Couch Critic previews the betting and provides a tip for each match in Round 12 of Super Rugby, brought to you courtesy of BetOlimp.co.za
The Jaguares saved our weekend last time out as they were able to beat the cap call by one point! This was much needed after the both the Hurricanes and Highlanders disposed of their opponents with much more ease than expected by this punter whilst the Bulls also failed to capitalise on the opportunities which came their way. Let’s look at where we can try and make some money in Week12 of Super Rugby…
Crusaders vs Sharks(Friday @ 09:35)
The Sharks come off a vital away win over the Waratahs but meet the best team in the competition by a country mile. The Saders have once again gone the route of resting some of their stars – this time around Mo’unga, Crotty and Sam Whitelock sit out. Still, Codie Taylor, Scott Barrett and Read offer the grit upfront and the backline oozes with talent and x-factor with names like Sevu Reece, Braydon Ennor and Will Jordan all catching the attention this season.
Verdict: Richie makes a huge difference to this Crusaders side but you won’t ever get rich opposing the men in red in Christchurch. At 20-odd points the handicap is well set and I will only look for a more speculative interest.
Despite mostly playing off the bench Will Jordan has racked up an impressive try tally and I will back him to keep the good times rolling. Akker came back into the fray last week and still finds himself on the bench. He should be a lively runner to be the last tryscorer at a nice price.
BETOLIMP Special Bet: To score two or more tries – W Jordan @ 6.80
BETOLIMP Special Bet: Last Tryscorer – A vd Merwe @ 35.00
Reds vs Sunwolves(Friday @ 11:45)
The Reds have proven a tough nut to crack and come off a few good showings against South African opposition. They will look to get some winning momentum going back at home after enjoying a bye. The Sunwolves gave the Canes one heck of a battle a fortnight ago but came horribly unstuck against the Highlanders. They have made a few changes to their team but it’s tough seeing them overturn such a big disappointment in such a short space of time.
Verdict: I see the Reds winning this one but having to work quite hard for it. I also can’t look past SamuKerevi keeping his impressive tryscoring form going here.
BETOLIMP Special Bet: Reds to win the game by 1-12 points @ 3.00
BETOLIMP Special Bet: Anytime tryscorer – S Kerevi @ 2.60
Hurricanes vs Rebels (Saturday @ 07:15)
The Rebels have hit a speed wobble whilst the Canes look to have gone to a higher gear. No Perenara but the Barrett’s and Ardie are all running out for the hosts. The Rebels should put up a desperate fight but things could just get out of hand later in the game if a few passes stick for the home side.
Verdict: I will go with a more speculative play on the Hurricanes edging a close first half but pulling away later on. This is a new market I haven’t often used before so let’s dip our toes in…
BETOLIMP Special Bet: HT/FT Winning Margin – Hurricanes1-8/Hurricanes 13+ @ 8.50
Highlanders vs Chiefs (Saturday @ 09:35)
The Chiefs looked to be recovering from a poor start but since losing D Mac and Brodie things have taken a turn south again. Talking about south… The Highlanders meanwhile could be a team on the up after dismantling the Sunwolves in Tokyo. The hosts have both Smiths reporting for duty for this one.
Verdict: The Highlanders haven’t always started well but I see them coming out of the sheds with a bang off the back of a confidence building bashing of the Sunwolves last week. Another regular tryscorer, Frizell finds himself on the bench – look out for a late try from the big ball carrier.
Best Bet:Highlanders to beat the first half handicap of -5.5 @ 1.80 with BETOLIMP (Bronze bet)
BETOLIMP Special Bet: Last tryscorer – Shannon Frizell @ 14.70
Brumbies vs Blues (Saturday @ 11:45)
With the recent struggles of the Rebels the Brumbies are right back in the mix in terms of challenging for the conference. Despite a narrow loss to the Jags it has been an impressive few weeks for the men from Canberra. The Blues are a side they will fancy beating at home but how much of an effect will all the travel have on the home side?
Verdict: I’ve had a tough time calling this Blues team right. With Pulu, Parsons and Tuipulotu on the bench and the Brumbies coming off a lot of traveling the visitors should be the ones finishing this game the stronger of the two.
Best Bet: HF/FT – Brumbies/Blues @ 6.13 with BETOLIMP (Bronze)
BETOLIMP Special Bet: HT/FT Winning Margin – Brumbies 1-8/Blues 1-12 @ 12.25
Bulls vs Waratahs (Saturday @ 15:05)
Super Rugby has been topsy-turvy as a rule but few have had as impressive highs and as pathetic lows as the Tahs. Losing at home to the Sunwolves and Sharks they threw in an astonishing victory over the invincible Crusaders. The Bulls themselves have mixed in some impressive performances (ex/ Stormers in round 1) with a few lacklustre showings (losing to Jags and Chiefs at Loftus).
Verdict: The Bulls know that they can’t afford another home loss and with the Crusaders to follow this clash they will need to cash in on the full five points against a poorly coached Waratah outfit. This one should result in a comfortable home victory for the hosts.
Best Bet: Bulls to beat the alternative handicap of -13.5 @ 2.65 with BETOLIMP (Silver Medal level)
Jaguares vs Stormers (Saturday @ 21:40)
Verdict: It is always a tough assignment for any team going to Argentina in search of a win. The Jaguares have emerged as real conference contenders as the South African teams have been tripping over themselves. Against a Stormers team sans Kolisi, Pieter-Steph and Malherbe they should keep their solid recent showings going.
Best Bet: Jags to lead at HT and FT – Jaguares/Jaguares @ 1.84 with BETOLIMP (Silver Medal).
Note, odds quoted are available at the time of writing but are subject to change
Couch Critic
