Super Rugby Round 1 Preview Part 2
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Super Rugby Round 1 Preview Part 2
Sunwolves vs Lions:
The Sunwolves are an unknown entity having been put together a few months ago in the expanded Super Rugby tournament. The Japanese team are coached by Mark Hammett and have a number of big names but a fair amount of unknown players too. The Lions however will be looking to kick it on this year after 2 seasons of building and positive rugby. Coach Acherman has kept the core of his side together for the last 2 seasons of Super Rugby and Currie Cup and will target a win.
Crusaders vs Chiefs:
Two heavy weights in NZ and Super Rugby both these sides will have an eye on winning the competition this year. The Crusaders have lost a number of big names this season but no position more noticeable than at fly half. With Carter, Slade & Taylor exiting that responsibility falls to debutant Mo'unga. Aaron Cruden makes a welcome return to rugby for the Chiefs and this game will be a typical hard fought and exciting NZ derby.
Waratahs vs Reds:
This, historically, is a huge derby in Australia and has been, over the last few seasons dominated by the Sydney based side. Nothing should be different this week as a Reds side try to rediscover their form from a few years back. The Waratahs on the other hand are tournament contenders this season and will look to unleash the likes of Guidford, Horne & Folau. Beale starts at fly half and will no doubt enjoy good clean ball.
Force vs Rebels:
A classic Australian clash with both sides capable of walking away with a win. The Force will be looking to put a shocking 2015 behind them and start competing this year. You feel that these 2 sides will be fighting for the wooden spoon in the Australian conference but that will not take the shine off this game which will be a good game with plenty of niggle and hopefully tries too.
Kings vs Sharks:
The Kings will be looking for a competitive start to their season after what has been an extremely disruptive start with financial problems at the union and planning issues. Many have picked them to be the whipping boys of the tournament and the Sharks will look to build on a good preseason and secure 5 points. The Kings will be competitive for the first period you feel but then may run out of steam. The Sharks have lost captain and Springbok fly half, Pat Lambie and Joe Pietersen will look to unleash his star backs.
Stormers vs Bulls:
An epic South African Derby that separates North & South in the country. The Cape Town franchise have enjoyed the upper hand in recent years but both sides are testing new sides under new coaches and this will be a brutal opening game to the campaign. All the focus will be in the midfield with both sides having experience at 12 and speed at 13. The difference in this game could come from the bench where the Stormers look better off.
