My Superbru form has been average to reasonable so far, with a few upsets picked, but my margins have been somewhat wide of the mark, so here’s hoping for better accuracy in week 4.
Crusaders v Blues
The Blues have faltered since their first round demolition of the Rebels, and this looks an obvious pick away to the unbeaten Crusaders. Crusaders by 13
Rebels v Chiefs
The Melbourne outfit have had a week off to take a long hard look at themselves after two heavy defeats, but this could be another one as they host the Chiefs. Chiefs by 23
Bulls v Sunwolves
The first runout for the Bulls at Loftus is a kind fixture against the Japanese whipping boys, and it should give them a much-needed win. Bulls by 33
Hurricanes v Highlanders
This kiwi derby is an exciting prospect, with the reigning champions suffering their first defeat of the season last weekend, after two easy wins. Home advantage should see them back to winning ways. Hurricanes by 8
Waratahs v Brumbies
These are two underperforming Aussie teams so far, and the hosts are just returning from a difficult South Africa tour. I’m leaning towards the Brumbies with fewer airmiles. Brumbies by 4.
Lions v Reds
The Lions’ big guns should return after sitting out the Argentina tour, and these are matches that have to be won if that strategy is to be vindicated this year. Lions by 11
Sharks v Kings
This has to be a bonus point win for the Sharks, nothing less will suffice. Sharks by 38
Jaguares v Cheetahs
I’ve been reasonably impressed by the Cheetahs so far, and think they have a reasonable chance here, but the Jaguares will know that their home form is the key to success and this is a must-win game for them. Jaguares by 8
Follow Hutch on Twitter: @Hutch_James
Well I am with you on all of your picks this werk end so we rise or fall together Hutch!!!
Not so sure about the crusaders. Maybe 12-. Totally new back 3 due to injuries. Blues will be better than last week . Crusaders should win the match with a dominant foward display though
Some tough ones to pick this week, here we go:
Crusaders v Blues – Blues were poor last week, Crusaders by 10
Rebels v Chiefs – The Chiefs are flying, Chiefs by 31
Bulls v Sunwolves – Surely the Bulls will win this, Bulls by 17
Hurricanes v Highlanders – With all of their injuries I can’t see the Highlanders winning this, Hurricanes by 12
Waratahs v Brumbies – No idea really, just edging towards the Brumbies by 3
Lions v Reds – How did the Reds throw that one away last week? Lions by 14
Sharks v Kings – Surely a banker home win? Sharks by 30
Jaguares v Cheetahs – Both of these teams have done well so far, high scoring – Jaguares by 8.
I agree with all the picks, but I’m a bit shaky about the Bulls. With 8 changes in the team, a not on form fly half and Serfontein off the field for a nearly a life time, and the “maanhaar boertjie” firing the wolvies, I’am not so sure???
I think Crusaders will be closer, and I think Tahs will beat Brumbies, otherwise I concur.
Waratahs, to pip Brumbies only because of home-ground advantage, agree with all other predictions.