Couch Critic previews the Rugby World Cup matches taking place on the 23rd, 24th of September including his plays for South Africa v Ireland and Wales v Australia
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Let’ get down, let’s get down to business
SOUTH AFRICA vs IRELAND
With the number one ranking in the world up for the taking this is surely the biggest game of the tournament to date (the host nation will of course disagree and claim their win over the Kiwis).
It seems certain that the winner of this match will be rewarded with a date against the All Blacks in the semi’s whilst the loser gets the French in that knockout encounter. I’m not yet sure about which route is preferable for Andy Farrell and Rassie Erasmus but regardless of the path bestowed upon them due to the outcome of this clash I think the momentum to be gained from a win at this stage could be worth its weight in gold – or perhaps Web Ellis’ silver gilt…
Crystal ball prediction
I honestly struggle to call this one. Twelve months ago I would have figured the Boks had zero chance at a “W” if Marx, Lood, Vermeulen, Pollard, Am and Willie were not involved in the crucial matches. Swys de Bruyn loves to call this the spine of your team and the Bok spine for Saturday’s Irish encounter is one in need of serious reconstructive surgery looking at all that has been lost or damaged. But alas, NieRasmus has taught the team to adapt over the past four years and this version of the Springboks is still fancied for victory going into this one.
Farrell has moulded his side into the number one team in the world through discipline, structure and a possession-based attack. There is a concern that if Sexton can settle into a rhythm the defending champions could be tripped up by a side who know their own game very well.
Where my money is going
HT/FT – Ireland / South Africa @ 7.10
This one will be tight as nails and there is a touch of value in this market. South Africa will have three fetchers out in the park int the last 15 minutes and this could prove the difference.
Special play: South Africa winning margin 1-12 @ 2.60
The Boylesport Pie Shop
Last Tryscorer – Deon Fourie @ 23.00
Springboks are likely to keep Mbonambi deep into the game but I can’t resist this price on a hooker!
WALES vs AUSTRALIA
The Wallabies are on life support. Jones has seemed less wacky genius and more weird drunk uncle in his Aussie tenure to date. Whilst Australians would have hoped for a breath of fresh air from Eddie Jones they’ve been greeted by the hair-of-the-dog next morning breath after old Eddie was out with his mates.
The Welsh might not be the most exciting team in the world and our inflatable pool in the backyard has more depth than them but the 23 assigned to do the job over the men in yellow should be capable enough.
Crystal ball prediction
Like a responsible older brother Gatland is ready to take the keys away from Eddie and Aussie rugby is set to be left with a hell of an insurance claim to fix all that he damaged during his intoxicated joy ride in France. Whilst the Welsh aren’t exactly inspiring they are structured, relatively solid and decently coached (so they have the Wallabies beat on all three those fronts).
Where my money is going
Wales to win @ 1.96
Time for older brother to drive the younger one back home for a spanking.
Special play: Wales winning margin 1-12 @ 2.55
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Couch Critic
Couch is first and foremost a Bok fan and a long-suffering Sharks fan. He loves the occasional bet and often plays in the exotic markets where his penchant for well-priced Hookers* became his trademark
You can follow him on Twitter @HDiemont
He also has an Afrikaans Rugby Channel on YouTube “Die Losgemaal” – //www.youtube.com/@dielosgemaal4278">click here to subscribe
