When I first heard about the whole conference system for Super rugby, the jury was out. I thought to myself, lets give it a try and see how it goes. Now i know, i dont like this extended Air New Zealand Cup/Currie Cup/Aussie derby thing. In as much as logistically and financially it makes sense but I am now more convinced more than before that the Super Rugby needs to be whittled down to 12 teams again. Which will be a bit tough because there are some quality players sprinkled in the struggling teams. I think OZ can only realistically field a maximum of 3 competitive teams. SA struggles with 2 of its teams as well. Cheetahs have however been competitive, great spectacle of a game on saturday, bummed for them that they lost, but chuffed for the Canes that they won.
South Africa
I think the coach and the powers that be's insistance on giving national contracts to selected 'key' Springbok players wasnt the smartest idea. Players such as Victor, Pierre, Bryan and John have been average at best, actually thats very flattering, they have been pi ss poor. Victor's deficiency as a captain is clear for all to see especially when his team is behind on the score board. These players are/were great players, and there is no denying their effort, but lets be honest they are toilet at the moment and there are players playing a whole lot better than they are, Andies, Alberts(even if he isnt playing at 8), Bjorn and Bismark are in some of the best form I have seen them in. What message does it send to players that are on form and delivering?
The Bulls are as usual playing to their strengths but currently their strength is pretty weak. The bully boy up and under tactics that they have employed so well over the past few years once again has been ineffective because its easy to defend against and also for it to be effective, it has to be executed precisely and the opposition hasnt allowed them to play their game. But then again we all know that the Bulls dont travel well historically, so they can still turn their season around. We all know how hard they are to play at Loftus, but they have to develop a game plan thats more than bash bash up and under!
The Stormers learnt against the Reds that in as much as you can win games through defending, but one also needs to score tries to ensure you win games. And the Stormers can.The best centre combination in the country if not the world, enthusiastic and exciting backs in De Jongh, Aplon Duvenhage, forwards with flair and grit who lay a perfect platform for the backs to shine...there is no reason for them not to be scoring tries.
The Sharks are currently, in my view of course, SA's most balanced side. Alberts and Bissie are styling at the moment. The backs arent rockstars but they are very good at what they do and they work as a unit. the whole team works for each other and thats the best kind of team to be a part of. They have the right attitude on defence and attack.
The Lions, shame my Lions!! Depth was always going to be an issue for them, one or 2 critical injuries and its game over. I like what Mitch is doing with them though but the lack of depth and experience as well as the playing style being foreign to some of the players is hamstringing them. I do however believe that they should stick to their plan and keep at it because they can only get better and benefit from it in the next year or 2.
Cheetahs, another team i enjoy watching. Just because of their heart and their never say die attitude. Sarel Pretorius, any other country and he would be penned in for national honours. They are a great provincial side though, but i dont think they will ever challenge for the Super rugby title. But they do entertain.
Australia
Reds are definiitely the pace setters in this conference. Not just any team comes here beats the Stormers, fly back to Oz and beat the former champions. I dont want to hear any stories about travel and jetlag. Because the Reds didnt show any sign of that. I guess they are team that is just enjoying their rugby without any national expectation of success and they are playing some good football. What they have done is shored up their tight 5, they have a very large yet skillful loose forward trio. Genia and Quade are styling, they have their grove back. Good centres fast and skillfull back 3. And the big plus for them is they have built a squad that is deep. Unlike previous years, one or 2 injuries and its game over.
Warratahs
They have had some injuries which has slowed them down. They have also realised that Al Baxter is a liability come scrum time. Barnes' absence has been felt. Even though Beale has stood in well, his explosiveness from the back has been missing. The Warratahs have a good side. In my mind Australia's most balanced side with true grit which comes from the hard-nosed never say die, combative personified through their leader Waugh.
Brumbies
A perfect example of what too much player power does to a team. at the beginning of the season i thought they would be up there, but they look to have lost their way. They, dont seem to be the Brumbies team of old. And now that Adam Ash is leaving they are benching him, i mean wow, you bench one of the star performers for the Wallabies the season before? Think this season is dead for them.
Force
They have a few gems, but this season will be more of the same, bottom half of the table finish
Rebels
Also, a new side, some good experienced players, not a team to be taken lightly but their season will end in the basement half of the log as well
New Zealand
Highlanders
Perfect example of bringing together a group of able and willing people, letting them buy into a concept and then going out there and delivering on the park. Look at that side, not one single superstar. All guys that are there or thereabouts, but their results and their enthusiasm when they are playing is providing some pretty decent results. They are making themselves superstars. Adam Thomson, definitely breaking down the door to AB selection. BIg Jamie Mc is leading the team well. Jason Rutledge is shining more than his bald head. Loose trio on song. Jimmy is playing well so too his deputy...they dont have a settled flyhalf and bummed for Colin breaking his jaw again but whoever they put in 10 isnt deficient at all. They just have a solid side, a proper example of the whole being better than the sum of the parts. Everyone is waiting for their bubble to burst, but i am not too sure it will come. looking forward to their game against the Saders this weekend.
Saders
Speaking of which. They lost their first game, lost their home stadium, drew their next game, yet look at them. Table topping, playing some silly football. Class act. and all this without Captain my Captain Richie and the general DC. it must be allowing some of the die hard AB fans at least some sleep at night to know it is possible to win without DC and Richie. I mean the Saders v Bulls last week was largely the ABs v Boks and we know the result...They have superstars, but they have a system that the players adhere to. Matt Todd, Read...forwards bombastic, then the backs superstar galore Ellis, DC, SBW Robbie, Maitland, Zac, Dagg, i mean you would have to be a random team not to be winning :)
Blues
yaay my Blues are finally showing some sort of consistency which isnt consistently being inconsistent :) Its a little early to start speaking i know because things could easily regress (yes i of little faith) but i am enjoying the way they are playing. They have always had the players, but just their insistence on running everything from everywhere was killing me, because a knock on here, turnover there and game gone! but they seem to be reading the game a whole lot at the moment. I like Benson Stanley, but Matthewson, Brett, Luke and Jarred are on song, at the moment, playing some good football. Jarred Payne in my view is one of the most underrated rugby players in NZ and its a pity he is heading off to Ireland. the Iceman is firing hard. Running meters, tacklles made, kicking, tackle busts etc. He is justifying the faith the 3 wise men have placed in him.
Canes and Chiefs
I will lumpm them together because they both just bore me at the moment. So much potential, talent etc and what do they deliver? There are a few rising starts though, Vito is playing some good rugby but I am liking the look of Jack Lam of the Canes. Hosea, still has it, Andre Taylor is one for the future. Ma' a seems to be going into his shell a little which is sad because i wanted him to be on top of his game to give SBW a run for his money, btu i guess the early disciplinary issues are weighing him down some. The Chiefs, nah man, thats all i can say, there are no positives i can find for their performance, other than next year (if it comes ;)) is another year, because i dont know and its not like they dont have the players!
Upcoming games of interest
I have this feeling that the Blues might under-estimate the Rebels and they could upset them at home this weekend but i am trying not to think about that though. The 3 games of interest for me this weekend are:
1. Highlanders v Saders - This is a true test of where the Highlanders really are. I am sure the odds are stacked highly in the Saders favour, but I think it will be tougher than most people think, well i hope it is. I like where the Landers are heading with their style of play and as a team, but a big loss could break them a little, because in as much as they say they are grounded, its pretty hard not to believe the hype. It will be an evenly matched contest upfront, i would even go as far as suggesting that the landers may win the arm wrestle up front, but out back now thats where the chasm will be. 10-15 all Saders if i had to pick a fantasy team from the 2 teams. My call would be shoo i honestly dont know, head says Saders, but gut is saying nah man there is something about this Landers team, but thats the kind of game i enjoy watching.
2. Reds v Tahs - Reds want to make the statement of we are here, Tahs want to let the Reds know who is the real boss! Very interesting tie it could be, hopefully not a boring 3-3 affair. These games tend to be a bit of an arm wrestle, but i doubt it will be this year with the players on display, Genia, Cooper, Higginbottam, Ioane, Harris, Davies, Beale, Mitchell, Turner, Burgess...Hoping the exciting Reds prevail, but if Phil Waugh is back look out Reds.
3. Force v Bulls - not in so much as the spectacle it could be, but the mental resolve of the Bulls, because they are up against it now and they have to win. The Force on the other hand want to continue their winning ways...at home nogals. it will be a niggly affair. Bulls have lost to the Force before. I see more of the same from the Bulls, forwards to set up a platform for the backs to kick up and unders :)
Ok tired of writing
Take care
Y
Monday, April 18, 2011
Friday, April 1, 2011
Super rugby - week 7
What a weekend of rugby last weekend was ey....had the Hurricanes blowing themselves off the field, had the Stormers scoring tries and then the Crusaders having one of the most clinically freakish halves of rugby I have ever viewed!
Good morning all,
Let me start off with a gripe quickly. I just watched Boots and All and the way the guys are going on about that SBW attempted tackle...i shake my head! They compared that incident to Bakkies cleaning out of Duvenhage the week before. Guys please!!! cant even compare those 2 incidents. Had he been cited I would have not batted an eye lid because yes he lead with a shoulder but replays show that his left arm was around Kanko's body, but his right arm was not. The incident was made worse by the fact that DC had him low. BUT its in no way comparable to the tackle on Dewald, its a good thing that guy is fit because he was in a headlock and dropped onto the ground with Bakkies 110kg odd frame right on top of him, that my friends is career ending stuff!! But its funny how no one is saying anything about Kegan Daniels in minute 71odd drops the ball and then leads in with his elbow into Kahn Fotuali's throat? but alas, lets not split hairs here.
I wont go into all the individual games from the week before. I will just talk about the Saders game quickly. I havent been the biggest fan of this SBW hype, he is a good player and he has plenty potential. He his big, strong, fast and direct and that miracle offload sets him apart from his peers, but as i have said before his long game...eish ek weet nie!! but what he has going for him is DC on his inside and Freuan on his outside. On Sunday DC had one of his best games in any jersey. DC looks like he just plays within himself a lot but on sunday he was keen to do everything, kick, run, distribute, he helped SBW's game plenty. The Sharks came in for much stick that game especially John Smit, but people, Jannie was popped alot. the Saders 8 were better than the Sharks 8 thats that. It wasnt John's fault to be honest i think Jannie is a liability as a scrumager too. A lot of people were on Kanko and Keegans case as well, but in my mind they were the Sharks most creative players, they soldiered on valiantly the whole game and i think its largely because of their attitude the sharks were able to make a game of it. it was a very entertaining game because the ground was firm, the teams had the right attitude and the ref was anonymous (he let a lot go both ways, but it made for a good spectacle.
This weekends games
Landers v Brumbies
Looking forward to Colin's first game back. Landers have come back from a weekend off, hopefully refreshed but with the same intensity from the first few weeks. Brumbies are misfiring and need a big game. This is a good test of where both teams are...Brumbies if they are title contenders or Highlanders if they really have turned the corner or if the first few weeks were a flash in the pan. Calling the Highlanders, because they are at home and i think as a unit they are a better prospect
Tahs v Chiefs
Chiefs are due a big game. They arent playing at home. They are generally better away from home as well. Tahs have got a new flyhalf in Beale. Not the best defender as the first line of defence. So watch the loosies attack his channel. Tahs have Waugh back and he will be annoying. Both teams need this game to get their season on track. I think the Chiefs need it more desperately but will they play as such. My heart thinks the Chiefs will pitch up but my head eish she says its going to be the more of the same erratic stuff from the CHiefs
Blues v Cheetahs
Blues unless they loose their mind again like they can
Canes v Bulls
Bulls need this game, Canes even more. Canes are at home, Bulls dont travel too well. Canes should sneak in
Force v Rebels
who cares?? But i will say Force
Lions v Reds
Oh my dear Lions why have you forsaken me?? So much promise but more of the same it seems. I know they dont have the players but what i like about Mitch is unlike PdV, he is convinced the players will be able to play this expansive game he wants them to play. Doppies taking over as captain shouldnt disturb them too much, they seem to be a unit that works for and supports each other. The Reds are looking hot at the moment, but its the Highveld. they have just travelled far. They have a good coach that will keep them focused. they have a good forward pack and an explosive backline as was evidenced last weekend. heart Lions, but everything else in the universe says Reds, in Superbru, went with heart, hoping but i know the Reds will take it.
Sharks v Stormers
game of the weekend! Duane v Kanko, pity Lambie isnt playling cos i was looking forward to him v Grant. In my mind Peter Grant is currently SA's best flyhalf by a long way. he just seems so composed. He has the best kicking record of all the flyhalves (why do you need Morne) he can tackle (why do you need Morne) gets his backs moving, passes....etc!! I think the Sharks forwards wont be as poor as they were last week. but the Stormers have a great unit. so it will be a good scrap up front. Backs the Stormers are a muuuuch better unit than the Sharks, from 9-10 and 12-15 :) man for man you would pick the Stormers players over the Sharks. Stormers have the best defence of all the teams. They can def score tries, they have everything going for them. The Sharks have travelled far, come home, flown to London, come back. They are tired. but they lost 2 games and they are home they will get up for this, they will win
Happy viewing
Y
Good morning all,
Let me start off with a gripe quickly. I just watched Boots and All and the way the guys are going on about that SBW attempted tackle...i shake my head! They compared that incident to Bakkies cleaning out of Duvenhage the week before. Guys please!!! cant even compare those 2 incidents. Had he been cited I would have not batted an eye lid because yes he lead with a shoulder but replays show that his left arm was around Kanko's body, but his right arm was not. The incident was made worse by the fact that DC had him low. BUT its in no way comparable to the tackle on Dewald, its a good thing that guy is fit because he was in a headlock and dropped onto the ground with Bakkies 110kg odd frame right on top of him, that my friends is career ending stuff!! But its funny how no one is saying anything about Kegan Daniels in minute 71odd drops the ball and then leads in with his elbow into Kahn Fotuali's throat? but alas, lets not split hairs here.
I wont go into all the individual games from the week before. I will just talk about the Saders game quickly. I havent been the biggest fan of this SBW hype, he is a good player and he has plenty potential. He his big, strong, fast and direct and that miracle offload sets him apart from his peers, but as i have said before his long game...eish ek weet nie!! but what he has going for him is DC on his inside and Freuan on his outside. On Sunday DC had one of his best games in any jersey. DC looks like he just plays within himself a lot but on sunday he was keen to do everything, kick, run, distribute, he helped SBW's game plenty. The Sharks came in for much stick that game especially John Smit, but people, Jannie was popped alot. the Saders 8 were better than the Sharks 8 thats that. It wasnt John's fault to be honest i think Jannie is a liability as a scrumager too. A lot of people were on Kanko and Keegans case as well, but in my mind they were the Sharks most creative players, they soldiered on valiantly the whole game and i think its largely because of their attitude the sharks were able to make a game of it. it was a very entertaining game because the ground was firm, the teams had the right attitude and the ref was anonymous (he let a lot go both ways, but it made for a good spectacle.
This weekends games
Landers v Brumbies
Looking forward to Colin's first game back. Landers have come back from a weekend off, hopefully refreshed but with the same intensity from the first few weeks. Brumbies are misfiring and need a big game. This is a good test of where both teams are...Brumbies if they are title contenders or Highlanders if they really have turned the corner or if the first few weeks were a flash in the pan. Calling the Highlanders, because they are at home and i think as a unit they are a better prospect
Tahs v Chiefs
Chiefs are due a big game. They arent playing at home. They are generally better away from home as well. Tahs have got a new flyhalf in Beale. Not the best defender as the first line of defence. So watch the loosies attack his channel. Tahs have Waugh back and he will be annoying. Both teams need this game to get their season on track. I think the Chiefs need it more desperately but will they play as such. My heart thinks the Chiefs will pitch up but my head eish she says its going to be the more of the same erratic stuff from the CHiefs
Blues v Cheetahs
Blues unless they loose their mind again like they can
Canes v Bulls
Bulls need this game, Canes even more. Canes are at home, Bulls dont travel too well. Canes should sneak in
Force v Rebels
who cares?? But i will say Force
Lions v Reds
Oh my dear Lions why have you forsaken me?? So much promise but more of the same it seems. I know they dont have the players but what i like about Mitch is unlike PdV, he is convinced the players will be able to play this expansive game he wants them to play. Doppies taking over as captain shouldnt disturb them too much, they seem to be a unit that works for and supports each other. The Reds are looking hot at the moment, but its the Highveld. they have just travelled far. They have a good coach that will keep them focused. they have a good forward pack and an explosive backline as was evidenced last weekend. heart Lions, but everything else in the universe says Reds, in Superbru, went with heart, hoping but i know the Reds will take it.
Sharks v Stormers
game of the weekend! Duane v Kanko, pity Lambie isnt playling cos i was looking forward to him v Grant. In my mind Peter Grant is currently SA's best flyhalf by a long way. he just seems so composed. He has the best kicking record of all the flyhalves (why do you need Morne) he can tackle (why do you need Morne) gets his backs moving, passes....etc!! I think the Sharks forwards wont be as poor as they were last week. but the Stormers have a great unit. so it will be a good scrap up front. Backs the Stormers are a muuuuch better unit than the Sharks, from 9-10 and 12-15 :) man for man you would pick the Stormers players over the Sharks. Stormers have the best defence of all the teams. They can def score tries, they have everything going for them. The Sharks have travelled far, come home, flown to London, come back. They are tired. but they lost 2 games and they are home they will get up for this, they will win
Happy viewing
Y
Friday, March 11, 2011
Well howdee ho people!
Good weekend of rugby, missed most of the games live but thanks to PVR and BBM Forums where i was getting regular updates of the Lions v Blues game :)
Interesting round it was. The Crusaders started off as was expected very flat and not there, but with a little help from the ref who kept them in the game through DC's boot. the Tahs were lucky in the lead up to Burgess' try because Turner picked up the ball from an offsides position but ey i guess you win some you lose some. The first 25 minutes or so was all the Tahs, Crusaders passes were going astray. I have always said SBW's long game is a little suspect but his short game...wow. As i have said before, I am not sure he deserves the hype he is getting at the moment (not that he is asking for it) potential...plenty and i would rather have him on my side than against me, but i believe Fruean is a more complete footballer at the moment as too is Treeby of the Highlanders, Luke McAlistar even Tana in his young age :). The SBW and Fruean combo in midfield will terrorise many a opposition. Matt Todd was another who impressed me, boy is fast, low and hard! Pity he has Richie in front of him because he is a talent. For the Tahs Halangahu was a joke at 10, their scrum was properly schooled. It was quite sad to see the front runners in the tournament look so ordinary.
Lions v Blues, The Lions are due a win i have been saying this for the last 2 weekends, didnt want their win to come last weekend though because you all know the French-like(unpredictable) Blues have been my side since Super Rugby began. I know a lot of you dont believe Jantjes has what it takes to be at the top level, but he did a lot of things right particularly in the first half his kicking was good too this week. He is small yes, but so too is o'Connor and look at how he turned out. I think he will get there if he believes in himself and in Carlos and Mitch he has 2 mentors that will help him with that. I like Doppies, i know many people dont like him but he had a pretty good game last weekend and Waylon is looking like the player he once was at the Sharks. Their loose forwards Whitely and Strauss in particular are pretty darn good, tackling, running and just being there all the time and well done to Bandise for moving over. I think they did enough to win that game, but there was one master stroke that swung it in the Blues favour. The use of hungry youngsters first and then the old heads in the last 20 or so minutes. A player who has really impressed me for the Blues is Jared Payne. Payno's linking with Rooster Ranger just like they do in Northland is sublime. Its also pleasing to see Isaiah and Joe playing some good footy. Welcome back Luke 10 or 12 you just keep playing like you did young man.
Wasnt it good to see the old man Tana turning back the clock. The Chiefs showed glimpses of how good they could be. Nanai Williams, Masaga and Sivivatu can you ask for a more potent back 3? I like Donald but i would prefer Delaney at the moment as well as kerr-Barlow at no 9. The Rebels will be a good side i honestly believe it. They just need more time together and get the trust going on defence, because they looked out of sorts on the weekend.
Other than what i saw on SSBlitz, i didnt catch any of the Brumbies Reds game, but how does a team score 4 tries to 1 and lose?? yes they infringed in the killzone, but i dont know so much ey?!
Sharks are looking the business. Loving their forwards but i still think Bismarck and his brother are liabilities. Dr Du Plessis telling Pocock i am going to break your neck, i mean really? but that aside, the Forces over physicality was unnecessary. I think out of all the South African teams they have the most balanced loose trio. Alberts the bruiser flanked by Kanko and Keegans flair and open play. Their tight five sets the platform up front and provides go forward ball which makes Mcloeds job so much easier and makes Lambie shine like he is. the centres are random and the back 3 able, but their game is won up front. it will be interesting to see when they come up against a pack that is equally physical and doesnt make mistakes like the Blues.
Stormers v Cheetahs - U S E L E S S game!
Then there was the biggest upset of the weekend. Well, i was having a conversation with a mate of mine before i wrote the blog saying that i wasnt too convinced that the Bulls will win, because if their pack is matched they are clueless (highlanders showed it last year) but then i thought about it, long travel, they were playing at the NG Kerk, even though the Bulls have been poor thus far, their first home game would g them up and the no name brand Highlanders would try hard but may just fall short...how wrong was i and the rest of the world!! bigup to them!! The Bulls are soo predictable! Stegman, I cant believe someone pays him money?!! he is foolish! another useless guy is meisie kind, really had he passed the ball in the last movement, they could have had a draw, not that they deserved it. For the Highlanders, Sean Treeby, Adam Thomson, Kade Poki, Jamie Mackintosh have been absolutely superb, but the whole team is just special. Everyone is waiting for the rising rollercoaster to fall, but hopefully they prove their doubters wrong and keep pulling off such great performances! Jamie Mackintosh got away with murder when he knocked the ball out of FdP's hand, but all in all i think the refs had shockers throughout the weekend. Jonathan Kaplan was poor, Pollock was random and so too Stuey!
This weekends games
Crusaders v Brumbies, looking forward the the centre matchup between SBW & Robbie against Coleman and Adam Ash, brawn v fleet footedness. DC against Gits Crusaders pack v Brumbies pack. this will be the decider. If the saders bully the Brumbies pack like they did the Tahs, its going to be a tough night out for the Brumbies. I will go with the home team for this one, but it wont be as easy as many think.
Rebels v Sharks, big games from Bismarck, Alberts, Lambie and Mvovo. Rebels will be up for this game. morts will have one of his better games. In the past he has been a player who rises to a challenge and playing against the Sharks is a bigger challenge i am sure than playing the Chiefs, no disrespect to the Chiefs but they have been perenial under-performers over the last few years. If Morts gets charged, look out for Cipriani and Shepard alongside and behind him. Once again its up front that the game will be decided and the signs show that it will be Sharks 6 Rebels 0.
Stormers v Highlanders...Stormers will up their game, they have to because they have stolen 2 wins so far and they know it. But i guess its against the Lions and the Cheetahs, 2 of South Africas weaker franchises, so i am sure it was hard for them to get up for the games. Ordinarily this would be another game they woudl take lightly but alas the Highlanders are topping the NZ conference and have taken the scalp of the much vaunted Bulls team. If you had to compare the teams man for man, i am sure 85% would favour the Stormers players. The only Highlanders players that would make it would possibly be Mackintosh, Rutledge, Thomson, Cowan and Poki. But there is very little substitute for heart and hard hard work. Its a tough call. If the Highlanders havent been caught up in the euphoria of their win last weekend and if they arent too tired, they will be very competitive. i dont see the Stormers being as poor as they have been. They have brought in Duvenhage and Gio so quick ball and fleet footedness. Its a tough call and even though the Stormers are at home i am going to go with my gut which i didnt last weekend and i will call the Highlanders
Force v Blues, please oh please Blues break this win lose win lose pattern they have developed. its a bit of a tough draw for them ey, come here play sharks, then up to the highveld and play the Lions, then off to Perth to play the Force...yikes. Man for man the Blues are a stronger side, i dont think even one Force team would make it if a comparison of the 2 teams was performed. but there is a long travel to take into consideration. There is the history of the Blues to consider. But the Blues have what it takes. Strike power out back, a near AB pack and a very competent bench. Logic says Blues by a few, but lets see
Cheetahs v Lions, hoping this is an entertaining game. both teams like to give the ball air. both teams are vying for their first win. I am calling the Lions on this based on the fact that they should have won the first 3 games they have played after being ahead in all of them in the closing stages. Lions by a few. Only derby of the weekend so plenty skop skiet and donder...lekker
Happy viewing
Friday, March 4, 2011
Super rugby week 3
Hey guys and gals
A tad late this week. Last weekend was absolutely shocking for me with my Super Bru picks. Totally got the games wrong, not by much except the Sharks v Blues game which i was way off. Once again it was only the Warratahs that managed a 4 try win. They really do look like the team to beat in their conference, only team showing some sort of consistency and ability. The others Reds, Brumbies and Rebels have been poor to say the least. In the other conferences, the most impressive team in South Africa at the moment for me is the Sharks, the brand of rugby they are playing with a bunch of no names, their desire on defence and their belief in their ability, which was very evident in the last few minutes of their game against the Stormers where they built phase upon phase, worked their way upfield but unfortunately were unable to capitalise...story of their season thus far. In NZ, the conference leaders the Highlanders are the form side without a doubt, they are exactly the same as the Lions in SA, loads of heart and execution and they play as a team. Its early days yet, but they are looking hot, their only achilles heel is their lack of depth. One or 2 more injuries and they are done. they are now importing 36 year old journeymen to plug their flyhalf berth!
Disappointments for me thus far are the Blues, Reds and the Chiefs. All three teams promise so much but yet deliver such random pot shots. I am a Blues fan, always been, but their inconsistency drives me insane. if you look at the calibre of player they have on that field, i mean the run on pack it was only Lowrey who wasnt/hasnt an All black. In the backline Stephen Brett and Jarred Payne so out of the run on 15...13 past or present All Blacks, but the inconsistency of their performances kills me. Yes they tried, but losers try...It wasnt because they were pummeled by a better team, no no, they beat themselves, handling errors, yes the weather was shoddy, but there were 2 teams playing in the same conditions so i cant understand. And then the Reds, the Quade Cooper step and flair has been nowhere, thats because Will Genia hasnt got much quality ball and thats because the forwards have been under the pump hard! We all know the game is won or lost upfront. Also whats happening now is that defences are closing down Quade, so none of that razzle dazzle stuff. The Chiefs...i say no more, just shake my head, thats all. S M H!!!
This weekends games. Big respect to the Highlanders for turning over the the Chiefs, no one gave them much of a chance but they gave themselves plenty. Jamie Makintosh seemed properly injured and he soldiered on, Adam Thompson, fell on his head, but he shook it off and soldiered on! They believe in their coach and each other and it shows. They were good value for their win.
The Brumbies, i am not in that team environment, but they seem like a bunch of prima-donnas, this is the second time they have had a big fall out with their coaching staff. Think the first was Nucifora. Anyway i am glad the Rebels got their first win. JK did help them though because that penalty was a joke at best, but so too was their missed forward pass that lead to the Brumbies last try. Hope it gives their season some momentum because the Oz conference games are sooo pap, they dont have the intensity of the SA or NZ ones. I think its a ploy from the Australians to nulify the treats posed by the Boks and All Blacks come Tri Nations and All Blacks come world cup and then all they have to do is waltz through the Northern hemisphere teams and the Pacific Islanders.
My 2 favourite games of the weekend was between the Bulls and Cheetahs and Stormers and Lions. Both my teams lost though, but alas, they were very competitive games. The Cheetahs should have closed the game down. Pity they have lost Juan Smith, but liked Ashley Johnson, always have, he is hard, fast and hardworking. He needs some refinement, but i would even go as far as saying i rate him over Pierre Spies...currently. I know he is SA's points machine, but sheesh Morne Steyn is arb! Sideshow Bob (Zane) on the other hand has been having a good season though, i like the way he joins the line, his defence and at most times his positional play. The Bulls should have been dead and burried, but i guess a sign of a champion side is their ability to find that last push when all seems lost. The Lions, the Lions the Lions, second weekend where they have snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. how many points were left on the field? kicking for posts was woeful, but other than that, it was such a polished performance by them. Its only a matter of time they get a win...i really hope its not this weekend though :) but i am loving the Lions.
This weekend
We see the Saders against the Tahs, i have already seen this game and I called the Saders by a few, didnt think they would win by so much. Granted the ref helped them out with a few gimme penalties in the first 15 min. I just knew they would rally to give the people back in ChCh something to smile about
Lions v Blues
I am very worried about this game. i am loving the Lions brand of rugby and the team, i mean Carlos is their assistant coach and if you know me you know Carlos and the Blues are my guys :) but, first things first. The Blues need this win...so too the Lions. The Blues have made some big changes for this game. looking forward to seeing mr unlucky Luke McAlistar starting his first game of the season. I think he is the best understudy to DC in NZ (if he can stay injury free) well him and Colin Slade. they have given a whole name of no names a start, look out for Sherwin Stowers, if he gets good ball in space, watch out. The coaching staff is smart. The travel and altitude has meant that they have put their big guns on the bench for a little bit of impact come minute 60 or so, lets hope they dont have to come on earlier because the guys are struggling. It will be a good game. weather in Jozi is conducive for good running rugby and both teams want to run. Watch the Lions try and move the Blues around to test out their lungs. Blues by just a few
Chiefs v Rebels
In an ideal world, i would call Chiefs, no problems, but eish this Chiefs team. I see Tana is back pity not at 13 against Morts. I would have kept Delaney at 10 instead of Donald, because he had a good game. Would also have left Kerr-Barlow on at 9 as well he had a good game, kept the opposition guessing. Looking forward to Sivivatu scoring a few, cos he is in my fantasy league team :) The Rebels i dont know what to say about them. They are an efficient side, do the basics and have a good system. The kicking game seems to suit Cipriani well, but i want to see more of his passing game. Chiefs to take this one...we hope
Brumbies v Reds
Brumbies have a new coach in their defence coach. The Reds coming off a shocker last week. Both teams will be looking to put together a good spirited performance. I am just a little concerned that Quade will try and be an individual to try and get his no 10 jersey back and thus disadvantage his team. The Reds have some injuries notably Horwill and Heynes. Watch the Brumbies youngsters of Speight and Coleman. Gits is looking like his old self again in the no 10. Even though they had a bit of off field drama, i think they will get away here the Brumbies and they are at home.
Force v Sharks.
O'Connor v Lambie. I know the whole of SA loves Pat Lambie, i think he is good but i dont see him as being better than Jantjes. He has a more powerfull forward pack that gives his scrummy good ball thus he too gets good ball. His goal kicking is better than Jantjies' but a flyhalf is more than place kicks. As an overall player, O'Connor may have his number here, but i think that may be the only place the Sharks lose their pack is monstrous, too much mongrel upfront and bruisers in the loose trio. The travel may be a factor in the last 20 minutes or so, but then Plum will clear his bench and bring some Boks on and bye bye Force. It will be a close match on the scoreboard, but on the field i think the Sharks will dominate. Sharks to sneak home though.
Stormers v Cheetahs
Stormers would have gotten most of the cobwebs out of the system, and will be a better side this weekend. the Cheetahs will soldier on valiantly but in the end the princess will go home with the men in blue and white. I am looking forward to the game though. if there is no rain down in the Cape it should be another game with 2 willing parties who want to give the ball some air. The Stormers forward will however be too strong for the Cheetahs pack. Actually if you had to compare man for man, i cant think of a position where they Stormers will be worse than the Cheetahs. Stormers dont have Jacques, but as a creator i like Juan, so they havent lost too much. I know bok fans think Schalla is the bees knees, but i dont think his loss will be that greatly felt, they have Flouw, Plouw and Duane who did well for them last year! Cheetahs are without Juan, even though it didnt look like it last week, they have lost much....Stormers to blow my other SA side away... :(
Bulls v Highlanders
Could the Landers cause this weekends upset (if the Lions dont, but wait if the Lions win is it an upset? because a lot of people are saying that it is a possibility) anyway back to the Bulls. They have been pretty random till now BUUUUTTTT, they have still won both matches, away from fort Loftus nogal. Ok wait its not gonna happen for the Landers. I like the Highlanders plenty, love it when the underdog prospers, ala Ireland over England, but i think (hope not) that this will be a mountain too high. They have just made the long journey over here, playing at altitude, against a very efficient, yet boring Bulls side. This up and under story has to go really, i dont understand why they keep doing that??!! I am hoping for a Highlanders win but if i was betting id back the Bulls at fort Loftus.
How was the English win over the French last weekend? As arb as they English are they just seem to building themselves into competitive contention for the RWC 2011. I thought the French would roll them up in their rizzla and smoke them, but ey what do i know
Happy viewing people, thoughts still go out there to the people of Christchurch, hope this mornings win gives you guys all more strength!
Y
A tad late this week. Last weekend was absolutely shocking for me with my Super Bru picks. Totally got the games wrong, not by much except the Sharks v Blues game which i was way off. Once again it was only the Warratahs that managed a 4 try win. They really do look like the team to beat in their conference, only team showing some sort of consistency and ability. The others Reds, Brumbies and Rebels have been poor to say the least. In the other conferences, the most impressive team in South Africa at the moment for me is the Sharks, the brand of rugby they are playing with a bunch of no names, their desire on defence and their belief in their ability, which was very evident in the last few minutes of their game against the Stormers where they built phase upon phase, worked their way upfield but unfortunately were unable to capitalise...story of their season thus far. In NZ, the conference leaders the Highlanders are the form side without a doubt, they are exactly the same as the Lions in SA, loads of heart and execution and they play as a team. Its early days yet, but they are looking hot, their only achilles heel is their lack of depth. One or 2 more injuries and they are done. they are now importing 36 year old journeymen to plug their flyhalf berth!
Disappointments for me thus far are the Blues, Reds and the Chiefs. All three teams promise so much but yet deliver such random pot shots. I am a Blues fan, always been, but their inconsistency drives me insane. if you look at the calibre of player they have on that field, i mean the run on pack it was only Lowrey who wasnt/hasnt an All black. In the backline Stephen Brett and Jarred Payne so out of the run on 15...13 past or present All Blacks, but the inconsistency of their performances kills me. Yes they tried, but losers try...It wasnt because they were pummeled by a better team, no no, they beat themselves, handling errors, yes the weather was shoddy, but there were 2 teams playing in the same conditions so i cant understand. And then the Reds, the Quade Cooper step and flair has been nowhere, thats because Will Genia hasnt got much quality ball and thats because the forwards have been under the pump hard! We all know the game is won or lost upfront. Also whats happening now is that defences are closing down Quade, so none of that razzle dazzle stuff. The Chiefs...i say no more, just shake my head, thats all. S M H!!!
This weekends games. Big respect to the Highlanders for turning over the the Chiefs, no one gave them much of a chance but they gave themselves plenty. Jamie Makintosh seemed properly injured and he soldiered on, Adam Thompson, fell on his head, but he shook it off and soldiered on! They believe in their coach and each other and it shows. They were good value for their win.
The Brumbies, i am not in that team environment, but they seem like a bunch of prima-donnas, this is the second time they have had a big fall out with their coaching staff. Think the first was Nucifora. Anyway i am glad the Rebels got their first win. JK did help them though because that penalty was a joke at best, but so too was their missed forward pass that lead to the Brumbies last try. Hope it gives their season some momentum because the Oz conference games are sooo pap, they dont have the intensity of the SA or NZ ones. I think its a ploy from the Australians to nulify the treats posed by the Boks and All Blacks come Tri Nations and All Blacks come world cup and then all they have to do is waltz through the Northern hemisphere teams and the Pacific Islanders.
My 2 favourite games of the weekend was between the Bulls and Cheetahs and Stormers and Lions. Both my teams lost though, but alas, they were very competitive games. The Cheetahs should have closed the game down. Pity they have lost Juan Smith, but liked Ashley Johnson, always have, he is hard, fast and hardworking. He needs some refinement, but i would even go as far as saying i rate him over Pierre Spies...currently. I know he is SA's points machine, but sheesh Morne Steyn is arb! Sideshow Bob (Zane) on the other hand has been having a good season though, i like the way he joins the line, his defence and at most times his positional play. The Bulls should have been dead and burried, but i guess a sign of a champion side is their ability to find that last push when all seems lost. The Lions, the Lions the Lions, second weekend where they have snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. how many points were left on the field? kicking for posts was woeful, but other than that, it was such a polished performance by them. Its only a matter of time they get a win...i really hope its not this weekend though :) but i am loving the Lions.
This weekend
We see the Saders against the Tahs, i have already seen this game and I called the Saders by a few, didnt think they would win by so much. Granted the ref helped them out with a few gimme penalties in the first 15 min. I just knew they would rally to give the people back in ChCh something to smile about
Lions v Blues
I am very worried about this game. i am loving the Lions brand of rugby and the team, i mean Carlos is their assistant coach and if you know me you know Carlos and the Blues are my guys :) but, first things first. The Blues need this win...so too the Lions. The Blues have made some big changes for this game. looking forward to seeing mr unlucky Luke McAlistar starting his first game of the season. I think he is the best understudy to DC in NZ (if he can stay injury free) well him and Colin Slade. they have given a whole name of no names a start, look out for Sherwin Stowers, if he gets good ball in space, watch out. The coaching staff is smart. The travel and altitude has meant that they have put their big guns on the bench for a little bit of impact come minute 60 or so, lets hope they dont have to come on earlier because the guys are struggling. It will be a good game. weather in Jozi is conducive for good running rugby and both teams want to run. Watch the Lions try and move the Blues around to test out their lungs. Blues by just a few
Chiefs v Rebels
In an ideal world, i would call Chiefs, no problems, but eish this Chiefs team. I see Tana is back pity not at 13 against Morts. I would have kept Delaney at 10 instead of Donald, because he had a good game. Would also have left Kerr-Barlow on at 9 as well he had a good game, kept the opposition guessing. Looking forward to Sivivatu scoring a few, cos he is in my fantasy league team :) The Rebels i dont know what to say about them. They are an efficient side, do the basics and have a good system. The kicking game seems to suit Cipriani well, but i want to see more of his passing game. Chiefs to take this one...we hope
Brumbies v Reds
Brumbies have a new coach in their defence coach. The Reds coming off a shocker last week. Both teams will be looking to put together a good spirited performance. I am just a little concerned that Quade will try and be an individual to try and get his no 10 jersey back and thus disadvantage his team. The Reds have some injuries notably Horwill and Heynes. Watch the Brumbies youngsters of Speight and Coleman. Gits is looking like his old self again in the no 10. Even though they had a bit of off field drama, i think they will get away here the Brumbies and they are at home.
Force v Sharks.
O'Connor v Lambie. I know the whole of SA loves Pat Lambie, i think he is good but i dont see him as being better than Jantjes. He has a more powerfull forward pack that gives his scrummy good ball thus he too gets good ball. His goal kicking is better than Jantjies' but a flyhalf is more than place kicks. As an overall player, O'Connor may have his number here, but i think that may be the only place the Sharks lose their pack is monstrous, too much mongrel upfront and bruisers in the loose trio. The travel may be a factor in the last 20 minutes or so, but then Plum will clear his bench and bring some Boks on and bye bye Force. It will be a close match on the scoreboard, but on the field i think the Sharks will dominate. Sharks to sneak home though.
Stormers v Cheetahs
Stormers would have gotten most of the cobwebs out of the system, and will be a better side this weekend. the Cheetahs will soldier on valiantly but in the end the princess will go home with the men in blue and white. I am looking forward to the game though. if there is no rain down in the Cape it should be another game with 2 willing parties who want to give the ball some air. The Stormers forward will however be too strong for the Cheetahs pack. Actually if you had to compare man for man, i cant think of a position where they Stormers will be worse than the Cheetahs. Stormers dont have Jacques, but as a creator i like Juan, so they havent lost too much. I know bok fans think Schalla is the bees knees, but i dont think his loss will be that greatly felt, they have Flouw, Plouw and Duane who did well for them last year! Cheetahs are without Juan, even though it didnt look like it last week, they have lost much....Stormers to blow my other SA side away... :(
Bulls v Highlanders
Could the Landers cause this weekends upset (if the Lions dont, but wait if the Lions win is it an upset? because a lot of people are saying that it is a possibility) anyway back to the Bulls. They have been pretty random till now BUUUUTTTT, they have still won both matches, away from fort Loftus nogal. Ok wait its not gonna happen for the Landers. I like the Highlanders plenty, love it when the underdog prospers, ala Ireland over England, but i think (hope not) that this will be a mountain too high. They have just made the long journey over here, playing at altitude, against a very efficient, yet boring Bulls side. This up and under story has to go really, i dont understand why they keep doing that??!! I am hoping for a Highlanders win but if i was betting id back the Bulls at fort Loftus.
How was the English win over the French last weekend? As arb as they English are they just seem to building themselves into competitive contention for the RWC 2011. I thought the French would roll them up in their rizzla and smoke them, but ey what do i know
Happy viewing people, thoughts still go out there to the people of Christchurch, hope this mornings win gives you guys all more strength!
Y
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Super rugby week 2
Pretty scrappy week of rugby. The 2 best games were the Blues v Crusaders and Lions v Bulls. But before i carry on i guess its only right to spare a thought for the people of Christchurch. Whether you like them or not that region has given us endless hours of entertainment, but behind all of that are normal people who suffer just like the rest of us. Saw a thing on Youtube just now showing the devastation, man its hectic!!
Its only right that another one of the weeks top clashes between the Saders and the Canes be cancelled and called a draw...
Last weekends games...
Australia's games, the biggest disappointment was the Reds, expected much from them but they failed to fire at all. I fast forwarded this game to try and catch some highlights but they were few and far between. The pacemen outside didnt get much good ball to work with, and Cooper was pretty average on the day. Genia seemed very frustrated on the day too because he wasnt getting good ball from his forwards nor were his backs giving him options. A very average performance butThe Force on the other hand were very competitive made a few crucial mistakes but they are looking good. The Brumbies did well for their win, their first half was superb and surprisingly they had a very solid scrum, but i think the Chiefs made them look a hell of a lot better than they were. they butchered 3 try scoring opportunities in the first half. The backs were nowhere, they looked like a bunch of lazy louts on a sunday stroll. The Tahs made short work of the Rebels. I was very dissapointed with the Rebels i expected a little more than they delivered. The Tahs on the other hand were merciless! they were ruthless and clinical in their execution, they were the most promising of the Australian lot.
For the Boks, the Cheetahs v Sharks game, my oh my what a bore-a-thon! the conditions didnt help, neither did those stupid up and unders that both the Cheetahs and the Bulls employed over the previous weekend. Sharks have a formidable pack and it showed over the weekend with all those penalties agains the Cheetahs. The backs hardly got any ball so it will be hard to judge them. The Cheetahs were poor they missed Juan Smith. I like Sarel Pretorius, he really had a good game behind a struggling pack. Lions v Bulls, the inexperience of the Lions was their undoing over the weekend. They started off not believing in their ability and thus let the blue machine get on and impose themselves on the game. But at halftime Mitch must have laid into the them because in the second half, they were a totally different team and almost won the game, but as the saying goes a miss is as good as a mile!
In New Zealand, Ma'a....brain explosion. I hoped he had gotten rid of that dirty side of his game, because that act was dangerous and reckless and wrong and he is bloody lucky he only got 1 week, cos that shoulder is massive and being propelled towards the neck/head area of a person off balance could cause some serious damage. That aside, the Canes are a team with sooo much talent and ability but they were pretty toilet on friday, but take nothing away from the Highlanders! Good to see Adam Thomson back he was massive. I like the Highlanders, team of no names playing as a team and for each other. Respect to them. Blues v Crusaders, lived up to its billing, very high quality game for so early in the season. The Saders snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. The kicking was disgusting though. But loving my Blues at the moment and hope its not another win one lose one season
this weekend
Highlanders v Chiefs....i am calling the Chiefs, but once again it will be a tough scrap. The Chiefs coach has culled some of the non performers from the week before and they youngsters and Mike Delaney will be very keen to make the starting jerseys theirs...watch Adam Thomson again for the Highlanders and Kerr-Barlauw(scrummy) for hte Chiefs
Brumbies v Rebels....Brumbies too strong, Rebels have plenty injuries
Cheetahs v Bulls... I want to call Cheetahs, but the Bulls are settled, got their first win and they are the Bulls. The Cheetahs have Juan back but he is just one man adn i dont think he will be able to carry the team. It will be a tough rough scrap and there will be some casualties, i am so hoping its not a game of aerial ping pong.
Saturday is a hot day
Tahs v Reds...even though the Reds have the Tahs number in this competition, i think the Tahs will win this one, just based on last weeks performances. I do believe that Cooper and the Reds will have a better outing
Sharks v Blues, Blues better give me a fat birthday present and win this one. Unlikely though because its in the Shark tank and the Blues have had to travel. But hope there is no rain and the ball gets some air because both teams have impressive backs and a solid hard working forward pack...Willem Aleberts...EISH
Stormers v Lions...another cracker. I am calling the Lions just because i like them but if i had to betm i would have to put my money on the Stormers. Springbok aplenty v the south african highlanders...
Happy viewing
Y
Its only right that another one of the weeks top clashes between the Saders and the Canes be cancelled and called a draw...
Last weekends games...
Australia's games, the biggest disappointment was the Reds, expected much from them but they failed to fire at all. I fast forwarded this game to try and catch some highlights but they were few and far between. The pacemen outside didnt get much good ball to work with, and Cooper was pretty average on the day. Genia seemed very frustrated on the day too because he wasnt getting good ball from his forwards nor were his backs giving him options. A very average performance butThe Force on the other hand were very competitive made a few crucial mistakes but they are looking good. The Brumbies did well for their win, their first half was superb and surprisingly they had a very solid scrum, but i think the Chiefs made them look a hell of a lot better than they were. they butchered 3 try scoring opportunities in the first half. The backs were nowhere, they looked like a bunch of lazy louts on a sunday stroll. The Tahs made short work of the Rebels. I was very dissapointed with the Rebels i expected a little more than they delivered. The Tahs on the other hand were merciless! they were ruthless and clinical in their execution, they were the most promising of the Australian lot.
For the Boks, the Cheetahs v Sharks game, my oh my what a bore-a-thon! the conditions didnt help, neither did those stupid up and unders that both the Cheetahs and the Bulls employed over the previous weekend. Sharks have a formidable pack and it showed over the weekend with all those penalties agains the Cheetahs. The backs hardly got any ball so it will be hard to judge them. The Cheetahs were poor they missed Juan Smith. I like Sarel Pretorius, he really had a good game behind a struggling pack. Lions v Bulls, the inexperience of the Lions was their undoing over the weekend. They started off not believing in their ability and thus let the blue machine get on and impose themselves on the game. But at halftime Mitch must have laid into the them because in the second half, they were a totally different team and almost won the game, but as the saying goes a miss is as good as a mile!
In New Zealand, Ma'a....brain explosion. I hoped he had gotten rid of that dirty side of his game, because that act was dangerous and reckless and wrong and he is bloody lucky he only got 1 week, cos that shoulder is massive and being propelled towards the neck/head area of a person off balance could cause some serious damage. That aside, the Canes are a team with sooo much talent and ability but they were pretty toilet on friday, but take nothing away from the Highlanders! Good to see Adam Thomson back he was massive. I like the Highlanders, team of no names playing as a team and for each other. Respect to them. Blues v Crusaders, lived up to its billing, very high quality game for so early in the season. The Saders snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. The kicking was disgusting though. But loving my Blues at the moment and hope its not another win one lose one season
this weekend
Highlanders v Chiefs....i am calling the Chiefs, but once again it will be a tough scrap. The Chiefs coach has culled some of the non performers from the week before and they youngsters and Mike Delaney will be very keen to make the starting jerseys theirs...watch Adam Thomson again for the Highlanders and Kerr-Barlauw(scrummy) for hte Chiefs
Brumbies v Rebels....Brumbies too strong, Rebels have plenty injuries
Cheetahs v Bulls... I want to call Cheetahs, but the Bulls are settled, got their first win and they are the Bulls. The Cheetahs have Juan back but he is just one man adn i dont think he will be able to carry the team. It will be a tough rough scrap and there will be some casualties, i am so hoping its not a game of aerial ping pong.
Saturday is a hot day
Tahs v Reds...even though the Reds have the Tahs number in this competition, i think the Tahs will win this one, just based on last weeks performances. I do believe that Cooper and the Reds will have a better outing
Sharks v Blues, Blues better give me a fat birthday present and win this one. Unlikely though because its in the Shark tank and the Blues have had to travel. But hope there is no rain and the ball gets some air because both teams have impressive backs and a solid hard working forward pack...Willem Aleberts...EISH
Stormers v Lions...another cracker. I am calling the Lions just because i like them but if i had to betm i would have to put my money on the Stormers. Springbok aplenty v the south african highlanders...
Happy viewing
Y
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Super Rugby week 1
i say this every year, but you guys have no idea how true (even though if sad) it is. But life truly begins for me around this time :).
Greetings sports fans, shoo what a hectic year of Rugby we have ahead of us. I have been catching a little bit of the 6 Nations and France are looking pretty impressive. i am looking forward to their encounter with England. England as robotic as they play, they have been well impressive and methodical in the way they go about the game i quite enjoy their back 3, they have some skill so too Shontayne Hape, but 10 and 13 are ordinary at best, and as usual they have an insane forward pack. Ireland are looking pretty average. Wales are looking good too along with Scotland who are showing some promise too. I think France should win this one too, they are definitely contenders for RWC 2011 mark my words.
But enough mickey mouse rugby, lets focus on real rugby, Super Rugby. I am not a fan of the new format for one, but i guess because its more like week in week out of the Currie Cup and the ITM cup and Oz derbies, instead of everyone playing everyone else and the length of the competition is madness especially in a RWC year. There will be some serious casualties. The season hasnt started yet and we have some casualties already, the most prominent being in the NZ franchises.
There are some pretty exciting new talent on display. i am pleased that Chilliboy and Basson got off, but i knew they would anyway, dont know why it took so long. Basson in a Bulls jersey should be a sight. I will be honest i cant think of any exciting new blood in the SA teams other than Elgar Watts for the Stormers, there really isnt that much new blood to speak of which is also a plus for them as they have some experience to call on. In the SA conference, i am pretty excited about the Lions, they wont win the conference i dont think but i think they will be very competitive. They are a group of no names, with a good coaching staff and loads of enthusiasm and ability. They have recruited nicely, but them buying Butch James, for me is like Chelsea buying Torres, waste of money. You have Burton Francis, Elton Jantjes, Carlos Spencer, Andre Pretrorious why Butch? But we talk more about the individual teams during the week match-ups. So for SA the teams to do the business are without a doubt the Bulls, Sharks and Lions and Stormers will razzle and dazzle, but for some reason and call me an optimist, but the top 3 in the SA conference will be 1) Bulls 2) Sharks 3) Lions. I looked at the Bulls line up for the opener and its a an experienced, hard side. Personally i'd like to see 1) Lions, 2) Stormers 3) Cheetahs 4)Sharks 5) Bulls, just purely on style of rugby and enthusiasm but its points that win you games not so
The Australian conference is another pretty interesting one good money should be on the Waratahs, because they have such a balanced and experienced team. Great forwards, good backs, they remind me a lot of the Bulls, not because they both wear baby blue but because of their style of play. No i lie their backs are much more exciting than the Bulls and the Bulls win tournaments, ok they dont remind me of the Bulls. Love their back-line though Beale, Turner, Mitchell (back 3), Horne and Carter (centres) Barnes and Burgess halfbacks....nice. But my Oz team is the Reds! their forwards are bloody good. They lack depth though, but their pack is such a good unit with Fainga, Horwill, Quirk (a young, big, fast 7's player) and Houston to name a few and Higginbotham off the bench. Its in the backs though that the excitement erupts. Genia, Cooper, Fainga, Chambers, Ioane, Davies..pace, power and skill aplenty. The Brumbies...all i can say is Adam Ashley-Cooper...such an underrated player he is for both Oz and the Brumbies. They are a very settled side the Brumbies a few new players here and there but the nucleus seems settled. The Force and the Rebels will be the conferences also rans i'm afraid. Oz conference 1)Reds 2) Brumbies 3)Tahs 4) Brumbies 5) Rebels
NZ teams a lot of old heads and some new faces with some pretty good skills that was unearthed during the ITM cup, names like Fritz Lee, Matthew Luamanu (but not fit for 80min, but he is insane), Lima Sopoaga for the Highlanders who gets a chance cos Colin is injured, Matt Todd who fills in for Richie, Tyler Blydendal from the NZ u21s, Julian Savea of the Canes, yo imagine him and Hosea on the wings, madness!!Sherwin Stowers of the Blues, 7's player with toe and strength. there is plenty of talent in NZ and to be very honest they should have gotten the extra team. Cos they have the talent to make another team. Unfortunately just like the highlanders find, the talent is concentrated in the other 4 teams. Dont be fooled, inspite of the injuries that have hit the Highlanders this year, they will be very competitive. I was hoping Slade would play the whole season and put his hand up firmly for the back up no 10 jersey, but it wasnt to be. But new coach, new personell, watch out for this team.The Blues are looking strong...as always...so too the Canes and Chiefs...as always and the Saders, but they deliver! My NZ conference 1) Blues and then the rest in any order, but thats just my heart :) reality says. 1) Saders 2) Chiefs 3) Blues 4) Canes 5) Highlanders
this weekends matchups
1) Canes v H'landers
Canes have an insane strike force out back.
Hurricanes: 15 Cory Jane, 14 Julian Savea, 13 Conrad Smith, 12 Ma’a Nonu, 11 Hosea Gear, 10 Aaron Cruden, 9 Tyson Keats, 8 Victor Vito, 7 Jack Lam, 6 Mark Reddish, 5 Jason Eaton, 4 James Broadhurst, 3 Michael Bent, 2 Andrew Hore (captain), 1 John Schwalger.Replacements: 16 Dane Coles, 17 Neemia Tialata, 18 Faifili Levave, 19 Serge Lilo, 20 Chris Eaton, 21 Daniel Kirkpatrick, 22 Andre Taylor.
Highlanders: 15 Ben Smith, 14 James Paterson, 13 Kendrick Lynn, 12 Shaun Treeby, 11 Kade Poki, 10 Lima Sopoaga, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Nasi Manu, 7 Alando Soakai, 6 Adam Thomson, 5 Josh Bekhuis, 4 Jarrad Hoeata, 3 David Te Moana, 2 Jason Rutledge, 1 Jamie Mackintosh (captain).Replacements: 16 Brayden Mitchell, 17 Bronson Murray, 18 Joe Tuineau, 19 John Hardie, 20 Aaron Smith, 21 Robbie Robinson, 22 Siale Piutau.
Canes have maybe 10 All blacks in their team, H'landers 3. The Canes bench has players with experience and other than Robbie Robinson and Bronson Murray dont think any of the others have played super rugby. The Highlanders will be competitive, because they played these guys before in the ITM cup and it will be a tough fight it will, but the strike power of the Canes will be way too much. PLayers to watch out for Savea, Bent (to keep Tialata on the bench u have to be special) and Taylor for the Canes. Lynn, Treeby, Sopoaga, HOeata for the Hlanders. Dont mention the old heads names because you know what to expect.
2) Rebels v Tahs
Rebels: 15 Julian Huxley, 14 Lachlan Mitchell, 13 Stirling Mortlock (captain), 12 Cooper Vuna, 11 Luke Rooney, 10 James Hilgendorf, 9 Sam Cordingley, 8 Gareth Delve, 7 Michael Lipman, 6 Hoani Macdonald, 5 Kevin O'Neill, 4 Adam Byrnes, 3 Greg Somerville, 2 Ged Robinson, 1 Nic Henderson.Replacements: 16 Heath Tessmann, 17 Laurie Weeks, 18 Alister Campbell, 19 Jarrod Saffy, 20 Nick Phipps, 21 Danny Cipriani, 22 Afusipa Taumoepeau.
Waratahs: 15 Kurtley Beale, 14 Lachie Turner, 13 Rob Horne, 12 Tom Carter, 11 Drew Mitchell, 10 Berrick Barnes, 9 Luke Burgess, 8 Ben Mowen, 7 Phil Waugh (captain), 6 Dave Dennis, 5 Kane Douglas, 4 Dean Mumm, 3 Al Baxter, 2 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 1 Sekope Kepu.Replacements: 16 Damien Fitzpatrick, 17 Benn Robinson, 18 Sitaleki Timani, 19 Chris Alcock, 20 Brendan McKibbin, 21 Daniel Halangahu, 22 Ryan Cross.
Rebels have a good coach, some experience in Mortlock, Somerville, Henderson, Lipman, Huxley (good to see him back), Hilgendorf and Cordingley, but you cant compare that with the Wallaby laden Tahs. I think all of the run on team barDave Dennis have worn the gold of Australia and there are 3 more Wallabies to come off the bench.
Tahs by a few
3) Blues v Saders
Blues: 15 Isaia Toeava, 14 Joe Rokocoko, 13 Jared Payne, 12 Benson Stanley, 11 Rene Ranger, 10 Stephen Brett, 9 Alby Mathewson, 8 Chris Lowrey, 7 Daniel Braid, 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Ali Williams, 4 Anthony Boric, 3 John Afoa, 2 Keven Mealamu (captain),1 Tony Woodcock.Replacements: 16 Tom McCartney/Ash Dixon, 17 Charlie Faumuina, 18 Filo Paulo, 19 Luke Braid, 20 Toby Morland, 21 Lachie Munro, 22 Sherwin Stowers.
Crusaders: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Sean Maitland, 13 Robbie Fruean, 12 Adam Whitelock, 11 Tu Umaga-Marshall, 10 Daniel Carter, 9 Andy Ellis, 8 Kieran Read (captain), 7 Matt Todd, 6 George Whitelock, 5 Sam Whitelock, 4 Brad Thorn, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Corey Flynn, 1 Wyatt Crockett.Replacements: 16 Francis Smith, 17 Ben Franks, 18 Chris Jack, 19 Jonathan Poff, 20 Willi Heinz, 21 Matt Berquist, 22 Tom Marshall/Tyler Bleyendaal.
No prizes for guessing that this is my match up of the weekend, there are some pretty big games, Bulls v Lions is another i am looking forward to as well as the Reds v Brumbies.For the Blues there are only 3 of the run on team that havent worn the silver fern., so they should be the favourites but the Saders have the ability to make random players exeptional players. I like the Blues back-line, well dissapointed that Luke is injured. No one ever gives the man credit but no 13 JP is such a good player, for the Crusaders in the years gone by and for Northland he is such a solid player with a rugby brain of note and the way he links with Rooster Ranger is special. I look at this Blues team and i wonder what holds them back, you look at Stevie Brett, when i first saw him many years ago i thought damn this man has mad skills, but playing behind DC is never good for your game or confidence, but last year at the Blues and in the ITM Cup you saw how good he was! Hope he kicks on. Back-line is pooh hot! forwards with Jerome, Keven and Ali back come on man!!!?? Then there is the saders, Tu Umaga-Marshall, Dagg, Fruean, DC, Read, maddness! I call the Blues, one cos they are my team 2) cos its at Eden Park 3) cos the Saders dont generally start well 4) cos its time!!
4) Brumbies v Chiefs
Brumbies: 15 Pat McCabe, 14 Henry Speight, 13 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 12 Robbie Coleman, 11 Francis Fainifo, 10 Matt Giteau (captain), 9 Josh Valentine, 8 Ita Vaea, 7 Julian Salvi, 6 Mitch Chapman, 5 Mark Chisholm, 4 Ben Hand, 3 Dan Palmer, 2 Stephen Moore, 1 Ben Alexander.Replacements: 16 Huia Edmonds, 17 Salesi Ma'afu, 18 Stephen Hoiles, 19 Colby Faingaa, 20 Patrick Phibbs, 21 Matt Toomua, 22 Andrew Smith.
Chiefs: 15 Mils Muliaina (captain), 14 Tim Nanai-Williams, 13 Dwayne Sweeney, 12 Tana Umaga, 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu, 10 Stephen Donald, 9 Brendon Leonard, 8 Fritz Lee, 7 Tanerau Latimer, 6 Liam Messam, 5 Romana Graham, 4 Craig Clarke, 3 Nathan White, 2 Aled de Malmanche, 1 Ben May.Replacements: 16 Toby Smith, 17 Daniel Perrin, 18 Hayden Triggs, 19 Scott Waldrom, 20 Tawera Kerr-Barlow, 21 Jackson Willison, 22 Lelia Masaga.
Tough call this one, will be interesting to see if Gits has lifted his lip and is now focused on playing rugby, because we all know he is one talented player. Brumbies have the saem look about them. They will be their David Blaine, illusinist selves, forwards might get a bit of a pelting. Looking forward to seeing the predator Tana back in Super rugby. Its good to see a semi full strength Chiefs team starting up, think the only real guy missing is Kahui, but Tana and Dwayne will fill the gap. Nanai-Williams, watch that one i tell you, if old heads like Colin Meads single you out for praise, then you know you are special. hoping Messam will have a good season and so to Donald, because he is a brilliant player, inspite of his elaborate kicking and running style. Watch Triggs!
Chiefs to take this, tough call, but i think they are up for a big season
5) Sharks v Cheetahs
Cheetahs: 15. Hennie Daniller, 14. Philip Burger, 13. Robert Ebersohn, 12. Andries Strauss, 11. Rayno Benjamin, 10. Naas Olivier, 9. Sarel Pretorius, 8. Kabamba Floors, 7. Christoffel Philippus Van der Walt, 6. Frans Viljoen, 5. Wilhelm Steenkamp, 4. Francois (FS) Uys, 3. Willem Petrus (WP) Nel, 2. Adriaan Strauss (Captain), 1. Coenie Oosthuizen Replacements: 16. Ryno Barnes, 17. Kobus Calldo, 18. Waltie Vermeulen, 19. Ashley Johnson, 20. Tewis de Bruyn, 21. Sias Ebersohn, 22. Riaan Viljoen
Dont have the Sharks team
ooh how i love it when the Cheetahs meet the Sharks in the Shark tank! Nerves in Shark country aplenty :)! I am sure many if not all of you will agree that Bismarck gets a raw deal, he is a much better hooker and player than John Smit. but this Cheetahs team is competent at best, but they wont strike fear into too many other teams. Interesting match up will be Strauss v Bosman, switching provinces and coming up against each other first up. I dont have much info on the Sharks team but i doubt it will be that different from the team that did battle last year and in the Currie Cup. I like their new scrummy McLoed. Even though this team (Cheetahs) isnt a team of superstars, i am putting my money on them to pip the Sharks in a tough rough encounter. BUt look out for the Umtata Express called XA-MVOVO!!
6) Lions v Bulls
Bulls: 15. Zane Kirchner, 14. Gerhard van den Heever, 13. Stephan Dippenaar, 12. Wynand Olivier, 11. Bjorn Basson, 10. Morné Steyn, 9. Fourie du Preez, 8. Pierre Spies, 7. Dewald Potgieter, 6. Deon Stegmann, 5. Victor Matfield (Captain), 4. Bakkies Botha, 3. Werner Kruger, 2. Gary Botha, 1. Gurthrö Steenkamp Replacements: 16. Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17. Rossouw De Klerk, 18. Danie Rossouw, 19. Derick Kuun, 20. Ruan Snyman, 21. Francois Brummer, 22. Jaco van der Westhuyzen
No Lions team...
but look at this Bulls team, only idiots like me will bet against them, Victor 109 caps, Bakkies 89, Danie 102, FdP 99, Wynand 71, this is one solid tried and tested unit and all the big guns are out on display. The Lions have no chance?? NEVER! They have a big chance. I think this Lions squad has the makings of a David. All that needs to happen is that the forward have to be matched, make sure they Bulls get no ascendancy and they are useless out back. FdP is good at steering the ship but it will be more of the same, box kicks a-bore! But let them get front foot ball and only the almighty can help you...and some good scrambling defense. I think the Lions are in good condition, well most of them, they started their training before the Boks went on tour or around then, so in terms of fitness happy days. And Mitch has an attitude of train train train, heard thats why the Force players didnt like him too much. They have players that can play like Killian, Jantjes, Dopies, they brought in Kockott, who i think is a great deputy for Jano. Not sure why they bought mr yellow card, but be that as it may he is there. Joshua Strauss from varsity cup was a pretty hot player, think he wore the pink shorts a few times
best gauge for where the Lions are at is this game i think. Head says the big guns of the bulls will be too much for them, but i have a feeling about this Lions team this year. And Carlos plays for them and he has aparently bulked up again cos he was looking quite skinny :)
7) Force v Reds
Tired of writing, Reds will be too hot for the Force
Teams courtesy of rugby365.com and supersport.com
Thanks and happy viewing
till next week...
Greetings sports fans, shoo what a hectic year of Rugby we have ahead of us. I have been catching a little bit of the 6 Nations and France are looking pretty impressive. i am looking forward to their encounter with England. England as robotic as they play, they have been well impressive and methodical in the way they go about the game i quite enjoy their back 3, they have some skill so too Shontayne Hape, but 10 and 13 are ordinary at best, and as usual they have an insane forward pack. Ireland are looking pretty average. Wales are looking good too along with Scotland who are showing some promise too. I think France should win this one too, they are definitely contenders for RWC 2011 mark my words.
But enough mickey mouse rugby, lets focus on real rugby, Super Rugby. I am not a fan of the new format for one, but i guess because its more like week in week out of the Currie Cup and the ITM cup and Oz derbies, instead of everyone playing everyone else and the length of the competition is madness especially in a RWC year. There will be some serious casualties. The season hasnt started yet and we have some casualties already, the most prominent being in the NZ franchises.
There are some pretty exciting new talent on display. i am pleased that Chilliboy and Basson got off, but i knew they would anyway, dont know why it took so long. Basson in a Bulls jersey should be a sight. I will be honest i cant think of any exciting new blood in the SA teams other than Elgar Watts for the Stormers, there really isnt that much new blood to speak of which is also a plus for them as they have some experience to call on. In the SA conference, i am pretty excited about the Lions, they wont win the conference i dont think but i think they will be very competitive. They are a group of no names, with a good coaching staff and loads of enthusiasm and ability. They have recruited nicely, but them buying Butch James, for me is like Chelsea buying Torres, waste of money. You have Burton Francis, Elton Jantjes, Carlos Spencer, Andre Pretrorious why Butch? But we talk more about the individual teams during the week match-ups. So for SA the teams to do the business are without a doubt the Bulls, Sharks and Lions and Stormers will razzle and dazzle, but for some reason and call me an optimist, but the top 3 in the SA conference will be 1) Bulls 2) Sharks 3) Lions. I looked at the Bulls line up for the opener and its a an experienced, hard side. Personally i'd like to see 1) Lions, 2) Stormers 3) Cheetahs 4)Sharks 5) Bulls, just purely on style of rugby and enthusiasm but its points that win you games not so
The Australian conference is another pretty interesting one good money should be on the Waratahs, because they have such a balanced and experienced team. Great forwards, good backs, they remind me a lot of the Bulls, not because they both wear baby blue but because of their style of play. No i lie their backs are much more exciting than the Bulls and the Bulls win tournaments, ok they dont remind me of the Bulls. Love their back-line though Beale, Turner, Mitchell (back 3), Horne and Carter (centres) Barnes and Burgess halfbacks....nice. But my Oz team is the Reds! their forwards are bloody good. They lack depth though, but their pack is such a good unit with Fainga, Horwill, Quirk (a young, big, fast 7's player) and Houston to name a few and Higginbotham off the bench. Its in the backs though that the excitement erupts. Genia, Cooper, Fainga, Chambers, Ioane, Davies..pace, power and skill aplenty. The Brumbies...all i can say is Adam Ashley-Cooper...such an underrated player he is for both Oz and the Brumbies. They are a very settled side the Brumbies a few new players here and there but the nucleus seems settled. The Force and the Rebels will be the conferences also rans i'm afraid. Oz conference 1)Reds 2) Brumbies 3)Tahs 4) Brumbies 5) Rebels
NZ teams a lot of old heads and some new faces with some pretty good skills that was unearthed during the ITM cup, names like Fritz Lee, Matthew Luamanu (but not fit for 80min, but he is insane), Lima Sopoaga for the Highlanders who gets a chance cos Colin is injured, Matt Todd who fills in for Richie, Tyler Blydendal from the NZ u21s, Julian Savea of the Canes, yo imagine him and Hosea on the wings, madness!!Sherwin Stowers of the Blues, 7's player with toe and strength. there is plenty of talent in NZ and to be very honest they should have gotten the extra team. Cos they have the talent to make another team. Unfortunately just like the highlanders find, the talent is concentrated in the other 4 teams. Dont be fooled, inspite of the injuries that have hit the Highlanders this year, they will be very competitive. I was hoping Slade would play the whole season and put his hand up firmly for the back up no 10 jersey, but it wasnt to be. But new coach, new personell, watch out for this team.The Blues are looking strong...as always...so too the Canes and Chiefs...as always and the Saders, but they deliver! My NZ conference 1) Blues and then the rest in any order, but thats just my heart :) reality says. 1) Saders 2) Chiefs 3) Blues 4) Canes 5) Highlanders
this weekends matchups
1) Canes v H'landers
Canes have an insane strike force out back.
Hurricanes: 15 Cory Jane, 14 Julian Savea, 13 Conrad Smith, 12 Ma’a Nonu, 11 Hosea Gear, 10 Aaron Cruden, 9 Tyson Keats, 8 Victor Vito, 7 Jack Lam, 6 Mark Reddish, 5 Jason Eaton, 4 James Broadhurst, 3 Michael Bent, 2 Andrew Hore (captain), 1 John Schwalger.Replacements: 16 Dane Coles, 17 Neemia Tialata, 18 Faifili Levave, 19 Serge Lilo, 20 Chris Eaton, 21 Daniel Kirkpatrick, 22 Andre Taylor.
Highlanders: 15 Ben Smith, 14 James Paterson, 13 Kendrick Lynn, 12 Shaun Treeby, 11 Kade Poki, 10 Lima Sopoaga, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Nasi Manu, 7 Alando Soakai, 6 Adam Thomson, 5 Josh Bekhuis, 4 Jarrad Hoeata, 3 David Te Moana, 2 Jason Rutledge, 1 Jamie Mackintosh (captain).Replacements: 16 Brayden Mitchell, 17 Bronson Murray, 18 Joe Tuineau, 19 John Hardie, 20 Aaron Smith, 21 Robbie Robinson, 22 Siale Piutau.
Canes have maybe 10 All blacks in their team, H'landers 3. The Canes bench has players with experience and other than Robbie Robinson and Bronson Murray dont think any of the others have played super rugby. The Highlanders will be competitive, because they played these guys before in the ITM cup and it will be a tough fight it will, but the strike power of the Canes will be way too much. PLayers to watch out for Savea, Bent (to keep Tialata on the bench u have to be special) and Taylor for the Canes. Lynn, Treeby, Sopoaga, HOeata for the Hlanders. Dont mention the old heads names because you know what to expect.
2) Rebels v Tahs
Rebels: 15 Julian Huxley, 14 Lachlan Mitchell, 13 Stirling Mortlock (captain), 12 Cooper Vuna, 11 Luke Rooney, 10 James Hilgendorf, 9 Sam Cordingley, 8 Gareth Delve, 7 Michael Lipman, 6 Hoani Macdonald, 5 Kevin O'Neill, 4 Adam Byrnes, 3 Greg Somerville, 2 Ged Robinson, 1 Nic Henderson.Replacements: 16 Heath Tessmann, 17 Laurie Weeks, 18 Alister Campbell, 19 Jarrod Saffy, 20 Nick Phipps, 21 Danny Cipriani, 22 Afusipa Taumoepeau.
Waratahs: 15 Kurtley Beale, 14 Lachie Turner, 13 Rob Horne, 12 Tom Carter, 11 Drew Mitchell, 10 Berrick Barnes, 9 Luke Burgess, 8 Ben Mowen, 7 Phil Waugh (captain), 6 Dave Dennis, 5 Kane Douglas, 4 Dean Mumm, 3 Al Baxter, 2 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 1 Sekope Kepu.Replacements: 16 Damien Fitzpatrick, 17 Benn Robinson, 18 Sitaleki Timani, 19 Chris Alcock, 20 Brendan McKibbin, 21 Daniel Halangahu, 22 Ryan Cross.
Rebels have a good coach, some experience in Mortlock, Somerville, Henderson, Lipman, Huxley (good to see him back), Hilgendorf and Cordingley, but you cant compare that with the Wallaby laden Tahs. I think all of the run on team barDave Dennis have worn the gold of Australia and there are 3 more Wallabies to come off the bench.
Tahs by a few
3) Blues v Saders
Blues: 15 Isaia Toeava, 14 Joe Rokocoko, 13 Jared Payne, 12 Benson Stanley, 11 Rene Ranger, 10 Stephen Brett, 9 Alby Mathewson, 8 Chris Lowrey, 7 Daniel Braid, 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Ali Williams, 4 Anthony Boric, 3 John Afoa, 2 Keven Mealamu (captain),1 Tony Woodcock.Replacements: 16 Tom McCartney/Ash Dixon, 17 Charlie Faumuina, 18 Filo Paulo, 19 Luke Braid, 20 Toby Morland, 21 Lachie Munro, 22 Sherwin Stowers.
Crusaders: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Sean Maitland, 13 Robbie Fruean, 12 Adam Whitelock, 11 Tu Umaga-Marshall, 10 Daniel Carter, 9 Andy Ellis, 8 Kieran Read (captain), 7 Matt Todd, 6 George Whitelock, 5 Sam Whitelock, 4 Brad Thorn, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Corey Flynn, 1 Wyatt Crockett.Replacements: 16 Francis Smith, 17 Ben Franks, 18 Chris Jack, 19 Jonathan Poff, 20 Willi Heinz, 21 Matt Berquist, 22 Tom Marshall/Tyler Bleyendaal.
No prizes for guessing that this is my match up of the weekend, there are some pretty big games, Bulls v Lions is another i am looking forward to as well as the Reds v Brumbies.For the Blues there are only 3 of the run on team that havent worn the silver fern., so they should be the favourites but the Saders have the ability to make random players exeptional players. I like the Blues back-line, well dissapointed that Luke is injured. No one ever gives the man credit but no 13 JP is such a good player, for the Crusaders in the years gone by and for Northland he is such a solid player with a rugby brain of note and the way he links with Rooster Ranger is special. I look at this Blues team and i wonder what holds them back, you look at Stevie Brett, when i first saw him many years ago i thought damn this man has mad skills, but playing behind DC is never good for your game or confidence, but last year at the Blues and in the ITM Cup you saw how good he was! Hope he kicks on. Back-line is pooh hot! forwards with Jerome, Keven and Ali back come on man!!!?? Then there is the saders, Tu Umaga-Marshall, Dagg, Fruean, DC, Read, maddness! I call the Blues, one cos they are my team 2) cos its at Eden Park 3) cos the Saders dont generally start well 4) cos its time!!
4) Brumbies v Chiefs
Brumbies: 15 Pat McCabe, 14 Henry Speight, 13 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 12 Robbie Coleman, 11 Francis Fainifo, 10 Matt Giteau (captain), 9 Josh Valentine, 8 Ita Vaea, 7 Julian Salvi, 6 Mitch Chapman, 5 Mark Chisholm, 4 Ben Hand, 3 Dan Palmer, 2 Stephen Moore, 1 Ben Alexander.Replacements: 16 Huia Edmonds, 17 Salesi Ma'afu, 18 Stephen Hoiles, 19 Colby Faingaa, 20 Patrick Phibbs, 21 Matt Toomua, 22 Andrew Smith.
Chiefs: 15 Mils Muliaina (captain), 14 Tim Nanai-Williams, 13 Dwayne Sweeney, 12 Tana Umaga, 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu, 10 Stephen Donald, 9 Brendon Leonard, 8 Fritz Lee, 7 Tanerau Latimer, 6 Liam Messam, 5 Romana Graham, 4 Craig Clarke, 3 Nathan White, 2 Aled de Malmanche, 1 Ben May.Replacements: 16 Toby Smith, 17 Daniel Perrin, 18 Hayden Triggs, 19 Scott Waldrom, 20 Tawera Kerr-Barlow, 21 Jackson Willison, 22 Lelia Masaga.
Tough call this one, will be interesting to see if Gits has lifted his lip and is now focused on playing rugby, because we all know he is one talented player. Brumbies have the saem look about them. They will be their David Blaine, illusinist selves, forwards might get a bit of a pelting. Looking forward to seeing the predator Tana back in Super rugby. Its good to see a semi full strength Chiefs team starting up, think the only real guy missing is Kahui, but Tana and Dwayne will fill the gap. Nanai-Williams, watch that one i tell you, if old heads like Colin Meads single you out for praise, then you know you are special. hoping Messam will have a good season and so to Donald, because he is a brilliant player, inspite of his elaborate kicking and running style. Watch Triggs!
Chiefs to take this, tough call, but i think they are up for a big season
5) Sharks v Cheetahs
Cheetahs: 15. Hennie Daniller, 14. Philip Burger, 13. Robert Ebersohn, 12. Andries Strauss, 11. Rayno Benjamin, 10. Naas Olivier, 9. Sarel Pretorius, 8. Kabamba Floors, 7. Christoffel Philippus Van der Walt, 6. Frans Viljoen, 5. Wilhelm Steenkamp, 4. Francois (FS) Uys, 3. Willem Petrus (WP) Nel, 2. Adriaan Strauss (Captain), 1. Coenie Oosthuizen Replacements: 16. Ryno Barnes, 17. Kobus Calldo, 18. Waltie Vermeulen, 19. Ashley Johnson, 20. Tewis de Bruyn, 21. Sias Ebersohn, 22. Riaan Viljoen
Dont have the Sharks team
ooh how i love it when the Cheetahs meet the Sharks in the Shark tank! Nerves in Shark country aplenty :)! I am sure many if not all of you will agree that Bismarck gets a raw deal, he is a much better hooker and player than John Smit. but this Cheetahs team is competent at best, but they wont strike fear into too many other teams. Interesting match up will be Strauss v Bosman, switching provinces and coming up against each other first up. I dont have much info on the Sharks team but i doubt it will be that different from the team that did battle last year and in the Currie Cup. I like their new scrummy McLoed. Even though this team (Cheetahs) isnt a team of superstars, i am putting my money on them to pip the Sharks in a tough rough encounter. BUt look out for the Umtata Express called XA-MVOVO!!
6) Lions v Bulls
Bulls: 15. Zane Kirchner, 14. Gerhard van den Heever, 13. Stephan Dippenaar, 12. Wynand Olivier, 11. Bjorn Basson, 10. Morné Steyn, 9. Fourie du Preez, 8. Pierre Spies, 7. Dewald Potgieter, 6. Deon Stegmann, 5. Victor Matfield (Captain), 4. Bakkies Botha, 3. Werner Kruger, 2. Gary Botha, 1. Gurthrö Steenkamp Replacements: 16. Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17. Rossouw De Klerk, 18. Danie Rossouw, 19. Derick Kuun, 20. Ruan Snyman, 21. Francois Brummer, 22. Jaco van der Westhuyzen
No Lions team...
but look at this Bulls team, only idiots like me will bet against them, Victor 109 caps, Bakkies 89, Danie 102, FdP 99, Wynand 71, this is one solid tried and tested unit and all the big guns are out on display. The Lions have no chance?? NEVER! They have a big chance. I think this Lions squad has the makings of a David. All that needs to happen is that the forward have to be matched, make sure they Bulls get no ascendancy and they are useless out back. FdP is good at steering the ship but it will be more of the same, box kicks a-bore! But let them get front foot ball and only the almighty can help you...and some good scrambling defense. I think the Lions are in good condition, well most of them, they started their training before the Boks went on tour or around then, so in terms of fitness happy days. And Mitch has an attitude of train train train, heard thats why the Force players didnt like him too much. They have players that can play like Killian, Jantjes, Dopies, they brought in Kockott, who i think is a great deputy for Jano. Not sure why they bought mr yellow card, but be that as it may he is there. Joshua Strauss from varsity cup was a pretty hot player, think he wore the pink shorts a few times
best gauge for where the Lions are at is this game i think. Head says the big guns of the bulls will be too much for them, but i have a feeling about this Lions team this year. And Carlos plays for them and he has aparently bulked up again cos he was looking quite skinny :)
7) Force v Reds
Tired of writing, Reds will be too hot for the Force
Teams courtesy of rugby365.com and supersport.com
Thanks and happy viewing
till next week...
Sunday, September 26, 2010
tri nations wrap
A few weeks later i know :)
The last game between the Blacks and Ausies was as close a comparison to
life in general as any! On the one had we have Australia who did all but
win the game. They deserved more than they got. Same as in the first
test against the Boks. The Ausies did all they had to do but the old
adage of survival of the fittest held so true in this game. The Blacks
ground out a win against the odds. They showed old signs of panic when
they were a little behind but the old heads stuck to their game. The
main difference was when Jerome "the super hero" Kaino came on to the
field. With a name like that he was born to be a character in Mortal
Kombat...Kaino wins, flawless victory. But his introduction showed what
a truly balanced loose trio the Blacks have in Richie Kieran and Jerome.
Another visible difference was when Slade came on for Cruden. I like
young Cruden and i dont think he had a bad game, other than 2 or 3
random kick offs his game was pretty decent. he tackled anything that
came at him wasnt scared to take on the line, what more do you want from
a guy? But Colin Slade just seems to have that confidence, he came on
and was shouting the odds, true sign of a confident man.
Ausies are a team to watch. They did what they wanted. They played how
they should have played. They kept the ball and Bam Bam stole ball that
wasnt theirs! Quade danced a little but i think he held off a little.
Gitts showed his class again and the ever solid and reliable Ashley
Cooper did his thing. Aus have a young and slightly built side, but they
play with technique, skill, belief, confidence and precision. That shows
that our (Boks) preoccupation with size is ill informed. Rocky Elsom
what a sour p**s?!! my word! Have you seen a more personality-less
international captain in any sport?
A quick summary of the tri-nations...it was a pretty interesting
competition this year. To be honest there were only 2 out of the 3 teams
that showed any signs of wanting to play. with respect the Boks were
pap. I blame coaching for the selections. For sticking with the same
tired players when clearly they lacked heart. I have been saying this
for a loooooong time, Bryan, is overrated. He is fast, he works hard but
if you dont give him the interception he is largely ineffective,
actually he is a liability, because he inisists on coming off his wing
to go for the intercept, which gives the attacking team endless over lap
opportunities. John Smit, another one, no where near the best hooker in
the country, and judging by the results of the last tri nations, maybe
not the best captain we have at the Boks disposal. Schalk Burger another
guy who as much as he puts his body on the line, he is as ineffective as
a misguided missile. The sad thing is there is talent aplenty in this
country. I know i live in my own world, but i would find a space for
Luke Watson in that team and make him the captain, well maybe after this
era, because a lot of these senior players dont like him much and that
will result in an epic fail of the defence of the Boks' world champ
title. I'd play Chilliboy at 2 or if not Burden or Liebenberg. I know
many of you like Bismarck but to me he is ANOTHER Bakkies Botha, a
yellow card waiting to happen. During the end of year tour, id like to
see the likes of Flouw, Deysel, Strauss (lions), Duane, get a shot in
the forwards. In the backs Pretorius, Lambie, Jantjes, Mvovo, Viljoen
(griquas) and the griquas wing get a shot on tour. You guys wanted Frans
Steyn you got him and with him you got a bucket full of toilet! The Boks
lost a few games, and they looked clueless on the field, but i think it
was more an attitude thing than anything else, this was shown in the
last half of their last test. They need to just man up and focus on the
game. you cant have guys like Victor, De Villiers, Fourie in your team
and be toilet.
Aus are the best placed out of the 3 teams in my mind. They were never
outpayed by any team, well maybe in the first test against the Blacks.
But it was their first game fresh team and they showed improvements in
every game. They have exciting backs competent forwards and the
willingness to win. They will go far. I wont write a lot about them
because we all know they are a team on the up.
The Blacks, what a difference a year makes? that being said though i am
not one of those AB supporters who believes this team is wonderfully
majestic, nah man, they are fallible. They were competent. they were
solid. They did their job, but they were under the pump a few times.
They showed maturity as a unit. and have unearthed some skillful players
such as Izzy Dagg. Some of the old heads are stepping up and playing
their best rugby in a long while. And to think that there are the likes
of Hore, Williams, Sivivatu, Kahui. Players like McAlastair that can be
called on. Then there is this phenom called Sonny Bill Williams. He is a
specimen of a man, but i am not buying the hype though not yet at least,
watched him play a few games for Cantebury and he has great offloads and
he is a presence, but he has much to learn in terms of rugby. I would
rather the Blacks not have won this year, but good for them that they
did because winning becomes a habit. The beauty about the way they are
winning is they are having to scrap for their points its not the 50-20s
of other pre world cup years.
It was a decent tournament, dissapointing from the Boks performance and
point of view but alas, they will come back, need to work on their
defence and decide on their systems and execute accordingly. Its not all
doom and gloom. Oz will just have to keep on keeping on and their day
too will come. The Blacks well just keep building and most importantly
building depth in 10, 6, 7. The end of year tours will be most
interesting and i look forward to it, but till then go the Lions in the
Currie Cup, loving how Province have been playing too.
Till the end of the year then boys and girls
Y
The last game between the Blacks and Ausies was as close a comparison to
life in general as any! On the one had we have Australia who did all but
win the game. They deserved more than they got. Same as in the first
test against the Boks. The Ausies did all they had to do but the old
adage of survival of the fittest held so true in this game. The Blacks
ground out a win against the odds. They showed old signs of panic when
they were a little behind but the old heads stuck to their game. The
main difference was when Jerome "the super hero" Kaino came on to the
field. With a name like that he was born to be a character in Mortal
Kombat...Kaino wins, flawless victory. But his introduction showed what
a truly balanced loose trio the Blacks have in Richie Kieran and Jerome.
Another visible difference was when Slade came on for Cruden. I like
young Cruden and i dont think he had a bad game, other than 2 or 3
random kick offs his game was pretty decent. he tackled anything that
came at him wasnt scared to take on the line, what more do you want from
a guy? But Colin Slade just seems to have that confidence, he came on
and was shouting the odds, true sign of a confident man.
Ausies are a team to watch. They did what they wanted. They played how
they should have played. They kept the ball and Bam Bam stole ball that
wasnt theirs! Quade danced a little but i think he held off a little.
Gitts showed his class again and the ever solid and reliable Ashley
Cooper did his thing. Aus have a young and slightly built side, but they
play with technique, skill, belief, confidence and precision. That shows
that our (Boks) preoccupation with size is ill informed. Rocky Elsom
what a sour p**s?!! my word! Have you seen a more personality-less
international captain in any sport?
A quick summary of the tri-nations...it was a pretty interesting
competition this year. To be honest there were only 2 out of the 3 teams
that showed any signs of wanting to play. with respect the Boks were
pap. I blame coaching for the selections. For sticking with the same
tired players when clearly they lacked heart. I have been saying this
for a loooooong time, Bryan, is overrated. He is fast, he works hard but
if you dont give him the interception he is largely ineffective,
actually he is a liability, because he inisists on coming off his wing
to go for the intercept, which gives the attacking team endless over lap
opportunities. John Smit, another one, no where near the best hooker in
the country, and judging by the results of the last tri nations, maybe
not the best captain we have at the Boks disposal. Schalk Burger another
guy who as much as he puts his body on the line, he is as ineffective as
a misguided missile. The sad thing is there is talent aplenty in this
country. I know i live in my own world, but i would find a space for
Luke Watson in that team and make him the captain, well maybe after this
era, because a lot of these senior players dont like him much and that
will result in an epic fail of the defence of the Boks' world champ
title. I'd play Chilliboy at 2 or if not Burden or Liebenberg. I know
many of you like Bismarck but to me he is ANOTHER Bakkies Botha, a
yellow card waiting to happen. During the end of year tour, id like to
see the likes of Flouw, Deysel, Strauss (lions), Duane, get a shot in
the forwards. In the backs Pretorius, Lambie, Jantjes, Mvovo, Viljoen
(griquas) and the griquas wing get a shot on tour. You guys wanted Frans
Steyn you got him and with him you got a bucket full of toilet! The Boks
lost a few games, and they looked clueless on the field, but i think it
was more an attitude thing than anything else, this was shown in the
last half of their last test. They need to just man up and focus on the
game. you cant have guys like Victor, De Villiers, Fourie in your team
and be toilet.
Aus are the best placed out of the 3 teams in my mind. They were never
outpayed by any team, well maybe in the first test against the Blacks.
But it was their first game fresh team and they showed improvements in
every game. They have exciting backs competent forwards and the
willingness to win. They will go far. I wont write a lot about them
because we all know they are a team on the up.
The Blacks, what a difference a year makes? that being said though i am
not one of those AB supporters who believes this team is wonderfully
majestic, nah man, they are fallible. They were competent. they were
solid. They did their job, but they were under the pump a few times.
They showed maturity as a unit. and have unearthed some skillful players
such as Izzy Dagg. Some of the old heads are stepping up and playing
their best rugby in a long while. And to think that there are the likes
of Hore, Williams, Sivivatu, Kahui. Players like McAlastair that can be
called on. Then there is this phenom called Sonny Bill Williams. He is a
specimen of a man, but i am not buying the hype though not yet at least,
watched him play a few games for Cantebury and he has great offloads and
he is a presence, but he has much to learn in terms of rugby. I would
rather the Blacks not have won this year, but good for them that they
did because winning becomes a habit. The beauty about the way they are
winning is they are having to scrap for their points its not the 50-20s
of other pre world cup years.
It was a decent tournament, dissapointing from the Boks performance and
point of view but alas, they will come back, need to work on their
defence and decide on their systems and execute accordingly. Its not all
doom and gloom. Oz will just have to keep on keeping on and their day
too will come. The Blacks well just keep building and most importantly
building depth in 10, 6, 7. The end of year tours will be most
interesting and i look forward to it, but till then go the Lions in the
Currie Cup, loving how Province have been playing too.
Till the end of the year then boys and girls
Y
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