Oh, rugby fans, get your popcorn ready because this one's set to be a doozy! The battle of the round goes down between Moana Pasifika and the NSW Waratahs— I suppose "battle" is a strong word if we consider how the Waratahs have been playing recently. Not exactly fodder for highlight reels, huh?
Both teams have had their ups and downs during the season, and yet, despite the Waratahs' superior win-loss record, the Pasifika are looking relatively strong heading into this one. Can't forget the Pasifika's previous victory over the Waratahs either— a 15-point lead to be precise— on last year's sunny May 25. A date that probably still haunts the Waratahs in their dreams.
Strictly speaking in terms of recent results, both teams are coming off losses, although Pasifika’s defeat against the Crusaders was one for the books. Scoring a whopping 45 points against the Crusaders, that’s something to gloat about at the clubhouse, isn't it? Meanwhile, the Waratahs suffered a brutal defeat against the Hurricanes. Can't win them all, I suppose.
While a superb past performance doesn't always guarantee future success, it does add a hefty dose of confidence — something the Pasifika boys could use, given their #9 position in the Super Rugby Pacific Standings. On the flip side, the Waratahs are standing pretty at #5 but, let's be honest, they've had their share of missteps lately.
In the ever-unpredictable world of Super Rugby, I'm going to make a bold prediction. Buckle up folks, because I'm putting my chips onMoana Pasifika. While the Waratahs might have a better record and standings position, the Pasifika have that flicker of fiery determination that comes from having nothing to lose. Add to that, their previous win and a solid payout, I see a compelling case for an upset.
The margin, you ask? Expect a close call — the Pasifika are going over, but not by a landslide.
Albert’s Prediction: Moana Pasifika by 3