Sharks vs Lions
The Sharks host the Lions and will be looking to get their Currie Cup campaign off to a winning start. The home side will be disappointed with their semi-final exit last season despite finishing second on the log. The visitors will also be looking for a vast improvement as they finished in sixth spot, winning just six of their 14 matches last season. The composition of the sides will be interesting as not all the URC players will be available for selection as they have mandatory rest protocols to follow.
TIP: The match between these sides is always physical so the battle between the forwards will likely decide the winner. Both teams seem to be evenly matched in the packs but the Sharks do have some exciting backs none more so than Edwyn Keytar. The former Griquas man has had a torrid time with injuries but showed in his few URC appearances that he is back to full fitness and raring to go. The bookies have the Lions as favorites but I am tipping the Sharks for the upset win. The best odds on this bet are as follows: Tictacbets 2.50, Playabets 2.50 and Bettabets 2.50
HEAD-TO-HEAD STATS
Sharks vs Lions
- The last six matches between the sides have seen three wins apiece.
- The Lions have won three of the last four matches against the Sharks
Latest results for both teams
This is the first match of the season for these teams.
PREDICTION
The Lions will fancy their chances of dominating the scrums especially not that Asenathi Ntlabakanye has found his feet at this level. The prop was in excellent form during the URC and looks fitter that last season. It will be interesting to see who will start in the Sharks ten jersey as Siya Masuku may be with the national team. If he isn’t playing then it will be a big loss for the home side. Playing in Durban will be a huge advantage for the Sharks as their form at home has been excellent in recent months. I am predicting a Sharks win by 4 points.
Probable Starting XVs
Sharks
15 Yaw Penze, 14 Edwyn Keytar, 13 Murray Koster (captain), 12 Francois Venter, 11 Alwayno Visagie, 10 Fred Zeilinga, 9 Bradley Davids, 8 Thembelani Bholi, 7 Jeandre Labuschagne, 6 James Venter, 5 Reniel Hugo, 4 Corne Rahl, 3 Khutha Mchunu, 2 Fez Mbatha, 1 Khwezi Mona.
Lions
15 Tiaan Swanepoel, 14 Boldwin Hansen, 13 Stean Pienaar, 12 Tyler Bocks, 11 Ilunga Mukendi, 10 Vaughen Isaacs, 9 Nico Steyn, 8 Jarod Cairns, 7 Peter-John Steenkamp, 6 Sibusiso Sangweni, 5 Darrien-Lane Landsberg, 4 Raynard Roets, 3 Ruan Smith, 2 Jaco Visagie (captain), 1 Asenathi Ntlabakanye
Odds for this bet
The best odds on the Sharks victory are as follows:
Tictacbets 2.50
Playabets 2.50
Bettabets 2.50
Odds comparison on the Sharks handicap:
The complete odds on the Sharks handicap:
Tictacbets 1.90 (+4.5)
Playabets 1.87 (+4.5)
Bettabets 1.89 (+4.5)
Predictions and Odds in details
There are excellent odds on the Sharks upset win but if you are looking for a safer bet, then we suggest the home team on the handicap. The best odds on this bet are as follows: Tictacbets 1.90 (+4.5), Playabets 1.87 (+4.5) and Bettabets 1.89 (+4.5)
Other tips for the weekend (Predicted winners are in BOLD text)
Griquas vs Pumas
New Zealand vs England
Australia vs Wales
South Africa vs Ireland
Argentina vs France
Border vs EP
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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.
