2020 Super Rugby Aotearoa – Crusaders vs Highlanders Preview & Prediction

THE FACTS

When is Crusaders vs Highlanders taking place? Sunday 9^th August, 2020 – 04:35 (UK)

Where is Crusaders vs Highlanders taking place? Orangetheory Stadium

What channel is Crusaders vs Highlanders on? Sky Sports Action

Where can I stream Crusaders vs Highlanders? Sky Sports subscribers can stream the match via Sky Go

Where can I get tickets for Crusaders vs Highlanders? Visit this link for ticket information on Super Rugby games

THE TEAM NEWS

CRUSADERS

• Crusaders responded to their first loss in Super Rugby Aotearoa as they were able to overcome Chiefs last week and they can seal the title with a victory in this game against Highlanders.
• There was little to split the two teams as they were separated by just a point during the second half but a strong finish from the Crusaders saw them cross twice to pull away and earn a 19-32 victory.
• In their quest to clinch the title, the Crusaders are able to welcome back Braydon Ennor and Joe Moody the pair having missed last week’s clash because of injury and personal reasons respectively.

HIGHLANDERS

• Highlanders were unable to build on their win over Chiefs as they went down to Blues last week with that defeat meaning they have managed to win just two of their six matches in the tournament so far.
• Highlanders fought back from 0-12 down to go 13-12 ahead but they were unable to build on that as the Blues were able to keep them quiet in the second period to condemn the Highlanders to a 21-32 loss.
• Despite last week’s defeat, the Highlanders have made just one change to their starting side for this clash with Jona Nareki coming into the line-up for Scott Gregory while Daniel Lienert-Brown earns a spot on the bench.

THE PREDICTION

Crusaders have enjoyed a very impressive Super Rugby Aotearoa campaign and they can confirm top spot by overcoming Highlanders. The Crusaders have won five of their six matches while their opponents have managed just two wins from their games. The Crusaders have won their last four matches against the Highlanders and with the title within reach for the hosts, they can extend that run to five by leading at both half-time and full-time in this contest.