Super 14 Week 9 Preview

A quick look at this weekend’s matches …

HIGHLANDERS v CHEETAHS

The Cheetahs, apart from a close game against the Chiefs, were hammered on their road trip last year so it will be interesting to see how they handle the trip to Invercargill. I think the prices are about right – no bet.

MP: High 1.47 Cheet 3.33 Draw 50
TAB: High 1.50 Cheet 2.50
BF: High 1.55 Cheet 2.90 Draw 29

FORCE v SHARKS

I had earmarked this as a game the Sharks could drop but thanks to last weekend’s loss, I’m not getting the price I want. I believe it won’t be a high-scoring affair (both defences seem solid) and am expecting a close battle.

MP: Forc 1.82 Shks 2.41 Draw 29
TAB: Forc 1.75 Shks 2.00
BF: Forc 1.85 Shks 2.16 Draw 27

HURRICANES v BULLS

Two of the more inconsistent sides play each other. Anyone who bets on this game needs a straitjacket.

MP: Cane 1.85 Bull 2.33 Draw 33
TAB: Cane 1.75 Bull 2.00
BF: Cane 1.84 Bull 2.06 Draw 26

CHIEFS v BLUES

Traditionally a “bogey” side for the Blues, you’d think the Blues are travelling too well (and the Chiefs too mediocre) for them to win with some comfort. Still, at the prices I think the Chiefs are worth a small wager.

MP: Chief 3.13 Blue 1.52 Draw 50
TAB: Chief 4.00 Blue 1.22
BF: Chief 3.85 Blue 1.35 Draw 30

WARATAHS v CRUSADERS

Next.

MP: Tahs 5.00 Saders 1.27 Draw 80
TAB: Tahs 6.00 Saders 1.11
BF: Tahs 6.00 Saders 1.17 Draw 40

LIONS v BRUMBIES

Last but not least the sugar daddy Lions take on last week’s surprise packet, the Mortlock-less Brumbies. Yet again I’ll find myself plonking some money on the pussies as the Bookmakers continue to think this is 2006, not 2007. They should be favourites at home – where they are 4 and 1 so far this year.

MP: Lion 1.60 Brum 2.86 Draw 40
TAB: Lion 2.00 Brum 1.75
BF: Lion 2.08 Brum 1.98 Draw 24