Couch Critic previews the Super Rugby Aotearoa match between the Crusaders and the Blues including best bets with @Olimp_SA
SUPER RUGBY AOTEAROA ROUND 5
Crusaders vs Blues – Saturday 11 July @ 09:05, Christchurch
It promises to be the game of the tournament thus far as the Crusaders host the impressive Blues in Christchurch. Both these sides are unbeaten in Super Rugby Aotearoa and there is a clear gulf between these two and the rest with no one else capable of more than one victory.
Team News
Each week it’s interesting to see how Scott Robertson is going to juggle his potent back three options. This time around the creative Crusaders leader has done what few others would even have considered – he has benched arguably the most in-from player in world rugby at present. Yet on paper this still looks a champion outfit.
The Blues have opted for two changes with Finlay Christie brought in at 9 whilst the inclusion of Harry Plummer at inside centre is a big surprise.
Tactics
Continuing from above it seems Leon McDonald has opted for Plummer to add some additional tactical kicking. It could also have the added advantage of ensuring Rieko Ioane gets more ball as Harry is likely to either kick or distribute with ball carries less likely from TJ Faiane’s replacement. The dynamic back row remains one of the Blues’ biggest advantages.
Despite a few quick tries in the last quarter last week the Saders haven’t had it all their own way. They will do well to realise they need to up their game if they are to stop the momentum of the high-flying Aucklanders. Richie Mo’unga has looked sharp since the return to action.
Verdict
It’s the heavyweights doing battle in this crunch game and the Blues are certainly not without a chance of victory as they clearly are an improved outfit in 2020. Simplifying things, the home team has the superior tight five and a backline that could just as easily all don the famous black jerseys if the All Blacks are to select a team tomorrow. This pundit isn’t prepared to oppose the mighty Crusaders but I am expecting this to be a tight tussle.
BETOLIMP BEST BETS
Half Time / Full Time Margin – Crusaders (1-8) / Crusaders (1-12) @ 9.50
The Crusaders have the knack of starting fast, going to sleep a bit in the middle and then finishing strong. This time around I like this tasty price of them to lead at the break and then battle out a narrow victory.
First Tryscorer: Codie Taylor @ 15.00
In my opinion Taylor is one of the very best hookers in the world game at present. Yes, the Crusaders don’t have a dominant lineout drive, but Codie has stolen a few tricks out of Dane Coles’ playbook and enjoys popping up along the tramlines ready for a meat pie.
Last Tryscorer: Will Jordan @ 11.50
Whatever this youngster touches turns to gold at present and I can’t afford to leave him off the betting sheet.
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(Note, all odds quoted are subject to change)
Couch Critic
