Wellington vs Waikato Predictions - Wellington can cover handicap in NPC semi-final

The last three encounters between these sides have all gone the way of Wellington.

Wellington came into the 2024 season as favourites to claim the NPC crown and they have remained that way throughout. While the season has seen some inconsistent performances from Wellington, they do generally do just enough to get over the line.

With eight wins in 10 matches, Wellington will be confident they can reach the final, particularly at home. Both of their defeats – against Counties Manukau and Tasman – have come away from home.

Last week, in the quarter-final, Wellington wasn’t at their best, but were always a gear up on Counties Manukau, winning the match 29-14.

Wellington were a bit rusty last week with some international players back at their disposal. While there may be a change or two, no significant changes are expected.

Waikato have been one the tougher sides to read this season, mostly due to their very inconsistent form. They are brilliant one week, and horrid the next and thus only finished seventh with five wins and five defeats.

In a superb quarter-final last Saturday, Waikato caused a major upset, beating the defending champions, Taranaki 15-14 away from home. It was not the result many expected against a Taranaki side that, along with Wellington, were favourites to win the title.

Waikato won a grueling game last weekend, both physically and emotionally. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a few changes made for this match.