Round 10 of the Super Rugby competition sees the much anticipated game between the Hurricanes and Blues take place.
Hurricanes vs Blues, Friday, Westpac Stadium
Two of New Zealand’s top teams collide to start off this round of Super Rugby. The ‘Canes and the Blues are sitting equal on the ladder so a win for either team will be vital to moving up the ladder. Both teams would have had enough time to physically and mentally prepare themselves for the clash as both had a bye last week.
Newsroom’s prediction: Blues by 5
Rebels vs Force, Friday, AAMI Park
In a game that could be seen as a mismatch on paper, the Rebels host the Force at AAMI Park to close out Easter Friday’s rugby. The Rebels only have two wins to their name and are coming off a loss to the Chiefs. The Force, on the other hand, are 5-2, and will be running onto the field feeling pretty confident after downing the Waratahs last week.
Newsroom’s prediction: Force by 14
Chiefs vs Crusaders, Saturday, Waikato Stadium
The highest ranked New Zealand team from Waikato will host the Crusaders on Saturday after defeating the Rebels last week. The Crusaders, however, will look to continue their winning form after achieving an emphatic victory over the Cheetahs in round nine. The Chiefs sit comfortably with a 4-1 record while the Crusaders are hanging on with 4-3.
Newsroom’s prediction: Chiefs by 10
Waratahs vs Bulls, Saturday, Allianz Stadium
The Waratahs will be happy to have Israel Folau back on the side after missing him in previous weeks. The eighth-placed Bulls will have a tough challenge ahead of them, especially after coming up short against the Highlanders last week in a seven point loss. The Waratahs, who sit in fifth place on the ladder, could use the win to boost them up into the top three.
Newsroom’s prediction: Waratahs by 12
Sharks vs Cheetahs, Saturday, Kings Park
The first placed Sharks continued their dominance in the Super XV competition with a win last week in a decisive victory over the Lions in the round closer. The Cheetahs, who sit one rung up from the bottom of the ladder, will definitely have their work cut out for them with a disappointing record of 1-6.
Newsroom’s prediction: Sharks by 21
Stormers vs Lions, Saturday, Newlands Stadium
The closing game of round ten sees the Stormers take on the Lions in Cape Town, South Africa. The Stormers are sitting at the bottom of the ladder and will look to turn their luck around as they play the ninth-placed Lions. Both of these South African teams have yet to impress so far in the competition and a win here may change the doubters minds.
Newsroom’s prediction: Lions by 10 – Noah La’ulu
Top photo from Jonno Simpson’s Twitter page.
About the author
