Couch Critic previews the Super Rugby Aotearoa match between the Highlanders and the Crusaders including best bets with @Olimp_SA
Highlanders vs Crusaders – Saturday 04 July @ 09:05, Dunedin
We’ve already seen enough after three weeks of Aotearoa rugby to know what to expect from this one as Forsyth-Bar opens its doors to welcome the Champion Crusaders under the roof in Dunedin.
Team News
Scott Robertson has opted to freshen up his squad for this clash. David Havili gets his chance starting at 15 which means the in-form Will Jordan moves to the wing. Leicester Fainga'anuku replaces George Bridge on the other wing whilst Drummond earns a chance in the starting number 9 jumper. After a huge shift in the previous match Cullen Grace is unfortunately out with injury on the flank. The hosts have also made a few chances, most notably getting Gregory out of harm’s way in the back berth whilst Liam Coltman rotates the starting hooker slot with Ash Dixon.
Tactics
We know exactly how tough a nut this Highlanders side is an after two games they have proven they cannot be taken lightly at all. Expect them to muscle up upfront and do the basics like lineout work really well. The Crusaders will also find it tough making any headway with a driving maul against a team who seem to have this art well and truly mastered.
The Crusaders will struggle beating a spirted Highlanders side in an arm-wrestle. They can however rely and their superior skill and ability amongst the backs to open the home side up in conditions which should suit running rugby. With game breakers all across the park for the men in red they are more than likely to use most of the opportunities offered to them.
Verdict
The Highlanders will have to pull off their game plan to the letter and then also hope the Saders are a touch off their game on the day. I just don’t see this happening. The men from the South have scrapped well but there is just too much fire power in this Crusaders side for the Dunedin boys to keep them quiet for the entire 80 minutes.
BETOLIMP BEST BETS
First Half Handicap: Crusaders -5.5 @ 1.86
The Highlanders have shown capable of hanging tough but at times they leave this fight back for the second stint. The Crusaders in their new guise haven’t struggled out the gates at all.
First Scoring Play – Crusaders Try @ 2.60
Keeping with the above thought process I’m looking for the Crusaders to start with a quick try.
First Tryscorer: Will Jordan @ 12.00
Jordan has been one of the most in-from players have the tournament. Playing on the wing might not be the optimal use of all his attributes but it does keep him in good position to pick up a try.
Last Tryscorer: Sevu Reece @ 9.50
The price is a touch lower than we would normally take but it is justified. Reece coming on off the bench could be devastating in the final quarter of the clash.
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(Note, all odds quoted are subject to change)
Couch Critic
