As expected the Kiwi teams conquered the new comp by finishing in the top five slots. What was a bit of a surprise is finding the Crusaders watching this final on tv rather than lacing up their boots and getting their jerseys dirty this time around. The other Aotearoa finalist, the Chiefs also fluffed their lines and instead it will be the Blues and Highlanders battling for the maiden Trans-Tasman title.
Blues vs Highlanders – Saturday 19 June @ 09:05, Auckland
The Blues didn’t always have it in fifth gear throughout the tournament but they did manage some impressive displays, like swotting the Rebels aside 50-3 in Melbourne and getting the job done clinically and ruthlessly with a 38-10 victory over the Brumbies. An away win over the Reds also gave them reason to claim top spot on the final table.
The Highlanders kept their noses clean in the Trans-Tasman and left their best showing for last as they steam-rolled the Brumbies in Canberra to pick up the crucial bonus-point victory and secure their spot in the title fight. The tale-of-the tape suggest to me that the Blues at their best will have little issue in getting the better of a more work-man-like Highlanders outfit but we all know the Aucklanders do ever so often suffer from a bout of stage-fright when they (or us punters) can least afford it.
It’s the cocky, flashy fighter with all the charisma taking on the ring veteran who doesn’t have the most glamorous of trunks or the hippest entrance tune but who’s modus operandi it is to grind down his opponent and take the victory on points. I would usually opt for the grinder in a title fight but I just can’t get myself to go against a Blues team who can put anyone on the canvas within the blink of an eye.
Betolimp Bets:
HT/FT Margin: Highlanders (1-8) / Blues (13+) @ 29.00
With Aaron Smith leading the charge the visitors will look to stay in the contest for as long as they can. But I won’t be surprised to see the match blow out a touch at the end when the team trailing realises they’ll have to settle for drowning their sorrows out of plastic cups rather than celebrating straight from the silverware.
Akira Ioane to score the first try and the Blues to win @ 23.00
I can’t miss out on backing one of my prolific backrowers in the final and I’ve settled on big Akira to get over the chalk first.
Mark Telea to score 2 or more tries @ 11.00
Telea has looked a different gravy for the Blues the last few weeks and I’m backing him to run the Highlanders ragged in the final.
Extra Currie Cup Double
Pumas +13.5 (vs Lions) onto Griquas +13.5 (vs Sharks) @ 1.78
Both the smaller unions will be delighted to be back in action in the opening week of the Currie Cup. The big four will have a few changes in their ranks so I’m expecting the minnows to give the big dogs a good run for their money this weekend.