RWC Forecast – Semi-Finals

Into the semi-finals we go! Two huge matches after a terrific weekend of quarter-finals. While it’s somewhat disappointing that we only have the Rugby Championship sides remaining, it does mean that everything is up for grabs. Argentina have beaten both Australia and South Africa recently, and even New Zealand can be beaten on a bad day… or can they?

A lousy week for JB has put dropped him down to the basement, while Paul still remains on tops by a nose. Those two were the only ones to pick Argentina, but both also picked France, and we know how that went. Paul is going way out on a limb this week, leaving the door for Patrick wide open, and a chance for Ted to gain some ground.

38-6 Paul
37-7 Patrick
36-8 Ted
34-10 Doug
33-11 Bryan
32-12 Junoir

Once again the flags are flying for Junoir Blaber (Rugby Wrap Up), Doug Coil (DJ Coil Rugby / TIAR) and Patrick Johnston (The Province), as well as our intrepid trio Paul, Bryan, and Ted!

Here are our RWC 2015 Semi-Finals predictions!

 

Semi-Finals	RSA v NZL	ARG v AUS
Bryan Ray Americas Rugby News	NZL +15	ARG +3
Doug Coil DJ Coil Rugby	NZL +4	AUS +3
Junoir Blaber Rugby Wrap Up	NZL +10	AUS +5
Patrick Johnston The Province	NZL +10	AUS +6
Paul Tait Americas Rugby News	RSA +2	ARG +4
Ted Hardy Americas Rugby News	NZL +14	ARG +3

 

SOUTH AFRICA v NEW ZEALAND

The All Blacks are clear favorites, but one of us thinks the Boks might squeak through…

BR: The All Blacks were in deadly form against France, and I expect to see more of that against the Springboks. Rain or shine, New Zealand will come away victorious.

DC: New Zealand clicked on all cylinders last match and will win in a very close match against South Africa.

JB: South Africa have the horses but they are lacking in coaching ability and rugby IQ. They have not impressed in any game this tournament so I think the All Blacks – who hit another level against France – will be fired up to play an old rival.

PJ: The Boks are humming – despite everything – but how do you go against these All Blacks? So many weapons. Yes, France was poor, but don’t discount the completeness of New Zealand’s performance. Another masterclass to come.

PT: Rain is expected which will play into South Africa’s hands. The Springboks have the players and game plan to reach an unlikely final after the Japan loss.

TH: The All Blacks are on a roll but anything can happen in the semis. South Africa came out of a weak pool and has built some momentum. New Zealand on the other hand looks to be on an entirely different level.

 

ARGENTINA v AUSTRALIA

It’s dead even for us. What do you think?

BR: I’m a bit torn on this. Argentina fully deserve their spot, but can they take it one step further? Scotland pushed the Wallabies to the brink and I think the Pumas can at least do the same.

DC: Argentina can be very explosive and Australia survived against Ireland. Australia is a deep team. The strength of their bench should make the difference.

JB: I don’t think Australia deserve it and I hope they lose, but with Sir David of Pocock back that will be too much pressure on the breakdown for Argentina to deal and that will be the key difference.

PJ: As much as it would be a fabulous story to see the Pumas in the final, I’ve been too impressed by Cheika’s work with the Wallabies to go against the Australians. Foley at the height of his powers – and that scrum… enough to match Argentina’s anyway. Mario Ledesma, how do you feel right now?

PT: The way both are playing and based on players and conditions, Argentina can make history this weekend.

TH: Going to a great matchup. I think Argentina has been the second best team in the tournament, their only loss coming to the best. Australia has been tested and have come through. Hard to discount playing and winning tough matches. This could go either way.