Super Rugby: Round 3 Preview

As the Northern Hemisphere enjoys the 6 Nations, Southern Hemisphere fans enjoy Super Rugby. Over the first two rounds, we saw some clear statements of intent from the Brumbies, the Stormers, and the Highlanders, as well as a few surprising upsets. We at RBP are certainly hoping to see more great games, and competitive rugby this weekend, so here are the games we feel you should have a look at it.

Matches to Watch:

Blues vs Hurricanes:

In a great match between two rival sides in the New Zealand conference, the Blues will look to bounce back from their debacle against the Crusaders. The Hurricanes too, have had a rough start in 2016, but both of these sides have the potential to become real contenders. Charlie Faumuina and Dane Coles give both sides mobile options in the front row. Look for Coles in particular to play a major role in open play, as he often hides out on the wing, looking for a chance to make one of his trademark breaks. Steven Luatua moves into the second row, and will be battling with Blade Thompson at every lineout. The Blues back row gives them a dominant ball carrying edge, with Jerome Kaino, Blake Gibson, and 7s star Akira Ioane starting for Tana Umaga’s side. Ardie Savea and Victor Vito provide a lethal counterpunch for the Canes, as both can use their physicality create a lot of space for their teammates, before offloading in contact. All Black hopefuls Beauden Barrett and Ihaia West will go head to head, and both have a dazzling array of skills to show. George Moala will be key to the Blues success in midfield, as his physicality can often create space for others. This match wont leave you wanting for size in the back three, with King Julian Savea starting for the Hurricanes, while the Blues have started Rene Ranger and Tevita Li. While the Blues have had major struggles in the last few years, the Canes enjoyed a dominant 2015 (apart from the final of course). A big win over the Hurricanes would mean the world to the Blues and their supporters, and we really think they have an edge in this one.

Prediction: Blues 27- Hurricanes 22

Highlanders vs Lions:

The Lions showed that they were not a team to be slept on, when they came away with a surprise win over the Chiefs. This week however, they face the real test, as they take on last seasons champions, the Highlanders. While neither side’s front row has any big name players to boast about, both are very efficient, and go through immense amounts of work during games. It is exactly that work rate that allows both sides to create space for their backline, something the Highlanders have proved to be extremely proficient at. Look for a very physical battle between Jaco Kriel and Elliot Dixon, both of whom are dominant ball carriers. Aaron Smith is very much the key to the Highlanders game plan. His distribution and decision making gives Lima Sopoaga the platform to build off of, while his box kicking gives the Highlanders an easy exit strategy time and time again. Faf De Klerk is a really good young player for the Lions, but I suspect he will be in for a major challenge while facing off with Smith. The Highlanders have a clear advantage in the backline. With Lima Sopoaga at 10, the exciting young centre pair of Teihorangi Walden and Malakai Fekitoa, and of course the All Black lynchpin, Ben Smith, at fullback, the Highlanders have one of the most exciting backlines in the competition. The Lions may have momentum on their side, and they may possess some really exciting young talent, but we feel that they just are not ready to get a win against this very talented Highlanders team.

Prediction: Highlanders 24- Lions 17

Stormers vs Sharks:

Nothing brings more physicality than a South African derby, and that is exactly what is on offer in this encounter. Both sides are undefeated, and both sit atop their respective conferences, so their is plenty of incentive for both sides to pull out a win in this one. The Sharks boast the talent of “The Beast” Mtawarira and Coenie Oosthuizen in the front row, giving them a very solid scrum, which may challenge the Stormers. However, with Eben Etzebeth and Pieter Steph Du Toit in the second row, it seems that the Stormers will be the ones controlling the game at lineout time. Schalk Burger and Nizaam Carr will be a major nuisance for the Sharks, whether at the breakdown or with ball in hand. They will have to contend with the immense physicality of Marcell Coetzee, whose fiery demeanor strikes fear into the hearts of halfbacks everywhere. Robert Du Preez has been a revelation for the Stormers this season, but with Cobus Reinach and Joe Pietersen lined up against him, he will face a major test this weekend. With Damian De Allende out with injury, the Stormers will be relying on Juan De Jong in the centres, but if there is one thing De Jong has proven to be throughout his career, it is reliable. JP Peterson had a phenomenal World Cup, and will be looking to carry that form into Super Rugby, whether it is in the centres or on the wing. The fullback battle should be exhilarating, with pocket rockets Cheslin Kolbe and Willie Le Roux going at it. These two bring so much agility and excitement to any backline, and it is going to be so much fun watching them fight it out. This match is a really tough call, both sides are in good form, and both are very equally matched. In the end, we think the Stormers are the hot hand in this one, and that is who we are going to go with.

Prediction: Stormers 19- Sharks 15

Remaining Predictions:

Force 12- Brumbies 36
Rebels 22- Reds 10
Sunwolves 12- Cheetahs 24
Kings 17- Chiefs 27