New South Wales Waratahs vs Crusaders - 2nd August - K.O. 1040 (BST)
The final has arrived, and what a final it is. Twice has this final been played before, both times the New Zealanders have beaten their rivals from across the Tazmanian Sea. Lets consider the past before we consider the present, The Waratahs have played in two finals (losing both), the Crusaders on the other hand are the most successful Southern Hemisphere team in Super Rugby history competing in ten finals, and winning seven of them. However it has been three years since their last final, and another two since their last trophy, and as any sportsman knows previous season form never carries over.
So instead lets have a peruse at this season's form, the Waratahs have been the form team this season. With an exciting back-line full of Australian international players, they have scored some of the tries of the tournament so far. Israel Folau has been leading the way all season, scoring a record total of twelve tries, sending the Waratahs to the top of the table by a clear distance, and a sizeable points difference over anyone else. Looking at the remainder of the Australian team you can see why they are rated as favourites by most of the media with names like: Ashley-Cooper, Beale, Foley, and Hooper. Twelve Wallaby players in the starting team provide plenty of experience - crucial in any final - as well as bucket loads of talent. Hooper famous for his jackling ability and creating turnovers will be a major asset to the Waratahs third attempt at winning the trophy.
The infamous Richie McCaw provides the know-how to win the game for the Crusaders, he's been in his fair share of finals, including that memorable World Cup final against France three years ago. He's not the only big name playing for the Crusaders, the legendary Daniel Carter, rated as the greatest fly-half of the professional era (some Englishmen might disagree) he'll be playing a little wider come tomorrow filling the Inside-Centre shirt outside Colin Slade. Another five All Black players are interspersed through the team, including World Player of the Year - Kieren Reed - and the "other" Israel, Dagg. The returning quality of Carter and Reed from injury has spurred an end of season finish expect of any champion team. Despite an early season stumble almost losing the first three games, the form displayed at the end of the regular season provides the Crusaders with serious contention in this final.
Both teams eased through their respective semi-finals, Waratahs winning 26-8 against their fellow Australian Brumbies, while the Crusaders convincingly beating the South African Sharks 38-6. Both teams have announced the same teams from last weeks play-off's, and both have players rated as the best in their respective positions. It is a tough one to call, my heart says Crusaders with the legends of Carter and McCaw, while my head says Waratahs fielding stars of Folau and Hooper quality. In the end I believe that the home advantage at the 83,500 seater ANZ Stadium will prove crucial.
My Prediction: NSW Waratahs to win by less than 10 points
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