Waikato vs Taranaki
Waikato welcome the table topping Taranaki to Hamilton for this fourth round encounter in the NPC Bunnings competition. The home team started their campaign with an opening round win but have suffered to losses since then. They will be particularly devastated by their last loss as they held a 15-point lead going into the final quarter, only to let Hawkes Bay score 18 unanswered points to snatch the victory. Taranaki have had no such problems as they have scored three bonus point wins to top the table with 15 points. They have looked excellent in attack while their defence has been rock solid.
TIP: It comes as no surprise that Taranaki have resisted the temptation to make changes to their winning team. One of the major positives for the team this season is the availability of fullback star Stephen Perofeta as he controls the game from the back and is not afraid to take over the play making duties. Waikato will be hoping to bring in some of their experienced players as they return from injury. The bookies have Waikato as favourites but I’m tipping Taranaki for the upset win. The best odds on this bet are as follows: Betway 2.50, Gbets 2.55 and Hollywoodbets 2.50
HEAD TO HEAD STATS
Waikato vs Taranaki
- Waikato have won four of the last five matches between the sides.
- Taranaki won 33-26 on their last visit to Hamilton.
Latest results for both teams
Waikato lost 35-32 to Hawkes Bay in their last match while Taranaki beat Manuwatu 26-17 in their last match.
PREDICTION
Waikato have looked good in many parts of their matches but their inability to put in a 80 minute performance has seen them lose the last two matches. They will be looking for more from their experienced players like Bailynn Sullivan and Ollie Norris. Taranaki on the other hand have been playing superbly as a team with each player doing their duty. The standout player so far has been Kini Naholo as he has carried his Super Rugby form into this competition. Waikato have been renowned for their running game but this season they have been kicking away too much possession. I am predicting a Taranaki win by 6 points.
Probable Starting XVs
Waikato
1. O. Norris 2. R. Marshall 3. S. Tukuafu 4. T. Cribb 5. H. Burr 6. X. Saifoloi 7. P. Mccurran 8. T. Reuben 9. X. Roe 10. T. Kemara 11. T. Tuhakaraina 12. A. Anderson 13. B. Sullivan 14. C. Nordstrom 15. L. Coombes-Fabling
Taranaki
1. J. Proffit 2. R. Riccitelli 3. R. O’neill 4. J. Parete 5. H. Cunningham 6. K. Boshier 7. A. Poliko 8. P. Sowakula 9. L. Crowley 10. J. Potroz 11. K. Naholo 12. T. Walden 13. M. Grindlay 14. J. Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens 15. S. Perefetoa
Odds for this bet
The best odds on the Taranaki victory are as follows:
Betway 2.50
Gbets 2.55
Hollywoodbets 2.50
Odds comparison on the Taranaki handicap:
The complete odds on the Taranaki handicap:
Betway 1.90 (+3.5)
Gbets 1.87 (+3.5)
Hollywoodbets 1.89 (+3.5)
Predictions and Odds in details
There are great returns on the Taranaki upset win but if you looking for a safety bet then I suggest the away team on the handicap. The best odds on this bet are as follows: Betway 1.90 (+3.5), Gbets 1.87 (+3.5) and Hollywoodbets 1.89 (+3.5)
Other tips for the weekend (Predicted winners are in BOLD text)
Bayonne vs Toulouse
Racing 92 vs Bordeaux
Lyon vs Toulon
Wales vs South Africa
Ireland vs England
Northland vs Tasman
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Sports crazy fan that follows all major sport but the game with the oval ball is my real passion. Was an age level rugby coach and a huge supporter of the Springboks and diehard Liverpool man. I’m an experienced punter and sports writer whose predictions/tips are sure to stir up the emotions. I love the occasional wager on the underdog.
