyaravoro 22 who beat 3 defenders to dive over in the corner (12th). The Stormers pressing forward through their left hand channel sucking the Tahs defense in 5 out, some great hands back to the right hand side giving the Stormers and overlap and another 5 points courtesy of de Allende (20th).  Moments before halftime the Waratahs retained possession and pressure meters out from the line replicating the Stormers previous offense sucking the men in and feeding it wide to Horne who battled his way over (39th). Inside of halftime an excellent chip kick bounced favorably for van Wyk who raced away from 50 out to dot down (46th). Excellent defense from the Stormers smothered the Waratahs attack and nullified their playmakers around the field, de Jongh getting a hand out to intercept a Tahs attack fed de Allende on his inside        who ran away 40 out for 2nd of the night (70th). A Waratahs knock on just outside the Stormers 22 was scooped up by Kolbe who raced away to seal the victory for an impressive Stormers (76th).

Waratahs
Tries – T. Naiyaravoro, R. Horne
Pen – B. Foley 2
Con – B. Foley

Stormers
Tries – D. de Allende 2, J. van Wyk, C. Kolbe
Pen – D. Catrakilis, K. Coleman
Con – D. Catrakilis 2

 

Western Force (15) v (24) Free State Cheetahs

A desperate Western Force host the Cheetahs in Perth, the Force on a six game losing streak and the Cheetahs sitting at the bottom of the South African conference. The Cheetahs first to open their account with wing Raymond Rhule dotting down after some sustain pressure from the Cheetahs pack early (5th). The Force worked their way close to the line and replied with a try to Luke Morahan who was on the end of a beautiful offload from Dane Haylett-Petty (14th). The Force were dominant through the first half but could not convert on their possession, two penalties rounded the half out (Pietersen 36th and Burton 38th). The Force brought an unexpected approach to the 2nd 40 with an all in driving maul crashing that could not be stopped, Chris Alcock claiming the spoils (42nd). Pietersen took the points (46th) and a drop goal (49th) to make a 1 point game, the Force still dominant but lacking discipline. Brussow was over next with a dive close to the line (67th) and Pietersen slotting the conversion making it a 6 point game. The Force failing to capitalize on possession and opportunities gifted Pietersen another easy 3 points with a penalty (76th) which put the game out of reach for the hosts, sweet victory for the Cheetahs.

 

Force
Tries – L. Morahan, C. Alcock
Pen – L. Burton
Con – L. Burton

Cheetahs
Tries – R. Rhule, H. Brussow
Pen – J. Pietersen 3
Con – J. Pietersen

D/Goal – J. Pietersen

 

Lions (23) v (21) Sharks

The Sharks coming off a drubbing courtesy of the Crusaders and the loss of key personnel through injuries and suspension, the Lions a hard fought win over the Bulls last round. The Lions took points on offer early on after some good pressure, Jantjies (9th and 18th) but the Sharks were quick to reply with Renaldo Bothma crashing through to open the Sharks account (20th). Mvovo outran the Lions defense for their second, the speedster getting an overlap which he took full advantage of (31st). Before half time the Lions replacement wing Howard Mnisi dove over to open his account (39th). The Sharks starting slow in the second 40 leaked 2 tries inside 6 minutes to Frans de Klerk (43rd) and Harold Vorster (46th).  A quality battle resumed for the rest of the game, whilst not high scoring the game see-sawed with the Sharks getting the better of possession but unable to capitalize with the Lions showing a lot of heart on defense. Thomas du Toit did break the Lions hold crashing over (77th) with Zeilinga converting. Zeilinga did have an opportunity to convert an ambitious penalty on full time but his went wide, Lions taking the victory.

Lions
Tries – H. Mnisi, F. de Klerk, H. Vorster
Pen – E. Jantjies 2
Con – E. Jantjies

Sharks
Tries – R. Bothma, L. Mvovo, T. du Toit
Con – F. Zeilinga 3

 

Bulls (43) v (22) Queensland Reds

Loftus Versfeld hosted the Bulls and Reds, both sides coming off loses last round with the Reds injury toll climbing. The Bulls running the ball like they did against the Crusaders 2 weekends ago, Hougaard picking up the first try of the night (7th). Lachlan Turner was quick to reply as makeshift fly half Nick Frisby got a good bounce of the ball to offload pre tackle to Turner who gassed the Bulls 40 out (15th). The Bulls hot on attack replied minutes later with Spies crashing over close to the line (17th).  Hougaard added to his tally running away for another try catching the Reds asleep to round the half out (34th).  A fired up Reds outfit came out all guns blazing in early stages of the second half with Genia capitalizing on some good work from the forwards and lazy ruck time defense to crash through from 10 out (45th). Minutes later Genia put through a pin point grubber 5 out and Frisby claimed the spoils diving over (47th). The Reds losing their momentum when Adam Thompson was binned 3 minutes later for collapsing a maul and the Bulls took full advantage with Marcel van der Merwe being on the end of a man overlap to dot down (52nd). A huge bust from Samu Kerevi up the centre saw the big man run 45m only to be taken around the ankles but quick ruck time play saw Marco Kotze dive over (56th). Odendaal caught the Reds napping on the line as he darted through the fringe of the ruck to dive over (59th) and van Zyl replicated that try again catching the Reds napping (68th) to close the game out.

Bulls
Tries – F. Hougaard 2, M. Van der Merwe, B. Odendaal, P. van Zyl
Pen – J. Potgieter 4
Con – J. Potgieter 3, T. Schoeman 2

Reds
Tries – L. Turner, W. Genia, N. Frisby, M.Kotze
Con – L. Turner

Super 15 Rugby Round Nine Preview

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Super 15 Rugby Round Nine Preview

Round eight provided little in the way of upsets; the Lions beating the Bulls at the death would’ve ruined some punters picks and perhaps the Crusaders demolition of the Sharks was unexpected for some. All the games previewed for round nine as follows.

 

Auckland Blues v ACT Brumbies

Blues – $2.05

Brumbies – $1.70

A winless Blues outfit returns home looking to get their first win of the season, the challenge ahead is an inform Brumbies who look well structured and disciplined. For the Blues, Luatua is dropped to the bench; it seems Kirwan fancies a quicker Daniel Braid. The Brumbies remain unchanged. The Blues did look better last weekend against the Chiefs but are still a mile off as a team, it will be a scrap but the Brumbies will come out by 1-12.

 

 

Canterbury Crusaders v Otago Highlanders

Crusaders – $1.30

Highlanders – $3.30

The Crusaders coming off a long trip after thrashing the Sharks in Durban and the Highlanders had the bye in round eight. For the Crusaders, Dan Carter is back on the bench after taking some parental leave and the props are rotated with Joe Moody and Owen Franks starting. Jimmy Tupou slots into lock to partner Whitelock. For the Highlanders no changes this round. This is going to be epic derby, the Highlanders have been winning but also winning tough when they need to, the Crusaders have shown they can also play some exciting running rugby outside of their vintage play. It’s tough to call, the trip from South Africa may be the factor here with a fresh Highlanders side, Highlanders by 1-12 at the death.

 

New South Wales Waratahs v Stormers

Waratahs – $1.30

Stormers – $3.30

The Stormers have lost three on the trot now and their assignment doesn’t get any easier with a well rested Tah’s outfit who boast a 12 from 13 home win record.  The Waratahs starting 15 is unchanged with Adam Ashley-Cooper returning from injury onto the bench. The Stormers lose inspirational captain Duane Vermeulen who is being rested however they get back Juan De Jongh. This will certainly be a bruising encounter, for the Stormers to have a chance they need to turn up in the first 40 and play some rugby. The Waratahs attack from the get go and with so many playmakers will be very dangerous with ball in hand.  The Stormers are going to struggle without Vermeulens power and work rate, the Waratahs will be too slick and take the game 13+

 

Western Force v Freestate Cheetahs

Force – $1.50

Cheetahs $2.45

The Cheetahs coming over a drubbing last round courtesy of the Brumbies now continue their Australasian tour in Perth against the Force who should be relatively well rested after their bye week. Both teams are struggling to find any decent form this season with the Cheetahs bottom of the South African conference and the Force 2 points ahead of cellar dwellers the Reds. The Force will want to take the game away from the Cheetahs strength up front and avoid over committing at ruck time, the Cheetahs will benefit from a physical battle and set piece play. Either side could take this game, expect to see the Force run away with it in the later stages, Force by 1-12.

 

Bulls v Queensland Reds

Bulls – $1.10

Reds – $6.00

The Bulls host the Reds at Loftus, the Reds one win better off than the Blues at the bottom of the table and looking very shaky this season. The Bulls were unlucky last weekend, caught out at the death by a smart play from the Lions. For the Bulls it has been confirmed that Matfield has been ruled out for three to four weeks to have surgery on his knee but likely to see Pollard, Serfontein, and van der Merwe back in some form this weekend. The Bulls have blown hot and cold this season after destroying the Crusaders in round 7 they were caught napping in a last minute loss to the Lions last round. The Reds have lost Quade Cooper to injury and James Horwill to a suspension, both players crucial to the Reds. We don’t predict an upset here as the Reds have just played poor rugby, the Bulls 13+.

 

Lions v Sharks

Lions – $2.00

Sharks – $1.75

The Lions host the Sharks at Ellis Park, both sides lingering mid table. The Lions played a relatively good game against the more fancied Bulls last week, taking it at the death. The Sharks however were pumped by the Crusaders in an awful display with Jean Deysel sent from the field for contact with the head, continuing the Sharks ill disciplined season. The Lions make four changes with Julian Redelinghuys starting, Jaco Kriel to the flank, Faf de Klerk at scrum half and Super Rugby debutant Mark Richards on the wing. For the Sharks, losing Lambie to injury, Deysel to suspension where he joins Bismarck du Plessis and Steyn has forced wholesale changes – Sithole starts on the wing, Zeilinga to fly half, Lourens Adriaanse, Franco Marais and Dale Chadwick make up the new front row with Beast and Jannie being rested. Renaldo Bothma replaces Deysel and Wentzel is Captain. For the Sharks there is incentive for the new boys in this round to perform and show the coaches they want to be there but with the changes comes a new combinations and inexperience to consider. The Lions should be confident coming into this game but will need to bring structure and patience in what could be a scrappy game. The Lions will take this 1-12.

 

Bye week – Chiefs, Hurricanes, and Rebels

 

It has been confirmed that Argentine Captain Agustin Creevy will leave English club Worcester Warriors to join the Argentine based Super Rugby franchise that will come into the new look competition in 2016. Agustin is the first international to sign, we hope that many of his countrymen will follow.

Super 15 rugby results round 7

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Could the Hurricanes extend their unbeaten start to the competition and would the Blues finally get a win? Here’s how the round played out. Super 15 rugby results recapped!

 

Wellington Hurricanes (36) v (12) Melbourne Rebels

Conference and league leaders hosted the Melbourne Rebels at the Cake tin, Wellington. The Canes opened their account 11 minutes in with an overlap on the short side of the Rebels defense, TJ Perenara sitting on the shoulder to take the inside pass, converted by ex Rebel Jason Woodward. Both teams guilty throughout the half of breakdown infringements with Mike Harris and Woodward trading conversions, the half finishing 10-12 Rebels. The Hurricanes applied pressure early into the second half with good line out maul and grinding work finally spreading the ball out close and wide for Cory Jane to dot down (43rd) with Woodward slotting the sideline conversion. Midway through the second Callum Gibbons picked up his first super try after a turn over inside the Hurricanes 22 and a punt down field saw Cory Jane deflect the bounce of the ball with his chest and Gibbons scooping the ball up and running away for the try (57th). Perenara picked himself up a yellow card (68th) for continuous infringing around the ruck. The Rebels could not get the upper hand with the extra man and the Hurricanes subs made a strong impact with Milner-Skudder picking up his first try (76th) and a 2nd moments later through soft hands out wide (80th).

 

Hurricanes 
Tries – TJ Perenara, C.Jane, C. Gibbins, N. Milner-Skudder 2
Pen – J.Woodward
Con – J.Woodward 4

Rebels
Pen – M.Harris 4

 

Queensland Reds (17) v (18) Lions

Quade Coopers return couldn’t inspire the Reds, a relatively uneventful first half full of fumbles and mistakes. The Lions were on the board first with sustained pressure from the forwards and aggressive running from the backs, Vorster got slightly outside of his opposite in the far corner to gracefully dive with an outstretched arm to dot down (13th). Just outside of half time a poor line out throw by the Reds was claimed and the Lions counterattacked with a hard run by flank Tecklenburg saw him crash over by the posts with Jantes converting (48th). The Reds had the scrum feed 10 out from the line and powerfully drove through to be awarded a penalty try as the Lions pack disengaged (52nd), Cooper converting. The Reds were next to score again through more forward pressure and quick hands through the backs close in to see centre Kerevi crash over to put the Reds ahead (67th). 3 minutes later, ill discipline from the Reds cost them 3 points when Jantjies converted (70th). The game rounded off with the Reds in possession and lining up a field goal, yet Cooper too slow out of the blocks and his kick was charged.

 

Reds 
Tries – Penalty try, S.Kerevi
Pen – Q.Cooper
Con – Q.Cooper 2

Lions
Tries – H.Vorster, W. Tecklenburg
Pen – E.Jantjies 2
Con – E.Jantjies

 

Waikato Chiefs (37) v (27) Freestate Cheetahs

Waikato Stadium hosted the Chiefs v Cheetahs. A high scoring affair with ill discipline and red mist rearing its ugly head. The Chiefs opened their account inside the first 2 minutes with Sonny Bill Williams gaining the advantage line and with a short offload found the hands of Leitch who crashed over (2nd). What looked to be the Chiefs opening the flood gates saw Messam race away for another Chiefs try after what looked to be a regulation maul, Messam peeled away and dotted down (17th). Fitzgerald was binned (23rd) for sacking the support mauler and the Cheetahs hit back with a try to Prinsloo (27th) after the Chiefs were caught napping at the maul with no defenders driving the Cheetahs pack. Tameifuna was next in the bin after he sacked the maul illegally (32nd). The half rounding off 14-13 Chiefs, setting up an exciting 2nd 40. Cruden slotting penalty goals (45th & 52nd) in an uneventful opening. Fullback McKenzie blundering a grubber inside the Chiefs 22 which was deflected, Cruden attempted to clean up only to fumble the ball and Brussow pounced to score under the posts to even it up (53rd). Inside the final quarter Cheetahs lost Brussow for 10 minutes due to ill discipline (66th) and the Chiefs took advantage of the extra man at scrum-time inside the 22 with Leitch twisting off the back of the scrum and feeding Sam Cane who crashed over (67th). Augustine Pulu gutted the Cheetahs up the middle with a brilliant run, off loading in the tackle to a charging Horrell with the help of Sam Cane crashed over for the try (75th). Sustained pressure from the Cheetahs in the final minute saw them claw back a try with Brussow taking a quick tap and driving over (80th), too little too late.

 

Chiefs 
Tries – M.Leitch. L.Messam. S.Cane. A.Horrell
Pen – A.Cruden 4
Con – A.Cruden 4

Cheetahs 
Tries – B.Pinsloo, H.Brussow 2
Pen – J.Pietersen 2
Con – J.Pietersen 2. W. du Plessis.

 

Otago Highlanders (39) v (21) Stormers

The Highlanders hosted the Stormers at Forsyth Bar Stadium in Dunedin. The opening quarter was shaky from both sides; Highlanders slow to start were caught out through good retention from the Stormers albeit some dubious passes and knock on’s during the phases, de Jongh holding on nicely to an overhead pass, stepping inside for the try (18th). The Highlanders seemed to come alive after the try striking back with some fast thinking courtesy of Aaron Smith who planted the ball against the bottom of the posts. The Highlanders were on the board again after Naholo anticipated a Stormers pass perfectly and ran away to dot down under the posts (33rd). On the stroke of half time an Aaron Smith grubber just outside the Stormers 22 was deflected into the hands of Naholo who raced away for the line with one man to beat, Naholo steam rolled Kolbe to score. The hosts continued their first half dominance early into the 2nd half with great retention play from backs and forwards. Patrick Osborne first man off the ruck powered his way over the line (47th) courtesy of an excellent Aaron Smith short pass. Aaron Smith was binned for infringing at the breakdown (56th) resulting in Stormers hitting back through Rhodes (60th) driving over the line to eat away at the deficit. The host’s hard running was taking its toll on the visitors with replacement flank Dan Pryor splitting two defenders 22 out wide after the Stormers were caught short. Late into the half Kolbe cut up the Otago defense through a well run move from the backs which ended with de Jongh taking a pass 10 out to stroll over for his second (75th), Marty Banks rounded the game off went a converted penalty (79th).

 

Highlanders 
Tries – A.Smith, W.Naholo 2, P.Osborne, D.Pryor
Pen – L.Sopoaga, M.Banks
Con – L.Sopoaga 4

Stormers
Tries – J.de Jongh 2, M.Rhodes
Con – D.Catrakilis, K.Coleman 2

 

New South Wales Waratahs (23) v (11) Auckland Blues

The Blues winless so far in the competition were hosted by Waratahs in Sydney. Phipps opened the hosts account early on with a well constructed backline move opening the Blues up and Michael Hooper running a great angle back inside to feed Phipps who dotted down under the posts (7th). The Tahs continued to dominate but failed to convert their opportunities through the half. Daniel Bowden converted two penalties (13th & 23rd ) to see the Blues close in on their hosts in an uneventful, stop start half of rugby. The Blues hit back with a try of their own in the second half, an excellent pick and go by veteran Mealamu put the Blues on the front foot and some quick ruck play and slick hands saw Francis Saili dissect 3 Waratah defenders on the line to score (53rd). Ill discipline from the Blues saw Foley convert three penalties (57th, 60th, & 68th) to put the hosts back in front, Kaino was sent to the bin (71st) for a high tackle on Dave Dennis. The extra man proved vital for the Tahs who went from right to left stretching the Blues defence, Betham cruising over (74th) to put the game out of reach for the Blues.

 

Waratahs 
Tries – N.Phipps, P.Betham
Pen – B.Foley 3
Con – B.Foley 2

Blues
Tries – F.Saili
Pen – D.Bowden 2

 

Sharks (15) v (9) Western Force

Durban played host to the Sharks and the Force. Rain affected the possibility of a fluid running game however both teams resembled amateur outfits who decided to play a game of rugby. Ebersohn converting two penalties (30th & 38th) was all the action accounted for in the first half. Inside 2 minutes the Sharks were the first to dot down after Steyn through a dodgy pass where the pass interrupted the defense and Marais took advantage to run away for the try (42nd).  Ebersohn missed a penalty from out in front and the Sharks countered with Marais darting out of his 22 to pass off to Mvovo who gallantly raced away (67th). The Force playing for the bonus point took the points on full time with Burton slotting a penalty (80th). A dour game.

 

Sharks 
Tries – S.P.Marais, L.Mvovo
Pen – F.Zeilinga
Con – F.Zelinga

Force
Pen – S.Ebersohn 2, L.Burton

 

Bulls (31) v (19) Crusaders

The Bulls hosted the Crusaders in Pretoria. A surprise for both supporters with the visitors making so many uncanny mistakes and turnovers, the Bulls running the ball from the get go seeing early tries to Hougaard (3rd) and Odendaal (7th).  Carter struck back with two penalties (14th & 18th) and Nadolo crashed over minutes later (22nd) with Carter converting to put the Crusaders in the lead. Carter and Pollard traded penalties to go into the half with the Bulls up 18-16. Pollard (52nd & 55th) and Carter (63rd) traded penalties.  Carter attemped to fed an inside ball only to be struck at by Hattingh who juggled the ball and raced away 50 meters to dot down (65th) Pollard converted taking his tally to 16 for the night.

 

Bulls 
Tries – F.Hougaard, B. Odendaal, G.Hattingh
Pen – H.Pollard 4
Con – H.Pollard 2

Crusaders
Tries – N.Nadolo
Pen – D.Carter 4
Con – D.Carter

 

Many critics have called for a review of the Super Rugby officating and use of the TMO in light of the high amount of yellow cards and strange decisions. Dubious calls regarding the definition of a high tackle such as players ducking into tackles only to be caught high. Ruck and maul laws such as an uncontested drive from a line out to a maul, what is considered obstruction? With referees focusing heavily on cleaning up these area’s are they being to harsh? Let’s see what SANZAR referee boss Lydon Bray can do to help clear this up.

Super Rugby Round 6 Review

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Super Rugby’s Round 6 had everything.  Red Cards, yellow cards, slurs, tries and upsets.  Catch up on Round 6 in our wrap up below:

Highlanders v Hurricanes

Round 6 kicked off with the Highlander’s hosting the unbeaten Hurricanes in Dunedin. What promised to be a spectacle of attacking rugby between two confident sides turned out to be a rather sluggish first half affair as both teams pushed passes and spoiled opportunities for that elusive first try. Half time, 3-3. The Hurricanes took a solid pick and go approach building phases early into the second half finally scoring through a powerful Reggie Goodes drive for the line. Both team continued to battle for supremecy however the Hurricanes struck again close to the line with Perenara driving through a weak fringe defence. A late consolation try (77min) courtesy of Sopoga brought the Highlanders back into the game and after the restart the men from the deep south found themselves attacking a tired Hurricanes defensive line and looked to have broken the Hurricanes defense to dot down with a kick to come for a draw, however the officials ruled a forward pass to save the Hurricanes and keep their unbeaten record.

Hurricanes win 20-13.

Rebels v Lions

The Melbourne Rebels played host to the Lions, both teams lingering just outside the top half of the competition ladder. The hosts dominating possession and territory for the first half,  dotting down twice through Mitch Inman and debutant at fullback Jonah Placid. The Rebels pressure was not always rewarded as they blew multiple chances throughout the half to extend the lead. Half time 13-3. The Lions came out of halftime with a long range try early on, Mastriet drew the last defender perfectly and offloaded to Boshoff who dotted under the posts and converted to bring the match level. Mike Harris replied with a penalty (2 from 5) midway through the second half to lead 16-13. A strong phase of attack and strength from the Lions in the dying minutes caught the Rebels short on the wing, Lions dotting down to take the game 20-13.

Lions win 20-13

Crusaders v Cheetahs

Saturday evening the Crusaders hosted the Cheetahs in Christchurch. A 6th minute yellow card early on for Keiron Fonotia for taking the man in the air resulted in a relatively quiet opening 15 minutes from both teams. Taufua strong drive for the line after some good pressure from the Crusaders saw the hosts go up 7-0. Cheetahs had the better of the half dotting down twice in quick succession through a 70 metre interception to Francois Venter then 3 minutes later to Sadie courtesy of some slick play. Carter working on the defecet with a penalty goal on half time, Cheetahs up 10-14. The second 40 painted a different picture for both sides, fullback Willy le Roux binned early into the second half for a high tackle on Nadolo and sustained pressure resulted in a penalty try. The Cheetahs appear helpless with le Roux in the bin as the Crusaders ruthlessly chalked up 4 tries in his absence. The Crusaders continued their onslaught of a degraded Cheetahs outfit dotting down another 3 times throughout the game. Carter returning to his former best with 2 tries and 7 conversions. Full time 57-14.

Crusaders win 57-14.

Bulls v Force

Loftus hosted the Bulls and Western Force Saturday, prior to the game the pitch subject to torrential rain and a spectacular display of lightening. The Western Force the more aggressive on attack throughout the half seeing them go up 7-0 inside 15 minutes however the Force had discipline issues early on and a dead eye Pollard ensured the hosts kept close with 3 converted penalties going into the break, 9-7 Bulls. Early into the second the Force were reduced to 13 men with cynical infringements at ruck and maul time through sustained Bulls pressure, seeing Coleman and Faulkner binned within minutes of each other. Bulls taking full advantage of the extra men, dotting down minutes later. Pollard ensured the Forces’ ill discipline was punished with converting 2 more chances throughout the half. A light footed Kyle Goodwin took advantage of props in the defensive line and dotted down on the 71st minute mark seeing the defecit return to one as Ebersohn converted. An Ebersohn penalty put the visitors ahead with 3 to go. A match marred by ill discipline for the Force came back to haunt them with Steve Mafi spearing Pollard who bravely converted the penalty to ensure the hosts took the win by 1. 25-24 Bulls.

Bulls win 25-24

Sharks v Chiefs

Sharks hosted the Chiefs in Durban, an ugly affair, both team guilty of ill-discipline. Both Lambie and Cruden converted early penalties. Chiefs hooker Hika Elliot cited for a shoulder charge in the ruck, this saw him red carded inside 15 minutes. Not to be out done by his opposite Bismarck du Plessis lashed out with a boot against a off the ball tackler resulting in a red card 2 minutes later. 10 minutes later Frans Steyn was sent from the field for a cringing spear tackle on Chiefts 10, Aaron Cruden. Lambie and Cruden continued to trade penalties with Same Cane dotting down for the Chiefs  late into the half, 9-11 Chiefs. Much like the first half, ill discipline cost both sides momentum and Lambie clinching the only points on the half with a penalty on the 60th minute. A game that promised much in terms of attacking flair and positional match ups resulted in a flop.

Sharks win 12-11

Waratahs v Brumbies

Sunday afternoon rugby went to Sydney for the Waratahs hosting the Brumbies. A physical battle between two sides in the running for conference honors. At times the game looked much like other games throughout the weekend with cynical play and red mist tempers. The Brumbies opened their account early on with a try to Matt Toomua inside 10 minutes with Fardy binned for intentionally knocking the ball down. Foley and Lealiífano traded penalties with Foley getting the better of the Brumbies in a five minute route dotting down and Folau shortly after. Beale converted a penalty early to extend the lead and a physical half resumed by starving both teams of any spoils until sustained pressure late in the game saw Latu dot down out wide and then in the dying minutes receive a yellow for collapsing the maul after multiple team warnings. The match tainted by claims of Waratah players using homophobic slurs which are being investigated.

Waratahs win 28-13.