WAIKATO CHIEFS, team1 v QUEENSLAND REDS, Team 8
10 June 2023 WAIKATO STADIUM, HAMILTON,NZ
In a highly anticipated clash, the Waikato Chiefs are set to face off against the Queensland Reds in the quarter-finals of the Super Rugby tournament. The pulsating showdown will take place at the renowned Waikato Stadium in Hamilton, New Zealand.
Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan has pulled out all the stops, making several changes to the team that emerged victorious against the Force in Perth last weekend. With the heavy artillery in play, the Chiefs are determined to secure a spot in the semi-finals. Sam Cane, the All Blacks skipper and co-captain of the Chiefs, returns to his formidable openside flanker position, while Brodie Retallick adds height and power in the second row alongside Josh Lord. Test hooker Samisoni Taukai’aho will don the No. 2 jersey, fortifying the Chiefs’ pack.
In the backline, co-captain Brad Weber reclaims the starting halfback position, bringing his experience and leadership to the field. The dynamic Damian McKenzie is listed as the first five-eighth, orchestrating the team’s attacking moves. Rameka Poihipi slots into the second-five position, providing solidity in the midfield. The talented Anton Lienert-Brown starts at centre, supported by rookie Daniel Rona coming off the bench. The Chiefs’ back-three features the explosive duo of Etene Nanai-Seturo and Emoni Narawa on the wings, while Shaun Stevenson secures the fullback role.
The Reds, on the other hand, aim to continue their success against Kiwi sides, having recorded their only two victories against them since 2021 against the Chiefs. Their remarkable upset in May, when they were 20-point underdogs, showcased their resilience and ability to neutralize the Chiefs’ attack, even in the absence of All Blacks stars Sam Cane, Brodie Retallick, and Brad Weber.
For the Reds, having James O’Connor back at inside centre adds a boost to their attacking prowess, providing direction and experience. O’Connor will partner with Tom Lynagh to lead the Reds’ backline. The team will rely on standout performances from backrower Harry Wilson and flanker Fraser McReight. However, the Reds’ success will also depend on other members of their pack stepping up and delivering five-star performances.
As the stage is set for this epic encounter, rugby fans eagerly anticipate a battle of titans at Waikato Stadium. Both teams possess the talent, determination, and skill to secure a victory and advance to the next stage of the tournament. With intense rivalries, strategic gameplay, and a place in the semi-finals at stake, this match is poised to deliver an exhilarating display of rugby prowess.
Chiefs: Shaun Stevenson, Emoni Narawa, Anton Lienert-Brown, Rameka Poihipi, Etene Nanai-Seturo, Damian McKenzie, Brad Weber (co-captain), Luke Jacobson, Sam Cane (co-captain), Samipeni Finau, Josh Lord, Brodie Retallick, John Ryan, Samisoni Taukai’aho, Aidan Ross.
Reserves: Bradley Slater, Ollie Norris, George Dyer, Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Pita Gus Sowakula, Cortez Ratima, Josh Ioane, Daniel Rona.
REDS: Peni Ravai, Matt Faessler, Sef Fa’agase, Angus Blyth, Ryan Smith, Seru Uru, Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson, Tate McDermott (c), Tom Lynagh, Josh Flook, James O’Connor, Filipo Daugunu, Suliasi Vunivalu, Jock Campbell
RESERVES: Richie Asiata, Dane Zander, Zane Nonggorr, Lopeti Faifua, Jake Upfield, Kalani Thomas, Lawson Creighton, Taj Annan
Referee: Angus Gardner
Assistant Referees: Damon Murphy, Matt Kellahan
PREDICTION
I can not see the Reds staying with the Chiefs in Hamilton and the Chiefs will win by 13.5 points plus.
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