Written by @QuintenLetcher for @Hollywoodbets. Follow them both on Twitter and Facebook now!
Sharks vs Highlanders | Saturday 19 July | Kings Park | 17:05
While the Waratahs and Crusaders enjoy their week off in anticipation of home semi-finals, the Sharks, Brumbies, Chiefs and Highlanders are left to fight over the final two semi-final seats. The Sharks host the Highlanders for the second time this season, but Jake White’s men will be hoping to avoid a repeat of the dismal Round 11 performance that allowed the Highlanders a convincing 34-18 victory down in Durban. This occurred with the Kiwi-based side in something of a purple patch, while their end of season performances stand in stark contrast.
To Win (80mins)
Sharks 1/7
Draw 33/1
Highlanders 11/2
Handicaps
Sharks (-13.5) 9/10
Highlanders (+13.5) 9/10
The Sharks finally got back to winning ways last week when they claimed an impressive 34-10 victory over the Stormers in Cape Town. Springbok flyhalf Patrick Lambie has been named on the bench as he returns after almost four months off with a torn bicep. JP Pietersen again starts in the midfield after being declared fit for action after injury concerns arose following his clash with Duane Vermeulen last week. In the only change to the run on side that started against the Stormers last week, Cobus Reinach returns at scrumhalf, with Charl McLeod providing cover on the bench.
The Highlanders have hit an inopportune speed wobble this season, having lost four of their last five clashes this season, with the last two of those being by over twenty points. Coach Jamie Joseph has made five changes to his side for this season-defining clash. Co-captain Ben Smith returns at fullback after missing last week’s clash against the Crusaders in Christchurch, replacing Trent Renata who falls to the bench. Lima Sopoaga will run out at flyhalf, while up front Ged Robinson starts at hooker and Jarrad Hoeata runs on in the number four jersey, teaming up with Joe Wheeler in the second row.
VERDICT: Highlanders (+13.5) 9/10
The Sharks should be able to prevent a repeat of that Round 11 upset, but the threat of elimination will inevitably lead to a more conservative game from both sides, meaning Saturday’s showdown is going to be far closer than the handicap suggests.
Think we’ve got it wrong? Well leave your comments below and tell us how you think this is going to play out.
