Sanjay's Rugby World

Live updates from Loftus as the Bulls take on the Waratahs

Out come the Bulls to a great reception from their home crowd. C’mon Bulls we gotta win, and become the first South African side to win in round 3!

1st Min – Great start to the Waratahs. The Bulls have not been convincing from the restarts this year. Early opportunity to the Waratahs.

3rd Min – Damn! Poor start from the Bulls and Tatafu Polota-Nau charges over the line from the ruck.
Berrick Barnes converts to give the Waratahs a 7-0 lead.

5th Min – Waratahs run it out from their own 22m. They look dangerous so far and eventually earn a penalty.
Barnes has a penalty attempt and strikes it perfectly. 10-0.

9th Min – Kane Douglas goes over for the try. This is fantastic play through shoddy Bulls defence. We are in trouble tonight. The midfield defence is struggling.
Barnes kicks the conversion to make it 17-0 after 11 mins.

14th Min – Bulls drive close to the line. Just can’t get over.
Waratahs collapsing the maul and coming in from the side.

15th Min – Hougaard! Try. Beautiful sustained buildup and the Bulls are on the board!
Morne Steyn adds the conversion. 17-7. C’mon boys another couple of tries!

18th Min – Bulls made the overlap, but Hougaard couldn’t hold the pass in space. Bulls are starting to find their rhythm.

20th Min – Berrick Barnes with the snap drop goal. Waratahs extend their lead to 20-7.

21st Min – Penalty Bulls. Morne Steyn kicks 3 points and narrows the deficit once more to 10. It’s 20-10.

24th Min – Penalty to the Waratahs. Olivier pinged for not rolling away.
Waratahs 23-10.

26th Min – Another penalty to the Waratahs. The Bulls had a very poor scrum and allow the Waratahs to break out from their half.
Barnes lines up another penalty attempt.
He makes no mistake. Waratahs extend the lead to 26-10.

29th Min – Bulls penalty and they go for the corner.
Eventually a scrum will have to be set near the poles. Gotta score and get back in this one.

32nd Min – du Preez taps the penalty and runs, but van den Heever can’t put the ball down over the line. Damn!

34th Min – Dippenaar! Try. Great buildup and pressure. Waratahs need to be warned for repeated infringing.
Morne Steyn adds the conversion to narrow the gap to 26-17.

39th Min – Magnificent Bulls defence. Over 10+ phases on their tryline. Morne Steyn clears.
Critical defence to remain in the game.

Half-Time Bulls 17 Waratahs 26

The Waratahs started really well, but the Bulls are starting to wear them down, but we’ll have to overcome a 9 point deficit. C’mon guys!

41st Min – Early penalty to the Bulls.
Morne Steyn pulls back another 3.
Waratahs lead 26-20.
Just one score away now.

45th Min – Bulls starting get into stride. Kirchner down the left hand flank, just didn’t get the right bounce from his chip ahead. So close.

The Bulls have the altitude factor and 2 keys, Deon Stegmann and Dewald Potgieter still to come.

49th Min – Francois Hougaard in the left hand corner! Fantastic. Through the phases after the Waratahs lost a lineout. That was brilliant!
Morne Steyn to convert from the left hand touchline.
Was there ever any doubt? Bulls lead 27-26.
For the first time in the match we are in front!

Deon Stegmann comes on for Danie Rousouw.

53rd Min – Lachie Turner scores in the right hand corner for the Waratahs. Burgess making a couple of breaks from scrumhalf. Have to watch him.
Berrick Barnes had a kick from the right hand touch and can’t match Steyn’s effort.
Waratahs lead again, 31-27.

55th Min – Bulls penalty. Again they turn down the kick and go for the corner.
Another penalty on the Waratahs line. Only a warning, I’d have put someone in the bin!
Bulls opt to tap from in front of the poles.

57th Min – Try! Right hand touchline, the Bulls battered away and went wide to Gerhard van den Heever. Superb.
Bonus point try! Now we just need to make sure of the win.
Morne Steyn from the right hand touchline shows Barnes how to kick!
Bulls ahead 34-31.

Dewald Potgieter on the field for Derick Kuun.

60th Min – Accidental offside to the Waratahs. Now they have to play catch up. It’s a different mindset, and one that is so hard at Loftus!
Kurtley Beale replaces Lachie Turner.

Danie Rousouw comes back on for Flip van der Merwe. I think that’s a blood replacement.

61st Min – Damn, poor clearing from the scrum. And now we are under pressure again.

64th Min – Good midfield defence from the Bulls. We just need to play a bit deeper in the Waratahs half. I’d like a bigger lead!
Bees Roux on for Werner Kruger.

66th Min – Deon Stegmann earns the penalty at the breakdown. He is just awesome!

67th Min – Penalty to the Bulls. Waratahs tackler not rolling away.
Again the Bulls don’t kick at goal. Go for the lineout.

68th Min – A bit scrappy, but we earn a scrum 5m out. Have to score and make them pay!
I notice Bandise Maku is on for Gary Botha.
Olivier under the poles!!! YEAH! van den Heever was the dummy runner and Olivier ran into the gap.
Morne Steyn converts from right in front.
Bulls lead 41-31.

71st Min – The Waratahs score under the posts. Long range try, and Drew Mitchell finished well.
Now the Bulls only lead 41-38.

73rd Min – Waratahs running strongly, but get a penalty for obstruction.
Welcome chance to clear and set up a lineout.
Jaco van der Westhuyzen returns to super rugby in place of Francois Hougaard.

75th Min – Penalty to the Waratahs as the Bulls hold on at the ruck.
I don’t like the fact it could end in a draw too. That doesn’t help us at all.

77th Min – Phil waugh penalised at the breakdown. What do we do here?
Well Morne Steyn drills it deep into Waratahs territory. Going to grind down time now. We could have kicked that.

79th Min – There it is!!! We had the penalty, but Morne Steyn beautifully chips it over the top and Jacques-Louis Potgieter regathers for the winning try!
Of course Steyn converts to give the Bulls a 48-38 lead.

Full-time Bulls 48 Waratahs 38

What a great win for the Bulls. So much courage shown in coming back from 17 points down. We didn’t panic, and slowly imposed ourselves on the game.

Slightly concerning to concede so many points, and 4 tries, but hey we are outscoring the opposition and that’s all that counts.

We now have a week off, and it’ll be great to allow some of our players a chance to get back to full fitness and over the niggling injuries.

And thankfully we are at the top of the table!

PR: wait… I: wait… L: wait… LD: wait… I: wait… wait… Rank: wait… Traffic: wait… Price: wait… C: wait…

The Bulls are going to show their depth in 2010!

Coach Frans Ludeke has shown how confident he is in his extended squad.

Pierre Spies has a niggling injury to he calf, and had this been towards the end of the season I’m sure he would’v played. Instead Ludeke has decided to give him a break which I think is a great move. It brings in a World Cup winning Springbok in Danie Rousouw to eighthman!

Ludeke has also placed faith in Flip van der Merwe at lock, with Danie Rousouw the cover for the lock position. This allows both Deon Stegmann and Dewald Potgieter to cover the loose forwards on the bench. That’s an awesome replacement bench, and shows great faith in Derick Kuun to take the starting role given Stegmann’s recent form.

It has been impressive how professional this Bulls side has become. Not content to rest on their laurels, they are continually seeking to build their depth, and in my mind have the attitude required of a champion side. I’m sure they’ll reap the benefits at the end of the season.

The Waratahs are a side on the decline. They play a defensive, territory oriented game. For a side like the Bulls who place a great emphasis on dominating the set-pieces, we’ll more than match their lineout, and should hold them at scrum-time. We’ve got a better kicking game, especially on the highveld. This should allow us to dominate territory.

The Waratahs don’t ask enough questions on attack, so we should be able to win fairly comfortably by limiting the penalties (I can’t see them threatening our try line too much) and working patiently to bust their defence which is their strength. I think we’ll have too much firepower all around the field for them to withstand a concerted attack.

3 Wins out of 3 will leave us in a great position with our remaining home games before hitting the road where we may only have to win 2 out of 4.

Go Bulle Go!

Vodacom Bulls:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. Gary Botha
3. Werner Kruger
4. Flip van der Merwe
5. Victor Matfield (c)
6. Derick Kuun
7. Pedrie Wannenburg
8. Danie Rousouw
9. Fourie du Preez
10. Morne Steyn
11. Francois Hougaard
12. Wynand Olivier
13. Stephan Dippenaar
14. Gerhard van den Heever
15. Zane Kirchner

16. Bandise Maku
17. Bees Roux
18. Deon Stegmann
19. Dewald Potgieter
20. Heini Adams
21. Jacques-Louis Potgieter
22. John Mametsa/Jaco van der Westhuyzen

Waratahs:

1. Benn Robinson
2. Tatafu Polota-Nau
3. Al Baxter
4. Dave Dennis
5. Kane Douglas
6. Ben Mowen
7. Phil Waugh (c)
8. Wycliff Palu
9. Luke Burgess
10. Daniel Halangahu
11. Drew Mitchell
12. Berrick Barnes
13. Tom Carter
14. Lachie Turner
15. Sosene Anesi

16. Damien Fitzpatrick
17. Sekope Kepu
18. Will Caldwell
19. Locky McKaffrey
20. Josh Holmes
21. Kurtley Beale
22. Rob Horne

Previous Super 14 results:

2006: Bulls 26, Waratahs 17 (Pretoria)
2007: Bulls 32, Waratahs 19 (Sydney)
2008:Bulls 16, Waratahs 13 (Pretoria)
2009: Bulls 20, Waratahs 6 (Sydney)

The third week of the Super 14 sees 2 South African sides touring which could derail their seasons!

The Sharks and Lions face strong tests away from home, especially considering neither has been able to win as yet on their home grounds!

The Brumbies and Waratahs both enter their second games in South Africa, and it’s critical to pick up at least 1 away win if they have semi-final aspirations.

Crusaders v Sharks – AMI Stadium, Christchurch

As I keep harping on, the Sharks season is only going to get worse! Although they’ve historically been the best South African side at touring, rarely have they had a good result in Christchurch. Against a Crusaders side that is showing some desperation by recalling Richie McCaw early from his break, it’s not going to get any better.

On paper these sides are fairly even. Both have good packs, and outside of Dan Carter, the Sharks edge the Crusaders backs. However this Sharks side is poorly coached, tactically niave and lack the ability to construct tries. That’s a recipe for disaster and won’t be enough to stop the losing streak.

Crusaders by 12.

Stormers v Brumbies – Newlands, Cape Town

Despite the absence of Schalk Burger, this side will be hungry and well led by Andries Bekker. Home wins are not negotiable, and last week was a step in the right direction for the Stormers.

The Brumbies have a solid pack, and a good backline. The Stormers will need to show the same discipline and desire on defence they showed last week against the Waratahs. The Burmbies will keep ball in hand more often, and try to construct multiple phases. As long as the Stormers defend like last week, the Brumbies won’t get very far.

There may need to be a bit more creativity in attack, but that’s an area I feel the Stormers will continue to improve in as the season progresses.

I’m expecting a full house at Newlands, and a stirring victory to the home side!

Stormers by 10.

Hurricanes v Lions – Westpac Stadium, Wellington

The Lions will continue to play the expansive game. They just need to ensure they defend properly and not concede too many points. The best way to do that is to maintain possession and score themselves.

Away to the Hurricanes represents a much greater challenge than playing at altitude in Johannesburg, and whilst I would love to see the Lions win, the smart money has to be with the Hurricanes. Conditions have been good in Wellington, meaning bonus points are probably the order of the day for both sides.

I hope not, but the Hurrcanes by 15.

Reds v Blues – Ballymore, Brisbane

A tough game to call. The Blues are particularly great, but the Reds are without captain James Horwill.

The Blues seem to struggle to put together an 80 minute effort, and Stephen Brett hasn’t controlled this side particularly well. The Reds will be bouyed by last season’s effort, and home advantage in a hot, humid Brisbane swings it for me.

Reds by 10.

Force v Chiefs – Perth

The Chiefs have come off 2 tough games in South Africa and have a few injury concerns as well as the suspension to Sione Lauaki.

However the Force offer very little other than a training run, and even the recruitment of David Hill can’t help them.

Chiefs by 22.

Cheetahs v Highlanders – Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein

The Cheetahs will have gained massive confidence from their victory over the Sharks and can now put valuable points on the board before they struggle with travel.

The Highlanders often play well in South Africa, but at altitude it will be much tougher. This Cheetahs pack will be tested by the Highlanders, but it is in the back row and out wide where the Cheetahs will run them ragged and score the valuable tries that will ensure victory.

Cheetahs by 14.

Bulls v Waratahs – Loftus, Pretoria

Who will stop the Bulls? It won’t be the Waratahs. They are too negative, and taking on the Bulls at their strengths (a territory game with plenty of kicking) will burn them.

Led by Matfield, and bolstered by the return of Danie Rousouw and Dewald Potgieter is only going to let this Bulls side up the ante. The Bulls have scored 2 fifty pointers in a row, and whilst the Waratahs have a strong defence, the Bulls should be able to continue their scoring streak.

Bulls by 16.

Assistant coach of the Springboks, Gary Gold has performed an in-depth analysis of the refs in the first round of this year’s super 14.

A copy of the article can be found on Gary’s rugby page.

Interestingly there were 2 local derbies in each country, and the penalty counts varied significantly when compared to the other match also in the same country. Are the refs being consistent? That for me is the biggest problem in rugby. It’s not that one ref is good, or one bad, it is the fact that they can differ so vastly from 1 game to the next, the poor players don’t know how to play.

That is the aim of these new law interpretations, but it’s silly to think players cannot concentrate fully on simply playing the game. They have to worry how the ref is going to handle the game, and that is not good for the game.

A great example was the game between the Sharks and Cheetahs in round 2. I thought Jonathan Kaplan was quite average, and after he was replaced at half-time by Pro Legoete the way the game was handled changed significantly.

Gary also discovered that 73% of the penalties in week 1 were awarded to the attacking side. Whilst this is a change SANZAR wanted, I don’t believe it is healthy for attacking sides to know that they are unlikely to be penalised unless something extreme happens. Both sides should be able to compete for the ball, and I’d probably prefer a 50-60% average for the attacking side.

Thankfully sanity has prevailed and Victor Matfield has been cleared to lead the Bulls on Saturday against the Waratahs.

Matfield had been cited and appeared at a SANZAR judicial hearing on Monday. After viewing the incident from multiple views, advocate Jannie Lubbe concluded that Matfield had struck Elsom in a lawful manner cleaning out at the ruck and the charges were dismissed.

Obviously the Brumbies will be peeved. They should try playing rugby instead of crying about incidents such as these, and calling the Bulls names!

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke was extremely happy to get his inspirational captain back and said “Victor provides so much to the team and it is great to know that he will be available to play. The Waratahs are a quality side and we certainly need to face them with our strongest possible team.”

Injury update

The Bulls have recovered remarkably well after Saturday’s game with the Brumbies. Those that were causing most concern appear on the road to recovery.

Pierre Spies caused the most concern when he went down in severe pain during the match. Scans have shown there is no structural or cruciate damage, he simply injured a muscle behind the knee. Spies will play but won’t train with the side until the captains run on Friday.

Bulls team doctor Org Strauss had this to say, “He (Spies) actually injured a muscle behind the knee, which was good news, as we’d feared some structural damage to the knee. We expect him to be fit.”

Dewald Potgieter is recovering from his knee injury and is available for selection. The question in the loose forwards will be who do you leave out? Spies, Stegmann and Potgieter would be my preferred combination, with Wannenburg on the bench. It would be a tough call for Derick Kuun to miss out however.

Danie Rousouw is also expected to play on Saturday after a neck strain last week.

The only player not considered was Jaco Pretorius who is still recovering from a quad strain, thus Stephan Dippenaar will remain at outside centre.

Match awards v the Brumbies (source: Bulls website)

The weekly Bulls team awards were dominated by the forwards with tighthead prop Werner Kruger leading the way.

Kruger made the most cleans, Deon Stegmann the most tackles with a mammoth 16 tackles. His workrate has been fantastic and other than the tackles, his speed to the breakdowns has been fantastic. While fetcher flanker play has to be redefined due to the new law interpretations, Stegmann has shown he has adapted better than any other player. I wonder if Springbok coach Peter de Villiers is considering rewarding Stegmann if he keeps us this form!

Lock Flip van der Merwe won the award for exceptional performance after a great starting performance. The depth at lock will hopefully allow Matfield a chance to rest at some stage, especially when old mate Bakkies Botha returns.

Morne Steyn won 2 awards, including the best back as he scored 35 points which included 2 tries.

The key to victory for me was the team effort rather than individuals and forwards coach Johan van Graan had this to say “We again reacted and adapted very well to the referee’s interpretation of the rucks and mauls. We had possession 80 times and recycled the ball 80 times.”

“The restarts and line-outs were very competitive, with both teams winning two of the opponent’s balls. We are very happy with the scrums and we again scored two tries from this phase” continued van Graan.

Defence coach John McFarland said “We became stronger defensively as the game went on. The new application have brought about changes to techniques and require a high level of conditioning to defend for 80 minutes. We did that with some success and made 112 tackles with a 90% completion.”

The Lions and Chiefs had an 18 try attack-athon, the Bulls and Stormers showed they will be the form South African sides, whilst the Reds produced the biggest upset in years.

The Bulls and Stormers are both placed in great positions and likely to carry the South African semi-final hopes, while the Sharks showed they are finished for the season and likely to be near the bottom of the table.

The Reds produced a great upset, the question is what can they maintain, especially given the fact captain James Horwill is finished for the season.

The Lions and Chiefs showed what can happen when sides don’t want to tackle, hold the ball and just want to score tries! Is it the way to go? As I have maintained the new law interpretations are too extreme and take the contest out of the game.

Even Waratahs captain Phil Waugh and I are on the same page. “Rugby union is supposed to be a contest, and the breakdown is a contest within that contest. We’ve got to be careful that we don’t get too caught up in watching the defender when the attacking team can be at fault too” said Waugh.

“There’s too many passive ball-carries that are rewarded while dominant tackles are often penalised. I’d like to see those big hits rewarded more often, but unfortunately it’s not happening at the moment. Hopefully this is just a case of referees getting used to the new interpretations and come the halfway stage, things may be more equal” continued Waugh.

Hopefully we’ll get back to some common ground, because 72-65 is not rugby, it’s basketball!

Picks 5/7

Highlanders (15) v Blues (19)

The Blues picked up a valuable 4 log points at what use to be the house of pain. Now it’s just a hold of cold and students, deep in the South Island of New Zealand!

Neither side played particularly well, with both sides guilty of indiscretions at the breakdown when under pressure. It’s taking time for some sides to adapt, and generally those that are failing, are not near the top of the log.

Stephen Brett has not set the world alight since moving to the Blues, and they looked directionless. Considering the pedigree of their forward pack, they are not setting a stable platform for the backs to operate well under either.

The Highlanders are a no frills side that really won’t threaten any of the top sides. They were motivated to perform for their home fans, but came up short as they lack the class needed at this level.

Overall a fairly average game.

Reds (41) v Crusaders (20)

The Reds scored the biggest upset in many years as they comprehensively beat the Crusaders in a 1 sided match in Brisbane.

It was the first time the Reds had beaten the Crusaders since 1999, and the Crusaders heaviest margin of defeat since in 6 years.

The Reds victory was based on dominance from scrumhalf Will Genia and flyhalf Quade Cooper, who created space for the Reds backs which led to multiple try-scoring opportunities.

Their victory may have come at a high cost however with Reds captain James Horwill likely to be sidelined for a long period with knee ligament damage.

The Crusaders missed regular captain Richie McCaw, and captain for the night Kieran Read said “We came over here with high hopes, but we just weren’t there. We just gave away too many penalties and dropped too much ball.”

This was a good result for the SA sides but showed the Reds are not to be underestimated this year!

Sharks (20) v Cheetahs (25)

The Sharks were abysmal in losing at home for the second successive week. It’s going to be a year of pain for the Sharks!

How does a side full of Springboks perform so poorly every week? They seem incapable of producing constructive rugby. The one occasion they did, they scored a simple try to Ryan Kankowski. It requires a greater effort than that however, and the Cheetahs showed that the greater hunger for victory.

The Cheetahs were well led by captain Juan Smith, and although their execution was poor at times, their willingness to have a go was rewarded. This led to a great try from fullback Riaan Viljoen, although he ran through a non-existent Sharks defence.

Compare this to Sharks fullback Stefan Terblanche. Did he run the ball back at all? Other than Adrian Jacobs, the Sharks backs are clueless, and simply move the ball from one side to the other. What does the coach teach them?

Mind you it doesn’t help when your much vaunted back row rarely gets over the advantage line for the backs to get quality ball.

The Sharks now head overseas for a 5 week tour where things are likely to go from bad to worse, while the Cheetahs can celebrate their first victory away from home since 2007. It may turn out to be a prized possession for them in 2010!

Lions (65) v Chiefs (72)

Tries! Lots of them. (Thats what the administrators wanted (Well the Kiwis and Aussies anyway). 18 tries in total were shared 9 apiece.

There were records broken galore in this game. These included the highest total number of points in a match, total number of tries and I’m sure the fewest tackles made too!

The Chiefs had the perfect start scoring in the second minute after running the ball the length of the field and barely having a hand laid on them, and their second try was also scored with barely a hand laid on the try scorer.

The Lions showed they weren’t prepared to give up without a fight and worked their way back with 3 tries, helped by the sinbinings of Sione Lauaki (who is just a thug and deserves to be suspended for constant misdemeanours, but I guess that only happens to South Africans) and de Malmanche (where does that name come from anyway??).

With an 8 point lead, the Lions let the Chiefs go into halftime with a lead thanks to silly mistakes. Poor at the restarts, stupid option taking, trying to run the ball from deep. These hurt the Lions and allowed the momentum to move back to the Chiefs.

After half-time the Lions scored a further 38 unanswered points as the Lions stopped tackling for 20 minutes! It was disgraceful stuff, but to their credit the Lions never gave up and finished the stronger of the 2 sides. The problem seems to be the holes in midfield which creates space out wide.

Earl Rose was tremendous and led the fightback. He is always a danger on attack, and creates so many opportunities for those around him. Burton Francis looks good when given opportunities, and in my view they look so much better when he replaces Carlos Spencer. I’d drop Doppies la Grange and move Spencer to inside centre, with Francis at flyhalf.

Wandile Mjekevu scored 3 good tries and showed his potential. Mjekevu and Tonderai Chavanga are benefiting from the expansive approach, and the Lions look like they have the fitness to play the expansive game. It was tenacious stuff to come back to within 7 points, but you can’t expect to concede 9 tries, 72 points and walk away with victory.

There were plenty of positives for Lions coach Dick Muir, he just needs his players to tackle and stop the opposition scoring! The Chiefs meanwhile have shown there are chinks in their armour and they aren’t invincible, but good sides win even when they aren’t playing well, and they’ll be extremely happy with their early log position.

Hurricanes (47) v Force (22)

The Force have become a walking 5 points for their opposition. Not enough depth, enough class or enough competitiveness across the park.

The Hurricanes produced a solid effort at home, with their wingers Tamati Ellison and David Smith chasing well and being rewarded for their efforts.

Aaron Cruden also adds impact as the replacement flyhalf, and should get a start soon.

The Hurricanes eventually outscored the Force 6 tries to 3, and gained the crucial bonus point.

The Force have been decimated by injury, and will struggle to move off the bottom of the log. Other than James O’Connor, they don’t offer enough on attack.

Bulls (50) v Brumbies (32)

The Bulls showed great composure in putting away the Brumbies at Loftus.

The Bulls player ratings showed it was a great team effort, and the depth, patience and belief of this side in executing their game plan when under real pressure and trailing at half-time showed why they are the defending champions!

They’ll be so hard to beat at Loftus, and have embraced the new law interpretations better than almost any side. Another thing the Bulls are doing fantastically well is maintaining discipline. It used to allow sides back into matches, but the Bulls have shown that mentally they are now clearly the best side in the competition (actually the universe in my opinion!)

The Brumbies talked a great game and for the first half, almost got away with it. However the effects of altitude and the difference in class shone through in the end, although the Brumbies never gave up trying.

Stormers (27) v Waratahs (6)

A match in stark contrast to the Lions-Chiefs just 4 hours earlier. This game was built on defence, both sides playing a more defensive brand of rugby, kicking for territory and seemingly unable to put together multiple phases.

The Stormers lost Schalk Burger early to a slight hamstring strain and Francois Louw and replacement loose forward Pieter Louw took on the extra responsibility superbly. Duane Vermeulen was a standout in the loose and also the lineouts, and the pack was led superbly by Andries Bekker who looks to have beefed up and is making massive hits, getting all around the park and dominating lineouts.

His lock partner De Kock Steenkamp was also well-committed, and Tiaan Liebenberg was just scary running onto the ball at pace!

The Stormers backs were strong on defence also. Ricky Januarie appears to be coming back to his best, although his kicking at times was not quite accurate enough, but Juan de Jongh and Jaque Fourie run straight and hard, and give Peter Grant so much more time and options.

Add in Bryan Habana who sniffs out any sort of try-scoring opportunity and this Stormers side is slowly gaining great momentum. What impressed me most was the 80 minute effort and intensity.

The Waratahs showed they haven’t really adapted from last year. They are still boring, relying on the boot of Berrick Barnes to gain field position, but not able to do much with it. Phil Waugh is a moron and lacked discipline and leadership for his side to follow. He was lucky not to be carded.

The Waratahs incidentally were the only side not to score a try over the weekend, and what was it that Phil Waugh said about the South Africans being the ones who would struggle with the new law interpretations?

PR: wait… I: wait… L: wait… LD: wait… I: wait… wait… Rank: wait… Traffic: wait… Price: wait… C: wait…

Bulls Superman Pierre Spies may have picked up a serious knee injury in the Bulls win over the Brumbies on Saturday.

Midway through the second half, Spies was tackled and looked to have wrenched his knee badly. He lay on the ground in agony, and my initial thoughts were “this is serious.”

However the big man got up and although ginger for a few minutes, he managed to play on. Eventually Spies was substituted once the result of the match was a foregone conclusion.

Knee ligament injuries can often go undetected. Judging by the pain Spies felt initially he must’ve torn something to register that acute pain, I just hope it’s not a cruciate ligament which provides the majority of the knee’s stability and if torn will most likely need surgical repair (and a lengthy rehabilitation period).

The only way to confirm the diagnosis is from scans. Generally a MRI scan. Bulls team doctor Org Strauss confirmed Spies will have the knee scanned on monday and said “I’ve seen injuries like this before that have looked fairly innocuous but have turned out to be serious, so we’ll wait and see.”

I hope Spies is okay, otherwise he may need to don his cape and fly instead of run! I’m sure all Bulls fans will be holding thumbs for him!

The good news for the Bulls is that Dewald Potgieter is making excellent progress after his medial ligament strain to his knee and should be available for selection this week.He will resume training on Monday, and is the unfortunate happens and Spies is ruled out (or even rested if needed), the Bulls have a fantastic replacement.

“We’ll see how he responds in training but his rehabilitation has gone very well and we’re confident he’ll be ready for the Waratahs” said Dr Strauss.

Meanwhile the injuries to lock Danie Rousouw and centre Jaco Pretorius may need another week, but the Bulls have depth in those positions. However the citing to Victor Matfield could potentially throw a spanner in the works.

The Bulls will also gain Springboks Bakkies Botha, Chiliboy Ralepelle and Akona Ndungane over the next 4-5 weeks too as they recover from longer-term injuries.

Bulls captain courageous and inspirational leader Victor Matfield has been cited following the Bulls 50-32 demolition of the Brumbies at Loftus.

Matfield is not a dirty player, he is one of the nicest guys around. In fact he’s so thin he could barely cause anyone damage!

Matfield was cited for foul play and charged with striking Brumbies flanker Rocky Elsom in the 17th minute under law 10.4 (a).

Deon Stegmann was in a ruck (and was left with a bleeding nose), and Elsom struck him with his forearm. Matfield came in to clean out Elsom, and unfortunately his forearm made contact with the bottom portion of Elsom’s face which doesn’t look good for Matfield.

I have no doubt Matfield was coming to his teammates defence and was simply trying to clean out at the ruck.

I’m not sure if it is the same incident or another but Matfield was also cited for charging into a ruck without binding onto another player under law 10.4 (k).

The Bulls have embraced the new law interpretations almost better than any other side and I thought their discipline has been fantastic so far. Why do the Bulls (and Springboks) always seem to get cited, suspended and generally subject to a different law compared to others?

Meanwhile thugs like Sione Lauaki get a 1 match ban for dangerous spear tackles? Where is the consistency? The Bulls just want to play rugby!

The hearing will occur on Monday lunchtime at Loftus. Thankfully it shouldn’t disrupt the Bulls preparations for their match against the Waratahs on Saturday.

I am not sure who actually Matfield. The new citing procedure has Freek Burger as the citing commissioner in South Africa, and as I understand it he has the final say on whether to put forward a citing if either side has put forward a citing request. My gut feel is that knowing the Aussies are yellow as they are, they’ve cited Matfield because they can’t stand losing and don’t know how else to compete with the Bulls.

Let’s hope justice and sanity prevails and Matfield can lead the Bulls on Saturday.

The Bulls produced a superb team effort in front of their home fans in coming back to thrash the Brumbies 50-32 at Loftus on Saturday.

The strength of this side is not the quality of the individuals, but the family bond and ability to play as a team. The game plan is clear, they don’t panic, and the grind the opposition down. Loftus creates massive pain for the opposition and the Brumbies will regret Adam Ashley-Cooper providing ammunition to the Bulls by calling the Bulls parasites!

Bulls 50
Tries: Wynand Olivier, Fourie du Preez, Gerhard van den Heever, Morne Steyn (2)
Conversions: Steyn (5)
Penalties: Steyn (5)

Brumbies 32
Tries: Rocky Elsom, George Smith, Pat McCabe
Conversion: Stirling Mortlock
Penalties: Mortlock (4):

Bulls player rating:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp – 7

A strong showing from the front-ranker who looks supremely fit and getting around the park well. A second half kick through highlighted his range of skills, but the execution wasn’t perfect. Scrumming well so far this year.

2. Gary Botha – 7

A strong showing around the park, and brings solidity to the pack. Accurate lineout throwing also.

3. Werner Kruger – 7

Solid around the field and made numerous carries. A tireless worker who does his job well.

4. Flip van der Merwe – 7

Strong carrying the ball up, and almost always crossed the advantage line. Brings the hard edge similar to Bakkies Botha and going from strength to strength with each outing.

5. Victor Matfield (c) – 8

A strong showing from the captain who led his charges well. Superb at lineout time and controlled his side well around the field and dealt with the referee without getting flustered. Such a cool, calm customer under pressure, and keeps his side focused well.

6. Deon Stegmaan – 8

Brilliant. Massive work rate and regaining the form of last year. So quick to the breakdowns and contested well when able. Has adapted brilliantly to the new law variations and on this form could be a Springbok this year.

7. Pedrie Wannenburg – 7

Not a stand out performance in his 100th game, but extremely workmanlike, carrying the ball strongly when needed, and working hard in defence. A good all round effort.

8. Pierre Spies – 8

Carried the ball well, and dangerous even from a standing start. Caused great anxiety when he went down with a knee injury in the second half and looked in severe pain. It’s full extent will only be known later in the week, but such a pivotal man for the Bulls. Constantly threatened the opposition.

9. Fourie du Preez -8

Another solid showing from the world’s premier scrumhalf. His service has been excellent this year, option taking good, and dangerous with ball in hand. Hasn’t used the box kick much, a sign the Bulls have used ball in hand much more.

10. Morne Steyn – 8

Missed his first kick, an ambitious 58m attempt, but kicked superbly after that. Strong with ball in hand two, and his support play to score two tries is often underestimated. Made a couple of errors with his kicking in general play and won’t be pleased with that.

11. Francois Hougaard – 8

Another to go down in the second half, but looked more like a direct collision injury as opposed to his knee. I was sceptical as to how he’d go on the wing, but Hougaard posed a threat every time he touched the ball. Massively talented, and he’ll have a great season if he keeps up this form.

12. Wynand Olivier – 7

Solid game from Olivier. Strong in defence and constantly asking questions on attack. Set the ball up well when the Bulls needed it, and took intelligent options.

13. Stephan Dippenaar – 7

Showed the Bulls depth and looked right at home at this level. Ran straight and hard (something the Sharks would do well to learn). Didn’t break the line, but will be more confident next time round.

14. Gerhard van den Heever – 8

Showed his pace when needed. Often appears to be cruising, but deceptively quick. Developing the knack of sniffing out tries, which all good wingers have.

15. Zane Kirchner – 8

So reliable at the back for the Bulls. Kicks well, and hits the line brilliantly. However it is his cover defence and ability to come forward and make the spot tackle, stopping the opposition player dead in his tracks that allows the Bulls time to regroup. Massively under-rated.

16. Bandise Maku – 7

Getting better and better. Ensure the Bulls scrum was solid, and lineout throwing is good.

17. Bees Roux -

Not on long enough to make a decent rating

18. Fudge Mabeta -

Not on long enough to make a decent rating

19. Derick Kuün – 7

Initially took time to adapt to the breakdown rulings, but competed well in this area and strong with ball in hand. Together with Stegmann they are so quick to the breakdowns.

20. Heini Adams – 7

Not much game time, but has the best pass in South Africa and always does his job well.

21. Jacques-Louis Potgieter -

Not on long enough to make a decent rating

22. John Mametsa -

Not on long enough to make a decent rating

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Live updates from Loftus as the Bulls take on the Brumbies

Pedrie Wannenburg leads the Bulls out onto the field in his 100th game. Well done!

The field looks a bit mottled. It’s being resown for the 2010 Soccer World Cup.

2nd Min – Brumbies get an early penalty. Mortlock kicks it, Brumbies lead 3-0.

9th Min – A fairly even beginning with plenty of intensity. Morne Steyn to have a penalty attempt from 58m. Poor strike and it goes under the crossbar. Brumbies still lead 3-0.

11th Min – Bulls not looking as polished this week. I don’t like being behind!

12th Min – Bulls penalty at scrumtime. A kickable penalty. C’mon Morne.
Hits it well. Scored tied at 3-3!

14th Min – Brumbies over the line! I think he lost it but we are going to the TMO. I thought he lost it, but I suspect it will be a try.
Yup, Rocky Elsom awarded the try in the left hand corner. Damn! Brumbies lead 8-3.

Mortlock misses the conversion to the right. It stays 8-3.

17th Min – Great Bulls buildup. Gain a penalty but just couldn’t quite breakthrough. Morne Steyn makes it 8-6.

21st Min – A move by the Bulls goes horribly wrong. Rocky Elsom sets George Smith away and scores under the sticks. With the conversion the Brumbies have a handy 15-6 lead.

23rd Min – Bulls penalty. Steyn kicks into the corner. C’mon guys!

24th Min – Try! Fourie du Preez goes through from the base of the maul, and was aided by ref Mark Lawrence being slightly in the way.

Morne Steyn makes it 15-13.

Surprisingly quite sparse on the far stand. Probably 20-25 000 crowd, but that’s a guess.

29th Min – Penalty to the Brumbies right in front.
Mortlock makes it 18-13.

33rd Min – Morne Steyn! Great buildup and taking the ball through the phases. Try time.
Kicks his own conversion and the Bulls take the lead 20-18. Yeah!

36th Min – Brumbies penalty. Gary Botha deemed offside out wide. The difference in defence between this game and the Lions-Chiefs game is highly evident.
Mortlock 5m in from the left hand sideline.
Good kick and the Brumbies lead again, 21-20.

38th Min – Morne misses the drop. So close.

Half-Time: Bulls 20 Brumbies 21

42nd Min – Matt Giteau gets the drop goal. In off the post but he’ll take it. That one was the result of a kick mistake from Steynn. Brumbies ahead 24-20.

45th Min – Good Bulls buildup. Get he penalty. They kick for the corner.

46th Min – It goes horribly awry, and the Brumbies breakout. Francois Hougaard took a knock to the leg and is limping a bit.

Will the altitude takes it’s effect later in the game? I hope so!

Pedrie Wannenburg leaves the field and Derick Kuun comes on.

50th Min – Brumbies penalty right near the posts.
Mortlock makes it 27-20.
C’mon Bulls!

51st Min – Penalty to the Bulls. Kicks to the corner again. We need a try!
From the maul we get another penalty. The Brumbies were coming in from the side too. Ref should bin them, or at least warn them!
Morne Steyn kicks it. Brumbies ahead now 27-23.

56th Min – Gerhard van den Heever. Good boy! Picks up the loose ball from the lineout. Try!
The Bulls are now in front 30-27 after the conversion.

59th Min – Deon Stegmann does great work getting to the breakdown quickly. Earns the turnover and penalty.

Pierre Spies looks in trouble. The big man looks to have damaged his knee. Hope he is ok. He is continuing, but then he is Superman!

61st Min – Wynand Olivier!!! Try! Just a simple switch move with Morne Steyn from the scrum. The Blue machine starting to get into gear. And that’s the bonus point try.
Morne Steyn makes it 37-27, and a handy 10 point lead now.

67th Min – Bulls starting to dominate and earn the penalty.
Morne Steyn makes it 40-27. One more score should seal it. Go for the drop Morne!

70th Min – Penalty to the Brumbies for a high tackle from Zane Kirchner. C’mon gotta defend well.

The Bulls just need to wind this game down now. 8 and a half to go.

73rd Min – Penalty Bulls. Right in front. Morne Steyn can wrap it up. It’d be nice to deny the Brumbies a bonus point too.
74th Min – Morne Steyn kicks it and Bulls ahead 43-27.

76th Min – Morne Steyn! You beauty. A try next to the posts after fantastic buildup. Another 50 pointer.
Morne Steyn kicks the conversion and now it is 50-27. Morne Steyn has 35 points.

It’s been 30 points to 6 in the second half.

81st Min – A late try at the end to the Brumbies. To no real avail as they can’t get a bonus point.
Mortlock misses the conversion and the score is 50-32.

Full-time: Bulls 50 Brumbies 32

An excellent victory for the Bulls who were under real pressure halfway through the match. Like last week, and last year, there is no panic in this side and they performed the job superbly.

We now sit atop the log, a good place to be!

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Wallaby and Brumbies fullback Adam Ashley-Cooper has labelled the Bulls as parasites ahead of this Saturday’s encounter with the Bulls at Loftus.

In an article published in the Canberra Times, Ashley-Cooper said “They play such a parasitic game of footy, their game plan, they just rely on putting all the pressure on you and wait for you to slip up.”

”They are parasites, as I like to describe the way they play. Morne Steyn and Fourie du Preez are such fantastic kickers so as a result, they get to play such good field position and use their dominant forwards to get over the advantage line and wait for opportunities to pop up. And then they sink their teeth in. We need to give that back to them, to master our kicking game, to play in their half, to pile the pressure on them and play how and where we want to”. continued Ashley-Cooper.

I understand what Ashley-Cooper is trying to say, the Bulls get under your skin, have a  great kicking game and wait for mistakes as a result of applying immense pressure to capitalise on. However it may be a large part of the Bulls game, but they have more attributes than that. Remember the Super 14 final last year? Did Ashley-Cooper see the 6 tries the Bulls scored last week?

Diplomacy has never been an Australian strength. I am sure the Bulls will love the red cape waved in front of them by Ashley-Cooper this week. The crowd will certainly remind him every time he touches the ball and I look forward to seeing him get smashed by the Bulls parasites! They’ll definitely stick to him and suck the life out of him!

His coach, Andy Friend was more diplomatic in assessing the challenge ahead. “The Bulls at Loftus presents a significant challenge for any side in the competition. There’s an appreciation within the side that we need to step up from where we finished last week and we’ve identified where we need to improve against a quality Bulls outfit” said Friend.

“We certainly need to be more physical in the contest and I think Rocky (Elsom) will help us achieve that. In saying that, Mitch (Chapman) was one of our hardest working forwards in the Force game but given Rocky’s returning from an injury, it made sense to put him straight into the game after the warm-up without giving him a chance to cool down on the bench” continued Friend.

I’m looking forward to a great clash and seeing blood. Brumbies blood. The Bulls are going to cause some serious damage to these okes!

The Bulls make their first appearance at fortress Loftus for the first time in 2010.

We haven’t been beaten at Loftus in 11 games, since the Hurricanes beat us in 2008. It’s a tough ask to win at Loftus, and it’ll be hard for the Brumbies on Saturday too.

In a late change, Springbok lock Danie Rousouw has been ruled out with a neck injury suffered at training, and Flip van der Merwe moves to the starting line-up with former SA under-21 lock Fudge Mabeta coming onto the bench.

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke has made two other changes from the side that won last week in Bloemfontein. Stephan Dippenaar (outside centre) gets a rare start with the injury to Jaco Pretorius Francois, whilst super utility Francois Hougaard (left wing) replaces John Mamesta after recent injury woes.

Both are young, products of the Western Cape (former Paul Roos students) and the future of the Bulls. Hougaard has a tough ask filling Bryan Habana’s shoes, whilst Dippenaar takes on Wallaby Stirling Mortlock in his biggest test to date.

“We’ve got confidence in Dippenaar. He’s a very talented player and we have all the confidence in his abilities. When he looks around he will see there are a lot of old heads around him to back him, so there is no reason for him not to make a difference on Saturday” said Bulls coach Ludeke.

“This is it for me. I have been waiting in the wings and now get the chance to stake a claim. The fact that I will be playing against Stirling Mortlock certainly makes it more special. He is one of the best there is and a fantastic way to measure where I am in my career” said an enthused Dippenaar.

Pedrie Wannenburg also has the honour of playing his 100th Super rugby game for the Bulls. Remarkably it will be the 86th consecutive game for the stalwart loose forward.

“To get to a situation like this you have to be a special player and have good mental capacity to handle the challenges of the game. The nice thing is that he still has other dreams to pursue” Ludeke said.

Wannenburg is a tireless workhorse and re-iterated what it meant to play so many games for such a great side.

“It’s an unbelievable privilege to get there and to pull a Bulls jersey over my head. I’m one of the few who have got there, but it is not something I’m focusing on this weekend. My focus is on doing what I can to help the team achieve its goal” said Wannenburg.

“There are a couple of games that stand out, obviously my first game for the Bulls. Then all the finals we played together as a team. Also the 92-3 over the Reds was excellent. There are a couple of games I can look back at and realise those are special moments in my career. As for the 100th game, it’s very difficult to say how this ranks, but it is definitely a milestone that you get to” continued Wannenburg.

The Bulls are primed and ready for a big showing. They’re rejuvenated after last season’s success, and last week showed they have the ability to be flexible in their approach, and create tries.

The Brumbies only arrived in Pretoria on Wednesday. It’s a tough ask to come to altitude and only have 3 days to prepare. Hopefully they’ll feel the effects in the second half!

The danger will be if the Brumbies retain possession for long periods, take the ball through the phases and wear the Bulls down. However with the best lineout in the competition, and a beefed up scrum, the Bulls victory should start with a dominant forward effort.

Morne Steyn will kick well, as will Stirling Mortlock, but it may be the Bulls back three who can win this game if they get good go forward from a great loose trio.

Go Bulle Go!

Vodacom Bulls:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. Gary Botha
3. Werner Kruger
4. Flip van der Merwe
5. Victor Matfield (c)
6. Deon Stegmaan
7. Pedrie Wannenburg
8. Pierre Spies
9. Fourie du Preez
10. Morne Steyn
11. Francois Hougaard
12. Wynand Olivier
13. Stephan Dippenaar
14. Gerhard van den Heever
15. Zane Kirchner

16. Bandise Maku
17. Bees Roux
18. Fudge Mabeta
19. Derick Kuün
20. Heini Adams
21. Jacques-Louis Potgieter
22. John Mametsa

Brumbies:

1. Ben Alexander
2. Stephen Moore
3. Salesi Ma’afu
4. Justin Harrison
5. Mark Chisholm
6. Rock Elsom
7. George Smith
8. Stephen Hoiles (c)
9. Josh Valentine
10. Matt Giteau
11. Francis Fainifo
12. Christian Lealiifano
13. Stirling Mortlock
14. Pat McCabe
15. Adam Ashley-Cooper

16. Huia Edmonds
17. Guy Shepherdson
18. Ben Hand
19. Mitchell Chapman
20. Patrick Phibbs
21. Matt Toomua
22. Tyrone Smith

Referee: Mark Lawrence (South Africa)

Previous Super 14 results:

2006: Bulls 21, Brumbies 27 (Pretoria)
2007: Bulls 19, Brumbies 7 (Canberra)
2008:Bulls 28, Brumbies  17 (Pretoria)
2009: Bulls 31, Brumbies 32 (Canberra)

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The Sharks have acquired the services of English flyhalf Andy Goode for the remainder of the 2010 Super 14.

Have the Sharks lost the plot?

Goode has been playing for Brive in France and will join the squad ahead of the Sharks 5 match tour to Australasia.

In recent years the Sharks have had numerous foreign flyhalfs. Frederic Michalak, Gregor Townsend and Juan Martin Hernandez. How has it helped the Sharks? Where are the local flyhalves? What are the long term plans to develop a South African player for this position?

Since the retirement of Henry Honniball the Sharks have struggled in this position, but they have not helped tehemselves. The Sharks academy has produced plenty of young talent. Why not flyhalf?

I question the wisdom of acquiring Goode. Even in the northern hemisphere he is widely regarded as a bit of a journeyman, a stop gap measure to fill a hole.

He will join the Sharks with no Southern Hemisphere rugby experience. It’ll take him at least 2-3 weeks to get familiar with the Sharks and super rugby. By that stage the Sharks season will be over anyway. What message does that send to Ruan Pienaar and his flyhalf aspirations (if he has any left).

The Sharks should stop kidding themselves. They can’t win the Super 14, in fact they’ll be lucky to finish in the top half. Develop a flyhalf! Now! You have to start somewhere, otherwise they’ll be back at step 1 come Currie Cup time. I don’t think they seem to get it!

The Bulls meanwhile have shown their professionalism in releasing lock Wilhelm Steenkamp to the Sharks for the remainder of the Super 14.

Injuries to Johan Muller and Gerhard Mostert have left the Sharks seriously short of locks. The Bulls have a never ending supply of brilliant locks with Victor Matfield, Bakkies Botha (due to return from injury soon), Danie Rousouw, Flip van der Merwe, and Fudge Mabeta. It’s a wise decision to help out another franchise and allow him some quality playing time and the chance to learn from other players.

I am sure Steenkamp will learn what a losing side is like and will be raring to return to a winning side once he comes back to Pretoria for the Currie Cup!

The second week of the Super 14 sees greater international games, and the opportunity to see if the Australian challenge is real or not!

Each side should now be more familiar with the new law interpretations, and can start to evolve how they want to play.

Both the Waratahs and Brumbies travel to South Africa, and will test the Stormers and Bulls, whilst the Sharks could have their campaign as good as over.

The rest of the games should favour the more experienced sides and leave the table in a fairly fmailiar position.

Highlanders v Blues – Carisbrook, Dunedin

The Blues started off well last week and then faded, whilst the Highlanders finished fairly strongly. They are always tough to beat in Dunedin, but I’m backing the Blues to win.

There may not be much in this game, but ultimately I think the greater pace and class of the Blues’ backs should see them get home.

Blues by 8.

Reds v Crusaders – Suncorp, Brisbane

Will this Reds side continue to improve and build on last week’s effort? I personally don’t think the Aussies are as good as they think they are, and whilst the Crusaders often struggle with the heat and humidity in Brisbane, I can’t see them losing.

Crusaders by 12.

Sharks v Cheetahs – Kings Park, Durban

If the Sharks lose this game before going on tour, they can kiss their 2010 aspirations away. Sure sides like the Chiefs have come back from losing their first 3 games, however the Sharks have never made the semis after losing their first game of the season.

The Cheetahs may be blessed with the injury to Corne Uys as it gives Lionel Mapoe the opportunity to play outside centre. This guy has gas, and he could be a star.

Whilst both packs were poor last week, the Cheetahs have tended to have the measure of the Sharks in recent times. With a strong forward effort, I think the Cheetahs backs can win this game as the Sharks have greater expectation and more to lose.

The man who could turn it all around for the Sharks is Ruan Pienaar, but he is fast becoming the next Gaffie du Toit in my view but if he doesn’t have the kicking duties to contend with he may just go alright.

I’m not sure, but I’m picking the Cheetahs by 8.

Lions v Chiefs – Ellis Park, Johannesburg

The Lions started poorly last week and are still finding their feet and combinations. At least Dick Muir knows he has to persevere rather than go for the band-aid approach, and he has made 3 changes to his starting line-up which were probably warranted.

The Chiefs were scratchy last week but showed that they know how to win, and they possess game-breakers all over the field.

The one factor favouring the Lions is altitude, and it may catch up with the Chiefs in the final quarter.

The Lions lineout is poor, but the Chiefs are not a side that can exploit that. If the forward battle is fairly even, Carlos Spencer and Earl Rose could shine for the Lions.

This is more my heart than my head, but the Lions by 5.

Hurricanes v Force – Westpac Stadium, Wellington

The Hurricanes have lose Hosea Gear to injury and probably Willie Ripia. The back up players are untested, but should still be enough to overcome a Force side that doesn’t travel particularly well.

Hurricanes by 11.

Bulls v Brumbies – Loftus, Pretoria

The Brumbies are the pick of the Australian sides and heavily rated by their supporters. They have no right to come to Loftus and spoil our party!

Don’t worry the Bulls haven’t lost at Loftus since mid 2008, and have a run of 11 wins at their home fortress.

The Bulls look awesome so far this year, they’re fit and fresh, have adapted well to the new law interpretations, and appear mentally strong. The Brumbies pose a significan challenge, but one that we should be able to overcome. The danger could be Matt Giteau if he plays, and a Brumbies side that has few major weaknesses.

However we have Morne Steyn, and I’m sure he’ll keep the scoreboard ticking over with his boot.

Bulls by 8.

Stormers v Waratahs – Newlands, Cape Town

The Stormers faded badly in the second half last week, whilst the Waratahs showed they can never be discounted.

At home with 40 000+ fanatical supporters, this Stormers side will be eager to please their home crowd. I think they’ll be much better for last week’s effort, whilst it’s not easy for the Waratahs to travel so far.

The Stormers should be able to match the Waratahs pack, and in the backs Jaque Fourie and Bryan Habana should be able to stand out and create space out wide. I’m looking for the Stormers to really step up in this game.

Stormers by 9.

South African centre Jean de Villiers desperately wants to play in the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

He is leaving Munster at the end of the Northern Hemisphere season to return back to South Africa.

De Villiers only left South Africa in October 2009, and has spent just the 1 season at Munster. It was not an entirely happy time for him, as initially he was dropped and not highly valued by the Munster coaching staff.

His value to the Springboks however was evident when he was called up for the test against Ireland, even though the Boks rarely call up overseas based players.

On the 3rd September 2009, I wrote an article stating that I believed de Villiers would return back to South Africa sooner than most people expected, and I only expected him to last the one season up north.

The reason I suspected that was because I believe de Villiers made his decision before an awesome season for the Springboks in 2009 was completed. All of the side were happy, happier than I’ve ever seen a Springbok side, and he doesn’t want to miss out on that. Coupled with the fact he is yet to fully participate at a World Cup, and he wants to ‘earn’ his World Cup winners medal, I knew he’d be back.

In a press statement de Villiers said “I feel this is perhaps my last opportunity to represent my country at the World Cup and after consultation with SARU it has become clear that to qualify for selection players must be playing their rugby in South Africa in the season leading up to the competition”

“I’m thoroughly enjoying my time here in Munster and I think it would be fair to say that had the World Cup not been a factor, then I would be remaining for at least the next 2 seasons. I would not rule out returning here after RWC 2011 either, if the opportunity arose” continued de Villiers.

Add to that, the special atmosphere that is brewing at Western Province/The Stormers and I know de Villiers will not want to go to any other South African province.

Western Province rugby MD Rob Wagner  said “WP Rugby noted Jean de Villiers’ media statement on the Munster website yesterday, confirming that he will return to South Africa at the end of the European season. Jean is a world class player who has excelled on the international stage. He has played all his rugby in the Cape having represented both WP and the Stormers. We will be contacting him to learn more of his intentions and explore opportunities.”

I’m sure Springbok coach Peter de Villiers will select Jean de Villiers for the 2010 Tri-nations, and I expect to see him also running out for Western Province (if the Springboks don’t want him rested) in the 2010 Currie Cup!

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Outside centre Jaco Pretorius is suffering from a knock to his quadricep and will be unable to play against the Brumbies on Saturday.

Pretorius was injured during the first round encounter with the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Friday night, and had to leave the field. He suffered a haematoma as a result of a direct blow.

The Bulls team doctor Org Strauss told Supersport.com that there was heavy internal bleeding and the Bulls will not risk Pretorius as he is not 100%.

“There is a lot of bleeding inside the muscle and that will influence the recovery period. He will definitely not be playing this weekend. I’m not sure at this stage how long he will be out but we will monitor the bleeding on his leg on a daily basis” said Dr Strauss

Hooker Gary Botha and scrumhalf Fourie du Preez (bruised hip) were both replaced against the Cheetahs but have been declared fit for this weekend’s clash.

Francois Hougaard who was ruled out of the Cheetahs match on the eve  of kick-off has been pronounced fit and should be considered for selection this week. However flanker Dewald Potgieter is still recovering from his knee injuy and whilse he is back training with the side this week, will not be considered for selection.

“We will monitor his (Potgieter) progress, but I doubt that we will consider him to play this weekend” said Dr Strauss.

The Bulls team management acknowledged the stand out performance of Deon Stegmann at their post-match awards.

For a full report visit the Bulls website for the awards which take place after every match.

There were brilliant performances from many of the Bulls players who looked refreshed after a long season in 2009.

The Bulls often start fairly slowly, peaking towards the business end of the season, however in an ominous warning to their competition, they hit the ground running in the first week of the 2010 Super 14.

Deon Stegmann won the most number of awards from the first round clash against the Cheetahs, including exceptional effort, most cleans (20 in 80 minutes) and most tackles (16 in 80 minutes). However it was perhaps his tackle on Jongi Nokwe that was a try-saver at a critical period in the match that was the most important.

The biggest workrate went to fellow flank Pedrie Wannenburg. Victor Matfield made 18 cleans and Pierre Spies and Pedrie Wannenburg both made 11 tackles to complete a high work-rate from the Bulls loose-forwards and captain.

The best back was Wynand Olivier, who looked threatening with ball in hand and will be responsible for creating much of the Bulls backline moves.

Overall the side displayed plenty of positives. They adapted well to the new law interpretations (possibly the best out of all the sides), took the ball well through the phases and seemed to have turned last season’s weakness the scrum into a stable attacking platform.

4 Tries were scored directly from scrums, and in Pierre Spies they have an explosive weapon who can really utilise this platform to get the side moving forward.

Receiving the ball from kick-offs was a weakness, especially early on and lead to Lionel Mapoe’s try, but that’s an area the Bulls are usually so clinical at and I expect that to be rectified this weekend.

It all looks positive for the Bulls ahead of this weekend’s clash at Loftus with the Brumbies!

The opening round of the 2010 Super 14 did not produce the high number of tries expected, but did produce some strongly contested results.

The new interpretations at the breakdown set the tone for how the remainder of the season will be reffed, and as Springbok coach Peter de Villiers said in an interview with Bob Skinstad on 94.7 Highveld Stereo, the referees take longer to adapt than the players ever do.

I still don’t believe the new interpretations are the way to go. I’d like to see the tackler able to contest the ball, otherwise it makes it too hard to get possession back. I fear as sides get better they’ll be able to hang on to the ball until they score. I don’t think you should ever be rewarded just for having the ball and not being able to consistently do something with it.

The first round highlighted for me the difference between the contenders and the also rans. Once again the form teams of recent times showed the value of patience and experience as almost all the games were still in the balance heading into the final quarter, but the more experienced sides showed they know how to close games out.

Crucially there were minimal bonus points, and the Bulls and Crusaders will be gleefully accepting their full log haul. A few of these will make a major difference at the business end of the season. Even after 1 week, the log already has a familiar feel to it. I don’t see things changing too much in the coming weeks ahead.

Picks 7/7

Blues (20) v Hurricanes (34)

The Blues dominated the scoreboard early on whilst the Hurricanes had the better of territory. The Blues looked dangerous going wide and were able to construct two well worked tries.

However this competition is about more than fleeting moments of brilliance, and the Hurricanes showed good patience and discipline to wear the Blues down and capitalise on errors.

I thought Willie Ripia showed the Hurricanes will miss a good general, whilst for the Blues Jerome Kaino looks big and strong. He seems to have bulked up, and may be one to watch this season.

The refs will come under great scrutiny this season, and Stu Dickinson’s interpretations were fine for the better part of his game, it was just inaccurate far too often. The quality of reffing plays a big part in determining how much of a spectacle the game will be.

The Hurricanes will be happy to have won this one, and critically neither side were able to earn a bonus point. Something most teams struggle with at this stage of the season for some reason.

Force (15) v Brumbies (24)

Many in Australia are rating the Brumbies chances, but they took 70 minutes to put away a side who don’t really have a decent flyhalf and hooker.

The game was littered with errors, and the 3 try to 0 scoreline was not as emphatic as many would have you believe, despite the fact that the Force rarely ventured into the Brumbies 22 or constructed anything likely to bring about a try.

The Brumbies will welcome back Matt Giteau and Rocky Elsom, so they’ll be happy to have won their first game on the road but next stop for them is Pretoria. For the Force, it’s going to be a long season!

Cheetahs (34) v Bulls (51)

An emphatic victory in the end. For a full match report  click here.

The Cheetahs had talked up their scrum and aimed to take the game to the Bulls up front. However the Bulls dominated upfront and laid the platform for their backs to run rampant, and Morne Steyn to show he has not lost any of his accuracy from last season. The Bulls will only get better considering a few players are rusty and they haven’t had a big pre-season. Good signs!

Crusaders (32) v Highlanders (17)

The Crusaders started off fairly well, dominating the first half through territory. At half-time it was only 10-0 and probably not a fair reflection of the domination.

A try early in the second half opened up a 17-0 advantage and one could be forgiven for thinking it was all over. However it appears to be the strength of the Highlanders to keep trying no matter what, and they were able to work they way back into the game with two tries.

With 10 minutes to go the Crusaders only led by 1 point, and it was anyone’s game. A try to Zac Guilford seemed to seal the game for the Crusaders and the desperation from the Highlanders gifted the Crusaders a 4 try bonus point right at the end of the game.

Reds (28) v Waratahs (30)

The Reds have not beaten the Waratahs since 2003, and for 77 minutes it looked like this would change. The Reds had dominated most of the match and led 10-6 at half-time. Matches between these 2 sides often turn a bit ugly and controversy occurred when Reds lock Adam Byrnes was accused of biting. This incident will surely be taken further.

Even in the second half, the Reds dominated the majority of the match, it was just the boot of Berrick Barnes that kept the Waratahs in touch.

Dean Mumm was sinbinned with about ten minutes to go, and the Waratahs behind by 10. Two late tries, including the decider by Wycliff Palu sealed an unlikely victory for the Waratahs. It shows the Reds, at this level, you’ve got to play for the full 80.

Lions (13) v Stormers (26)

A scrappy game that showed plenty of promise, but poor execution. The Stormers dominated the first half, enjoying greater territory and possession. They were helped by the Lions willingness to run from deep in their own territory on too many occasions.

Bryan Habana and Jaque Fourie played massive roles in creating two tries that opened up a 20 point lead towards the end of the first half. The Lions at that stage appeared to have no answer. Carlos Spencer controlled the Lions possession poorly, and the Lions midfield lacked any penetration.

The second half however saw a role reversal. The Lions were the more desperate side and massive personnel changes helped create numerous chances. Unfortunately at least 2 promising moves were undone by poor handling.

For the Lions, Burton Francis and replacement scrumhalf Jacques Coetzee played really well, and controlled proceedings for the Lions much better. They just need some more thrust in midfield, and I’d play Francis at flyhalf and Spencer at inside centre. Earl Rose was also at the centre of almost all the Lions more positive moments, and needs to be involved as much as possible.

The Stormers showed they can be a massive threat, however their lack of intensity and falling off in the second half will be concern for coach Alistair Coetzee.

Sharks (18) v Chiefs (19)

After 5 days of sunshine, the rain hit Kings Park in Durban to produce damp, wet conditions. No doubt it affected both sides, but adaptability is not a strength I see in the Sharks.

The Sharks felt the wrath of Kiwi ref Keith Brown, unfairly given a warning I thought after 20 minutes for repeated infringing. 5 Penalties was hardly excessive and John Smit was sinbinned for a transgression at the ruck.

The Chiefs made most of the play in the first half, and the Sharks lacked any thrust with ball in hand or the boot.

The Sharks were also struck by a serious injury to Gerhard Mostert who was on the field replacing Johan Muller at the time. Both appear to be in doubt for next week, and the Sharks have major headaches now at lock.

The second half saw the Sharks open up a 9 point lead due to penalties and a chance to close the match out with 15 minutes to go. However the Chiefs finished the stronger of the 2 sides and looked more dangerous after the lead was changed multiple times in the last 5 minutes.

Another loss at home to the Sharks and their season will be over…whilst the Chiefs picked up valuable points away from home.

PR: wait… I: wait… L: wait… LD: wait… I: wait… wait… Rank: wait… Traffic: wait… Price: wait… C: wait…

All the talk ahead of the 2010 Super 14 has centered around the interpretation of the breakdown.

Will the opensider flanker be rendered useless as refs have been instructed to ‘favour’ the attacking side?

Whilst I”m not a real fan of the new interpretations, favouring a more even approach where the ball can be contested between both sides, and 1 side cannot monopolise possession without displaying the skill of ball protection.

I do however believe there will always been a case for the true openside flanker. His role may change slightly, but you always need a tearaway flank that plays to the ball, and can either win you turnovers or slow opposition ball down. Even if only for a split second.

Here Springbok forward coach, Gary Gold from Rugby IQ analyses Heinrich Brussow at the breakdown during the Springbok European tour in 2009.

Brussow is a great example of a genuine openside flanker, and whilst he may not win as many turnovers this year, his role is just as important as ever. It’ll change the way flanks play the game, but those that are successful will adapt to the new interpretations and the ‘gang tackle’ may become back in vogue with one person being the primary tackler and releasing the tackled player, while the second player can effect the turnover.

It promises to be another exciting season and I’m sure Brussow will be once again be one of the top flankers in 2010!

A nine try try fest between the Bulls and Cheetahs showed the new law interpretations will change the game this season.

Whilst I’m not convinced the law interpretation at the breakdown is good for the game, with attacking sides able to monopolise possession and the poor defending side struggling to get hold of the ball, the attitude from the Bulls and Cheetahs was awesome.

At the post match interview both Cheetahs captain Juan Smith and Bulls Captain Victor Matfield said how awesome the new law interpretations are for the fans and running the ball.

“Look, give the Cheetahs credit, they had a go at us tonight and they are a very good side who shouldn’t be written off easily. For us the bonus point away from home with the victory is unbelievable valuable”  said Bulls captain Matfield.

In 2008, the Bulls in particular did not want to adapt to the ELV’s and got left behind. South Africa has some amazing talent out wide, and with the right attitude we can embrace the law changes and make use of these talents.

Cheetahs coach Naka Drotske lamented the poor showing from his side, and was not pleased with his side’s effort.

“We didn’t tackle well tonight. Its unacceptable. We also let a few soft tries in and the guys slip the defensive line too easily. We will have to go back and work harder. Our one-on-one defence wasn’t good enough for three of the Bulls tries” said Drotske.

I felt the Cheetahs did not utilise their talent out wide enough. Lionel Mapoe and Jongi Nokwe look dangerous every time they got the ball, which was usually only from broken play. For the Cheetahs to succeed they’ll need to take more risks, and get their wingers into space.

The Bulls showed they have the players, the confidence and the right attitude to repeat last season’s success. With Morne Steyn ever dependable they have all the tools to keep the scoreboard flowing, and 50 points in their first encounter will give them great confidence.

PR: wait… I: wait… L: wait… LD: wait… I: wait… wait… Rank: wait… Traffic: wait… Price: wait… C: wait…