It has taken 12 seasons of yelling at the tv and players, numerous boxes of tissues and a lot of patience but finally we have done it!
After 81 frenetic minutes the Bulls emerged victorious at a packed out Shark tank in Durban. An unbeliveable atmosphere, and it went down to the wire. The Sharks made most of the early running, held the lead for most of the game and failed to seal the victory when they had their chances. But what character shown by the Bulls. They weathered the storms, scored a great try to Spies, and when they had to produce something special Habana stepped up! It is unfortunate there has to be a loser, but the winner was SA rugby.

Bulls 20: Tries by Pierre Spies and Bryan Habana. Derick Hougaard kicked two conversions and two penalties
Sharks 19: Tries by JP Pietersen and Albert van den Berg. Percy Montgomery kicked three penalties

Looking back over the season, the Sharks were certainly something special. They were ultra consistent, but as tough as their defence was, their attack never seemed to gel often enough. They showed against the Reds, and in parts against the Stomers and Blues what can happen when they hit their straps. I believe Dick Muir showed an error in judgement by not using Skinstad in the starting lineup instead opting for Kankowski. With multiple retirements looming the challenge will be whether the Sharks can stay at this level next year.

The Bulls meanwhile have had a completely different ride. After being thoroughly outplayed in their opening game in Durban 16 weeks ago, they then scraped a win against the Cheaters before losing to the Farce. With 1 win in 3 games, they were written off by most. But this team has character, behind the scenes they had been working hard since the beginning of the year. They stuck to their development plan and then had to achieve targets that had never been reached before. 3 wins overseas. 20 points from 4 home games. A win by 72 points to secure a home semi. Become the first team to beat the Crusaders in a semi. Win a final away from home. It is testament to their spirit, character, mental strength and coach Heyneke Meyer that the Bulls have overcome all the odds, and thoroughly deserve to be crowned Super rugby winners for 2007! Ek bly a Bull!

Now it’s on to the international season…Go the BOKS!