2023 Super Rugby Round 2 Preview

All 12 Super Rugby teams will converge on Melbourne this weekend for the third edition of the competition’s “Super Round” with six games of rugby at AAMI Park over three days.

It might be the final time this event will be held in the Victorian capitol but with three trans-Tasman clashes on the cards, there is plenty to look forward to.

Round 2 is headlined by the big clash between the Chiefs and Brumbies on Sunday afternoon while the Hurricanes and Reds match straight after should have plenty of points.

Read on for our game previews and best bets for this weekend’s Super Rugby matches below.

HighlandersvsBlues
Friday 1 March, 6:00pm, AAMI Park
Highlanders 29 – Blues 37

Despite both of these teams starting their seasons with bonus point wins, the Blues will be feeling much better about their win over the Drua than the Highlanders win over Moana Pasifika.

The Auckland based side flew out of the gates and took a 29-3 lead over last season’s quarter finalists before taking their foot off the accelerator after halftime.

Meanwhile the Highlanders found themselves trailing at halftime and tied at the hour mark before two late tries helped them to a season opening victory.

Perhaps Moana Pasifika will be much better this season than the last two, but getting pushed like that is not a good sign for the Highlanders hopes of an improved 2024.

These two sides have been trending in different directions since 2020 with the Blues owning this head to head rivalry, winning nine of the last ten games including a rotated side ending the Highlanders season 16-9 in Round 15 last season.

As it stands, there is a pretty big gulf in class between these teams and the Blues should run away with it.

Blues to Cover -12.5 @ $1.88

RebelsvsForce
Friday 1 March, 8:10pm, AAMI Park
Rebels 48 – Force 34

The lingering cloud over the Rebels long term future really hampered their performance in Round 1, with a poor showing in their 27-point loss to the Brumbies.

Whatever the eventual outcome of the process is, you have to think the players are going to be somewhat distracted until they have some sort of answer.

Admittedly the Force were not much better in their first-up defeat at home to the Hurricanes, but if one side is going to have the capacity to bounce back, it’s the nominal visitors here.

It seems to be awfully optimistic to have the Rebels as favourites in this market and the value is definitely on the Force.

Western Force to Win @ $2.75

Moana PasifikavsDrua
Saturday 2 March, 5:05pm, AAMI Park
Moana Pasifika 39 – Drua 36

Despite both of these sides going into the season with vastly different expectations, they were forced to pick up the pieces following Round 1 defeats.

Perhaps it comes down in part to a difference in the level of opponent, but Moana Pasifika will be feeling much better about their efforts than the Drua, however the Fijians have much more room for improvement.

In their brief time in Super Rugby, the Drua have won all three head to head games but they were pushed all the way last season with the two games ending 36-34 and 47-46.

With both teams looking to play open, expansive rugby and the new rule changes facilitating more scoring, the over looks like a must back and I’ll pair it with a Drua win for some extra value.

SGM: Drua to Win & Over 60.5 Points @ $2.48

CrusadersvsWaratahs
Saturday 2 March, 7:35pm, AAMI Park
Crusaders 24 – Waratahs 37

In all fairness to the Waratahs, they were not too bad navigating tough conditions in Brisbane last week, but there was nothing in that performance that should have you thinking they can keep it close against the Crusaders here.

The reigning champions were five minutes away from an impressive upset over the Chiefs and should be better for their first competitive hitout.

Not to mention if the Waratahs struggle with their discipline they way they did against the Reds, it could set up for a very long night in Melbourne.

The Crusaders have put up at least 42 points in three of their last four games against the Tahs and should be able to cruise to a comfortable win here.

Crusaders to Cover -20.5 @ $1.92

ChiefsvsBrumbies
Sunday 3 March, 2:00pm, AAMI Park
Chiefs 46 – Brumbies 12

After thumping the Rebels at AAMI Park last weekend, the Brumbies head back to the venue faced with a much tougher assignment in Round 2.

Up next is the team that beat them twice last season, including 19-6 in the Semi Final in Waikato and 31-21 in Canberra in late May.

This is one game I am expecting to be very competitive and tightly contested as two of the better Super Rugby sides face off.

While the Brumbies will carry plenty of momentum into this game, I can’t ignore the way the Chiefs ran down the Crusaders and closed out their first up game.

It might come down to the final phase of play, but I’m going to side with the Chiefs.

Chiefs to Win by 1-12 @ $2.63

HurricanesvsReds
Sunday 3 March, 4:30pm, AAMI Park
Hurricanes 38 – Reds 33 (OT)

After overcoming a potential banana skin first up in Perth, the Hurricanes continue their Australian tour with by “hosting” the new look Reds in the final game of the weekend.

Queensland looked like a refreshed and revitalised team under Les Kiss although there were plenty of moments that showed they are still a work in progress.

While the Waratahs were unable to capitalise on those errors and the Reds came away with an 18-point win, the Hurricanes are better set up to punish mistakes and miscues.

However this Reds team is going to go on the attack and they have the firepower to score points, which means they are every chance of covering the +9.5 line.

Instead of trying to pick a side with the handicap, the total points number of 58.5 looks way too low for two teams who can score for fun.

Over 58.5 Points @ $1.88


2023

The entire Super Rugby Pacific competition descends on AAMI Park in Melbourne for Round 2 for the second edition of “Super Round”.

For a team like the Crusaders, Round 2 provides an opportunity to rebound from a shocking first up defeat when they take on the Highlanders.

Opening weekend standouts the Blues and Hurricanes will be out to prove that their respective big wins are a sign of things to come this season.

Six games, three days, one venue, we’ve got you covered with our previews for every Super Round game below!

CrusadersvsHighlanders
Friday 3 March, 6:00pm, AAMI Park
Crusaders 52 – Highlanders 15

Through 21 minutes, things were looking pretty good for the Crusaders as they lead the Chiefs 10-0 at home but it was all downhill over the final hour.

It’s not very often you will see the Crusaders give up 31 unanswered points, but they did just that as they went down by three converted tries.

On the plus side, there are few opponents that would offer a better bounce back opportunity than a Highlanders side that just gave up 60 points in Dunedin last week.

In the past the Crusaders have had their struggles with the boys from the south, but this is not a team that plays two bad games in a row.

Even with a line of two converted tries, the Crusaders should bounce back and cover this one, possibly by half time.

Crusaders to Cover -14.5 @ $1.83

RebelsvsHurricanes
Friday 3 March, 8:10pm, AAMI Park
Rebels 33 – Hurricanes 39

It’s a simple rule when an Australian team takes on an opponent from across the Tasman, back the New Zealanders to get the job done.

The Rebels looked alright out in Perth last week, only going down by seven in the last ten minutes, but the Hurricanes just looked so impressive against the Reds in Townsville.

While they did take a while to get going, once the Wellington based side did hit the accelerator, the Reds had no answer.

It should be a similar story here as the Rebels just don’t look like they will be able to match up.

Hurricanes to Cover -15.5 @ $1.91

Moana PasifikavsChiefs
Saturday 4 March, 5:05pm, AAMI Park
Moana Pasifika 29 – Chiefs 52

The Chiefs might have been surprise winners in Round 1, but there is no arguing with their heavy favouritism over Moana Pasifika in Saturday’s first game.

In both meetings last year, the Chiefs recorded resounding wins by 47 and 33 points and anything less than a repeat effort here would be a surprise.

Moana Pasifika showcased an ability to score points against the Drua but it’s tough to see them having that same level of success against a much better organised opponent here.

Don’t overcomplicate this one, just keep it simple.

Chiefs to Cover -21.5 @ $1.91

DruavsWaratahs
Saturday 4 March, 7:35pm, AAMI Park
Drua 17 – Waratahs 46

It’s not very often you will see a first up winner as a clear underdog against a team that fell short in Round 1, but that is exactly the case with the Drua and Waratahs.

Admittedly when you dig a bit deeper and realise that the Drua beat Moana Pasifika and the Tahs went down to the Brumbies, it does provide a bit more context.

Last season the Sydneysiders won both games by a combined margin of 54 points and they look like a much improved side on last season, in spite of losing Angus Bell through a foot injury.

They were far from perfect and have plenty to work on in the lead up to this next game but should be able to take care of business against the Fijians.

The line looks a few points too low and I’ll happily back the Waratahs to get the job done.

Waratahs to Cover -7.5 @ $1.91

BluesvsBrumbies
Sunday 5 March, 2:00pm, AAMI Park
Blues 20 – Brumbies 25

Day Three of the Super Round kicks off with a proper battle between the Blues and Brumbies.

In Round 1, the Brumbies went against their stereotype and utilised their backline to great effect in their 31-25 win in Sydney.

Ryan Lonergan was heavily involved early on before being replaced by the team’s heavy hitters including Nic White and Noah Lolesio.

They will need to be firing on all cylinders once again with the Blues flying out of the gate in their 40 point victory.

Their eight tries came from five different players and it will be a big ask of the Brumbies defence to keep them in check for this game.

However with their attacking approach to the game, the Brumbies could find a way to keep pace, even if they fall short.

A double digit line looks like it might just be a bit high and it’s enough encouragement to back the Brumbies to find a way to stay competitive.

Brumbies to Cover +1.5 @ $1.91

ForcevsReds
Sunday 5 March, 4:30pm, AAMI Park
Force 20 – Reds 71

If this game was getting played in Perth and the market was priced the same, you would be very tempted to jump on the Force as underdogs based on their respective Round 1 showings.

Ill-discipline and injuries consigned the Reds to a big defeat in Townsville and with a mounting absentee list, they could be in for a long season.

The Force are still lacking talent in certain areas, however there is no questioning their commitment and ability to turn every game into a scrap to give themselves a chance.

Outright the Force do look like decent value, even though they are playing away from the west coast and we’ll give ourselves a margin for error by taking them at the line.

Force to Cover +6.5 @ $1.83


2022

It’s time for the second act of the 2022 Super Rugby Pacific campaign (for most teams) after an entertaining start to the season.

However we’ll have to wait another week to see the new Moana Pasifika side after their second game was postponed as well.

On the plus side, we’ve got five fascinating battles coming up, and we’ve got our previews and best bets for every Super Rugby Pacific game this weekend.

HighlandersvsCrusaders
Friday 25 February, 5:05pm, Forsyth Barr Stadium
Highlanders 19 – Crusaders 34

By their atypically high standards, the Crusaders got off to a slow start last week, only defeating the Hurricanes by 10 points and only really taking control of the game in the second half.

When they hit their stride, no team is able to match them and while they are not going to put together a complete 80 minute effort for a month or two just yet, they should find a way to take care of business against the Highlanders.

While the nominal home side found a way to cover the line against the Chiefs last week, it came mostly from them being allowed back into the game rather than anything specifically done by them.

The Crusaders might allow a consolation try or two in the final 20 minutes but they should have things well in control by that point.

Back the Crusaders to Cover -10.5 @ $1.80

WaratahsvsReds
Friday 25 February, 7:45pm, Leichhardt Oval

Friday’s clash in Australia is technically a top of the table contest at the time of writing, with the Reds and Waratahs on top after 80 minutes of the season.

While neither side’s opening round victory was a surprise, there was a lot to like about the Tahs performance even against a side playing in its first ever game.

Last season Queensland crushed their long standing rival in both meetings by a combined score of 87-21 but this is a different looking Waratahs team.

The line is already dropping from the 7.5 it was earlier in the week and it would not be a surprise to see the odds move to a much more even proposition.

At that point I would consider taking the Reds but at this current number I’ll settle on the home side.

Back the Waratahs to Cover +5.5 @ $1.90             

BrumbiesvsDrua
Saturday 26 February, 2:35pm, GIO Stadium

Historically, $1.01 favouritism was reserved for the Crusaders against whichever Australian or South African Super Rugby team was bringing up the bottom of the ladder.

Based on their respective Round 1 returns it is more than fair to have this market weighted so heavily towards the Brumbies at home.

The Fijians are going to be much better than their 30 point loss to the Waratahs later in the season but early on, as their combinations are still being formed, I have to continue to take them on, whatever the line is.

It is not an apples to apples comparison but if you expect the Brumbies to be better than the Waratahs this year, a four converted try handicap should be something they are able to overcome.

Back the Brumbies to Cover -27.5 @ $1.90

BluesvsHurricanes
Saturday 26 February, 5:05pm, Forsyth Barr Stadium

The Blues will make their 2022 debut when they take on the Hurricanes in Dunedin and they will be eager to make a strong first impression.

Our market is expecting them to move past the early rust and take care of business against first up losers the Hurricanes.

This could follow a similar pattern to the Hurricanes first match as the Blues control the contest, but some first game rust prevents them from putting their rivals away.

The 8.5 point line looks about right to me and the Hurricanes sneaking in a late score or two for a backdoor cover has me hesitant to take either side.

Instead I’ll land on the Blues doing enough to get the win to start their season on a high note.

Back the Blues by 1-12 @ $2.90

RebelsvsForce
Saturday 26 February, 7:45pm, AAMI Park

It is tough to avoid overreacting to the performances from Round 1 for both of these teams, but there was plenty to analyse from both of them.

The Rebels looked well off the pace in Queensland, only putting up five points against a Reds side that was well below its best.

Meanwhile the Force gave it their all in Canberra and were denied the win by a last-minute Brumbies try in the game of the round.

The perception of both of these teams could be given a complete 180 based on how this game unfolds but based on the efforts of these teams so far, the price for the Force looks well over the odds.

Back the Force @ $1.95

ChiefsvsMoana Pasifika
Sunday 27 February, 12:35pm, Wakatipu Rugby Club
POSTPONED

2021

Super Rugby Australia returns to our screens for its second act of 2021 while the New Zealand teams make their debut as their season commences.

It’s a pair of double headers to get us through the weekend with the Highlanders and Crusaders getting things underway before the Reds host the Rebels.

Saturday sees the Hurricanes host the Blues for the first act before the Brumbies take on the Waratahs on the other side of the Tasman.

We are previewing every Super Rugby match right here so read on to see who we are backing.

SUPER RUGBY AU ROUND 2

RedsvsRebels
Friday 26 February, 7:50pm, Suncorp Stadium
Reds 23 – Rebels 21

If you take out the first five minutes of their game, the Reds were perfect in their demolition of the Waratahs last Friday night.

Up next is a clash with the Melbourne Rebels who they comfortably accounted for in their last two meetings in 2020.

This will be the first time we see the Rebels this year and while their squad is certainly good enough for a top three finish in Super Rugby AU once again, it’s hard to see them having the cohesion to hit the ground running.

I’ll back the continuity of the Reds to see them home here.

Back the Reds to Cover -11.5 @ $1.91

BrumbiesvsWaratahs
Saturday 27 February, 7:50pm, GIO Stadium
Brumbies 61 – Waratahs 10

Any hope the Waratahs had of this being a better than expected season evaporated into the humid air of Suncorp Stadium around 7:15pm local time last Friday night.

Their rough landing in 2021 continues as they now travel to Canberra to face the defending champion Brumbies.

Skipper Jake Gordon, who was one of the few players to provide a real attacking spark in his time on the pitch, is out for up to eight weeks after suffering an ankle injury.

The Brumbies on the other hand were clinical in their opening round victory over the Force and as long as they can keep 15 men on the pitch they will have no trouble coming away with a win here.

Back the Brumbies to Cover -16.5 @ $1.91

SUPER RUGBY AOTEAROA ROUND 1

HighlandersvsCrusaders
Friday 26 February, 5:00pm, Forsyth Barr Stadium
Highlanders 13 – Crusaders 26

There are no certainties in world sport but the Crusaders in Super Rugby are about as close to one as you can find.

They won the inaugural edition of Super Rugby Aotearoa in a canter and open up their 2021 campaign against the Highlanders.

History points to one outcome here and it is not a pretty picture for the Highlanders.

The Crusaders have won the last six meetings between these teams by an average of 20.5 points with the smallest margin of victory being 10 points.

With the line as less than a converted try, I’ll happily back the Crusaders to cover.

Back the Crusaders to Cover -6.5 @ $2.00

HurricanesvsBlues
Saturday 27 February, 5:00pm, Sky Stadium
Hurricanes 16 – Blues 31

The Blues were the story of the 2020 Super Rugby competition, shaking off years of mediocrity to finish as runners up to the Crusaders.

The Hurricanes on the other hand finished a close run third and this should be an excellent way to start the Saturday double header.

Last season the Blues won two of the three matches between the teams and I’ll back them to start their season off on a winning note.

Back the Blues to Win @ $1.91


2020

There were a couple of upsets in the opening round of the Super Rugby season and look as though we are in for a very interesting season.

The highlight this weekend is a potential Super Rugby Grand Final Preview between the Chiefs and the Crusaders, but every single game is interesting from a betting perspective.

We have analysed all seven fixtures and our complete 2020 Super Rugby Round 2 tips can be found below.

HighlandersvsSharks
Friday 7 February, 5:05pm, Forsyth Barr Stadium
Highlanders 20 – Sharks 42

This is one of the most interesting matches of the weekend from a betting perspective.

The Highlanders will start their campaign, after having the bye in the opening round of the season, and they will start this clash with the Sharks as clear favourites.

Consistency was an issue for the Highlanders last season and they won four of their six games as home favourites, but their record against the line in this scenario was very poor. 

The Sharks showed toughness to get the job done against the Bulls in the opening week of the season and the Highlanders will hold no fears for them. 

They have won three of their past four games against the Highlanders and got the job done the last time that they played at Forsyth Barr Stadium. 

There is not as much between these two sides as the current market suggests and the Sharks are a great bet to cover the line.

Back Sharks To Cover The Line (+5.5 Points) @ $1.90

BrumbiesvsRebels
Friday 7 February, 7:15pm, GIO Stadium
Brumbies 39 – Rebels 26

The Rebels continue to be one of the most frustrating sides in all of Super Rugby. 

They were one of the shortest-priced favourites to win in the opening round of the Super Rugby season, but they failed to get the job done against the Sunwolves. 

There is some reason for optimism for Rebels’ fans though. 

The Rebels have won their past four games against the Brumbies and have proven to be a bogey side for their rivals throughout their history.

In saying that, the Brumbies are always tough to beat in front of their home fans and they have won nine of their past ten matches at GIO Stadium.

It really is tough to have any faith in the Rebels on the back of their round one shocker and the Brumbies should prove too classy for their rivals.

Back Brumbies To Cover The Line (-6.5 Points) @ $1.90

ChiefsvsCrusaders
Saturday 8 February, 5:05pm, FMG Stadium
Chiefs 25 – Crusaders 15

This is easily the game of the weekend and we should be in for an outstanding contest at FMG Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The Crusaders started their season the way that they left off, with a comfortable win over the Waratahs, and it is no surprise that they will start this clash as favourites.

FMG Stadium is always a tough venue for away sides, even the Crusaders, and the home side has won four of the past five games played between these two sides.

The Crusaders won four of their seven matches as away favourites last season and they were a poor 2-5 against the line in this scenario.

It was a slow start for the Chiefs, but they eventually got the job done against the Blues and they do have one of the most talented rosters in the entire competition.

They proved to be a profitable betting play as home underdogs last season, going 2-1 against the line in this situation.

The Chiefs can give the Crusaders a genuine scare and I like them with the start against the line.

Back Chiefs To Cover The Line (+3.5 Points) @ $1.90

WaratahsvsBlues
Saturday 8 February, 7:15pm, McDonald Jones Stadium
Waratahs 12 – Blues 32

Despite having the home ground advantage, the Waratahs will go into Saturday’s clash with the Blues as underdogs.

The Blues showed some promising signs against the Chiefs in round one, but the market does look to have overreacted to that result and they are well and truly under the odds at $1.62.

They failed to win a game away from home last season and they continue to be a very tough team to trust from a betting perspective. 

The Waratahs were not disgraced in their season opener against the Crusaders and they are a team that does have some serious talent.

They were able to cover the line in both of their games as home underdogs last season and I really am surprised that they will start this clear as clear outsiders.

Back Waratahs To Win @ $2.20

LionsvsReds
Sunday 9 February, 12:05am, Emirates Airlines Park
Lions 27 – Reds 20

The Reds have had a fairly brutal draw to start the season.

After an opening round visit to Canberra for a clash with the Brumbies, they must now travel to South Africa to take on the Lions.

The Reds showed plenty of promising signs in their season opener, but their composure let them down at key moments and they are a franchise that have simply forgotten how to win.

They have won only two of their past nine matches as away underdogs, but they are an excellent 6-3 against the line in this scenario.

It is tough to know what to make of the Lions.

They started strongly against the Jaguares, but they ran out of legs late and there are some serious question marks surrounding their overall quality this season.

The Lions have won five of their past seven games as home favourites, but they are a losing 3-4 against the line in this situation.

It would not surprise to see the Reds give the Lions a scare and they are a great bet to cover the line with a healthy start.

Reds To Cover The Line (+6.5 Points) @ $1.90

StormersvsBulls
Sunday 9 February, 2:15am, DHL Newlands
Stormers 13 – Bulls 0

The Stormers may have been the most impressive side in the opening round of the Super Rugby season.

They completely dismantled the Hurricanes and if they maintain that form, they will be serious contenders this season.

Home ground advantage is always key in the rivalry between the Stormers and the Bulls, the home side has won eight of the past nine matches between the two sides, and it is no surprise that they will start this clash as clear favourites.

The Bulls were not disgraced against the Sharks in their season opener and this is another tough assignment.

Winning away from home has not been an issue for the Bulls in recent seasons and their record against the line is particularly good on the road.

They have covered the line in seven of their past nine matches as away underdogs and they generally do keep it close against the Stormers.

There isn’t as much between these two sides as the current betting market suggests and the line of 10.5 points is excessive.

Bulls To Cover The Line (+10.5 Points) @ $1.90

JaguaresvsHurricanes
Sunday 9 February, 8:40am, Estadio Jose Amalftiani
Jaguares 23 – Hurricanes 26

It doesn’t get any easier for the Hurricanes.

After running into a rampaging Stormers in the season opener, the Hurricanes now face a Jaguares outfit that are very tough to beat in front of their home fans.

The Hurricanes have now lost their past three games as away underdogs and their record against the line in this scenario really isn’t that much better.

The Jaguares class prevailed when they beat the Lions last weekend and they once again look as though they will be a leading contender.

They have now won their past eight matches as home favourites for a clear profit and they are an excellent 7-1 against the line in this situation.

The Jaguares can continue their winning ways and should be able to cover the line comfortably.

Jaguares To Cover The Line (-5.5 Points) @ $1.90


2019

Round 2 of the 2019 Super Rugby Season kicks off with the Reds getting to play their first game of the year after their Round 1 bye.

Everyone else in the competition will be very eager to prove their first game was the start of a good pattern if they won or an anomaly if things didn’t go their way.

In South Africa, the Bulls and Sharks had the best possible start to the season racking up wins by 37 and 35 points respectively and they can continue to set the pace with two very winnable games this weekend.

Read on for our previews and predictions for every Super Rugby game this weekend.

HighlandersvsReds
Friday 22 February, 5:35pm, Forsyth Barr Stadium
Highlanders 36 – Reds 31

The final team to kick off their season, the Queensland Reds get a very rough landing in Otago against the Highlanders.

After beating the Chiefs in a back and forth encounter, the Highlanders have a great chance to pick up a bonus point when they face a Reds side they have beaten the last two times they faced off.

Last year they needed a late penalty at Suncorp Stadium but in 2017 it was a very one sided affair, with the Highlanders crushing them 40-17.

That big win for the Highlanders was more of an anomaly however with a history of close encounters between these sides, in the last ten years, the 2017 game was the only one decided by more than seven points.

While I have no doubt the Highlanders will win this game, the Reds are an improved side from a year ago and should be able to keep things close.

If it moves down towards 14 points then it might be worth switching over to the home side but at 18.5, take the Reds to cover.

Back the Reds to Cover +18.5 @ $1.91

SunwolvesvsWaratahs
Saturday 23 February, 3:15pm, Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium
Sunwolves 30 – Waratahs 31

Neither side will feel great about how they lost last week, one in heartbreaking fashion and the other on the wrong end of a massive scoreline.

It was all set up for the Waratahs to pull off a massive upset over the Hurricanes however Bernard Foley’s late penalty miss cost them the game and the Sunwolves were simply outclassed by a better Sharks outfit.

Even though both sides began their seasons with disappointing losses there is a clear gap in class between the two sides.

All three meetings between these sides have seen convincing Waratahs wins with their smallest winning margin being 21 points and managing to score 50 or more in each game.

Even with the Waratahs still settling into the season, they should be able to win and cover in this one.

Back the Waratahs to Cover -19.5 @ $1.91

CrusadersvsHurricanes
Saturday 23 February, 5:35pm, AMI Stadium
Crusaders 38 – Hurricanes 22

Perhaps the biggest clash of the weekend, the Crusaders and Hurricanes have the chance to back up their opening round wins.

Both sides cut it close with the Crusaders topping a gallant Blues outfit and the Hurricanes needed a bit of good fortune to get by the Waratahs.

These sides faced off three times last season with the Hurricanes winning the early season clash in Wellington 29-19 before the Crusaders won 24-13 in Christchurch in Round 15 before taking out the Semi Final 30-12.

On paper the Crusaders are a better side but the Hurricanes have the ability to run this game close so take the Crusaders 1-12 point win market.

Back the Crusaders by 1-12

BrumbiesvsChiefs
Saturday 23 February, 7:45pm, GIO Stadium
Brumbies 54– Chiefs 17

After going down to the Rebels in Canberra last week, the Brumbies have a chance to bounce back against a Chiefs side they have lost their last three against, so maybe not a good chance to bounce back then.

In 2016 the Chiefs won in Canberra 49-23 before picking up 28-10 and 24-19 wins in Hamilton in the last two seasons.

The Chiefs are coming off a first up loss of their own last week going down in a tight one to the Highlanders and in the ever-tight New Zealand Conference, every point counts.

While a bonus point win is probably not on the cards here, the Chiefs should be able to get over the line, even if it’s by a single digit margin.

Back the Chiefs by 1-12

SharksvsBlues
Sunday 24 February, 12:05am, Kings Park
Sharks 26 – Blues 7

Two of the more impressive performances of Round 1 came from these sides with the Blues running the Crusaders closer than anybody expected them to while the Sharks convincingly beat the Sunwolves… as expected.

With both sides taking long flights to get to Durban, the advantage should lie with the Sharks who have the home ground advantage here where they have won six of their last eight, covering the line four times.

Add in a fantastic head to head record over the Blues and it is quite surprising to see the Sharks installed as a home underdog for this game (at the time of writing).

Take the early value on offer and back the Sharks to pick up the win at home.

Back the Sharks to Win @ $2.30

StormersvsLions
Sunday 24 February, 2:15am, Newlands
Stormers 19 – Lions 17

The Stormers campaign got off to the worst possible start, getting thumped by the Bulls and only managing a meagre three points in the entire match.

Since a 19-19 tie in 2015, this clash has been dominated by the Lions with four straight victories including a 52-31 win at home last April.

As a home favourite the Lions have been a good play winning all four times and covering on three of those occasions.

With the side set up to score plenty of points and a clear gulf in class, the Lions should not only win and cover the 8.5 line, but win by a comfortable two try margin (or more).

Back the Lions by 13+

JaguaresvsBulls
Sunday 24 February, 8:40am, Estadio Jose Amalftiani
Jaguares 27 – Bulls 12

Round 1’s surprise packets, the Bulls, get their tough road trip to Argentina out of the way with a game that the early line has marked as a pick.

Argentina’s Super Rugby representative has lost four in a row dating back to last season but has beaten the Bulls both times they have played at their home including a comfortable 54-24 win last season.

The Bulls did win last July when they met in South Africa but the Jaguares at home is a pretty good play despite their last up loss.

As impressive as the Bulls were in Round 1, you can’t back them based solely on that performance as the poor play of the Stormers certainly contributed to that loss.

For the time being it’s worth sticking with the strategy of backing the Jaguares at home and even if the line does move towards them in the week, it won’t be so drastic you will be scared off taking them here.

Back the Jaguares to Win @ $1.91


2018

The Super Rugby season officially began last weekend, but the New Zealand and Australian based sides will play their first game in round 2.

It really can’t get any worse for the Australian franchises in Super Rugby this season and at least one side will start the season with a win, while the Brumbies are clear favourites to account for the Sunwolves.

We have analysed all seven games set to take place this weekend and our complete 2018 Super Rugby Round two tips can be found below.

HighlandersvsBlues
Friday 23 February, 5:35pm, Forsyth Barr Stadium
Highlanders 41 – Blues 34

The Highlanders and the Blues finished on the bottom of the New Zealand Conference last season, but the Highlanders were still able to qualify for the Super Rugby Finals.

It is the Highlanders that will go into this clash as favourites and they were slightly inconsistent in this position last season.

They were able to win six of their eight games as home favourites, but they were 3-5 against the line in this scenario and they generally under-performed market expectations.

The Blues struggled for consistency throughout the 2018 Super Rugby season and they have not qualified for the Super Rugby semi-finals since 2011.

The Blues lost all three of their games as away underdogs last season and their record against the line wasn’t much better.

This is a game that the market looks to have gotten just about right and I am happy to stay out from a betting perspective.

No Bet

RebelsvsReds
Friday 23 February, 7:45pm, AAMI Park
Rebels 45 – Reds 19

The Rebels are expected to be one of the big improvers in Super Rugby this season and if they are going to qualify for the finals for the first time they really should be able to win this clash.

They finished last season with eight straight defeats – including one at the hand of the Reds – but they will still start this clash as narrow favourites.

The Rebels won only one of their seven games in front of their home fans last season, but they were 4-3 against the line.

It was another season to forget for the Reds and it will be interesting to see whether they can improve under the care of new coach Brad Thorne.

The Reds lost all six of their games as away underdogs last season and they were a poor 2-4 against the line in this situation.

Games between these two sides generally end-up being high-scoring affairs and the Over has saluted in seven of the past nine games between these two sides.

Defence could be at a premium once again and the Over in the Total Points betting market does appeal

Back Over 51.5 Points

SunwolvesvsBrumbies
Saturday 24 February, 3:15pm, Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium
Sunwolves 25 – Brumbies 32

The Brumbies are the shortest-priced favourites in Super Rugby this weekend.

The Canberra-based franchise were the best Australian team in Super Rugby last season, but they will still need to improve significantly to be a genuine title contender in 2018.

They struggled badly away from home last season and they won only one of their past three games as away favourites, while their record against the line was no better.

The Sunwovles did show some signs of life in Super Rugby last season and there is hope that they will take another step forward in 2018.

They won two of their six games as home underdogs for a massive profit, but they also suffered a number of humiliating losses.

It is always tough to back the Sunwolves with any real confidence, but there is not as much between these two sides as the current market suggests and it would not surprise if they gave the Brumbies a scare.

Back Sunwolves To Beat The Line (+17.5 Points)

CrusadersvsChiefs
Saturday 24 February, 5:45pm, Allianz Stadium
Crusaders 45 – Chiefs 23

This is easily the best game of the weekend in Super Rugby and could be a very-early preview for the Super Rugby Grand Final.

The Crusaders claimed their eighth Super Rugby title last season and they will go into this clash with the Chiefs as clear favourites.

They won all nine of their games as home favourites last season and even more impressive was the fact that they were able to cover the line in seven of these wins.

It was the Crusaders that knocked the Chiefs out in the Super Rugby semi-finals last season and they have lost their past two games against their rivals.

The Chiefs were able to win five of their eight games away from home last season, but their record against the line was poor and they have covered the line in only two of their past eight games on the road.

The Crusaders can make a winning start to the season and the line of 7.5 points will not be enough.

Back Crusaders To Beat The Line (-7.5 Points)

WaratahsvsStormers
Saturday 24 February, 7:45pm, Allianz Stadium
Waratahs 34 - Stormers 27

The Waratahs will go into this clash with the Stormers as clear favourites and they really do look under the odds.

The Waratahs were a shocking betting proposition in Super Rugby last season – they won only two of their five games as home favourites and were an extremely poor 1-4 against the line.

A comfortable win over the Jaguares was the way that the Stormers started their Super Rugby season and they did beat the Waratahs the last time that these two sides met in Australia.

The Stormers failed to win any of their games as away underdogs last season and their record against the line wasn’t much better, but they still look well and truly over the odds in this contest.

Taking on the Waratahs proved to be a profitable betting play all season long last year and there is no reason to diver from that in 2018.

Back The Stormers To Beat The Line (+8.5 Points)

LionsvsJaguares
Sunday 25 February, 12:05pm, Emirates Airline Stadium
Lions 47 – Jaguares 27

The Lions have dominated the South African Conference in recent seasons and they will start this clash with the Jaguares as dominant favourites.

The Lions started their season with a comfortable win over the Sharks and they continued their winning ways as home favourites, while they are 5-4 against the line in this scenario.

It wasn’t the best start to the Super Rugby season for the Jaguares as they lost to the Stormers 28-20 and produced some truly woeful defence at times.

They have lost five of their past six games as away underdogs, but they are 4-2 against the line in this scenario.

This is a game that the Lions should win comfortably, but there is no value at their current price.

No Bet

BullsvsHurricanes
Sunday 25 February, 2:15am, Loftus Versfeld
Bulls 21 – Hurricanes 19

This is a tricky way to start the season for both the Bulls and the Hurricanes.

The Bulls may have the home-ground advantage, but it is the Hurricanes that will start this clash as dominant favourites.

The Hurricanes were a touch inconsistent away from home last season and they were a losing proposition both against the line and in head-to-head betting as away favourites.

Four wins was the final tally for the Bulls in 2017 – their worst Super Rugby season in over a decade – but there is every chance they can be big improvers this season.

They lost all four of their games as home underdogs and they were only a middling 2-2 against the line in this scenario.

It would not surprise if this was a fairly dour affair and backing the Under in Total Points betting was a profitable betting play in Bulls games last season, while the Under saluted in five of the eight games that the Hurricanes played away from home.

Back Under


Round 1

There was plenty of excitement in the opening round of the Super Rugby season and there are a number of massive games set to take place this weekend.

The match of the round will take place on Saturday afternoon when the Highlanders host the Crusaders, while the Force and Reds will face-off in the second Australian Derby of the season.

A wide range of betting markets are available for every single game this weekend and our recommended betting plays can be found below.

Western ForcevsReds
Thursday 2 March, 9:30pm, NIB Stadium
Force 26  - Reds 19

The Reds started this season with a hard-fought victory over the Western Force and they go into this clash as narrow favourites.

A lack of discipline almost cost the Reds against the Sharks, but there was still plenty to like about their performances.

The Reds failed to win a single game away from home last season and this is the first time they will start an away game as favourites for well over 12 months.

The Force were not disgraced against the Waratahs last weekend, but they remain a very tough team to trust from a betting standpoint.

They failed to win a single game in front of their home fans last season and they beat the line in just one of their six games at home.

These are two teams that are impossible to trust from a betting standpoint and I am happy to stay out of this clash.

No Bet

ChiefsvsBlues
Friday 3 March, 5:35pm, FMG Stadium Waikato
Chiefs 41  - Blues 26

Both the Chiefs and the Blues come into this clash off the back of week one victories.

The Chiefs showed why they are genuine premiership contenders with their win over the Highlanders and they will start this clash as clear favourites.

The Chiefs won four of their six games as home favourites last season, but they did not make a profit in this scenario and they were 2-4 against the line.

The Blues could hardly have been more impressive against the Rebels in the opening round of the season, but this is obviously a much tougher assignment.

Winning as underdogs was a problem for the Blues in 2016 and they failed to win a single game as away underdogs, while they were 2-2 against the line in this scenario.

This is a game that the market looks to have got just about right and there is no real value to be found.

No Bet

HurricanesvsRebels
Saturday 4 March, 3:15pm, Westpac Stadium
Hurricanes 71  - Rebels 6

The Hurricanes were rampant in their opening game of the season against the Sunwolves and another big win is on the cards this weekend.

It was very easy to see why the Hurricanes are clear favourites to record back-to-back Super Rugby titles and it is no surprise that they will go into this clash as dominant favourites.

The Hurricanes have won eight of their past nine games as home favourites, while they are 5-4 against the line in this scenario.

The Rebels were blown away by the Blues in the second half last Thursday night and they face an even tougher challenge against the Hurricanes.

They did manage to win two of their six games as away underdogs last season, but they were only an even 3-3 against the line.

The Hurricanes should prove far too good for this Rebels line-up and the line of 21.5 points will not be enough.

Back The Hurricanes To Beat The Line (-21.5 Points)

HighlandersvsCrusaders
Saturday 4 March, 5:35pm, Forsyth Barr Stadium
Highlanders 27  - Crusaders 30

This is easily the game of the round and should be a very entertaining clash.

The Highlanders were beaten by the Chiefs at home last weekend, but they will still go into this clash with the Crusaders as favourites.

They have won six of their past eight games as home favourites for a narrow profit, but they are only 4-4 against the line in this scenario.

Canterbury were forced to tough out a narrow victory over the Brumbies in the opening round of the Super Rugby season and it is fair to say their performance was a touch disappointing.

The Crusaders won two of their four games as away underdogs last season and they have historically had the edge over the Highlanders, but the Highlanders have won the past two games played between the two sides.

There really is not a great deal between these two outfits and the Crusaders do offer genuine value at their current price of $2.20.

Back The Crusaders To Win @ $2.20

BrumbiesvsSharks
Saturday 4 March, 7:45pm, GIO Stadium
Brumbies 22  - Sharks 27

The Brumbies started the season with a loss to the Crusaders, but they were far from disgraced and they go into this clash as narrow favourites.

GIO Stadium was not the fortress that it once was for the Brumbies last season and they won just four of their six games as home favourites for a clear profit, while they were 3-3 against the line in this scenario.

The Sharks will consider their loss to the Reds a missed opportunity and they need to win this clash to take anything from their trip to Australia.

They have won three of their past eight games as away underdogs for a clear profit and they are 6-2 against the line in this scenario.

There is not as much between these two sides as the current betting market suggests and the Sharks are capable of recording an upset victory.

Back The Sharks To Win @ $2.30

SunwolvesvsKings
Saturday 4 March, 9:55pm, Singapore National Stadium
Sunwolves 23  - Kings 37

It was a humiliating start to the Super Rugby season for the Sunwolves and they will go into this clash with the Kings as clear underdogs.

The Sunwolves were simply blown off the park by the Hurricanes last weekend and it will be a very long season if they do not improve on that effort.

The Japanese side have won just one of their eight games as home underdogs and they are 4-4 against the line in this scenario.

The Kings started their Super Rugby season with a credible loss at the hands of the Jaguares and this is an excellent opportunity to get an early season victory.

This will be the first time that they have started an away game as favourites and they did not win away from home last season, but they were 5-2 against the line on the road.

If the Kings are able to replicate their last start performance they will be too strong for the Sunwolves and can cover the line of 5.5 points comfortably.

Back The Kings To Beat The Line (-5.5 Points)

LionsvsWaratahs
Sunday 5 March, 12:05am, Emirates Airlines Park Stadium
Lions 55  - Waratahs 36

The Waratahs begin their trip to South Africa with a tough clash against the Lions.

The Lions got out of jail late in their opening Super Rugby fixture against the Cheetahs, but they will still go into this clash as clear favourites.

The Lions could hardly have been more impressive at home last season and they won all eight of their game as home favourites, while they were 7-1 against the line in this scenario.

It was not pretty for the Waratahs, but they did manage to get the job done against the Force thanks to the surprising accurate boot of Reece Robinson.

The Waratahs were not bad away from home last season and they did win one of their three games as away underdogs, but beating the Lions in South Africa has proven to be a very difficult task.

The Lions really should be able to extend their winning streak away from home and can cover the line of 7.5 points.

Back The Lions To Beat The Line (-7.5 Points)

StormersvsJaguares
Sunday 5 March, 2:15am, DHL Newlands
Stormers 32  - Jaguares 25

The Stormers were one of the most impressive teams in the opening round of the Super Rugby season and they will start this clash with the Jaguares as clear favourites.

It was hard not to be impressed with the effort of the Stormers last weekend, but they are still a tough team to trust from a betting standpoint – they were a losing betting proposition as home favourites last season and a very poor 2-5 against the line.

The Jaguares finally recorded a win away from home with their victory over the Kings last weekend, but their record on the road still does not make particularly appealing reading.

They lost all four of their games as away underdogs last season and they were just 1-3 against the line in this scenario.

This is another clash that the market looks to have got just about right and I am happy to stay out from a betting perspective.

No Bet

CheetahsvsBulls
Sunday 5 March, 4:30am, Toyota Stadium
Cheetahs 34  - Bulls 28

This is an intriguing South African derby.

It is fair to say that the Cheetahs defied expectations against the Lions last weekend, but it is the Bulls that will still go into this clash as favourites.

The Bulls were no match for the Stormers last weekend, but they have an excellent chance to record their maiden win of the season this weekend.

They won all four of their games as away favourites last season and were 3-1 against the line in this scenario, which makes them a very reliable betting play.

The Cheetahs are in a similar boat in terms of betting reliability.

They won their three games as home favourites, but lost all three as home underdogs and generally don’t win when they are no expected to.

This is the Bulls’ game to win and they are one of the best value betting plays of the weekend.

Back The Bulls To Win @ $1.73


2016

The 2016 Super Rugby season got off to an outstanding start when the Blues scored a narrow win over the Highlanders in an absolute thriller and they were a number of other excellent games spread right across the weekend.

Round 2 gets underway with a Friday night double header, which starts with the Crusaders hosting the Blue at AMI Stadium before the Brumbies take on the Waratahs at GIO Stadium.

The match of the round is on Saturday night when the Highlanders face the Hurricanes in a Super Rugby Grand Final re-match, while the Cheetahs host the Stormers in the pick of Sunday mornings fixtures.

CrusadersvsBlues
Friday 4 March, 5:35pm, AMI Stadium
Crusaders 28  - Blues 13

The Blues will head into this game with plenty of confidence following their first-up win over the Highlanders at Eden Park. The Crusaders suffered an upset loss to the Chiefs, but they have won their past three games against the Blues.

BrumbiesvsWaratahs
Friday 4 March, 7:45pm, GIO Stadium
Brumbies 32  - Waratahs 15

This is one of the most exciting games of round 2 of the 2016 Super Rugby competition as both these teams recorded big weeks in week 1. The Waratahs have dominated the Brumbies in recent seasons and have won the past four games played between the two sides.

ChiefsvsLions
Saturday 5 March, 3:15pm, FMG Stadium
Chiefs 32  - Lions 36

This is another game between two sides that were successful in the opening round of the season. The Lions were not particularly impressive against the Sunwolves in their season opener and have a very poor record in New Zealand.

HighlandersvsHurricanes
Saturday 5 March, 5:35pm, Forsyth Barr Stadium
Highlanders 17  - Hurricanes 16

The Highlanders and Hurricanes do battle in a rematch of the 2015 Super Rugby Grand Final. Both these sides suffered disappointing losses in the opening round of the season and neither will want to start the season with an 0-2 record.

RedsvsForce
Saturday 5 March, 7:45pm , Suncorp Stadium
Reds 6  - Force 22

The Reds and Force are both expected to struggle in 2016 and could battle out for the wooden spoon in the Australian conference. The Reds were given a hiding by the Waratahs last weekend, but will take confidence from the fact that they have won their past two meetings against the Forcw.

BullsvsRebels
Sunday 6 March, 12:00am, Loftus Versfeld
Bulls 45  - Rebels 25

The Bulls suffered a disappointing loss to the Stormers in the opening round of the season, while the Rebels won on the road against the Force. The Rebels scored an upset win over the Bulls in their only meeting last season, but the Bulls scored a 33 point victory in their previous meeting in South Africa.

CheetahsvsStormers
Sunday 6 March, 2:10pm, Toyota Stadium
Cheetahs 10  - Stormers 20

The Stormers stamped themselves as genuine Super Rugby title contenders with a big win over the Bulls in round 1. The Cheetahs were unable to get the four points against the Jaguares, but they would still have been able to take plenty of positives out of the contest. The Cheetahs have won the past three games between the two sides at Toyota Stadium.

SharksvsJaguares
Sunday 6 March, 4:20am, Growthpoint Kings Park
Sharks 19  - Jaguares 15

The Jaguares made a winning start to their life in Super Rugby against the Cheetahs, but they face a far tougher task against the Sharks this weekend. The Sharks were clinical against the Kings in round 1 and are always very tough to beat in front of their home fans.