Heineken Cup Semi-finals

It was a mixed weekend for us in the Heineken Cup with some upsets, notably Munster losing to Leinster, costing us a few quid.
Luckily, the Super 14 rugby in the southern hemisphere saved us with the Waratahs winning a close battle against the Cheetahs.

What a weekend of rugby for us to watch. I shall only be a spectator for the Super 14 games although I am tempted to just back the Brumbies against the Reds. However, the main draw of the weekend is closer to home with the Heineken Cup semi-finals. I shall definitely be punting and trading hard for this one!

Saturday, Sky Sports, 5.30pm

Munster vs Leinster

Can Leinster really match up against the best team in the competition? Well, yes they can but that is probably not the way to bet. I am a massive supporter of Munster, they are grizzled winners and squeeze games till they bleed in their favour.

These two met in the Magners League in April and it was a comprehensive win for Munster 22-5. Ronan O’Gara kicked superbly while Felipe Contepomi had a shocker, missing 11 points and stuttering in attack. This game should be similar.

Back Munster straight at 4/5 for the tournament. It is better value than just the 4/11 for this match.

Sunday, 3pm

Cardiff Blues vs Leicester Tigers

I have a fear about Cardiff and it is that some of their forwards, especially Andy Powell, have started to tire. I really have no idea who wins this game. Both sides are in excellent form, have plenty of thrust in both the forwards and backs and are desperate in their intensity.

The bookies are telling us to trade as they have priced up the sides 5/6 and 5/4 making the Blues slight favourites courtesy of home field advantage.

This is simple for me. I will watch the first 15 minutes or so and then if both sides are remaining competitive I shall trade at around 1.7 to evens for one side hoping to build up a decent green-green position.

Super 14 Rugby

Friday, Sky Sports, 4pm

I wasn’t going to play this but I have to back the Waratahs against the very weak Cheetahs.

The South African franchise have only won 2 games all year and Waratahs need a win for any chance of a play-off. I am backing them at 8/11 but small.