Crusaders vs Reds Prediction: Reds will not be an easy side

Crusaders will play Reds in round four Super Rugby Pacific action at Orangetheory Stadium. The two teams last meeting ended in favour of the Reds. As home favorites, can Crusaders win this contest? Below, I will preview this game and offer predictions.

Crusaders

The Crusaders played the Chiefs the previous weekend and ended on the losing end. In a 49-24 contest, this team had a struggling display, losing 17-14 in the first half, before a 32-10 dominant play from their opponent. However, the Crusaders first game of the season saw them pull off a 33-25 win over the Hurricanes. With just four points, Crusaders sit at the bottom of the table, scoring 57 goals and conceding 74.

Reds

Reds kept their cool the previous weekend against Western Force, securing a 24-28 win. In that encounter, Reds were behind in the first half, in a 17-14 half, before pulling off a 7-14 win in the second half. However, this team pulled off a 56-36 win in their opening game of the season. Ahead of the game, Reds are seated third in the standings, scoring 84 goals and conceding 60, having accumulated nine points in their first two games of the season. 

Expert Betting Tips

Crusaders are well favoured in this game but I do not see them have an easy task with the way they started their season. On the other hand, the Reds have been impressive this season, showing competitive and top-level play. On the road, I expect a very close score, but I believe they will do well to close the score in what could be an offensive encounter. 

Our first option is handicap W2 (+12.5) with odds at 1.74 on 1Xbet

Our second option is over 59.5 with odds at 1.91 on Bet365

Our last option is team 2 to score last points with odds at 2.20 on Betway