While we are not going out on too much of a limb to say the Crusaders and Chiefs will win in week six, the time has surely come for us to back the unbeaten Highlanders in the capital.
Crusaders v Bulls
Crusaders by 7
The Crusaders can swiftly bounce back from their defeat to the Highlanders. Why would they not? Skipper Sam Whitelock is definitely back this time, while Jordan Taufua and Michael Alaalatoa will both start in the pack after re-signing with the franchise.
The Bulls need to bottle their first half work from the Chiefs clash, and centre Jesse Kriel, in his 50th Super game, will mark Jack Goodhue in a spicy match-up.
Sunwolves v Chiefs
Chiefs by 5
The Chiefs will be eyeing nothing less than five competition points from their first trip to Tokyo.
Their stirring second half comeback, inspired by Brodie Retallick, against the Bulls, is the blueprint and the standard for them. Expect a run and gun style with Damian McKenzie back at first five and his brother at the back. An out of sorts Brad Weber is out and the sparkier Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi is into the No 9 jersey.
Robbie Robinson should line up somewhere for the Sunwolves to face his old team.
Hurricanes v Highlanders
Highlanders by 7
We really must start backing the Highlanders more often, even without Liam Squire for the next few weeks.
Forget Sanzaar’s tantrum at Ben Smith talking respectfully to the referee, but do not forget that Ash Dixon will again offer maximum impact from the pine. It does not take a rocket scientist to know the Highlanders will target the home team’s pack, which is missing Vaea Fifita.
TJ Perenara runs out for his 100th Super game with an astonishing 45 tries to his name. He’ll be up for it. After all, he is marking the best No 9 on the planet.
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