Rugby: so much better when you bet on it
All four the Rugby World Cup quarter-final matches being played this weekend, are included in the Rugby 5 pool.
But what about the match, you may ask.
Well, there’s the curveball. In the centre of the pool is the French Top 14 clash between La Rochelle and Racing 92. But let’s leave that for last.
Match 1 sees England take on Australia.
Having squared up in the 2003 final - which England won 20-17 thanks to a Jonny Wilkinson dropgoal in extra time – there definitely is no love lost between them.
Most rugby fans would agree that Australia will need some kind of miracle to send England home.
England have the added advantage of an extra week off after their pool match against France was cancelled due to inclement weather.
The English were impressive in the group matches and should progress to the semis.
Match 2 is the clash between fifth New Zealand and Ireland.
The Irish arrived in Japan ranked number 1 in the world but went down unexpectedly 19-12 to Japan.
However, they are a far better side than that performance suggests and is it expected that they could give the All Blacks a tough time.
The All Blacks are the obvious favourites to advance to the semis but should not make the mistake of underestimating the Irish.
Match 4 could produce some spectacular rugby when Wales take on France.
The Red Dragons are unbeaten in their pool, but that does not mean a guaranteed victory over the unpredictable – and also undefeated – French.
Nobody likes playing France. Nobody likes predicting a match with France in it.
While Wales are predicted to put up a big score, France are never without hope.
In Match 5 Japan play South Africa.
Japan have no fear and with a passionate home country behind them, they will believe they can strike down the Boks again.
The Springboks, however, are settled and seem to have a good thing going.
If Japan utilizes its backline and keeps South Africa’s forwards chasing them, they have a small chance. But South Africa need to have an off day and Japan need to be better than ever to progress.
Japan’s bubble will eventually burst and will most probably happen on Sunday.
And now, back to the curveball in Match 3 where La Rochelle host Racing 92.
La Rochelle beat Brive convincingly by 41-17 last time out and should have the beating of Racing 92, who is not firing at all cylinders.
In their last match, Racing 92 drew 27-all with Agen - currently third from last on the log.
Home field advantage should give La Rochelle the edge.