We had a few less upsets last week but things are far from settling down. Here are my predictions for round 3.
First here is a link to my round 2 review.
How did the predictions go last week?
5 out of 7, not bad and a big improvement on round 1 so I’m happy with that.
Highlanders v Reds
There was a buzz around the Highlanders but too many debutants last weekend led to an opening game defeat. The Reds managed to up their game and win against the Rebels with the addition of a couple of veteran forwards. I feel that this one will come down to who’s selected but I’m going with the Reds.
I have discounted the whole Hunt scandal as it seems to be happening all the time in Australian rugby. So they are used to having to play whilst all the surrounding distractions are on going.
Reds win
Force v Hurricanes
The Force were out muscled last weekend in wet conditions after a moral boosting opening win. This weeks challenge will be different as the Hurricanes arrive off the back of two wins in South Africa. It’s still early in the season so they shouldn’t be too knackered by the tour. The Hurricanes backs have been getting the coverage but it was the forwards that bossed the Bulls last weekend. So I think the Hurricanes all round game will be too much for the Force to live with.
Hurricanes win
Cheetahs v Blues
The Blues have had a torrid time and being on the road is not the best place to fix things. Cheetahs had an early break after a surprise round 1 win. Will the Cheetahs be able to back that up? They did lose a lot of talent but I’m going with the home side for this one.
Cheetahs win
Chiefs v Crusaders
The tie of the round, just posed this one to the #RugbyChat crowd. The consensus was that I’m right to go with the Chiefs, they are the form side and Crusaders will be with out Franks. I also think Carter needs much more game time.
Chiefs win
Rebels v Brumbies
Brummies are one of the form teams in Super Rugby and even though they lost last weekend they will want to ride this for as long as possible. The Rebels came back down to earth with a bang after their first ever victory outside Australia the week before. The Brumbies will just over run them with their attacking play.
Brumbies win
Bulls v Sharks
The Bulls have had poor start to the campaign and this has even triggered an open letter to the club. They were good enough to reply which amazed me but I think they have some serious issues around their game plan.
The Sharks had the shock loss to the Cheetahs and managed a win over the Lions. So no form for them either but I think their percentage game will be enough for a narrow win. I don’t expect this one to be high scoring.
Sharks win
Lions v Stormers
Lions are already showing signs that they will be bottom of the pile yet again. So it’s a question of where are their wins are going to come from? I don’ think they will open their account this week as the Stormers have been the most accomplished South African side so far.
Stormers win
