Reds vs Waratahs Predictions & Tips - Reds to do the business against Tahs

The Reds enjoyed a fine 2020 and have managed to keep their squad together. The Waratahs, though, have lost a number of key figures, so my tip is for the Reds to cover the -9 handicap.

The Waratahs have tasted victory in 12 of their last 13 meetings with the Reds. Their last clash saw the Tahs’ produce their best performance of the campaign in 2020, winning 45-12 in Sydney.

The Reds have hardly taken to the rugby field since the 2020 Super Rugby AU campaign came to an end.

A chunk of their players turned out for Australia late in 2020, but this will be their first piece of action since. I expect Super Rugby AU to endure a slow start, but the rugby will improve the deeper we go into the tournament.

In the last campaign, the Reds made the Super Rugby AU final. However, it was not meant to be as they lost 28-23 in Canberra to the Brumbies. The Reds will be eager to go one better this season and are seen as second favourites behind last year’s winners.

The Reds have largely managed to keep their squad together from last season. That can only be looked upon favourably as they go in search of the title.

There is plenty of quality in the back division with Jock Campbell, Bryce Hegarty, Tate McDermott, James O’Connor, Hunter Paisami and Jordan Petaia all available.

It looks an ominous squad and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly.

The Waratahs endured a very inconsistent 2020 campaign. Before COVID-19 hit, the Tahs’ were having a very poor Super Rugby season. In what was something of a relief, the competition was later cancelled.

When rugby returned, the Waratahs showed up with some solid displays, but their inconsistency also produced some rotten showings. They finished their Super Rugby AU challenge in fourth spot with four victories and four losses. 

This year will be about finding a level of consistency, but that will be tricky with a very young squad.

The Waratahs will have another year of rebuild with their squad filled with very talented youth players. 

Flyhalf, Will Harrison was the find of the season in 2020. He will want to show further improvement as he pushes for international honours.

The experience and quality of the versatile Jack Maddocks will be crucial to the Tahs’ keeping their head above water. 

The biggest loss for the Waratahs is long time captain, Michael Hooper. They will miss his leadership badly.