Superbru preview
Fly-half Peter Grant kept the scoreboard quietly ticking over as the home side opened up a significant 11-point lead, before Jean de Villiers produced an astounding touch of class, bursting through the tackle of Luke Braid to crash over the line for the captain’s 22nd try in Super Rugby. At 24-3, the result was never in doubt, although Benson Stanley and Charlie Faumauina put the pressure with tries for the away side.
Looking ahead to this weekend, the DHL Stormers play away from home for the first time against the Lions up in Johannesburg, looking to keep their winning streak going to four games. The home side’s inconsistent form suggests this could be a fourth victory for the Cape outfit if Peter Grant keeps kicking his goals. I’m going for Stormers by 9 on SuperBru.
Elsewhere in South Africa, the Bulls take on a beleaguered Reds side who lost both Mike Harris and Ben Lucas to injury last weekend, meaning they will be forced to start either Will Genia or a debutant at 10. Whoever it is will be targeted mercilessly by the home pack. Bulls by 7.
There are three matches in Australia this weekend, starting with the winless Rebels against the one-win Force in Melbourne. The home side’s luck has got to change soon after a cruel loss to the Cheetahs last week, so this could be it. Rebels by 4.
Then it’s to Sydney where the Waratahs should get over last week’s narrow loss by defeating the touring Sharks in what will be a brutal encounter. Tahs by 3.
Finally, the Brumbies take on the top of the table Highlanders looking for their third win at home this season, but I suspect the opposition will be too strong. Highlanders by 5.
Over in New Zealand, the struggling Blues take on the Hurricanes in Auckland, where they should find it hard again with the Canes picking up their third win on the road. Canes by 6.
Last but not least, the Crusaders return with Dan Carter in tow to take on the Cheetahs , looking to get back to winning ways. Saders by 8.
That’s all for this week, let’s hope for more Stormers success and best of luck with all your SuperBru picks once more.