Finally we arrive at the pointy end of the season with only 6 teams left. We lose another 2 this weekend and here are my predictions.
First here is a link to my review of the round 18 action.
How did your round 18 predictions go?
3 from 7, a total disaster that was not helped by random resting of players.
Highlanders v Chiefs
These teams know each other very well by now, not only do they meet each other at All Black training camps but there have already played two games. The Highlanders came out on top on both of those occasions. They don’t have the same experience of playoff rugby but they do have nearly all their key players available. The opposite can be said for the Chiefs who have the experience just a bunch of it is lost to the physios table. So I’m backing the Highlanders to make it 3 out of 3 and progress to the semi finals.
Highlanders by 10
Stormers v Brumbies
These sides won’t know each other quite so well but they have already met in Newlands this season. That time the Stormers won narrowly by just one point. I think the key is going to be field position and making sure the Brumbies don’t get many line outs in the 22. If the Brumbies do then their dangerous roll maul will cause the South Africans serious problems. The Brumbies haven’t travelled so well this season though and so that, along with the Stormers ability to do just enough, means I’m going for a narrow home win.
Stormers by 2
The Rugby Championship
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