Blues vs Crusaders Prediction: Struggling Blues will lose once again

Eden Park will host the Super Rugby Pacific round six encounter between Blues and Crusaders. The two teams head into this game hoping for a win. Can Blues at home return to winning ways? Below, I provide a full game preview and betting opportunities.

Blues

Blues continued to struggle and last weekend against Chiefs, they lost 32-31. In that encounter, this team lost 15-12 in the first half, and despite a 17-19 win in the second half, it was not enough to overturn the deficit. In the meantime, Blues have picked only one win this season despite having played five games. In that victory, this team took on a Hurricanes side, ending 29-33 away from home. In other encounters, the Blues have lost to the Chiefs, Highlanders, and Brumbies. Ahead of this game, Blues have seven points from their first five matches of the season and sit in 9th place. 

Crusaders

Crusaders were brilliant once again the last time out against Western Force and will hope to get another positive outcome. In a 55-33 contest, this team won each half, ending 20-18 and 35-15. In the meantime, that win was their third of the season after four matches, as their lone defeat came against the Chiefs. In other encounters, this team defeated Hurricanes and Reds, ending 33-25 and 43-19, respectively. Ahead of this game, Crusaders have defeated Blues in four of their last five matches. The visitors have 14 points this season and sit second in the standings with 155 goals scored and 126 conceded. 

Expert Betting Tips

Blues are finding it difficult to find their footing, and into this game, they have failed to show character and competitive spirit. However, on the road, I do not see Crusaders having an easy job, especially considering how eager Blues will be to get back to winning ways. Yet, Crusaders have always been the better team in this fixture, and their performances have been excellent since the season started, which should be a boost for them. 

Our first option is handicap W2 (+4.5) with odds at 1.64 on 1Xbet

Our second option is over 56.5 with odds at 1.91 on Bet365 

Our last option is a win for Crusaders with odds at 2.10 on Betway