History and recent form are dead against the Reds in this encounter and that can only mean one thing…a Crusaders landslide.
Christchurch. Friday 27/5 @ 7.05pm
Best Bet
The Crusaders should make minced meat of a Reds side who are absolutely out of form at this stage of the season. The visitors have not beaten a NZ side in four attempts this season and have lost their last 20 matches on NZ soil. Only two weeks ago the Reds were on the end of a 53-26 flogging to the Blues in Auckland and with James O’Connor unavailable, expect a similar outcome.
Value Bet
With both sides likely to face off at the same venue in Round 1 of the finals next week, the Crusaders will aim to jump out of the blocks and control the backend of the match. Scott Robertson is starting with his best available XV which gives a clear indication on how he is approaching this one. Crusaders will blow the Reds off the park early!
In-Play Tips
The Crusaders bench should get extended minutes in the second half. As such, if the Crusaders are ahead comfortably at halftime, don’t expect them to continue at that rate for the entire match. A hedge on a huge Reds plus could be an option.
