Mitre10 Cup - Season Preview
4 years 8 months ago #1
by BookieDave
Mitre10 Cup - Season Preview was created by BookieDave
Hey all, here is a brief rundown on the Premiership. Will hopefully finish the Championship tonight 
Canterbury
Draw: 7th= best draw. They have the best draw tied with Harbour out of the Premiership sides, not playing Taranaki is a good result. They have a tough start with 3 of the 1st 5 weeks @Waikato, @Wellington and @Auckland, but then have a soft run home.
Don’t Play: Taranaki, Hawkes Bay, BOP.
Key Pick Ups – Michael Alaalatoa (Manawatu) – Been with the Crusaders for the past few years but has been playing with Manawatu.
Wild Card – Junior Ratuva (Rugby League) – Who knows what this kid can do, next Sevu Reece?
Break Out Year – Josh McKay, already got 20 caps under his belt but with no Ennor or Bridge I expect him to get a bit more of the ball.
Possible Best XV
15: Josh McKay
14: Junior Ratuva
13: Tim Bateman
12: Inga Finau
11: Ngane Punivai
10: Brett Cameron
9: Mitchell Drummond
8: Luke Whitelock
7: Billy Harmon
6: Reed Prinsep
5: Mitchell Dunshea
4: Luke Romano
3: Michael Alaalatoa
2: Seb Siataga
1: Dan Lienert-Brown
Good players that could still make 15 – Whetu Douglas, Tom Sanders, Tom Christie, Ere Enari
You could throw a blanket over the loose forwards, I expect them to shuffle these guys through the season.
My Prices to 100%,
$3.65 To WIn
Prediction: 2nd. 7 Wins / 3 Losses.
Tasman
Draw = 12th best draw. Not the best draw for Tasman, as they don’t get the tap in against Southland. The 1st two rounds will dictate how good Tasman are, with a home game v Wellington and the @ Canterbury.
Don’t Play: Otago, BOP, Southland
Key Pick Ups- Not really a pick up but Liam Squire has made himself available after not playing the last couple of seasons.
Wild Card – Tima Faingaanuku, signed for 1 season in France, the former NZ u20s player should reach his potential this season outside the likes of Aumua, Nankivell and Jordan.
Break Out Year – Already broken out I guess, but Will Jordan could do anything this year. After being trapped behind some star studded outside back with the Crusaders, I expect him to make the most of starting every game (like last year) and absolutely kill it.
Possible Best XV
15: David Havili
14: Tima Faingaanuku
13: Levi Aumua
12: Alex Nankivell
11: Will Jordan
10: Mitch Hunt
9: Finaly Christie
8: Jordan Taufua
7: Liam Squire?
6: Shannon Frizell?
5: Ethan Blackadder
4: Pari Pari Parkinson
3: Tyrel Lomax
2: Andrew Makalio
1: Wyatt Crockett
Good players that could still make 15 – Hugh Roach, Tim Perry, Joe Wheeler
Sheesh, having Squire, Taufua and Frizell is some serious firepower in the back row. Every player in that starting 15 has at least 6 Super Rugby caps in the last 3 years.
My Prices to 100%
$3.25 To Win
Prediction: 1st 7 wins / 3 Losses
Auckland
Draw = 9th best draw, tough middle of the season playing 5 Premier teams on the trot (3 of those away)
Don’t play: Otago, Hawkes Bay, Manawatu
Key Pick Ups – No one of note, a few lads from club Rugby, you could say Scrafton as he didn’t play any games last year.
Wild Card – Akira Ioane, who knows what his attitude will be. Will he be fired up and keen to prove a point and make himself available should there be injuries..or will he spit the dummy.
Break Out Year – Salesi Rayasi, obviously had a good year last year, but I feel he could improve out of sight
Possible Best XV
15: Jordan Trainor
14: Caleb Clarke
13: Tumua Manu
12: TJ Faiane
11: Salesi Rayasi
10: Harry Plummer
9: Jono Ruru
8: Akira Ioane
7: Blake Gibson
6: Dalton Papali’i
5: Scott Scrafton
4: Patrick Tuipolutu
3: Marcel Renata
2: Robbie Abel
1: Jarred Adams
Good players that could still make 15 – Alex Hodgman
In my opinion, Auckland don’t have much depth…if they get a couple of key injuries, I really see them struggling.
My Prices to 100%
$5.80
Prediction: 3rd 7 Wins / 4 Losses
Wellington (The Hypens)
Draw = 10th best draw, they miss that tap in Southland win, however do avoid playing taranaki.
Don’t Play: Taranaki, Manawatu, Southland
Key Pick Ups – Vince Aso, moving down from Auckland, but may struggle to earn a starting role
Wild Card – Asafo Aumua, He will either improve out of sight or go backwards in a hurry..(Im guessing he wont be at the RWC)
Break out Year – Du’Plessis Kirifi, im in love with this guy. Hes tough as nails and mad as a cut snake, but sheesh he can pilfer, a nugget. I expect him to really shine this year, especially given the leadership role he is in now.
Possible Best XV
15: Pete Umaha-Jensen
14: Ben Lam
13: Matt Proctor
12: Thomas Umaga-Jensen
11: Wes Goosen
10: Jackson Garden Bachop
9: Kemara Hauiti-Parapa
8: Teaariki Ben-Nicholas
7: Du’Plessis Kirifi
6: Galu Taufale
5: James Blackwell
4: Josh Furno
3: Alex Fidow
2: Asafo Aumua
1: Sef Fa’agase
Dead set commentator’s nightmare…2x Umaga-Jensen, 2x Garden-Bachop, 2x Proctor and a few other hyphens! A solid squad, but I think they will be middle of the pack and will battle Harbour for that 4th spot.
My Prices to 100%
$8.75
Prediction: 4th 6 Wins / 4 Losses
North Harbour
Draw= 8th best, the 1st 4 weeks will determine if Harbour can play finals this year. Battle of the bridge 1st up, but then they play Counties, @ Southland and v BOP..drop any of those games and they are dead. Miss playing Taranaki which helps.
Don’t Play: Taranaki, Northland, Hawkes Bay
Key Pick Ups – Matt McGahan, after a couple of years is back for Harbour. With the injury to Gatland his experience in Super Rugby last season with the reds should help a lot.
Wild Card - Asaeli Tikoirotuma, the Fijian and former Chiefs player back in 2012-14, who knows what he can bring.
Breakout Year: Not too many “Young Guns” in the Harbour team…but I really think McGahan could smash it this year.
Possible Best XV
15:Shaun Stevenson
14: Matt Duffie
13: James Little
12: Harrison Groundwater
11: Asaeli Tikoirotuma
10: Matt McGahan
9: Bryn Hall
8: Murphy Taramai
7: Dillon Hunt
6: Glen Preston
5: Ben Nee Nee
4: Gerard Cowley-Tuioti
3: Sione Mfileo
2: James Parsons
1: Nic Mayhew
Solid team, but lack depth in my opinion. If they do stay fit (Like most teams I guess) then they could and should play finals.
My Prices to 100%
$10.10
Prediction: 5th 6 Wins 4 Losses
Waikato
Draw= WORST. After getting promoted last season, they have been shafted by the draw. They don’t play Northland, Southland and Manawatu…they could end up being the 3 worst teams in the comp and not playing those is horrid.
Don’t Play: Northland, Southland and Manawatu
Key Pick Ups: Solomona Alaimalo from Tasman (Will be out for the 1st half)
Wild Card: Rivez Reihana, could pass Fletcher Smith by the end of the year, very skilly NZ u20s player.
Break out Year: Quinn Tupaea – played every game last year and was a key reason why they went so well, could lift again this year and grab a super contract.
Possible Best XV
15: Matty Landsdown
14: Tyler Campbell
13: Quinn Tupaea
12: Dwayne Sweeney
11: Solomona Alaimalo
10: Fletcher Smith
9: Jack Stratton
8: Jahrome Brown
7: Mitch Jacobson
6: James Tucker
5: Laghlan McWhannell
4:Tim Bond
3: Josh Iosefa Scott
2: Samisoni Taukei’aho
1: Ayden Johnston
No Sevu Reece will hurt bigtime.
My Prices to 100%
$33.40
Prediction: 6th 4 Wins 6 Losses.
Counties
Draw= 13th, like Waikato a bad draw. They don’t play Otago, Northland and BOP
Key Pick Ups – SBW! Even though it might only be for 2 games
Wild Card: Chris Kuridrani, the Queenslander has made the trek over with former Waratah Andrew Kellaway.
Break Out Year: Etene Nanai-Seturo, started the last 4 games last night and with the Super Rugby and U20s experience I think he could really dominate this year.
Possible Best XV
15: Leturu Laulala
14: Etene Nanai-Seturo
13: Cardiff Vaega
12: SBW
11:Tevita Nabura
10: Orbyn Leger
9: Liam Daniela
8: Daniel Hyatt
7: Sam Henwood
6: Sikeli Nabou
5: Matiaha Martin
4: Viliame Rarasea
3: Kalolo Tuiloma
2: Joe Royal
1: Sean Bragshaw
Others that could break the XV, Daymon Leasusua, Jonathan Taumatiene, Sam Furniss, Chris Kuridrani, Andrew Kellaway.
My Prices to 100%
$230
My Prediction: Relegation. Combined with their lack of “Star Players” and a crap draw, they will be playing in the Championship next year. 3 Wins 7 Losses.
Now the important bit! BETS!
Tasman $3.50+…You can get about $4.50 Tasman at some joints. They stay fit, they win. Simple.
If you need a saver, have a small play on Harbour @ $11 and Auckland @ $6.
Canterbury
Draw: 7th= best draw. They have the best draw tied with Harbour out of the Premiership sides, not playing Taranaki is a good result. They have a tough start with 3 of the 1st 5 weeks @Waikato, @Wellington and @Auckland, but then have a soft run home.
Don’t Play: Taranaki, Hawkes Bay, BOP.
Key Pick Ups – Michael Alaalatoa (Manawatu) – Been with the Crusaders for the past few years but has been playing with Manawatu.
Wild Card – Junior Ratuva (Rugby League) – Who knows what this kid can do, next Sevu Reece?
Break Out Year – Josh McKay, already got 20 caps under his belt but with no Ennor or Bridge I expect him to get a bit more of the ball.
Possible Best XV
15: Josh McKay
14: Junior Ratuva
13: Tim Bateman
12: Inga Finau
11: Ngane Punivai
10: Brett Cameron
9: Mitchell Drummond
8: Luke Whitelock
7: Billy Harmon
6: Reed Prinsep
5: Mitchell Dunshea
4: Luke Romano
3: Michael Alaalatoa
2: Seb Siataga
1: Dan Lienert-Brown
Good players that could still make 15 – Whetu Douglas, Tom Sanders, Tom Christie, Ere Enari
You could throw a blanket over the loose forwards, I expect them to shuffle these guys through the season.
My Prices to 100%,
$3.65 To WIn
Prediction: 2nd. 7 Wins / 3 Losses.
Tasman
Draw = 12th best draw. Not the best draw for Tasman, as they don’t get the tap in against Southland. The 1st two rounds will dictate how good Tasman are, with a home game v Wellington and the @ Canterbury.
Don’t Play: Otago, BOP, Southland
Key Pick Ups- Not really a pick up but Liam Squire has made himself available after not playing the last couple of seasons.
Wild Card – Tima Faingaanuku, signed for 1 season in France, the former NZ u20s player should reach his potential this season outside the likes of Aumua, Nankivell and Jordan.
Break Out Year – Already broken out I guess, but Will Jordan could do anything this year. After being trapped behind some star studded outside back with the Crusaders, I expect him to make the most of starting every game (like last year) and absolutely kill it.
Possible Best XV
15: David Havili
14: Tima Faingaanuku
13: Levi Aumua
12: Alex Nankivell
11: Will Jordan
10: Mitch Hunt
9: Finaly Christie
8: Jordan Taufua
7: Liam Squire?
6: Shannon Frizell?
5: Ethan Blackadder
4: Pari Pari Parkinson
3: Tyrel Lomax
2: Andrew Makalio
1: Wyatt Crockett
Good players that could still make 15 – Hugh Roach, Tim Perry, Joe Wheeler
Sheesh, having Squire, Taufua and Frizell is some serious firepower in the back row. Every player in that starting 15 has at least 6 Super Rugby caps in the last 3 years.
My Prices to 100%
$3.25 To Win
Prediction: 1st 7 wins / 3 Losses
Auckland
Draw = 9th best draw, tough middle of the season playing 5 Premier teams on the trot (3 of those away)
Don’t play: Otago, Hawkes Bay, Manawatu
Key Pick Ups – No one of note, a few lads from club Rugby, you could say Scrafton as he didn’t play any games last year.
Wild Card – Akira Ioane, who knows what his attitude will be. Will he be fired up and keen to prove a point and make himself available should there be injuries..or will he spit the dummy.
Break Out Year – Salesi Rayasi, obviously had a good year last year, but I feel he could improve out of sight
Possible Best XV
15: Jordan Trainor
14: Caleb Clarke
13: Tumua Manu
12: TJ Faiane
11: Salesi Rayasi
10: Harry Plummer
9: Jono Ruru
8: Akira Ioane
7: Blake Gibson
6: Dalton Papali’i
5: Scott Scrafton
4: Patrick Tuipolutu
3: Marcel Renata
2: Robbie Abel
1: Jarred Adams
Good players that could still make 15 – Alex Hodgman
In my opinion, Auckland don’t have much depth…if they get a couple of key injuries, I really see them struggling.
My Prices to 100%
$5.80
Prediction: 3rd 7 Wins / 4 Losses
Wellington (The Hypens)
Draw = 10th best draw, they miss that tap in Southland win, however do avoid playing taranaki.
Don’t Play: Taranaki, Manawatu, Southland
Key Pick Ups – Vince Aso, moving down from Auckland, but may struggle to earn a starting role
Wild Card – Asafo Aumua, He will either improve out of sight or go backwards in a hurry..(Im guessing he wont be at the RWC)
Break out Year – Du’Plessis Kirifi, im in love with this guy. Hes tough as nails and mad as a cut snake, but sheesh he can pilfer, a nugget. I expect him to really shine this year, especially given the leadership role he is in now.
Possible Best XV
15: Pete Umaha-Jensen
14: Ben Lam
13: Matt Proctor
12: Thomas Umaga-Jensen
11: Wes Goosen
10: Jackson Garden Bachop
9: Kemara Hauiti-Parapa
8: Teaariki Ben-Nicholas
7: Du’Plessis Kirifi
6: Galu Taufale
5: James Blackwell
4: Josh Furno
3: Alex Fidow
2: Asafo Aumua
1: Sef Fa’agase
Dead set commentator’s nightmare…2x Umaga-Jensen, 2x Garden-Bachop, 2x Proctor and a few other hyphens! A solid squad, but I think they will be middle of the pack and will battle Harbour for that 4th spot.
My Prices to 100%
$8.75
Prediction: 4th 6 Wins / 4 Losses
North Harbour
Draw= 8th best, the 1st 4 weeks will determine if Harbour can play finals this year. Battle of the bridge 1st up, but then they play Counties, @ Southland and v BOP..drop any of those games and they are dead. Miss playing Taranaki which helps.
Don’t Play: Taranaki, Northland, Hawkes Bay
Key Pick Ups – Matt McGahan, after a couple of years is back for Harbour. With the injury to Gatland his experience in Super Rugby last season with the reds should help a lot.
Wild Card - Asaeli Tikoirotuma, the Fijian and former Chiefs player back in 2012-14, who knows what he can bring.
Breakout Year: Not too many “Young Guns” in the Harbour team…but I really think McGahan could smash it this year.
Possible Best XV
15:Shaun Stevenson
14: Matt Duffie
13: James Little
12: Harrison Groundwater
11: Asaeli Tikoirotuma
10: Matt McGahan
9: Bryn Hall
8: Murphy Taramai
7: Dillon Hunt
6: Glen Preston
5: Ben Nee Nee
4: Gerard Cowley-Tuioti
3: Sione Mfileo
2: James Parsons
1: Nic Mayhew
Solid team, but lack depth in my opinion. If they do stay fit (Like most teams I guess) then they could and should play finals.
My Prices to 100%
$10.10
Prediction: 5th 6 Wins 4 Losses
Waikato
Draw= WORST. After getting promoted last season, they have been shafted by the draw. They don’t play Northland, Southland and Manawatu…they could end up being the 3 worst teams in the comp and not playing those is horrid.
Don’t Play: Northland, Southland and Manawatu
Key Pick Ups: Solomona Alaimalo from Tasman (Will be out for the 1st half)
Wild Card: Rivez Reihana, could pass Fletcher Smith by the end of the year, very skilly NZ u20s player.
Break out Year: Quinn Tupaea – played every game last year and was a key reason why they went so well, could lift again this year and grab a super contract.
Possible Best XV
15: Matty Landsdown
14: Tyler Campbell
13: Quinn Tupaea
12: Dwayne Sweeney
11: Solomona Alaimalo
10: Fletcher Smith
9: Jack Stratton
8: Jahrome Brown
7: Mitch Jacobson
6: James Tucker
5: Laghlan McWhannell
4:Tim Bond
3: Josh Iosefa Scott
2: Samisoni Taukei’aho
1: Ayden Johnston
No Sevu Reece will hurt bigtime.
My Prices to 100%
$33.40
Prediction: 6th 4 Wins 6 Losses.
Counties
Draw= 13th, like Waikato a bad draw. They don’t play Otago, Northland and BOP
Key Pick Ups – SBW! Even though it might only be for 2 games
Wild Card: Chris Kuridrani, the Queenslander has made the trek over with former Waratah Andrew Kellaway.
Break Out Year: Etene Nanai-Seturo, started the last 4 games last night and with the Super Rugby and U20s experience I think he could really dominate this year.
Possible Best XV
15: Leturu Laulala
14: Etene Nanai-Seturo
13: Cardiff Vaega
12: SBW
11:Tevita Nabura
10: Orbyn Leger
9: Liam Daniela
8: Daniel Hyatt
7: Sam Henwood
6: Sikeli Nabou
5: Matiaha Martin
4: Viliame Rarasea
3: Kalolo Tuiloma
2: Joe Royal
1: Sean Bragshaw
Others that could break the XV, Daymon Leasusua, Jonathan Taumatiene, Sam Furniss, Chris Kuridrani, Andrew Kellaway.
My Prices to 100%
$230
My Prediction: Relegation. Combined with their lack of “Star Players” and a crap draw, they will be playing in the Championship next year. 3 Wins 7 Losses.
Now the important bit! BETS!
Tasman $3.50+…You can get about $4.50 Tasman at some joints. They stay fit, they win. Simple.
If you need a saver, have a small play on Harbour @ $11 and Auckland @ $6.
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4 years 8 months ago #4
by bradie82
Replied by bradie82 on topic Mitre10 Cup - Season Preview
Amazing Job Dave!! And more than enough details 
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4 years 8 months ago #6
by BookieDave
Replied by BookieDave on topic Mitre10 Cup - Season Preview
Here is the Preview for the Championship. A little rushed but hope it helps --Apologies for the spelling errors haha.
Taranaki
Draw= 1st. For me they have the best draw, do start with 2 away games but they are against Counties and Manawatu. Not having to play Wellington and Canterbury is huge. Plus they get to play Counties and Waikato.
Don’t Play: Canterbury, Wellington and Harbour
Key Pick Up: Heiden Bedwell-Curtis, solid loosie with a heap of experience.
Wild Card: Kini Naholo, Waisake’s bro, so much potential…big stocky bloke.
Break Out Year: Sean Wainui, a heap of Super experience now and was one of the Maoris best v Fiji.
Possible Best XV:
15: Stephen Perofeta
14: Kini Naholo
13: Sean Wainui
12: Regan Verney
11: Waisake Naholo
10: Daniel Waite
9: Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi
8: Pita Sowakula
7: Lachlan Boshier
6: Heiden Bedwell-Curtis
5: Leighton Price
4: Jesse Parete
3: Reuben O’Neill
2: Ricky Riccitelli
1: Chris Gawler
Others: Donald Brighouse, Mitch Brown.
My Price to 100%
$2.50
Prediction: Win the Championship, with the draw they have and the firepower and potential they should get straight back up to the Premier div. Having a CRAP and run-down stadium means they can only have spectators behind the posts. Hopefully that won’t make a difference and they get the job done. 6 Wins 4 Losses
Otago
Draw= 2nd best. Fantastic start of the season with 5 straight games v Championship sides. Not playing Auckland and Tasman will help a heap also.
Do Not Play: Auckland, Tasman and Counties.
Key Pick Up: Adam Thomson, former All Black coming back from near death in Japan. Even if he doesn’t play he will provide a heap of experience.
Wild Card: Louis Conradie, the South African expat…who knows if he is any good, but Otago don’t have too many players without experience.
Break Out Year: Jona Nareki, He was awesome last year and is a Sevu Reece 2.0.
Possible Best XV:
15: Michael Collins
14: Vilimoni Koroi
13: Sio Tomkinson
12: Matt Whaanga
11: Jona Nareki
10: Josh Ioane
9: Kurt Hammer
8: Dylan Nel
7: James Lentjes
6: Slade McDowell
5: Josh Dickson
4: Sione Misiloi
3: Hisa Sisagi
2: Sekonaia Pole
1: Jonah Aoina
My Price to 100%
$3.80
Prediction: Runner up in Championship. If they can get back Ioane quickly then they will have a very experienced team and should at least challenge Taranaki. 6 Wins 4 losses
Northland
Draw 11th. Not the best draw, they miss out on playing Waikato, Counties and Harbour.. the 3 worst teams from the Premiership. They go back and forth in the 1st 6 weeks, @ Southland, v Auckland, @
Taranaki, v Hawkes Bay, @ Manawatu, v Canterbury…. literally up and down the country.
Do Not Play: North Harbour, Waikato and Counties
Key Pick Up: Pass, they do their best to look at club rugby rather than import players outside.
Wild Card: Jack Debreczeni, this bloke is either rocks or diamonds, we saw patches of it last year for the Taniwha
Break Out Year: Scott Gregory, NZ Sevens player and U20s star, he played awesome last year and will cement himself a Super Rugby contract.
Possible Best XV
15: Scott Gregory
14: Jordan Hyland
13: Rene Ranger
12: Blake Hohaia
11:Tamati Tua
10: Jack Debreczeni
9: Sam Nock
8: Aorangi Stokes
7: Matt Matich
6: Tom Robinson
5: Josh Goodhue
4: Temo Mayanavanua
3: Corey Te Whata-Colley
2: Jordan Olsen
1: Isi Tuungafasi
Prediction: 5th, couple of injuries to Tom Robinson and Rene Ranger wont help early on. 4 Wins 6 Losses
My 100% Price
$16.25
Manawatu
Draw= 4th best draw. Not playing Waikato sucks.
Don’t play: Auckland, Wellington, Waikato.
Key Pick Up: Andre Taylor, back from a long stint overseas.
Wild Card: Nehe Milner-Skudder. Hopefully can stay fit and carve up.
Break Out Year: Te Rangitira Waitokia, if he gets the start at 15 he could find plenty of open space with Thompson and Skudder popping up.
Possible Best XV
15: Te Rangitira Waitokia
14: Nehe Milner-Skudder
13: Rob Thompson
12: Hamish Northcott
11: Adam Boult
10: Otere Black
9: Jamie Booth
8: Brayden Iose
7: Johnny Galloway
6: Jackson Hemopo
5: Nick Croswell
4: Liam Mitchell
3: Paulo Leleisiauo
2: Sam Stewart
1: Fraser Armstong
Prediction: 6th, Zero depth….
My 100% Price
$12.20
Bay Of Plenty
Draw: 5th best draw, play both games at home which is a nice start. They don’t play Canterbury and Tasman the 2 top teams.
Do Not Play: Canterbury, Tasman and Counties
Key Pick Up: Joe Ravouvou, down from Auckland and after a nice 7s year, part of this potent back 3 he could kill it.
Wild Card: Chase Tiatia, really inconsistent…but when he is on he is quality.
Break Out Year: Dan Hollinshead, couple of (Shitty) games with the chiefs and back in the BOP…should settle in nicely at 10 and steer those awesome backs around.
Possible Best XV:
15: Chase Tiatia
14: Emoni Narawa
13: Lalomilo Lalomilo
12: Who knows!
11: Joe Webber
10: Dans Hollinshead
9: Richard Judd
8: Hoani Matenga
7: Hugh Blake
6: Mitch Karpik
5: Alex Ainley
4: Baden Wardlaw
3: Jeff Thwaites
2: Kurt Eklnad
1: Chris Eves
Prediction: 3rd, after seeing their squad tonight, they have shot right up the rankings. Could be a sneaky upset to win the Championship. 5 Wins 5 Losses
My 100% Prices
$6.90
Hawkes Bay
Draw: 3rd best. Handy teams to not play.
Don’t Play: Canterbury, Auckland and North Harbour
Key Pick Up: Isaia Walker-Leawere, awesome Super Rugby Season.
Wild Card: Pouri Rakete-Stones. Could challenge Dixin to the starting hooker spot.
Break Out Year: Folau Fakatava, played well last year and has a heap of potential.
Possible Best XV
15: JJ Tualagi
14: Jonah Lowe
13: Stacey Ili
12: Pasqualle Dunn
11: Mason Emerson
10: Lincoln McClutchie
9: Folau Fakatava
8: Marino Mikaele Tu’u
7: Gareth Evans
6: Geoff Cridge
5: Michael Allardice
4: Isaia Walker-Leawere
3: Ben May
2: Ash Dixon
1: Mark Braidwood
Prediction: 6th. Solid squad,,but lack firepower. 3 Wins 7 Losses
My 100% Price
$26.00
Southland
Draw: 6th best draw.
Do Not Play: Tasman, Wellington and Waikato.
Key Pick Up: Marty McKenzie is back
Wild Card: Lausii Tailiauli, The former Brumbie could do anything down here.
Break Out Year: Josh Moorby, kid has some talent apparently.
Possible Best XV
15Josh Moorby
14: Isaac Te Tamaki
13: Seb Wileman
12: Ray Nu’u
11: Lausii Taliauli
10: Marty McKenzie
9: Logan Crowley
8: Bill Fukofuka
7: Phil Halder
6: Elliot Dixon
5: Mike McKee
4: Ray Tatafu
3: Morgan Mitchell
2: Brayden Mitchell
1: Joe Walsh
Prediction: Last, but will improve. 1 Win 9 Losses.
My 100% Price
$5001
BETS!
Before I saw the BOP Squads I had Taranaki a lot shorter, and backed them in from $2.75 to $2.25. But now they I have them $2.50.
1 Unit Taranaki $2.75
1 Unit Otago $4.5
2 Units BOP $7
Sucks, but I have the 3 faves all shorter than the market!
Good Luck.
--Apologies for the spelling errors haha.Taranaki
Draw= 1st. For me they have the best draw, do start with 2 away games but they are against Counties and Manawatu. Not having to play Wellington and Canterbury is huge. Plus they get to play Counties and Waikato.
Don’t Play: Canterbury, Wellington and Harbour
Key Pick Up: Heiden Bedwell-Curtis, solid loosie with a heap of experience.
Wild Card: Kini Naholo, Waisake’s bro, so much potential…big stocky bloke.
Break Out Year: Sean Wainui, a heap of Super experience now and was one of the Maoris best v Fiji.
Possible Best XV:
15: Stephen Perofeta
14: Kini Naholo
13: Sean Wainui
12: Regan Verney
11: Waisake Naholo
10: Daniel Waite
9: Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi
8: Pita Sowakula
7: Lachlan Boshier
6: Heiden Bedwell-Curtis
5: Leighton Price
4: Jesse Parete
3: Reuben O’Neill
2: Ricky Riccitelli
1: Chris Gawler
Others: Donald Brighouse, Mitch Brown.
My Price to 100%
$2.50
Prediction: Win the Championship, with the draw they have and the firepower and potential they should get straight back up to the Premier div. Having a CRAP and run-down stadium means they can only have spectators behind the posts. Hopefully that won’t make a difference and they get the job done. 6 Wins 4 Losses
Otago
Draw= 2nd best. Fantastic start of the season with 5 straight games v Championship sides. Not playing Auckland and Tasman will help a heap also.
Do Not Play: Auckland, Tasman and Counties.
Key Pick Up: Adam Thomson, former All Black coming back from near death in Japan. Even if he doesn’t play he will provide a heap of experience.
Wild Card: Louis Conradie, the South African expat…who knows if he is any good, but Otago don’t have too many players without experience.
Break Out Year: Jona Nareki, He was awesome last year and is a Sevu Reece 2.0.
Possible Best XV:
15: Michael Collins
14: Vilimoni Koroi
13: Sio Tomkinson
12: Matt Whaanga
11: Jona Nareki
10: Josh Ioane
9: Kurt Hammer
8: Dylan Nel
7: James Lentjes
6: Slade McDowell
5: Josh Dickson
4: Sione Misiloi
3: Hisa Sisagi
2: Sekonaia Pole
1: Jonah Aoina
My Price to 100%
$3.80
Prediction: Runner up in Championship. If they can get back Ioane quickly then they will have a very experienced team and should at least challenge Taranaki. 6 Wins 4 losses
Northland
Draw 11th. Not the best draw, they miss out on playing Waikato, Counties and Harbour.. the 3 worst teams from the Premiership. They go back and forth in the 1st 6 weeks, @ Southland, v Auckland, @
Taranaki, v Hawkes Bay, @ Manawatu, v Canterbury…. literally up and down the country.
Do Not Play: North Harbour, Waikato and Counties
Key Pick Up: Pass, they do their best to look at club rugby rather than import players outside.
Wild Card: Jack Debreczeni, this bloke is either rocks or diamonds, we saw patches of it last year for the Taniwha
Break Out Year: Scott Gregory, NZ Sevens player and U20s star, he played awesome last year and will cement himself a Super Rugby contract.
Possible Best XV
15: Scott Gregory
14: Jordan Hyland
13: Rene Ranger
12: Blake Hohaia
11:Tamati Tua
10: Jack Debreczeni
9: Sam Nock
8: Aorangi Stokes
7: Matt Matich
6: Tom Robinson
5: Josh Goodhue
4: Temo Mayanavanua
3: Corey Te Whata-Colley
2: Jordan Olsen
1: Isi Tuungafasi
Prediction: 5th, couple of injuries to Tom Robinson and Rene Ranger wont help early on. 4 Wins 6 Losses
My 100% Price
$16.25
Manawatu
Draw= 4th best draw. Not playing Waikato sucks.
Don’t play: Auckland, Wellington, Waikato.
Key Pick Up: Andre Taylor, back from a long stint overseas.
Wild Card: Nehe Milner-Skudder. Hopefully can stay fit and carve up.
Break Out Year: Te Rangitira Waitokia, if he gets the start at 15 he could find plenty of open space with Thompson and Skudder popping up.
Possible Best XV
15: Te Rangitira Waitokia
14: Nehe Milner-Skudder
13: Rob Thompson
12: Hamish Northcott
11: Adam Boult
10: Otere Black
9: Jamie Booth
8: Brayden Iose
7: Johnny Galloway
6: Jackson Hemopo
5: Nick Croswell
4: Liam Mitchell
3: Paulo Leleisiauo
2: Sam Stewart
1: Fraser Armstong
Prediction: 6th, Zero depth….
My 100% Price
$12.20
Bay Of Plenty
Draw: 5th best draw, play both games at home which is a nice start. They don’t play Canterbury and Tasman the 2 top teams.
Do Not Play: Canterbury, Tasman and Counties
Key Pick Up: Joe Ravouvou, down from Auckland and after a nice 7s year, part of this potent back 3 he could kill it.
Wild Card: Chase Tiatia, really inconsistent…but when he is on he is quality.
Break Out Year: Dan Hollinshead, couple of (Shitty) games with the chiefs and back in the BOP…should settle in nicely at 10 and steer those awesome backs around.
Possible Best XV:
15: Chase Tiatia
14: Emoni Narawa
13: Lalomilo Lalomilo
12: Who knows!
11: Joe Webber
10: Dans Hollinshead
9: Richard Judd
8: Hoani Matenga
7: Hugh Blake
6: Mitch Karpik
5: Alex Ainley
4: Baden Wardlaw
3: Jeff Thwaites
2: Kurt Eklnad
1: Chris Eves
Prediction: 3rd, after seeing their squad tonight, they have shot right up the rankings. Could be a sneaky upset to win the Championship. 5 Wins 5 Losses
My 100% Prices
$6.90
Hawkes Bay
Draw: 3rd best. Handy teams to not play.
Don’t Play: Canterbury, Auckland and North Harbour
Key Pick Up: Isaia Walker-Leawere, awesome Super Rugby Season.
Wild Card: Pouri Rakete-Stones. Could challenge Dixin to the starting hooker spot.
Break Out Year: Folau Fakatava, played well last year and has a heap of potential.
Possible Best XV
15: JJ Tualagi
14: Jonah Lowe
13: Stacey Ili
12: Pasqualle Dunn
11: Mason Emerson
10: Lincoln McClutchie
9: Folau Fakatava
8: Marino Mikaele Tu’u
7: Gareth Evans
6: Geoff Cridge
5: Michael Allardice
4: Isaia Walker-Leawere
3: Ben May
2: Ash Dixon
1: Mark Braidwood
Prediction: 6th. Solid squad,,but lack firepower. 3 Wins 7 Losses
My 100% Price
$26.00
Southland
Draw: 6th best draw.
Do Not Play: Tasman, Wellington and Waikato.
Key Pick Up: Marty McKenzie is back
Wild Card: Lausii Tailiauli, The former Brumbie could do anything down here.
Break Out Year: Josh Moorby, kid has some talent apparently.
Possible Best XV
15Josh Moorby
14: Isaac Te Tamaki
13: Seb Wileman
12: Ray Nu’u
11: Lausii Taliauli
10: Marty McKenzie
9: Logan Crowley
8: Bill Fukofuka
7: Phil Halder
6: Elliot Dixon
5: Mike McKee
4: Ray Tatafu
3: Morgan Mitchell
2: Brayden Mitchell
1: Joe Walsh
Prediction: Last, but will improve. 1 Win 9 Losses.
My 100% Price
$5001
BETS!
Before I saw the BOP Squads I had Taranaki a lot shorter, and backed them in from $2.75 to $2.25. But now they I have them $2.50.
1 Unit Taranaki $2.75
1 Unit Otago $4.5
2 Units BOP $7
Sucks, but I have the 3 faves all shorter than the market!
Good Luck.
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