Highlanders vs Drua
The Highlanders will be looking to book their place in the playoffs when they take on the Drua in Dunedin. The home side had experienced a mid-season resurgence when they won three matches on the trot but that run was halted in the last match as they were thrashed 47-13 by the Blues. The Drua can also secure a top eight place with a win but they are yet to win away from home this season. They will be banking on winning their last league phase match against the Rebels next week as the match is in their home fortress of Fiji.
TIP: One of the major reasons for the Highlanders turning their season around has been the form of Cameron Milliar. The young ten has been in sparkling form so his unavailability will be a big blow for the team. Another youngster Ajay Faleafaga will step into the flyhalf position and he can expect the Drua forwards to be targeting his channel. The Drua have struggled in attack mainly due to handling errors but they will be playing indoors so there is no excuses. The bookies have the Highlanders as favorites and I’m also tipping them for the win. The best odds on this bet are as follows: Tictacbets 1.36, SoccerShop 1.36 and Bettabets 1.36
HEAD-TO-HEAD STATS
Highlanders vs Drua
- The Highlanders have won the only two previous meetings between the sides.
Latest results for both teams
The Highlanders lost 47-13 in their last match while the Drua beat the Reds 28-19 in their last match.
PREDICTION
The Highlanders will be looking for a fast start as the Drua struggle when they have to chase a game. The battle between the wingers will be one of the highlights of the match as Fijian Timoci Tavatavanawai comes up against his fellow countrymen. The winger is not only a threat with ball in hand but has become one of the turnover kings in the competition. It is almost unheard of a backline player that is second on the list of turnovers for the season. The Drua have gone into their shell this season and are kicking more than usual but if they want to win this match they need to bring the likes of Selestino Ravutaumada and Iosefo Masi more into the game. I am predicting a home win by 10 points.
Probable Starting XVs
Highlanders
15 Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, 14 Timoci Tavatavanawai, 13 Jake Te Hiwi, 12 Sam Gilbert, 11 Jona Nareki, 10 Ajay Faleafaga, 9 Folau Fakatava, 8 Billy Harmon (cc), 7 Sean Withy, 6 Oliver Haig, 5 Fabian Holland, 4 Mitch Dunshea, 3 Jermaine Ainsley, 2 Henry Bell, 1 Ethan de Groot (cc)
Drua
15 Ilaisa Droasese, 14 Selestino Ravutaumada, 13 Iosefo Masi, 12 Kemu Valetini, 11 Epeli Momo, 10 Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, 9 Simi Kuruvoli, 8 Elia Canakaivata, 7 Kitione Salawa, 6 Etonia Waqa, 5 Isoa Nasilasila, 4 Mesake Vocevoce, 3 Mesake Doge, 2 Tevita Ikanivere (c), 1 Jone Koroiduadua
Odds for this bet
The best odds on the Highlanders victory are as follows:
Tictacbets 1.36
SoccerShop 1.36
Bettabets 1.36
Odds comparison on the Highlanders handicap:
The complete odds on the Highlanders handicap:
Tictacbets 1.90 (-8.5)
SoccerShop 1.87 (-8.5)
Bettabets 1.89 (-8.5)
Predictions and Odds in details
There are poor odds on the Sharks outright win therefore we suggest backing them on the handicap for better odds. The best odds on this bet are as follows: Tictacbets 1.90 (-8.5),SoccerShop 1.87 (-8.5) and Bettabets 1.89 (-8.5)
Other tips for the weekend (Predicted winners are in BOLD text)
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Suntory Sungoliath vs Canon Eagles
Griquas vs Pumas
Wild Knights Vs Brave Lupus
Gloucester vs Sharks
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.