The 2016 Super Rugby season will reach its conclusion this weekend as the Hurricanes are looking for redemption for their loss last season whilst the Lions have made it to the last two for the first time in their history. Continue reading for our Super Rugby Grand Final Preview and Betting Tips.
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Hurricanes vs Lions (Saturday 5.35pm AEST)
The decision from Lions coach Johan Ackermann to rest his starting xv in the final week of the regular season against the Jaguares, which resulted in the team losing top spot, has been successful up until this point. However, it could come back to haunt them as they will be forced to play the Grand Final in New Zealand and at Westpac stadium where they have never won in six attempts.
The Lions put together a great all round performance to reach their first ever final with their attack and defence both shining. As expected, their forward pack was dominant and they will need to get the advantage in this area this weekend. Malcolm Marx is their anchor at the set piece as he threw for perfection in the line out with his side winning 100% of his throws whilst he played a major part in the side winning three scrum penalties. Jaco Friel led by example as he wore the captains arm band to replace the injured Warren Whiteley. Friel made an impact in attack and defence and it will be a big battle between him and Hurricanes flanker Ardie Savea.
Up against his biggest rival for the All Blacks flanker jersey, Savea put in an outstanding performance that will have selectors with a hard decision heading into the four nations. Savea clearly outplayed Sam Cane. Savea recorded 72 metres, five tackle busts, two line breaks, one turnover and 18 tackles. Remarkable numbers for a semi-final and the Hurricanes will need him to repeat this effort to diffuse the advantage in the forward pack that the Lions have.
It won’t just be a forward pack battle though as these sides have arguably the best back lines in the competition. It is fair to say that each team will take one of the most in form fly halfs into the final. The Lions Elton Jantjes proved he is one of the most elite playmakers in the world in the semi-final against the Highlanders. Jantjes showed a cool head to score 22 points which included two line breaks, a line break assist and three try assists. This took his season tally to 22 line break assists and 14 try assists, which is the most in both categories in the competition. Meanwhile Beauden Barrett was the clear stand out performer for the Hurricanes as he lead them to back-to-back home finals. Barrett turned the match on its head when he grabbed an intercept and raced away to score before he produced a chip and chase and set up his teammate Willis Halaholo. The player who is able to have more impact this weekend will definitely play a big part in leading his side to victory.
If the old saying “you need to lose one, to win one” is true then the Hurricanes will come out on top in the Grand Final. Last year they fell to the Highlanders in a upset loss and they will want to make amends. This is the first final for the Lions and despite having their strongest team in their history, they will fall short on the road.
TIP: Hurricanes 1-12 @ $2.65 with Sportsbet
Take note: Any of the tips in this article are simply the author’s opinion, so bet at your own risk and always gamble responsibly. Also be sure to check out the Before You Bet Twitter Page for all our thoughts in the lead up to bets! Happy punting!
