Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 13 Preview

By Steve Leave a Comment

Round 13 of Super 15 Rugby 2012 kicks off on Friday night with a cracker between the Hurricanes and the Brumbies from Westpac Stadium.

Last weekend was a round full of upsets with the biggest of them all coming on Saturday night, the Rebels knocking over competition heavyweights the Crusaders. If that wasn’t enough, on Friday night the Hurricanes got one up over their neighbours the Highlanders and on Sunday the Reds knocked over the table topping Chiefs. I only picked 1 of those with the Reds sparing my blushes on Sunday.

The Waratahs wasted their chance of finals rugby last weekend with their loss against the Bulls, a last minute try all but ending their season unless their Australian counterparts the Reds and Brumbies capitulate.

This weekend should be a beauty, 7 great match-ups and only 6 weeks left after this until the finals kick in. We’re almost at the midseason break too, where we are treated to a month of international Rugby, we’ll bring you preview of all of that action too!

Hurricanes v Brumbies – Super 15 Rugby Round 13
Westpac Stadium, Wellington, Friday 5.30pm (EST)

The Hurricanes head into this match on the back of an upset win over their more fancied neighbours the Highlanders while the Brumbies got to put their feet up last week and watch the action with a bye.

The Hurricanes are making a real dash for the finals and that win last week over the Highlanders did no harm to their chances of a top 6 berth. They’ll need to continue that this week against the Australian conference front runners, and they’ll need fly-half Beauden Barrett to continue the superb form that has got him into the All Blacks preliminary squad.

The Brumbies on the other hand, they’ll need to perform without their in form fly-half Christian Lealiifano. Their record in New Zealand is far from impressive too, with no wins since 2009 and a record of 0-7 in their last seven matches across the Tasman.

Against the Waratahs, the Brumbies were outstanding, and they’ll need to reproduce that form here. They’ve been quite consistent this year while the Hurricanes have been up and down. For that reason, I am going to go for a Brumbies win in a high scoring encounter.

Highlanders v Bulls – Super 15 Rugby Round 13
Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin, Saturday 3.30pm (EST)

The Highlanders will be filthy that they let last weeks match against the Hurricanes slip and will be looking to make amends for that this week. That loss dealt a massive blow to their chances of making the top 6 and this week they come up against a Bulls side at the top of their game. They managed a come from behind win against the Waratahs last weekend and now sit at the top of the Super 15 Rugby ladder on 46 points.

With their loss to the Hurricanes last weekend, the Highlanders have now slipped out of the top 6 and have lost their last two matches. They won’t head into this one with much confidence and another loss will see them slip further and further away from an all important finals position.

The Bulls have been one of the most consistent sides of the competition and moving to the top of the ladder at the expense of the Chiefs will surely give them a confidence boost. They are the leading pointscorers in the competition with 338 points and I can see this one being another high scoring match. The Bulls don’t have the best of defences and the Highlanders will look to exploit that, however they’ll need their experienced players to step up this week after some substandard performances recently.

I can’t see the Highlanders bouncing back in this one to be honest, the Bulls are too strong all over the park and should have enough to get over the top of them.

Crusaders v Blues – Super 15 Rugby Round 13
Rugby League Park, Christchurch, Saturday 5.30pm (EST)

The Crusaders were shocked last week, going down by 9 points to the Melbourne Rebels in Melbourne. They were on a run of 4 wins in a row and sitting pretty inside the top 6 until that upset and they’ll no doubt be looking to bounce back this week. The Blues got themselves off the bottom of the ladder with a win over the Lions last Friday night, their first win since early in the competition.

This could be a bloodbath with the Crusaders looking to bounce back from a loss they wouldn’t have seen coming, and the Blues gaining some false confidence from beating the leagues cellar dwellars in the Lions. The Crusaders won’t take them lightly like they did the Rebels last weekend, and the Blues have been so bad this year I can only pencil this one in as a certain 4 (possibly 5) points to the Crusaders.

Queensland Reds v Lions – Super 15 Rugby Round 13
Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, Saturday 7.40pm (EST)

Last week the Reds caused a bit of an upset by downing the Chiefs who had not been beaten since round 1 of the competition. While the Lions moved back to their rightful position at the bottom of the ladder with a loss to the now 14th placed Blues.

The Reds almost tossed that game away last week, going ahead early before conceding 3 cheap tries to put them on the back foot. They bounced back with 4 unanswered tries of their own and will head into this match with plenty of confidence knowing that their free flowing ways are finally returning. With Will Genia hitting top form following the mid-season controversy surrounding his on/off move the Western Force, the Reds now have plenty of momentum heading towards the finals and could welcome back Quade Cooper this week.

The Lions were atrocious once again last week, only managing to put on 3 points against a struggling Blues outfit. They will more than likely finish at the bottom of the ladder and that does not bode well for them with the last placed South African side likely to make way for the Kings from Durban next season.

The Reds in a landslide here.

Cheetahs v Sharks – Super 15 Rugby Round 13
Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein, Sunday 1.05am (EST)

The Cheetahs were unlucky to go down by 2 points to the Stormers last weekend, they put up a real fight and defensively they were solid, something I didn’t think I would say about them this season. The Sharks, they demolished the Western Force 53-11 at the weekend to keep their finals hopes alive. They moved into the top 6 at the expense of the Highlanders and will want to continue that form going into this one.

The Cheetahs have been a big surprise to me this season. I thought they would have really struggled to make an impact and they’ve proven me wrong. They don’t have much of a chance of making the finals but they will prove to be tough opposition for many teams over the next few weeks who are trying to get into that top 6.

The Sharks have plenty of firepower but they have not really shown what they can do enough this season. They have won 4 of their last 5 matches, their only loss coming against the previously table topping Chiefs which shows that their form heading into this stage of the season is spot on.

I think the Cheetahs will provide some resistance here, but I think the Sharks will come away with the 4 points.

Stormers v NSW Waratahs – Super 15 Rugby Round 13
Newlands, Durban, Sunday 3.10am (EST)

The Stormers head into this match at Newlands on the back of a narrow 2 point win over Cheetahs. They have the best defence in the league by a long way but they play the type of boring rugby that leaves you wishing you’d watched the grass grow instead. In saying that though, they are winning matches and if it wasn’t for the Bulls they would be at the top of the Super 15 Rugby ladder.

The Waratahs had another demoralising loss at the weekend, going down by 3 points to the Bulls after leading with less than a minute on the clock. That pretty much sums up their season, and the last 5 seasons. They always promise but when the going gets tough they are nowhere to be seen. This season has been full of promise but oncce again they have failed to deliver and this week is basically make or break for them. Their chances of finals football are pretty much gone, so they really have nothing to lose.

I think the Waratahs will be up for this one, but I just can’t see them cracking the Stormers defence, especially at home. I think the Stormers in a close one with the Waratahs picking up another bonus point.

Western Force v Melbourne Rebels – Super 15 Rugby Round 13
nib Stadium, Perth, Sunday 4.10pm (EST)

The form of these two sides could not be any more different heading into this one. The Force were absolutely anihilated by the Sharks last weekend in an embarrassing effort, while the Rebels caused the upset of the season by knocking over the Crusaders. No-one saw that one coming and that will surely give them plenty of confidence heading into this local derby.

The Force were abysmal to the say the least against the Sharks last week, they’ll need some serious improvements if they are going to get anywhere near a Rebels side high on confidence. Last weekend was a wakeup call for them and it will be interesting to see if they take anything from that match.

The Rebels were outstanding in that win last weekend, I don’t know anybody who would have tipped them to beat the Crusaders. This will be a danger game for the Rebels as they have shown their inconsistency this year, they need to put together a few good wins on the trot to ever be considered a chance of making the top 6.

I think the Rebels will continue their form and take this one against the Force to move further away and leave the Force condemned to last place in the Australian conference.

Sports Banter Tips – Super 15 Rugby Round 13

Hurricanes v Brumbies – Brumbies
Highlanders v Bulls – Bulls
Crusaders v Blues – Crusaders
Reds v Lions – Reds
Cheetahs v Sharks – Sharks
Stormers v Waratahs – Stormers
Force v Rebels – Rebels

Banter’s Best Bets – Super 15 Rugby Round 13

Hurricanes v Brumbies – Brumbies +5.0 @ $1.91
Highlanders v Bulls – Bulls 1-12 @ $2.95
Crusaders v Blues – Crusaders 13+ @ $2.14
Reds v Lions – Reds 13+ @ $1.49
Cheetahs v Sharks – Sharks -2.5 @ $1.91
Stormers v Waratahs – Stormers 1-12 @ $3.00
Force v Rebels – Rebels @ $1.91

Filed Under: Banter, Super Rugby Tagged With: super 15, super 15 rugby, super 15 rugby 2012

Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12 Preview

By Steve 4 Comments

Round 12 of the Super 15 Rugby 2012 season gets underway from Eden Park on Friday night when the bottom two sides clash in a battle to avoid the wooden spoon. The Blues currently sit in last place on the ladder, just 2 points clear of the Lions.

However, the real action gets underway on Saturday when the Waratahs host the Bulls looking to keep their season alive. This is followed by what should be a beauty between the Highlanders and Hurricanes on Saturday night.

Round 12 wraps up on Sunday with probably the match of the round though when the top of the table Chiefs travel to Suncorp to take on last seasons champions the Queensland Reds. They will be looking to bounce back from a narrow loss to the Crusaders last weekend and will fancy an upset in this one in front of a vocal home crowd.

Check out our previews of each match below, and make sure you scroll to the bottom to see our tips and best bets for each match of Round 12.

Blues v Lions – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12
Eden Park, Auckland, Friday 11 May, 5.30pm (EST)

This season could not get any worse for the Blues, they’re on a shocking run and the only reason they go into this one as favourites is because the Lions are on a 10 match losing streak themselves. In act, the Blues could actually lift themselves off the bottom of the ladder with a win in this one at the expense of their opposition.

Last weekend the Blues went down 35-19 to their neighbours the Hurricanes, while the Lions went down by 13 in a 34-21 loss to the league leading Chiefs.

The Lions have far too many injuries to trouble the Blues in Auckland, and despite saying I would never tip the Blues again this week I think I will have to go against my better judgement. The Lions are looking odds on to be the side dropped from the competition next season in favour of the Kings from Durban!

Waratahs v Bulls – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12
Allianz Stadium, Sydney, Friday 11 May, 7.40pm (EST)

The Waratahs are at the point where if they don’t start a winning streak soon they can kiss the finals goodbye. Last weekend they put up another questionable performance which is surprising as they looked quite good against the Crusaders the week before. The Brumbies humbled them 23-6 and now have a 9 point gap between themselves and the Waratahs. The only way the Waratahs are going to make the finals is to finish 6th overall or top of the Australian conference as the other sides, Crusaders & Stormers, are just too good to drop that many points.

The Bulls had a tough 41-35 win over the Rebels in Melbourne last week, they were awesome in attack with Morne Steyn scoring 21 points on his own. However in defence they were quite woeful, allowing the Rebels in for 5 tries and gifting them two bonus points. This week they continue their tour of Australia and you would think this week will be even tougher with the Waratahs season on the line.

I have tipped the Waratahs far too many times this year and my form in tipping comps has suffered as a result, however I will tip them once more only because their season is on the line and they should be hungry.

Highlanders v Hurricanes – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12
Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin, Saturday 12 May, 5.30pm (EST)

This should be a cracker of a match between two Kiwi outfits looking to get a place in the top 6. They’ve both had up and down seasons and previously their clashes have been quite close with less than 7 points deciding their last 7 clashes. This one shouldn’t be any different.

Last weekend the Highlanders went down to the Sharks somewhat surprisingly in Durban, despite being on the road I thought their form warranted favouritism for that one and they couldn’t deliver in the end. At the moment the Highlanders are just clinging on for 6th spot with 34 points, just 4 points in front of this weeks opponents.

The Hurricanes disposed of the Blues last week (who didn’t see that one coming), however this week will be a much tougher test for them with the Highlanders looking to bounce back and consolidate a finals position. They will need to muscle up in defence if they are to get anything out of this one, I can’t see them getting the win though. A bonus point may be all they can hope for here.

Rebels v Crusaders – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12
AAMI Park, Melbourne, Saturday 13 May, 7.30pm (EST)

The Rebels put up a good effort against the Bulls last week to get themselves two bonus points, it was probably their best performance of the season so far and they will be kicking themselves that they didn’t manage to get an upset win. They’ll go into this one as massive underdogs, like they do most weeks, and will take confidence from last weeks match, especially their first half.

The Crusaders fought out a tough 15-11 win over the Reds at home last weekend and will be looking to make it another win here to keep them inside the top 6 and possible move them as high as 4th.

I can’t see anything but a Crusaders win here in this one, the Rebels gave it everything last weekend and I just wonder whether that effort would have taken a bit out of them, especially considering the final result.

Sharks v Western Force – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12
ABSA Stadium, Durban, Sunday 13 May, 1.05am (EST)

The Sharks got themselves back in the winning circle with a solid 28-16 win over the Highlanders in Durban last weekend. This week they welcome the Western Force and will be looking at this as a possible 5 pointer that could get them back into the top 6. They have young fly half Patrick Lambie to thank for last weeks win, he scored all 28 of their points and was amongst everything good for the Sharks.

The Force went down 17-13 to the Cheetahs in a battle of the other end of the table last Saturday, they earned themselves a bonus point for their troubles but they are well and truly out of the race for a finals spot. The Force are probably still questioning how last weeks match escaped them as they looked to have the match won only for a legitimate try to be disallowed gifting the South Africans the 4 points.

This should be an easy win to the Sharks but stranger things have happened. The Sharks need to start making a run now or they may just miss the boat for the finals.

Stormers v Cheetahs – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12
Newlands Rugby Stadium, Cape Town, Sunday 13 May, 3.10am (EST)

The Stormers will be fresh off a bye heading into this one against a Cheetahs side that escaped by the skin of their teeth in controversial circumstances against the Force last weekend. With the match in the balance, the Force looked to have scored a match winning try only to be denied and give the Cheetahs a valuable 4 points.

The Stormers have the best defence in the 2012 Super Rugby competition with just 9 tries conceded in their 9 matches, an amazing record. In fact, they are one of just 2 teams that have conceded less than 200 points, with just 144 points conceded so far this season. The Cheetahs, on the other hand, have conceded 27 tries in their 9 matches so far. The problem for the Stormers is in attack, they’ve only scored 16 tries this season, the Cheetahs have scored 23.

In saying that though, the Stormers defence has won them many a game this season and they pride themselves on that. The Cheetahs like to play fast, expansive rugby and I can’t see the Stormers letting them do that this week, the Stormers should be far too strong and will be looking to get top spot on the SA conference back.

Reds v Chiefs – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12
Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, Sunday 13 May, 4pm (EST)

This should be another belter of a match with the Reds looking to get back to the form that took them to last years Grand Final, and the Chiefs anihilating everyone in their path to lead the overall Super Rugby standings.

Last week, the Reds were gallant in defeat against the in form Crusaders going down by just 4 points in a 15-11 loss. They’ll be looking to bounce back this week and keep their faint hopes of a finals spot alive. Ben Lucas has been in top form at fly half, with Quade Cooper still on the injured list they’ll need him to fire again here with the Chiefs the best team in the competition so far, they haven’t lost since the first week!

The Chiefs continued on their winning ways last weekend with a 34-21 win over the Lions and they look unstoppable at the moment. They haven’t lost a match since round 1 and they don’t look like losing one at the moment. while they haven’t been brilliant each week, they do enough to get the wins. Sonny Bill has been a great purchase for them, and their forwards have been unstoppable. Loose head prop Sona Taumalolo has been a revelation for them scoring 7 tries so far this season, just 1 try off the top of the try scoring leaderboard!

I think this one will be tight and I can actually see the Reds getting the 4 points here. The Chiefs are probably due a loss and the Reds have finally got some continuity in their line-up after a horror season of injuries.

Sports Banter’s Tips – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12

Blues v Lions – Blues
Waratahs v Bulls – Waratahs
Highlanders v Hurricanes – Highlanders
Rebels v Crusaders – Crusaders
Sharks v Force – Sharks
Stormers v Cheetahs – Stormers
Reds v Chiefs – Reds

Banter’s Best Bets – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12

Blues v Lions – Blues -11.5 @ $1.91
Waratahs v Bulls – Waratahs @ $1.91
Highlanders v Hurricanes – Highlanders -3.5 @ $1.91
Rebels v Crusaders – Crusaders -13.5 @ $1.91
Sharks v Force – Sharks 13+ @ $1.98
Stormers v Cheetahs – Stormers -9.5 @ $1.91
Reds v Chiefs – Reds @ $2.00

Filed Under: Banter, Super Rugby Tagged With: super 15, super 15 rugby, super 15 rugby 2012, Super Rugby

Super 15 Rugby 2012 – Round 11 Preview

By Steve 1 Comment

Round 11 of the Super 15 Rugby 2012 season kicks off tomorrow night when the Hurricanes take on the Blues in Wellington. Last week was an absolute cracker with no real blowouts to speak of despite all of the favourites getting up for wins.

This week there has been plenty of off field controversy surrounding the Reds and Rebels. Will Genia’s decision to turn his back on an agreement to join the Western Force next season was not received very well, however the player took a massive pay cut to stay with the Reds so at least it wasn’t a question of money. For the Rebels, Danny Cipriani has been released early from his contract in order for the fly half to give himself a chance of playing for England again.

We’re now half way through the regular season and the table is really taking shape now, it’s getting to the point where some teams need to start winning or they will find themselves out of contention for the all important top 6. We preview all 7 matches below including our tips and best bets for each of them.

Hurricanes v Blues – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
Westpac Stadium, Wellington, Friday 4 May, 5.35pm

The Blues are rooted to the bottom of the Super 15 Rugby 2012 ladder and for good reason, they’ve been abysmal this year. The Hurricanes on the other hand, they’ve been up and down all season. They have the worst defence in the league, but they make up for that with one of the best attacks so far this season. That’s why they sit mid table and still have a chance of making the top 6.

This match could be anything to be honest, the Blues are probably due a win but I really don’t know where they are going to pull it from based on recent outings. Last week they were beaten 23-11 by a depleted Reds side at home. The Hurricanes didn’t fare any better though, soundly beaten 33-14 by the league leading Chiefs.

We should see plenty of attacking rugby here if recent Hurricanes matches are anything to go by, I think they may just have too much in the tank for a struggling Blues outfit.

Rebels v Bulls – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
AAMI Park, Melbourne, Friday 4 May, 7.40pm

The Rebels had the bye last week and midweek they said goodbye to Danny Cipriani who heads back to England to try and reclaim a spot in the English national side. He leaves before the end of his contract and the Rebels will now need someone to step up and fill the void that he leaves in the halves for the rest of the season.

The Bulls also had the bye last week and they now embark on their 4 week tour of Australia and New Zealand, this will test them and we’ll see if they are still sitting inside the top 6 in 4 weeks time. They’ve won 4 in a row and sit in 4th place on the Super 15 Rugby ladder currently. They’ll be banking on at least 4 points in this one as they come up against the Waratahs, Highlanders and Chiefs in the next 3 matches.

The Bulls should get the points in this one and do enough to earn themselves a bonus point. If the Rebels can overcome the loss of Cipriani and O’Connor (injury) they might just be able to get themselves a defensive bonus point.

Chiefs v Lions – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
Bayer Growers Stadium, Saturday May 5, 5.30pm

The Chiefs are in blistering form having won their last 8 matches, they’ve only lost once this season and that was a narrow loss to the Highlanders in week 1. They head into this one on the back of a 33-14 win over the Hurricanes at Waikato Stadium. They’ll be banking on an easy win here but they’ll need to guard against complacency.

The Lions are odds on for the wooden spoon this year and only have the woeful form of the Blues to thank for not already sitting in last place on the ladder. They were beaten convincingly 34-20 by the Brumbies at home last weekend and will be lucky if they can even secure a bonus point in this one.

The Chiefs are raging hot favourites and for good reason, I can’t see this one going any other way to be honest!

Brumbies v Waratahs – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
Canberra Stadium, Canberra, Saturday 5 May, 7.40pm

The Brumbies head into this one on top of the Australian conference and on the back of a dominant 34-20 win over the Lions last week away from home. They’ve won 4 of their 5 home matches so far this year and come up against a Waratahs side desparate for a win that could get them one step closer to that all important top 6.

The Waratahs were gallant in defeat last weekend going down 37-33 to the Crusaders. They stayed with the Kiwi outfit for the majority of the match but some silly errors at the back end of the game cost them dearly in the end. They earned themselves a valuable bonus point from that match and will know that a convincing win here against the Brumbies could rocket them to the top of the Australian conference and a top 3 spot.

The Brumbies are much improved this season, no doubt due to the influence of new coach Jake White. However, I think the Waratahs turned a corner last weekend and will be the hungrier of the two sides going into this one. I think they will win, but only narrowly, the Brumbies will keep top spot for another week at least.

Sharks v Highlanders – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
Kings Park, Durban, Sunday 6 May, 1.05am

The Sharks head into this one fresh off the bye last week and will be desparate to get a win and stay in touch with the top 6. The Highlanders had a narrow 36-33 win over the Cheetahs on Sunday morning and will be looking to improve on their defence in the second leg of their South African tour. They will know they got out of jail in that one and won’t want to start slowly again here, the Sharks won’t be as easy to catch.

The Sharks have not been anywhere near their best this season with just 4 wins from 9 matches and they currently sit in 7th place on the ladder. 6 points is the margin between them and the in form Crusaders in 6th place. The Highlanders, they currently sit in 5th place on 34 points thanks to 7 wins so far this season, they have been unlucky that the Chiefs have been in such good form in the NZ conference. Bonus points appears to be the Highlanders main weakness, they tend to win matches without scoring too many tries, they’ll need to improve that to catch the leaders.

I think the Highlanders will get the points in this one, but I think they will miss out on a bonus point again, they’re in better form and the Sharks aren’t as competitive as they have been in recent seasons.

Cheetahs v Western Force – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein, Sunday 6 May, 3.10am

The Cheetahs head into this one on the back of a narrow 36-33 loss to the Highlanders in a match that they should have won to be honest. They got themselves a massive lead and capitulated in the second half to surrender to a fast finishing NZ outfit.

The Force were soundly beaten by a far superior Stormers side at home last week but they can take positives from the fact that they only conceded 17 points against the South African conference leaders. However, their 3 points in attack will obviously need to be improved on against the next of their South African opponents.

This is a tough one to pick to be honest. I think the Cheetahs at home may just scrape this one, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Force finish close enough to get themselves a bonus point.

Crusaders v Reds – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
Rugby League Park, Christchurch, Sunday 6 May, 2pm

The Crusaders embark on the second leg of their Australian opposition following their 37-33 win over the Waratahs in Sydney last weekend. This time they take on the Queensland Reds at home and will be looking to take advantage of their first home game in 3 weeks. They have 5 home matches in the run into the finals and with just 8 matches left to play that is a massive advantage to have.

The Reds were not at their best against the Blues last weekend but they did enough to get the 4 points and will have been buoyed by the news that Will Genia will be staying with the club for a further 3 years. He did a backflip after agreeing to sign for the Force from next season but had a change of heart following their win over the Blues. That will be a big boost going into this match as the halves has been the area of most concern for them this season.

This should be a belter, I can’t go past the Crusaders in this one but I have a feeling that the Reds will put up a good fight and there will only be a few points in it.

Sports Banter Tips – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11

Hurricanes v Blues – Hurricanes
Rebels v Bulls – Bulls
Chiefs v Lions – Chiefs
Brumbies v Waratahs – Waratahs
Sharks v Highlanders – Highlanders
Cheetahs v Force – Cheetahs
Crusaders v Reds – Crusaders

Banter’s Best Bets – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11

Hurricanes v Blues – Hurricanes @ $1.52
Rebels v Bulls – Bulls -11.5 @ $1.91
Chiefs v Lions – Chiefs 13+ @ $1.49
Brumbies v Waratahs – Waratahs 1-12 @ $2.95
Sharks v Highlanders - Highlanders +5.5 @ $1.91
Cheetahs v Force – Cheetahs -7.5 @ $1.91
Crusaders v Reds – Crusaders 1-12 @ $2.90

Filed Under: Banter, Super Rugby Tagged With: super 15, super 15 rugby, super 15 rugby 2012

Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview – Round 10

By Steve Leave a Comment

Week 10 of Super 15 Rugby 2012 kicks off tomorrow night when the Blues host the Reds at Eden Park in Auckland. There appears to be a bit of a gap appearing at the top of the table with the New Zealand and South African team dominating the competition to this point.

Australia are lucky that the new Super Rugby format rewards the best performing team from each conference as without this Australia would be lucky to have a side make the top 6.

The Chiefs, Stormers and Bulls lead the competition on 35, 33 and 33 points respectively with the Brumbies 7 points adrift in 3rd place on 26. The Waratahs are nipping at their heels on 25 points for top spot in the Australian conference.

We preview all of the action for round 10 below including our tips and best bets for each match.

Blues v Reds – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Eden Park, Auckland, Friday 27 April, 5.35pm

The Blues head into this one on the back of another loss, albeit a narrow one to the Highlanders last week. While the Reds had their chances but could not convert them in a 23-13 loss to the Stormers last weekend.

Both sides will be looking to hit back this week with the Reds looking to try and claw back some ground on the Waratahs and Brumbies at the top of the Australian conference. They sit 5 points behind the Brumbies in 3rd place and a win with a bonus point will see them join them at the top.

The Blues have been woeful this season, one of the favourites heading into the start of the tournament they’ve failed to live up to their potential. They currently languish at the bottom of the Super 15 Rugby ladder and it’s hard to see any way back for them on current form.

The Reds receive a boost this week with Digby Loane back from suspension after serving 5 weeks for a dangerous throw. With their injury concerns also easing they’ll fancy themselves to make a charge for the finals coming into the second half of the season.

I can’t go past a Reds win in this one, the Blues have been atrocious and I just can’t bring myself to tip them anymore.

Lions v Brumbies – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg, Saturday 28 April, 3.10am

This should be a cracking match with the Brumbies embarking on their tour of South Africa last week and almost getting up over the Bulls. This week they take on the Lions who sit towards the bottom of the table and bottom of the South African conference.

The Lions are coming off the bye so should be fresh and would no doubt have had a good look at their performances so far this season in detail. They’ve scored the least amount of points out of any side in the competition so far but defensively they’ve conceded the 8th lowest amount of points. They’re the only side that has had two byes so far which has propelled them above the Blues on the ladder.

The Brumbies came close to a huge upset last weekend coming within 2 points of the Bulls away from home. It was a fantastic performance which earned them 2 bonus points for their troubles. They’ve been excellent this season, which was considered to be a rebuilding year, and they are a real chance of making the finals.

I think the Brumbies will be too strong in this one bit I can see the Lions getting a bonus point out of it, this one could be closer than expected though.

Chiefs v Hurricanes – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Waikato Stadium, Hamilton, Saturday 28 April, 5.35pm

The Chiefs come into this one on the back of a narrow 6 point victory over the Sharks in Durban last weekend while the Hurricanes are coming off a mauling at the hands of the Crusaders. Sitting at the top of the table, the Chiefs have had a fantastic start to the season and a re on a run of 7 straight wins heading into this one.

The Chiefs managed to come out of their Australian and South African tours unbeaten which is a fantastic effort and should hold them in good stead going into the second half of the season.

The Hurricanes are sitting mid-table on 25 points and are just 1 win outside of a place inside the top 6 depite an up and down season so far. They’ve scored the second highest amount of points of any side in the competition but it is their defence that has let them down with a number of high scoring losses.

This seems cut and dried with the Chiefs at home and sitting at the top of the table in great form, but I think the Hurricanes will test them here. Chiefs should get the points but don’t be surprised if the Hurricanes get a bonus point out of it.

Force v Stormers – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
nib Stadium, Perth, Saturday 28 April, 7.40pm

The Western Force come into this match having just had the bye and a chance to recharge the batteries while the Stormers continue on their tour of Australia following a 10 point win over the Reds last weekend. The Stormers are looking to get top spot on the table back after being overtaken by the Chiefs a couple of weeks ago and they’ll see this match in Perth as the ideal opportunity to get a good win and possibly a bonus point as well.

The Force have had their ups and downs this season and their last start was a home loss to the Waratahs. They’ll take confidence from the fact that they were down and out in that match but rallied and almost got the points, taking the lead before Berrick Barnes fired the Waratahs ahead with two penalty conversions.

The Force are yet to play a South African team and this will be a massive test for them, they also have a tour to embark on starting next week so this will be a good hit-out to give them an idea of what they will be facing in the coming weeks.

The Stormers should be too strong in this one and I can’t see the Force getting anything out of it to be honest.

Cheetahs v Highlanders – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Free State Rugby Stadium, Sunday 29 April, 1.05am

The Highlanders head into this match 5 points behind the league and conference leading Chiefs and are coming off the back of a narrow 3 point win over the Blues last weekend. The Cheetahs are coming off the bye and will be looking to build on their narrow 6 point loss to the Chiefs a fortnight ago.

The Cheetahs lost Rayno Benjamin to a dislocated shoulder against the Chiefs, the winger now out for the remainder of the Super 15 Rugby 2012 season. Cameron Jacobs has been tasked with the responsibility of replacing the injured winger, he played for the Cheetahs earlier in the season before being reeplaced by Benjamin.

The Highlanders don’t have any fresh injury concerns and will be looking to get their first win over South African opposition following their 21-6 loss to the Stormers a few weeks ago. They continue their South African tour next weekend against the Sharks and will want to come out of it with 2 wins to keep the pressure on the Chiefs at the top of the table.

The Highlanders will be hungry for a win here and I can’t see the Cheetahs being a match for them, they should come out of it with a vastly improved for and against and possible a bonus point.

Waratahs v Crusaders – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Allianz Stadium, Sydney, Sunday 29 April, 4.10pm

The Waratahs head into this match on the back of a 9 point win over the Melbourne Rebels last weekend while the Crusaders thumped the Hurricanes 42-18. This week marks the return of inspirational skipper Richie McCaw for the Crusaders, a week earlier than expected, and he’ll play his first match of the season from the bench.

The Waratahs are hot on the heels of the Brumbies for the top spot in the Australian conference and a guaranteed finals spot, they sit just 1 point behind them just outside the wildcard spots.

The Crusaders sit in 6th place at the moment and are on a good run of 4 wins from their last 5 matches. They’ll welcome back McCaw with open arms as the All Blacks captain adds class to their forward pack and will give them even more firepower heading into the second half of the season.

The Waratahs could struggle to contain the Crusaders here and I think they’ll be doing well to get a bonus point out of this one, home ground advantage may just get them over the line in that respect. Crusaders for the win.

Super 15 Rugby 2012 – Round 10 Preview – Tips

Blues v Reds – Reds
Lions v Brumbies – Brumbies
Chiefs v Hurricanes – Chiefs
Force v Stormers – Stormers
Cheetahs v Highlanders – Highlanders
Waratahs v Crusaders - Crusaders

Super 15 Rugby 2012 – Round 10 Preview – Best Bets

Blues v Reds – Reds +6.5 @ $1.91
Lions v Brumbies – Brumbies 1-12 @ $2.85
Chiefs v Hurricanes – Chiefs @ $1.40
Force v Stormers – Stormers -5.5 @ $1.91
Cheetahs v Highlanders – Highlanders 1-12 @ $3.00
Waratahs v Crusaders – First to 10 points – Crusaders @ $1.55

Filed Under: Banter, Super Rugby Tagged With: super 15, super 15 rugby, super 15 rugby 2012, Super Rugby, super rugby 2012

Super 15 Rugby 2012 – Round 8 Preview

By Steve Leave a Comment

Round 8 of the Super 15 Rugby 2012 season kicks off on Friday night when the struggling Blues tackle the Sharks in Auckland.

Last week contained a number of upsets again with the Blues taken down by the Rebels and the Hurricanes taking out the Sharks. Most of round 7 was business as usual though with the Stormers, Chiefs and Bulls continuing their dominance of this years competition.

The Australian sides fared a little better than last week with the Reds and Rebels getting wins and the Waratahs with the bye. The Force and Brumbies were taken down a notch following their recent good form, both will have the chance against Aussie opposition to right that this week.

So let’s get into it, don’t forget that we also offer live scores including live Super Rugby action, head into our live scores section on match day to keep up with the action.

Blues v Sharks – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Eden Park, Auckland, Friday 5.30pm (EST)

Both sides head into ths one on the back of demoralising defeats, the Bulls at the hands of the Rebels and the Sharks were thumped by the Hurricanes.

The Blues have been the most disappointing side so far this season, in my season preview I had tipped them to be contenders for the top 6. With the quality of players at their disposal they really should be doing better and they should have had enough in them to dispose of the Rebels.

The Sharks were shocking against the Hurricanes, at one point they were down 25-3 and despite a better second half were no match for the NZ outfit.

This will be a tough one, the Blues have been so bad this year that I don’t want to tip them anymore but I’ll give them one last chance. At home they should be too strong for the Sharks who struggle on the road.

Force v Waratahs – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
nib Stadium, Perth, Friday 9.10pm (EST)

The Force head into this match on the back of a narrow 20-12 loss to the Chiefs at the weekend while the Waratahs have had a chance to regroup with the bye.

They needed it too after after slumping to a 30-13 loss to the Chiefs and their season going downhill fast. They’ll also be hurting from the last meeting between these two a month or so ago where the Force caused what was the upset of the season at that point. The bye should have helped them with injuries, which they have many, so a week off would not have done them any harm.

The Force lacked potency against the Chiefs and they’ll be banking on Cameron Shepherd returning to action as soon as possible to give them a bit more in attack. They’ll take confidence in their surprise win over the Waratahs earlier in the season and will be looking to produce the same here at home.

Despite that Force win earlier this season, I think the Waratahs will be too strong after the week’s rest and should get the 4 points in this one.

Crusaders v Stormers – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Rugby League Park, Christchurch, Saturday 5.30pm (EST)

The Crusaders head into another battle with a top South African outfit after their narrow loss to the Bulls last weekend. Controversy surrounded that clash with the Bulls accusing the Crusasders of eye gouging, a claim they strongly refute. Considering the claims have since been thrown out by the citing commissioner, it will be interesting to see whether this affects their mentality heading into this one.

The Stormers just continue on their winning ways, they sit atop the Super 15 Rugby ladder in both their conference and overall and it looks like no one can stop them. They haven’t been outstanding in attack but it appears as if no one can break through their defence which has conceded just 97 points.

I have a feeling this could be the week that the Stormers lose their unbeaten run though. The Crusaders will be fired up and will want to take that out on their next South African opponents, the Stormers can thank the Bulls for firing them up.

Brumbies v Rebels – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Canberra Stadium, Saturday 7.40pm (EST)

The Brumbies head into this one on the back of a loss to the Reds up in sunny Queensland, while the Rebels secured a good win against the Blues on Thursday night.

Heading back to Canberra Stadium with the cold snap that has just hit might give the Brumbies the conditions that they thrive in. They were toothless against the Reds at the weekend and will need to improve in attack if they want to get anything here against an improving Rebels side.

The Rebels were outstanding on Thursday night against the Blues. While the Blues have been disappointing this season you can’t take anything away from this Rebels side that have shown that they are anything but easy beats this season. Kurtley Beale and James O’Connor have been standouts, especially against the Blues last week.

This is a tough one to call, I’m tempted to go with the Rebels after that win over the Blues but I think the conditions in Canberra will favour the Brumbies. I’m tipping them to bounce back in this one.

Cheetahs v Chiefs - Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein, Sunday 1.05am (EST)

The Cheetahs have surprised me so far this season, I had them pegged to finish at the bottom of the ladder after losing Sarel Pretorius in the offseason. They’re attack doesn’t seem to have suffered too much though, they’ve scored 194 points to be the third highest point scorers in the league. The problem is that they’ve also conceded 199 points, the most by any side in the league.

The Chiefs are on fire at the moment, after a slow start to the season they’ve moved themselved up to second on the ladder just behind the Stormers. Every player has chipped in for the Chiefs so far this season, with Lelia Masaga, Tim Nanai-Williams, Sona Taumalolo and Sonny Bill Williams all outstanding so far.

As much as I like the Cheetahs at home, I can’t go past the Chiefs to keep up their good form and give top spot a shake with the Stormers away to the Crusaders this week.

Lions v Bulls – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg, Sunday 3.10am (EST)

Two South African sides with completely contrasting playing styles and form over the season. The Lions at the bottom of the ladder with just the one win, the Bulls in the top 6 with four wins to their name so far this season.

The Lions come into this one on the back of another shaky performance, this time against the Cheetahs. This was a match where they should have been competing. They need to win those matches if they are to get themselves off the bottom of the ladder as they will be hard pressed winning many others.

The Bulls played out a 32-30 win over the Crusaders at the weekend but the match was marred by the Bulls alleging that the Crusaders had eye gouged throughout the match. This was unproven and the matter didn’t go any further but I just wonder whether there was any substance to the claims. It’s unusual for a winning side to make a claim like this, it usually comes from a side that comes out of the match looking like sore losers.

I can’t go past the Bulls in this one, they should earn themselves a bonus point and they’ll need it with an Australian road trip just around the corner!

Super 15 Rugby Round 8 – Sports Banter Tips:

Blues v Sharks – Blues
Force v Waratahs – Waratahs
Crusaders v Stormers – Crusaders
Brumbies v Rebels – Brumbies
Cheetahs v Chiefs – Chiefs
Lions v Bulls - Bulls

Super 15 Rugby Round 8 – Best Bets:

Blues v Sharks - Over 48.5 @ $1.90
Force v Waratahs - Waratahs -3.5 @ $1.91
Crusaders v Stormers - Crusaders @ $1.60
Brumbies v Rebels - Brumbies 1-12 @ $2.90
Cheetahs v Chiefs - Chiefs 1-12 @ $2.85
Lions v Bulls – Bulls @ $1.25

Filed Under: Banter, Super Rugby Tagged With: super 15, super 15 rugby, super 15 rugby 2012, Super Rugby, super rugby 2012

Super 15 Rugby 2012 – Round 5 Preview

By Steve Leave a Comment

Round 5 of Super 15 Rugby 2012 kicks off on Friday and we could be in for a beauty if the past couple of weeks are anything to go by.

Last week wasn’t a good week for the Australian sides with the Brumbies, Waratahs, Reds and Rebels all going down in close encounters.

The Waratahs were shocking in their upset loss to the Western Force, despite assurances that their play would become more exciting they have not shown anything different to the boring play we saw last season.

The Reds went down in a close one to the Sharks away from home, they haven’t looked like the side that took the competition by storm last year. They are no doubt missing the influence of Quade Cooper as much as they won’t admit that his absence is a massive loss.

The Brumbies and Rebels, while they weren’t expected to win their matches, were both in the hunt and were pipped with late tries to the Chiefs and Cheetahs respectively.

This week we’re back to our full compliment of games with the Chiefs sitting the week out with a bye.

Check out our tips for each match below, and this week we’ve also come up with a special Multi as part of our best bets.

Blues v Hurricanes – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Eden Park, Friday 23 March, 5.35pm

The Blues continued their early season poor form last weekend when they went down to the Stormers 27-17. Despite possessing a quality squad this season, they just have not hit the sort of form they would have been expecting and are languishing 2nd last on the overall Super 15 Rugby ladder.

The Hurricanes went down in a close one to the Highlanders over the weekend and will be looking to bounce back here once again against New Zealand opposition. They were down 13-3 early in that match and ended up leading 17-16 with 10 to go before a late penalty goal from Highlanders flyhalf Chris Noakes sealed their fate. They currently sit 3rd on the New Zealand conference ladder and 8th overall.

This should be a hard fought match if both sides previous matches are anything to go by. The Hurricanes have been up and down and despite the Blues position on the ladder they are better than that. I think they will get their second win of the season here.

Rebels v Western Force – Super 15 Rugby Preview
AAMI Park, Friday 23 March, 7.40pm

The Rebels would have been gutted by the manner of their loss at the weekend. They were down 20-7 at one point and looked down and out before staging a comeback that got them to back in contention and levelled the scores 26-26 with 80 minutes gone. The Cheetahs managed to keep the ball alive though and broke the hearts of Rebels players and fans alike with a try to seal the win.

The Force scored the upset of Super 15 Rugby 2012 with a hard fought 21-20 win over the Waratahs at Allianz Stadium on Saturday night. To be fair, the Waratahs were atrocious but as they say you can only beat what is put in front of you. That win kickstarted a season that had began with 3 straight losses and didn’t look like getting any better.

This is a tough one to call. Both sides looked much better in Round 3 matches and it may just be the homeground advantage that separates this one. The Rebels are due for their first win so that is where my money will be going.

Waratahs v Sharks – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Allianz Stadium, Saturday 24 March, 3.35pm

In a mid afternoon fixture, the Waratahs will be looking to erase all memories of that inept performance against the Force last weekend. Despite claims of more entertaining and expansive Rugby, the Waratahs have so far played the same boring Rugby that has plagued them over the last few seasons. They will need massive improvements across the board if they are going to get anything out of this one.

The Sharks head into this one on the back of a solid 27-22 win over the reigning champions. At one point the Sharks were down 17-0 but fought back to win on the back of some great defence and two second half tries. The only worry for me is that the second half performance was mainly off the back of a Reds player being sin-binned and two key players going down with injury.

I feel the Sharks would not have won over the weekend had the Reds halves not succumbed to injury, Harris going down in the first half and Lucas missing most of the second. The Waratahs will be looking to bounce back and I feel they may just have the Sharks measure. A demoralising loss like the one against the Force can do wonders for a teams mentality in their next encounter.

Crusaders v Cheetahs – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Rugby League Park, Saturday 24 march, 5.35pm

The Crusaders had a chance to put their feet up last week with a bye and will head into this one looking to improve on their 3rd place conference position. The Crusaders have been disappointing so far this season but any side missing the calibre of Dan Carter and Richie McCaw would look a shadow of themselves. I feel we won’t see anywhere near their best until both of those get back on the field and get a few games under their belt.

The Cheetahs will be buoyed by their extra time 33-26 win over the Melbourne Rebels on Sunday afternoon. However, despite a 20-7 lead they almost lost the match and can count themselves lucky. They won’t be able to have concentration lapses against last years runner up and will need to be on their game defensively.

The Crusaders should take care of the Cheetahs comfortably here despite their indifferent start to the season. Get on the Crusaders by plenty in this one.

Brumbies v Highlanders – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Canberra Stadium, Saturday 24 March, 7.40pm

The Brumbies can count themselves unlucky at the weekend, with the scores locked at 22-22, they conceded a late try to go down 29-22. The Chiefs looked to have wrapped the game up, leading 22-15 with 4 to go, but the Brumbies had other ideas, scoring with 4 minutes remaining to lock up the scores. That last minute loss may have dented their confidence but they will need to pick themselves up and get back on the horse against their next opposition from across the Tasman.

The Highlanders have the boot of Chris Noakes to thank for their win against the Hurricanes last weekend. The match never really hit any heights and with Colin Slade off the field it was left to replacement flyhalf Noakes to get the 3 points and the win for the Highlanders. They have now got 4 from 4 and are looking like the team to beat despite not really hitting top form yet.

The Brumbies are showing signs of improvement across the board, their young team has surprised many so far this season. However, I think the Highlanders, who know how to grind out a win, will get the 4 points in this one. Don’t expect any bonus points for them though.

Bulls v Reds – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Loftus Versfeld, Sunday 25 March, 2.05am

The Bulls had the luxury of a bye last week and also didn’t have to travel anywhere this week. They currently sit 3rd on the ladder, just 2 points off the top and will be looking to put more distance between themselves and the Reds with a win here. They have been up and down this season so far, a 32 point thrashing of the Cheetahs was followed up with a 6 point loss to the Blues at home.

The Reds haven’t been the same team that we saw last season but despite this they still sit 5th on the ladder, just 3 points off the top spot. They are missing direction in the halves and this has been further compounded by the injuries to Ben Lucas and Mike Harris at the weekend. Both have been sent home from South Africa and two youngsters in Eyres-Brown and Rapana have been called upon to join the team in South Africa.

The loss of two key halves for the Reds will make it tough for them here. The Bulls are coming off a week of rest and the Reds have not beaten them in Pretoria since 2001. I don’t see that changing here to be honest.

Lions v Stormers – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Coca Cola Park, Sunday 25 March, 4.10am

Last up for round 4 of Super 15 Rugby is the Lions hosting the Stormers after a week off. The Lions last start was a 32-20 loss to the Sharks at Kings Park in Durban. This week, they continue their local rivalry at home and will be looking to improve on the form that has seen them win just 1 match so far this season.

The Stormers are on top of the overall Super 15 Rugby standings and will be looking to maintain that this week. They are undefeated so far and look to be the team to beat this year. In saying that though, they have had 3 home matches and a bye so far and things will get much tougher for them when they go on the road from round 7. That will be the real test and we’ll see what they are made of then.

This should be a routine win for the Stormers, I really can’t see the Lions getting close and a bonus point should be on the cards for the competition leaders.

Follow all the action on twitter:
Hashtags: #super15 #SuperRugby #SupeRUG

Super 15 Rugby Preview - Sports Banter’s Tips:

Blues v Hurricanes – Blues
Rebels v Force – Rebels
Waratahs v Sharks - Waratahs
Crusaders v Cheetahs – Crusaders
Brumbies v Highlanders – Highlanders
Bulls v Reds – Bulls
Lions v Stormers – Stormers

Super 15 Rugby Preview – Banter’s Best Bets:

Blues v Hurricanes – Blues @ $1.61
Rebels v Force – Rebels -2.0 @ $2.11
Waratahs v Sharks - Waratahs @ $1.65
Crusaders v Cheetahs – Crusaders 13+ @ $1.57
Brumbies v Highlanders – Highlanders @ $1.65
Bulls v Reds – Bulls -8.5 @ $1.90
Lions v Stormers – Stormers 13+ @ $2.34

Total Multibet Odds – $64.56

Filed Under: Banter, Super Rugby Tagged With: Rugby Union, super 15, super 15 rugby, super 15 rugby 2012, Super Rugby, super rugby 2012

Super 15 Rugby 2012 – Round 4 Preview

By Steve 2 Comments

Round 4 of Super 15 Rugby 2012 kicks off on Friday night when the Chiefs host the Brumbies at Bay Park Stadium.

Round 3 threw up a few interesting results with favourites the Crusaders, Waratahs and Bulls all getting knocked over. That seems to be the trend so far this season with only the Stormers and Reds finding any sort of consistency. The Reds, however, made hard work of beating the Rebels on Saturday night.

The Brumbies also find themselves towards the top of the table on 12 points but they have had two very narrow wins and a bye.

As per our earlier season predictions, the Force, Lions and Cheetahs find themselves at the bottom of the table. But what is surprising, is seeing the Blues towards the bottom of the table as well.

This week we have just 6 matches with 3 teams getting the bye, the Lions, Bulls and Crusaders. Check out our predictions below and keep an eye out for our best bets later in the week.

Chiefs v Brumbies – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Bay Park Stadium, Tauranga, Fri Mar 16, 5:35PM

The Chiefs surprised everyone again last week, taking down the Crusaders 24-19 away from home. They currently sit second on the New Zealand conference ladder which puts them in the wildcard spot for that conference.

The Brumbies got a last minute win over the Cheetahs at Canberra Stadium, slotting a penalty goal after the siren to take the 4 points. They are undefeated and sit second on the Australian conference ladder behind the Reds on points difference.

This should be an entertaining game, the Chiefs like to throw the ball around and the Brumbies have been involved in some exciting matches so far. At home though, I can’t go past the Chiefs and I think they’ll end the Brumbies unbeaten run here.

Stormers v Blues – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
DHL Newlands, Capetown, Sat Mar 17, 4:10AM

This should be a cracking match between two of the heavyweights, although the Blues haven’t resembled that this season. The Stormers are coming off the bye and currently top the South African conference, third overall on points difference.

The Blues got their first win of the season last week against the Bulls away from home. They’re still towards the bottom of both the conference and overall ladders though despite that win. They will be without star All Black second rower Jerome Kaino for the rest of the season, and have Rene Ranger out suspended for 2 matches also.

While the Blues got the job done against the Stormers neighbours last week, I can’t see them getting a similar result this week. The Stormers should be too strong at home and take all 4 points but it should be a close one.

Hurricanes v Highlanders – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Westpac Stadium, Wellington, Sat Mar 17, 5:35PM

Last week the Hurricanes put the Western Force to the sword in a 46-19 thrashing in Perth. They return home for a local derby this weekend having earned themselves a valuable bonus point on the road.

The Highlanders managed an upset 18-17 win over the Waratahs at the weekend and will be full of confidence going into this one. They currently sit atop the New Zealand conference ladder on 12 points after 3 wins, only behind overall on points difference.

This should be another cracking match between two in form teams coming off morale boosting wins. Despite the Hurricanes emphatic victory over the Force last weekend, I’m leaning towards the Highlanders here in a tight one.

Waratahs v Western Force – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Allianz Stadium, Sydney, Sat Mar 17, 7:40PM

The Waratahs can count themselves unlucky that they didn’t get all 4 points last weekend against the Highlanders. In a tough match, the Waratahs only went down by a point, with Halangahu missing a crucial conversion which would have given them the win.

The Western Force didn’t turn up against the Hurricanes on the weekend, and they’ll no doubt want to turn that around this week. They were outmuscled, out-enthused and generally just outplayed on the day.

The Waratahs don’t have a great record against the Force, with 1 win, 1 draw and 1 loss in 3 matches. The Waratahs have lost flanker Pat McCutcheon in addition to their injured stars Dan Vickerman, Lachie Turner, Drew Mitchell, Rocky Elsom and Wycliffe Palu. Despite the injuries, I think the Waratahs will bounce back here but this will be no walk in the park!

Sharks v Reds – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Mr Price Kings Park, Durban, Sun Mar 18, 2:05AM

Last week the Sharks managed a 32-20 bonus point win over compatriots the Lions. They’ll be full of confidence going into this one at home against the league leading Queensland Reds. That win over the Lions was their first of the season and they’ve now secured 3 bonus points as well to see them in 3rd place in the South African conference.

The Reds made hard work of their win over the Rebels last weekend, just scraping home 11-6 up at Suncorp Stadium. They start a tough road trip that will tell us whether they are still a champion team, going to Perth after their 2 week South African safari.

This should be an entertaining match between two sides that like to throw the ball around a bit. The Sharks have been disappointing this season and I see the Reds starting their tour off with a narrow victory here.

Rebels v Cheetahs – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
AAMI Park, Melbourne, Sun Mar 18, 4:10PM

The Rebels were unlucky not to get anything out of their match against the Reds last weekend, a gutsy performance against the Champions deserved more. They will take some confidence from that match though and should be competitive once again at home here.

The Cheetahs were also unlucky not to get all 4 points against the Brumbies at the weekend, going down by a point after the Brumbies got a last minute penalty. They’ll want to get their first win of the season here as well so we should be in for a cracking match against two hungry teams.

The Rebels have shown that they aren’t going to be pushovers this season and I think they will get their first win here against the Cheetahs. The Cheetahs have been disappointing this season and much of that is down to the loss of scrum-half Sarel Pretorius to the Waratahs.

sportsbanter.com.au Tips – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 3

Chiefs v Brumbies – Chiefs
Stormers v Blues – Stormers
Hurricanes v Highlanders – Highlanders
Waratahs v Force – Waratahs
Sharks v Reds – Reds
Rebels v Cheetahs – Rebels

Banter’s Best Bets – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 3

TBA – Odds to be released later in the week.

Filed Under: Banter, Super Rugby Tagged With: Rugby Union, super 15, super 15 rugby, super 15 rugby 2012, Super Rugby, super rugby 2012

Super 15 Rugby 2012 – Round 1 Preview

By Steve Leave a Comment

It’s finally arrived, the much anticipated 2012 season of the Super 15 Rugby competition. Round 1 promises to be a beauty as well. National rivalries are at the core of the round 1 fixtures with the Blues and Crusaders getting things started on Friday night.

We preview each match below, and provide our tips and best bets for this weeks action. Be sure to check out our season previews for each conference as well!

Blues v Crusaders – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Eden Park, Auckland, Friday 5.30pm (EDT)

First up we have an absolutely cracking match as the Blues and Crusaders from New Zealand lock horns. The Crusaders are always close to the top in this competition and this year will probably be no different, however the Blues could give them a real run for their money this season.

The Crusaders will be without Dan Carter and Richie McCaw for the first month or so of the Super Rugby season, this is a massive blow to them and will no doubt affect their early results. The Blues, they have recruited well in the off-season and I’ve tipped them to be close to the top come the end of the season. The likes of Piri Weepu and Ma’a Nonu from the Hurricanes will provide them with more speed and creativity. Although the Blues will be without Ma’a Nonu until later in March when he returns from Japan.

The Blues got the Crusaders by 2 points in the corresponding match last season, and I see this one going the same way in round 1.

Brumbies v Western Force – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Canberra Stadium, Canberra, Friday 7.30pm (EDT)

The first match from the Australian conference kicks off on Friday night also, when the Brumbies host the Force at Canberra Stadium. Both sides will want to improve on last seasons disastrous form and will want to get the season off to a good start.

The Brumbies have been completely overhauled in the off-season after last season’s efforts. A new coach, a heap of new players and possibly a new attitude to go along with it. The Western Force have a new skipper in David Pocock, who takes over from Stirling Mortlock this season. The Force have a number of Wallabies in their squad compared to just 4 for the Brumbies. If the Brumbies get many injuries they could struggle this season.

The Brumbies may take a few weeks to get their new players gelled in so I think they might come out of the blocks slowly. For that reason I think the Force will get the points in a close one here.

Bulls v Sharks – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria, Saturday 4.10am (EDT)

The Bulls finished 7th last year after winning 3 of the previous 4 Super Rugby competitions. They have shifted a lot of their ageing players and have also lost coaching director Heyneke Meyer. The Sharks just qualified for last years finals series and will be looking to improve on that this year in their hunt for their first Super Rugby title.

Despite the Bulls shedding a truck load of players and their coaching director, they have recruited well from other sides in the South African conference and still have the pedigree to do well in the competition. The Sharks have possibly regressed slightly since their 6th place finish last season. They lost some notable players in Stefan Terblanche and Ross and Guy Cronje to the Lions.

With this a home game for the Bulls, I think they can shake off the cobwebs from last season and get a win up over their Durban based rivals here.

Chiefs v Highlanders – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Waikato Stadium, Hamilton, Saturday 5.30pm (EDT)

Another cracking match from the New Zealand conference with the Chiefs hosting the Highlanders. Both sides will have been disappointed with last seasons efforts and have made moves in the recruiting area to plug the gaps they felt needed plugging.

The Chiefs possibly picked up the signing of the season with Sonny Bill Williams coming across from the Crusaders for this season. They also picked up young half Aaron Cruden from the Hurricanes however some experienced backs have left the side over the off-season and it will be up to the youngsters to perform. The Highlanders haven’t really recruited much in the off-season apart from All Black Hosea Gear, and they have a number of injuries heading into this match from their 3 trial matches.

I think the Chiefs will be buoyed by their big name signings and have a lot to prove this season. The injuries to the Highlanders are too many to overlook so I think the Chiefs will draw first blood at home.

Waratahs v Reds – Super 15 Rugby Preview
ANZ Stadium, Sydney, Saturday 7.40pm (EDT)

A mouth watering clash between the Waratahs and Reds awaits us for this Saturday night. Last seasons Super Rugby champions up against the side that always promises so much but never delivers. This grudge match never fails to produce high quality entertainment and I can’t see this being any different.

The Reds head into this match without Quade Cooper but apart from this they can pretty much field a full strength side. The Waratahs on the other hand, they have injury problems already. Dan Vickerman is out, new captain Rocky Elsom won’t play for the few weeks, Lachie Turner is already out for the season and Drew Mitchell is also likely to miss the start of the season.

Despite the injuries to the Waratahs, I still think they will put up a good fight against the Reds and playing at home they should be able to come away with the points. Last season the Waratahs made the top 6 despite their injuries which shows they have depth in their squad.

Stormers v Hurricanes – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Newlands, Cape Town, Sunday 2.05am (EDT)

The only inter-conference match for round 1 sees the Stormers host the Hurricanes early on Sunday morning. The Stormers performed above expectations last year, finishing the regular season in 2nd spot behind the Reds. They couldn’t go on with it though, going out in their first finals match to the Crusaders.

The Hurricanes will be looking to improve on last years 9th place finish, however that is going to be tough this season. They have lost experienced players in Andrew Hore, Piri Weepu and Hosea Gear and have not really recruited too well in the off-season. A massive clean-out of the squad could see them struggle this season.

The Stormers at home were unbeatable last year, and they have 4 of their first 5 games at home to set up their season. They should chalk up their first win here against the Hurricanes.

Lions v Cheetahs – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg, Sunday 4.10am (EDT)

The last match of round 1 of the Super 15 Rugby competition sees the Lions host their South African neighbours the Cheetahs in Johannesburg. The Lions and Cheetahs will, in my opinion, be playing out this season for the wooden spoon.

The Lions have not had the best off-season and there are rumours that the playing group, coaches and administration are not seeing eye to eye. The Cheetahs, they’ve lost their main playmaker in Sarel Pretorius to the Waratahs which is a massive blow to their chances this season. He was one of the main reasons they played such entertaining rugby and will be sorely missed.

With this one a toss of the coin, I’m going to put my money on the home team, with the Lions to get the points here.

Super 15 Rugby Preview – sportsbanter.com.au Tips:

Blues v Crusaders – Blues
Brumbies v Force – Force
Bulls v Sharks – Bulls
Chiefs v Highlanders – Chiefs
Waratahs v Reds – Waratahs
Stormers v Hurricanes – Stormers
Lions v Cheetahs – Lions

Super 15 Rugby Preview – Banter’s Best Bets:

Blues v Crusaders – Blues -3.0 @ $1.90
Brumbies v Force – Force +3.5 @ $1.90
Bulls v Sharks – Bulls @ $1.75
Chiefs v Highlanders – Chiefs @ $1.42
Waratahs v Reds – Waratahs -3.0 @ $1.90
Stormers v Hurricanes – Stormers @ $1.20
Lions v Cheetahs - Lions @ $1.72

Filed Under: Banter, Super Rugby Tagged With: Rugby Union, super 15, super 15 rugby, Super Rugby, super rugby 2012

Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview – South Africa Conference

By Steve Leave a Comment

The final piece of the jigsaw puzzle that is the 2012 Super 15 Rugby tournament comes together here in our preview of the South African conference.

Last season the Stormers were the best performing South African side finishing 2nd place overall, just three points behind the Reds. They had the second best defence in the league, only 5 points worse than the NSW Waratahs.

This season will be tough for the South African teams, already there has been infighting amongst the five existing teams in relation to the 2013 season. The teams are threatening to boycott the competition if any of them are excluded due to the new ‘Southern Kings’ franchise which has just been approved for entry. The Kings would come in at the expense of one of the other South African sides unless the competition is expanded to 16 teams from next season.

This opens up a can of worms for South African Rugby as politics enters the Rugby scene, and I have no doubt that this will affect the mindset of some of the teams in 2012.

We go through each of the teams of the South African conference below and provide our tip for the season ahead. Let us know your thoughts and be sure to check out the previews for the Australian and New Zealand conferences.

Bulls – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview

In 2011 the Bulls dropped outside the playoff zone after winning the previous two competitions. In fact, three of the previous four Super 15 Rugby competitions were won by the Bulls. A fantastic achievement for a side that up until 2003 had not finished higher than 11th in the Super 12 competition.

As much as the Bulls have been successful over the last 5 years, it appeared that they may have hit an impasse. Last years 7th place was unlike the Bulls side we have seen in recent years and I have a feeling that this was just a blip for them. They should improve this year and get themselves back into the playoff positions.

Prediction: 5th

Odds:
Winners – $13.00
Make Top 6 – $2.00

Bulls Squad:

Bjorn Basson. JJ Engelbrecht. Louis Fouche. Dean Greyling. Francois Hougaard. Zane Kirchner. Juandre Kruger. Werner Kruger. Akona Ndungane. Wynand Olivier. Dewald Potgieter. Jacques Potgieter. Chiliboy Ralepelle. Johann Sadie. Pierre Spies (captain). CJ Stander. Wilhelm Steenkamp. Deon Stegmann. Dawie Steyn. Flip van der Merwe. Jano Vermaak. Willie Wepener. Morne Steyn. Francois Venter. Frik Kirsten. Arno Botha. Daniel Adongo. Warwick Tecklenburg. Jurgen Visser.

Cheetahs – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview

Last season was another one to forget for the Cheetahs, as they finished 4th in the South African conference, 11th overall. Since their introduction to the competition in 2006, the Cheetahs have not finished any higher than 10th, and I can’t see that trend changing at all this year.

They don’t really have any notable gains for 2012, and they have lost their best playmaker to the Waratahs in Sarel Pretorius. He will be missed and I have a feeling the Cheetahs will be fighting to avoid that dreaded wooden spoon this season. With the sides around them last season making marked improvements I can’t see them getting much out of this season.

Prediction: 15th

Odds:
Winners – $51.00
Make Top 6 – $5.50

Cheetahs Squad:

Lourens Adriaanse. Ryno Benjamin. Heinrich Brüssow. Hennie Daniller. Tewis de Bruyn. Justin Downey. George Earle. Robert Ebersohn. Sias Ebersohn. Andries Ferreira. Barry Geel. Johan Goosen. Cameron Jacobs. Rocco Jansen. Ashley Johnson. Pieter Labuschagne. Willie le Roux. Hercu Liebenberg. WP Nel, Dusty Noble. Trevor Nyakane. Davon Raubenheimer. Philip Snyman. Adriaan Strauss (captain). Andries Strauss. François Uys. Izak van der Westhuizen. Marcel van der Merwe. Philip van der Walt. Piet van Zyl.

Lions – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview

The lions head into this season on the back of a 14th place finish last year. They have not finished any higher than 11th since 2002 and generally make up the numbers in the Super Rugby competition. They would be most at risk if SANZAR do not sanction a 16 team competition in 2013, with the Southern Kings waiting in the wings for a chance.

To be honest, I can’t see the Lions improving much this year, they might not finish in last place but they will be scrapping around the bottom of the table regardless. They have strengthened from other Super 15 Rugby sides but it may take time for those players to gel, I can only see them finishing above their compatriots the Cheetahs.

Prediction: 14th

Odds:
Winners – $34.00
Make Top 6 – $4.50

Lions Squad:

Patric Cilliers. CJ van der Linde. Jacobie Adriaanse. JC Janse van Rensburg. Bandise Maku. Martin Bezuidenhout. Edgar Marutlulle. Callie Visagie. Wikus van Heerden. Hendrik Roodt. Franco van der Merwe. Cobus Grobbelaar. Jaco Kriel. Derick Minnie. Michael Rhodes. Josh Strauss (captain). Warren Whiteley. Michael Bondesio. Ross Cronjé. Whestley Moolman. Butch James. Elton Jantjies. Alwyn Hollenbach. Doppies la Grange. Lionel Mapoe. Waylon Murray. Jannie Boshoff. Dylan Des Fountain. Michael Killian. Deon van Rensburg. James Kamana. Jaco Taute.

Sharks – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview

The 2011 Super Rugby season was a productive one for the Sharks, with a 6th place finish their reward. They didn’t go any further than that though as they were knocked out in the first round of the playoffs by the Crusaders.

The Sharks have lost a few players for the 2012 season including ex-captain Stefan Terblanche and haven’t really replaced them with anyone of note. This doesn’t bode well for them improving this year and in fact could see them slip down the Super Rugby ladder. I think they will finish 3rd out of the South African sides this year and probably won’t feature in the fight for the playoff positions.

Prediction: 10th

Odds:
Winners – $11.00
Make Top 6 – $1.80

Sharks Squad:

Dale Chadwick. Jannie du Plessis. Wiehahn Herbst. Tendai Mtawarira. Julian Redelinghuys. Craig Burden. Kyle Cooper. Monde Hadebe. Bismarck du Plessis. Anton Bresler. Alistair Hargreaves. Jan André Marais. Peet Marais. Ross Skeate. Steven Sykes. Pieter-Steph du Toit. Willem Alberts. Jacques Botes. Marcell Coetzee. Keegan Daniel (captain). Jean Deysel. Ryan Kankowski. François Kleinhans. Lubabalo Mtembu. Conrad Hoffmann. Charl McLeod. Cobus Reinach. Patrick Lambie. Frédéric Michalak. Meyer Bosman. Paul Jordaan. Marius Joubert. Wandile Mjekevu. Tim Whitehead. Heimar Williams. Lwazi Mvovo. Odwa Ndungane. JP Pietersen. Sibusiso Sithole. Louis Ludik. Gouws Prinsloo. Riaan Viljoen.

Stormers – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview

Last season the Stormers were the best of the South African conference, finishing on 63 points, just 3 points behind the first place Queensland Reds. They’ve finished second in the last two seasons and have featured in one final, they are yet to win a Super Rugby competition.

For 2012, the Stormers have had somewhat of a clean-out, shifting no less than 14 players, and making just 4 replacements. The bulk of the players to replace the outgoings will come from their internal system. The only player of note they have brought in for 2012 is JP Du Plessis from the Rebels. I think the Stormers are going to go through a bit of a rebuilding phase this season and that will affect their position on the ladder, I can’t see them finishing close to the top this season. They will however, be there or there abouts fighting for a top 6 spot.

Prediction: 7th

Odds:
Winners – $8.00
Make Top 6 – $1.50

Stormers Squad:

Gio Aplon. Reuben Johannes. Donovan Armandt. Rohan Kitshoff. Andries Bekker. Steven Kitshoff. Wicus Blaauw. Berton Klaasen. Tom Botha. Siya Kolisi. Marcel Brache. Nick Koster. Schalk Burger. Adrian Kritzinger. Nizaam Carr. Deon Carstens. Clement Lewis. Demetri Catrakilis. Tiaan Liebenberg. Kurt Coleman. Hilton Lobberts. Bolla Conradie. Fran. Malherbe. Juan de Jongh. Scarra Ntubeni. Jean de Villiers. Joe Pietersen. JP du Plessis. Danie Poolman. Dewaldt Duvenage. Quinn Roux. Rynhardt Elstadt. Louis Schreuder. Eben Etzebeth. De Kock Steenkamp. Nick Fenton-Wells. Tim Swiel. Schalk Ferreira. Ricky Schroeder. Deon Fourie. Gary van Aswegen. Burton Francis. Gerhard van den Heever. Peter Grant. Hein van der Merwe. Nic Groom. Michael van der Spuy. Bryan Habana. Willem van Wyk. Brok Harris. Allister Vermaak. Yaya Hartzenberg. Duane Vermeulen.

Filed Under: Banter, Super Rugby Tagged With: super 15, super 15 rugby, super 15 rugby 2012, Super Rugby, super rugby 2012

Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview – New Zealand Conference

By Steve 1 Comment

With the Super 15 Rugby 2012 season getting underway next week, we continue our preview with the New Zealand Conference. This conference has produced a winner 3 out of the last 7 Super Rugby seasons, however no winners have come from here for the last 3 seasons.

The Crusaders generally dominate this conference. This is backed up by the fact that the Crusaders have taken part in the final 10 out of the 16 seasons the Super Rugby format has been around. They have 7 titles to their name and they will once again be up there in the 2012 Super 15 Rugby season.

Below, we preview each of the 5 teams from the New Zealand Conference in the Super 15 Rugby competition. Check out our predictions, odds for each team and the make-up of each of the teams playing squads for the 2012 season.

Blues – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview

Last season the Blues made it to the Semi Finals of the Super Rugby competition for the first time since 2007. They will obviously want to go one better this year, whether they can continue to improve is the biggest question mark. The Blues are one of the most successful sides in Super Rugby history, winning the competition 3 times and making the finals on numerous occasions.

This season, the Blues have not really set the world on fire with their recruitment, instead focussing on the playing group that got them to the finals last year. Notable losses for 2012 include Winston Stanley and James King who have moved to the Western Force and Melbourne Rebels respectively.

I think the Blues will have another good season but I can’t see them making it one step further this yea., They will easily make the top 6 but a spot in the grand final is probaly still beyond them.

Prediction: 4th

Odds:
Winners – $5.50
Make Top 6 – $1.33

Blues Squad:

Alby Mathewson. Ali Williams. Angus Ta’avao. Anthony Boric. Benson Stanley. Brad Mika. Charlie Faumuina. Chris Lowrey. Daniel Braid. David Raikuna. Filo Paulo. Gareth Anscombe. George Moala. Isaia Toeava. Jerome Kaino. Keven Mealamu. Lachie Munro. Liaki Moli. Luke Braid. Ma’a Nonu. Michael Hobbs,. Pauliasi Manu. Peter Saili. Piri Weepu. Rene Ranger. Sherwin Stowers. Tevita Mailau. Tom McCartney. Tony Woodcock.

Chiefs – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview

Last season the Chiefs weren’t able to back up their first foray into the Super Rugby finals in 2010, finishing a disappointing 10th. The Chiefs have never won the Super Rugby title and will feel that 2010 was their best chance, thrashed in the finals by the Bulls from Pretoria. That seemed to have an effect on them as their 2011 season never hit those same heights.

This season, the Chiefs have secured high profile the signing of Sonny Bill Williams from the Crusaders. This should provide a massive boost to their side, and their profile at the same time. The most notable our for the Chiefs is that of Tana Umaga, who chose to retire at the end of the 2011 season.

I think the Chiefs might battle back into contention for the top 6 this year, Sonny Bill Williams will provide the firepower they were lacking last year. It will be touch and go as to whether they finish in that top 6, but I think they will just get there.

Prediction: 6th

Odds:
Winners – $14.00
Make Top 6 – $2.00

Chiefs Squad:

Aaron Cruden. Alex Bradley. Andrew Horrell. Aseli Tikoirototuma. Ben Afeaki. Ben Tameifuna. Brendon Leonard. Brodie Retallick. Craig Clarke. Declan O’Donnell. Fritz Lee. Hika Elliot. Jackson Willison. Kane Thompson. Lelia Masaga. Liam Messam. Mahonri Schwalger. Maritino Nemani. Mike Fitzgerald. Richard Kahui. Robbie Robinson. Romana Graham. Sam Cane. Scott Waldrom. Shane Cleaver. Sona Taumalolo. Sonny Bill Williams. Tanerau Latimer. Tawera Kerr-Barlow. Tim Nanai-Williams. Toby Smith.

Crusaders – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview

The Crusaders went close again last year with only the Queensland Reds in their way to an 8th Super Rugby title. It wasn’t to be for the team that were fighting for the title on behalf of everyone in Christchurch following last years devastating earthquakes. This season they will be looking to go one better and who would bet against the most successful side in the history of the Super Rugby competition.

The Crusaders lost Sonny Bill Williams to the Chiefs this season, most probably because they wanted him to stay for more than one season. Sonny Bill obviously had his head turned by a possible return to the NRL in 2013 and only a 1 year deal was going to secure him for 2012. In 2012 the most notable signing for the Crusaders is All Black Tom Donnelly from the Highlanders.

The Crusaders will be hard to beat again in 2012. Any side with Richie McCaw and Dan Carter is going to be right up there and I think they will secure their 8th title this year.

Prediction: 1st

Odds:
Winners – $4.50
Make Top 6 – $1.25

Crusaders Squad:

Adam Whitelock. Andrew Ellis. Ben Franks. Ben Funnell. Corey Flynn. Dan Carter. George Whitelock. Israel Dagg. Joe Wheeler. Kieran Read. Luke Romano. Luke Whitelock. Matt Todd. Nick Barrett. Owen Franks. Patrick Osborne. Quentin MacDonald. Richie McCaw. Robbie Fruean. Ross Kennedy. Ryan Crotty. Sam Whitelock. Sean Maitland. Tom Donnelly. Tom Marshall. Tom Taylor. Tyler Bleyendaal. Willi Heinz. Wyatt Crockett. Zac Guildford.

Highlanders – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview

The Highlanders finished 8th in the 2012 Super 15 Rugby season, their best position since they finished 8th in 2005. They have not made the finals since 2002 and are yet to win a Super Rugby title, their closest a 2nd place finish to the Crusaders in 1999.

This season, the Highlanders have recruited some experience in. They snatched both Hosea Gear and Andrew Hore from the Hurricanes to bolster their wing and hooking stocks respectively. However, they also lost Tim Donnelly to the Crusaders this season and Robbie Robinson to the Chiefs.

I can’t really see the Highlanders producing a year like they did last season again in 2012. I think they will be lucky to get anywhere near the top 6 with the sides around them strengthening in more areas. I see a bottom 5 finish here for the Highlanders, going back to their form of 2008-2010.

Prediction: 11th

Odds:
Winners – $23.00
Make Top 6 – $2.75

Highlanders Squad:

Aaron Smith. Adam Thomson. Andrew Hore. Ben Smith. Bronson Murray. Chris King. Chris Noakes. Colin Slade. Culum Retallick. Doug Tietjens. Elliot Dixon. Hosea Gear. James Haskell. Jamie Mackintosh. Jarrad Hoeata. Jason Rutledge. Jimmy Cowan. John Hardie. Josh Bekhuis. Kade Poki. Kendrick Lynn. Kurt Baker. Lima Sopoaga. Ma’afu Fia. Nasi Manu. Nick Crosswell. Shaun Treeby. Siale Piutau. Tamati Ellison. Telusa Veainu.

Hurricanes – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview

The 2011 season was one for the Hurricanes to forget, finishing 9th overall and 4th in the New Zealand conference. Considering the Hurricanes had not finished any worse than 5th going back to 2002, 2010 and 2011 will no doubt like to be forgotten about.

In the off season, the Hurricanes lost experience in the form of hooker Andrew Hore and winger Hosea Gear to the Highlanders. Their most notable gain being Ben May from the Chiefs, Chris Smylie from the Blues and David Hall from the Crusaders. They have started somewhat of a downward spiral and it’s hard to see them getting out of it this season.

To be honest, I can’t see the Hurricanes finishing above any of the other sides from the New Zealand conference, they will have a fight on their hands to avoid the dreaded wooden spoon in my opinion.

Prediction: 12th

Odds:
Winners – $26.00
Make Top 6 - $3.50

Hurricanes Squad:

Alapati Leiua. Andre Taylor. Beauden Barrett. Ben May. Brad Shields. Charlie Ngatai. Chris Eaton. Chris Smylie. Conrad Smith. Cory Jane. Dane Coles. Daniel Kirkpatrick. David Hall. Faifili Levave. Jack Lam. James Broadhurst. Jason Eaton. Jayden Hayward. Jeffery Toomaga-Allen. Jeremy Thrush. Julian Savea. Karl Lowe. Mark Reddish. Michael Bent. Motu Matu’u. Reggie Goodes. Richard Buckman. Tim Bateman. TJ Perenara. Tristan Moran. Tusi Pisi. Victor Vito.

Filed Under: Banter, Super Rugby Tagged With: super 15, super 15 rugby, super 15 rugby 2012, Super Rugby, super rugby 2012

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Hurricanes v Brumbies – Super 15 Rugby Round 13
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Blues v Lions – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12
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Waratahs v Bulls – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12
Allianz Stadium, Sydney, Friday 11 May, 7.40pm (EST)

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Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin, Saturday 12 May, 5.30pm (EST)

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Sharks v Western Force – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12
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Newlands Rugby Stadium, Cape Town, Sunday 13 May, 3.10am (EST)

Reds v Chiefs – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 12
Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, Sunday 13 May, 4pm (EST)

Hurricanes v Blues – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
Westpac Stadium, Wellington, Friday 4 May, 5.35pm

Rebels v Bulls – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
AAMI Park, Melbourne, Friday 4 May, 7.40pm

Chiefs v Lions – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
Bayer Growers Stadium, Saturday May 5, 5.30pm

Brumbies v Waratahs – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
Canberra Stadium, Canberra, Saturday 5 May, 7.40pm

Sharks v Highlanders – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
Kings Park, Durban, Sunday 6 May, 1.05am

Cheetahs v Western Force – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein, Sunday 6 May, 3.10am

Crusaders v Reds – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Round 11
Rugby League Park, Christchurch, Sunday 6 May, 2pm

Blues v Reds – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Eden Park, Auckland, Friday 27 April, 5.35pm

Lions v Brumbies – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg, Saturday 28 April, 3.10am

Chiefs v Hurricanes – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Waikato Stadium, Hamilton, Saturday 28 April, 5.35pm

Force v Stormers – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
nib Stadium, Perth, Saturday 28 April, 7.40pm

Cheetahs v Highlanders – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Free State Rugby Stadium, Sunday 29 April, 1.05am

Waratahs v Crusaders – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Allianz Stadium, Sydney, Sunday 29 April, 4.10pm

Blues v Sharks – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Eden Park, Auckland, Friday 5.30pm (EST)

Force v Waratahs – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
nib Stadium, Perth, Friday 9.10pm (EST)

Brumbies v Rebels – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Canberra Stadium, Saturday 7.40pm (EST)

Cheetahs v Chiefs - Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein, Sunday 1.05am (EST)

Lions v Bulls – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg, Sunday 3.10am (EST)

Blues v Hurricanes – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Eden Park, Friday 23 March, 5.35pm

Rebels v Western Force – Super 15 Rugby Preview
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Waratahs v Sharks – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Allianz Stadium, Saturday 24 March, 3.35pm

Crusaders v Cheetahs – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Rugby League Park, Saturday 24 march, 5.35pm

Brumbies v Highlanders – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Canberra Stadium, Saturday 24 March, 7.40pm

Bulls v Reds – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Loftus Versfeld, Sunday 25 March, 2.05am

Lions v Stormers – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Coca Cola Park, Sunday 25 March, 4.10am

Chiefs v Brumbies – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Bay Park Stadium, Tauranga, Fri Mar 16, 5:35PM

Stormers v Blues – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
DHL Newlands, Capetown, Sat Mar 17, 4:10AM

Hurricanes v Highlanders – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Westpac Stadium, Wellington, Sat Mar 17, 5:35PM

Waratahs v Western Force – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Allianz Stadium, Sydney, Sat Mar 17, 7:40PM

Sharks v Reds – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
Mr Price Kings Park, Durban, Sun Mar 18, 2:05AM

Rebels v Cheetahs – Super 15 Rugby 2012 Preview
AAMI Park, Melbourne, Sun Mar 18, 4:10PM

Blues v Crusaders – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Eden Park, Auckland, Friday 5.30pm (EDT)

Brumbies v Western Force – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Canberra Stadium, Canberra, Friday 7.30pm (EDT)

Bulls v Sharks – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria, Saturday 4.10am (EDT)

Chiefs v Highlanders – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Waikato Stadium, Hamilton, Saturday 5.30pm (EDT)

Waratahs v Reds – Super 15 Rugby Preview
ANZ Stadium, Sydney, Saturday 7.40pm (EDT)

Stormers v Hurricanes – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Newlands, Cape Town, Sunday 2.05am (EDT)

Lions v Cheetahs – Super 15 Rugby Preview
Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg, Sunday 4.10am (EDT)