Super Rugby Round 16: Waratahs v Jaguares

Waratahs v Jaguares
Saturday 7:45pm
at Allianz Stadium, Sydney

The Waratahs welcome the Jaguares for what will be their first game on Australian soil.

Selection news

Waratahs coach Daryl Gibson has made 2 changes to his starting side to meet the Jagaures in Sydney. Jack Dempsey returns to full fitness and the blindside flanker position with Ned Hanigan shifting to the second row to cover the loss of the injured Will Skelton. The interesting selection out wide sees Bryce Hegarty picked out of position on the wing over the rampaging Taqele Naiyaravoro.

The Jaguares are expected to name a relatively unchanged lineup

Last time they met

First meeting between the two sides.

Stat that matters

The Waratahs have lost their last 10 meeting with overseas sides, their longest drought against teams outside Australia in the history of Super Rugby.

Key Match-up

Nicholas Sanchez vs Bernard Foley – Bernard Foley is the rock in the Waratahs backline, and holds the key to unlocking the finishers out wide. The little general looked to have hit some form in the June series and Daryl Gibson and co will be hoping he can replicate this for the remainder of the Waratahs season. Nicholas Sanchez has been solid without impressing too much in the Jaguares second season of Super Rugby, expect the Argentine pivot to use his brilliant kicking game to pin the Tahs in their own half.

The form

The Waratahs returned from NZ with two losses at the hands of the Highlanders and the Chiefs which ultimately spelt the end of their finals hopes. The Jaguares themselves have had a rough trot in recent times losing 4 of their last 5 games, including last week to the Kings.

Final thoughts

The Jaguares have been much improved in the second time around, but are still along way off finals contention. The Wolf expects the Waratahs will be too good at home and run away with the game in the second half. Keep an eye on Israel Folau, the superstar fullback has scored 11 tries in his last 5 games!

Recommended bets

Best bet: Waratahs -11.5 ($1.90)
Value bet: First scoring play – Waratahs try ($3.50)