Couch Critic nails up his Super Rugby Aotearoa betting tips for the match between the Blues and the Hurricanes which takes place on 14th June
Blues vs Hurricanes – Sunday 14 June @ 05:35, Auckland
The second game of the opening weekend of “Super Rugby” sees the Blues host the Hurricanes at Eden Park in a rare Sunday afternoon match for the Kiwi teams.
Team News
The Hurricanes have opted to use the dynamic impact of Ardie Savea off the bench. The tight five for the visitors doesn’t look too imposing despite veteran All Black Dane Coles settling back into his spot in the middle of the frontrow. Garden-Bachop is tasked with filling the massive boots of the man who will be lining up for the opponents on Sunday, whilst brother Jordie is of course also still missing for the Canes.
The home side have, somewhat controversially, gone the route of naming Beauden Barrett at fullback. This means Otere Black takes the 10 jumper and as expected Carter is not yet ready to join the fold. With Caleb Clarke, Rieko Ioane, Tj Faiane, Mark Telea and Beauden this Blues backline looks potent.
Tactics
The Blues proved to be an impressive outfit in the first aborted version of the Super Rugby 2020. Their results included a 24-15 victory in Wellington. The Aucklanders have a solid pack on paper but it’s their backs that often get the tongues wagging when they are able to find their rhythm. Much like the home team, the men in yellow are renowned for their lethal expansive play when the mood hits them. The Hurricanes backs have the proven quality to mix it with the home side but if the hosts pitch up in the right frame of mind, they could lay the platform for victory in their superior tight five led by skipper Tuipulotu and Ofa Tuungafasi.
Verdict
If the Blues pack arrive at Eden Park ready to roll up their sleeves and get stuck in this should be a rather comfortable home victory. The Blues just have too much fire power amongst their backs and if the platform is given to them to thrill their home fans they are sure to use it. I think the home side might just take this with a bit of room to spare.
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First Tryscorer: Hoskins Sotutu
I’ve been seriously impressed by the Blues number eight in the earlier part of the season and am hoping he continues where he left off.
Savea is bound to make an impact in the second half as he comes on off the bench. Yes, I have backed the Blues to come up trumps in this clash but if everything goes according to plan Ardie crosses the line with a consolation try near the end of the game.
Match Handicap: Blues -8.5 @ 2.67
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(Note, all odds quoted are subject to change)
Couch Critic
