The Halfway Stage | Pick & Go 2026 | Episode 9
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In this episode of the Pick & Go Rugby Podcast, hosts Paulie and Steve Devine dive into the halfway stage of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, reflecting on last week’s action and previewing a full slate of high-stakes matchups. The duo finalize their 'Pick & Go All Black Team of the Season' for the first test, selecting Bowden Barrett at fly-half, Cam Roygaard at scrum-half, Peter Larkai at number eight, Artie Savia at number seven, and Finau at number six—highlighting the need for physicality and structure in the loose forward trio. They celebrate standout performances, including Cody Taylor’s four-try haul in the Crusaders’ emotional farewell to Apollo Project Stadium and the Western Force’s dominant 42-19 win over the Reds, where Argentinian lock Molina scored a hat-trick. The hosts also engage in a fun 'UFC to Rugby' fantasy, imagining fighters like Carlos Olberg and John Jones as rugby players, with Jones fitting perfectly as a fearsome number six. Betting insights follow, with Steve confidently backing the Crusaders at $1.50 against the Reds, while Paulie leans into the Blues’ structural discipline against the Hurricanes. The episode closes with a lighthearted exchange about weather, fishing plans, and the ever-present hope of a $21 draw bet coming through.
The Western Force’s structural dominance up front was key to their 42-19 win over the Reds, with lock Molina scoring a hat-trick.
Cody Taylor’s 150th match was marked by four tries—unprecedented for a hooker—and a dominant Crusaders performance.
Steve Devine picks the Crusaders to win both halves against the Reds at $2.90, citing their forward power and emotional momentum.
The Blues’ ability to hold structure may be the only way to challenge the Hurricanes, who are favorites despite their recent struggles.
A $21 draw bet on Fijian Drua vs. Western Force is the episode’s most daring prediction, reflecting confidence in the Force’s resilience.
Welcome Back & Team of the Season Draft
Hosts kick off the episode with a warm welcome, noting Periwipu’s absence and introducing Steve Devine. They begin drafting the Pick & Go All Black team of the season, starting with the fly-half and scrum-half positions, with Bowden Barrett and Cam Roygaard selected as clear choices.
Loose Forward Trio & Key Performances
“Cody Taylor's two of them were from the back of a rolling more. So let's be honest, he didn't have to do a lot of work.”
UFC to Rugby Fantasy & Betting Insights
“I think the force sort of showed everyone else how you go about taking on the Reds. And they did, and they powered up the middle at times there.”
Weekend Matchup Preview & Odds Analysis
The hosts preview the full round of Super Rugby Pacific games, analyzing key matchups like the Highlanders vs. Brumbies, Chiefs vs. Moana Pacifica, and the Blues vs. Hurricanes. They emphasize the importance of structure, momentum, and home advantage.
Betting Round & Final Predictions
“If I get this draw home, mate, you'll see money suit. You'll probably see me on the news before you see me on this show next week.”
“If I get this draw home, mate, you'll see money suit. You'll probably see me on the news before you see me on this show next week.”
“I think the Crusaders will be just too big and too strong up front and at $1.50, I think that's some pretty good value there.”
“I think the force sort of showed everyone else how you go about taking on the Reds. And they did, and they powered up the middle at times there.”
Host
Guest
Steve Devine
person
Paulie
person
Crusaders
other
Western Force
other
Blues
other
Cody Taylor
person
Reds
other
Bowden Barrett
person
Hurricanes
other
Cam Roygaard
person
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