BLUES vs HURRICANES
the blues have been disappointing for a couple of seasons now - the complete opposite to the hurricanes who have been a force, losing the last 2 years at the semi final stage. However, the blues always seem to find a way to start their season off well. They have won their last 3 first up matches ( 2 at home ). In stark contrast the hurricanes have dropped their previous 3 season openers ( all on the road ).
Both teams over the last 2 seasons have been ok against NZ opponents ( blues 7-6 hurricanes 8-6 ) so no big advantages there BUT in that time against NZ teams the blues are 4-1 @ home whilest the hurricanes are just 3-4. The blues home record in general over the last 2 seasons is only 6-7 so it seems they get themselves up well for the homeland derbys.
The hurricanes have a favourable draw after this match ( home against both the force & lions ) so plenty of scope to drop this game and still rebound in the next few weeks.
With all the hype of Ali Williams returning it could be seen as a let down with him ruled out however im banking on that at home they use this as motivation to put on a good showing against the slow starting hurricanes.
Little bit of gravy ( not that important ) the blues knocked over the hurricanes a couple of weeks back 19-17 aswell.
Couple of downsides - Hurricanes mauled the blues in their encounter last year 45-27. This was, however late in the season when the hurricanes were rolling nicely with a head of steam into the semi finals. Also the last time the blues lost in rd 1 was coincidentally TO the hurricanes in rd 1 - 2006.
Blues @ $2.10
BOL
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