Sanjay's Rugby World

The Blue Bulls squashed any remaining doubts about their status as South Africa’s premier side with a 36-24 victory over the Free State Cheetahs at Loftus on Saturday.

The final lived up to expectation, with plenty of drama and action.

The Free State Cheetahs signalled their intentions early with some wonderful running. However the Bulls absorbed the pressure and Pierre Spies initiated a breakout after reclaiming a high kick. Derick Kuun was brought down inches short on the left hand side and the Bulls were awarded the penalty. Fourie du Preez it quickly and executed a wonderful cross kick to put Francois Hougaard in the right hand side.

It signalled the pattern for the first 25 minutes of the match as the Cheetahs attacked relentlessly. They had the majority of territory and possession, but the Blue Bulls defence was up to the task. The Cheetahs seemed to make easy metres every time they went wide, the Bulls not rushing up in defence, but happy to let the Cheetahs run at them.

Whenever they got ball, Fourie du Preez orchestrated the attack beautifully and 3 opportunities to break out led to 3 wonderfully taken opportunities. With Morne Steyn in supreme form and able to land a 52m penalty, the Blue Bulls had a 24-0 lead after 25 minutes.

Jacques-Louis Potgieter had an easy penalty chance after 6 minutes, but missed the kick. He blows way too hot and cold at this level, and the Cheetahs needed him to get the scoreboard ticking over. Coming back from 24-0 down was always going to be tough.

However credit to the Cheetahs, for they certainly don’t give up. Most sides who visit Loftus would succumb after a 24-0 lead. The Cheetahs stuck to their game plan, and scored two well worked tries to close the gap to 10 points.

The Bulls had good field position close to the end of the half and worked beautifully into mid-field to set up Morne Steyn for the drop-goal. It showed the difference between the sides. The Bulls’ execution, especially under pressure is faultless. In finals, it is all about building up pressure, and the Bulls know exactly what is required. Even Victor Matfield said after the match he doesn’t have to say anything each time the opposition scores, his side knows exactly what it has to do.

If the Cheetahs could have started well after half-time, they could have worked their way back into the match, but once again the Blue Bulls started well and almost took the game away from the Cheetahs.

Transgressions allowed Morne Steyn to take the lead to 16 points, and in my view they were lucky not to earn a yellow card for repeated infringements at the breakdown.

The Bulls started to relax, and the Cheetahs were dominating the scrums. A poor clearance from a defensive scrum led to wonderful interplay between the Cheetahs forwards and a try that put them back into contention. With a quick drop-goal from Jacques-Louis Potgieter, the Cheetahs were suddenly only 6 points shy.

I thought the Bulls were desperately unlucky when Morne Steyn produced a brilliant chip and chase that resulted in a try to Jaco Pretorius. Not sure what ref Jonathan Kaplan ruled, but the try was not given, and Morne Steyn missed his only kick.

From here the Cheetahs kept transgressing due to the pressure, and the Bulls simply ground out the victory. Perhaps the Cheetahs may rue their game-plan to run everything, but it did seem to work for them. The Blue Bulls on the other hand seemed content to handle whatever was thrown at them, and have so many strings to their bow that makes them difficult counter.

The Cheetahs used their scrum well to exert pressure on the Blue Bulls, I was surprised the Bulls didn’t slow the game further and try to work more lineouts where they once again dominated.

Heinrich Brussow started to become a factor late in the second half, but he was overshadowed by his schoolmate Deon Stegmaan, who was well supported by Dewald Potgieter.

I thought the Bulls players did everything they had to, and the difference in class was evident, but for me their players have also looked slightly jaded after a long, long season. They can now celebrate this victory before their Boks leave for the end of year tour, and their remaining players get together to start preparing to defend their titles for next year!

The Bulls made history as they became the first South African side to achieve the Super 14 and Currie Cup double!

If there was ever any doubt, surely now the Bulls have laid to rest any doubt: They are the premier side in South Africa, and have been for the last 7 years.

Naka Drotske even had to concede, “They’re the best in the world and they have the record to prove it. They’ve been involved in most Currie Cup finals since 2004 and now they’ve won two Super 14 titles and a Currie Cup. So, yes, they are the best in the world.”

Balie Swart has been working as a scrumming consultant recently, and has coached in New Zealand and with the Sharks. He said “No other team with which I have been involved believes as much in hard work as the Bulls do.” That is the secret to the Bulls success, and one can see the development and effort all the players have made in the last few seasons.

They now leave a legacy, and as Frans Ludeke said after the game, “There was a piece missing from the puzzle and tonight we filled that piece. We wanted to leave a legacy and now we’ve achieved that. Credit must go to this special group of players. They showed their character in the semi-final, and they were excellent this evening. They’ve worked hard to get where they are and they’ve reaped the rewards of that hard work.”

It’s fantastic to hear Bulls Captain Victor Matfield say that their success this year won’t mean anything unless they back it up again next year. It’s this attitude they will keep the Bulls at the top next year and beyond!

Blue Bulls:

Zane Kirchner, Francois Hougaard, Jaco Pretorius, Wynand Olivier, Bryan Habana, Morne Steyn, Fourie du Preez, Pierre Spies, Dewald Potgieter, Deon Stegmann, Victor Matfield (c), Bakkies Botha, Werner Kruger, Derick Kuun, Gurthro Steenkamp.
Reserves: Bandise Maku, Rossouw de Klerk, Danie Rossouw, Pedrie Wannenburg, Heini Adams, Burton Francis, Gerhard van den Heever

Cheetahs:

Hennie Daniller, Lionel Mapoe, Corné Uys, Meyer Bosman, Danwel Demas, Jacques-Louis Potgieter, JP Joubert, Ashley Johnson, Frans Viljoen, Heinrich Brüssow, David de Villiers, Nico Breedt, WP Nel, Adriaan Strauss (c), Wian du Preez. Reserves: Richardt Strauss, Coenie Oosthuizen, Izak van der Westhuizen, Kabamba Floors, Tewis de Bruyn, Louis Strydom, Fabian Juries

Referee: Jonathan Kaplan

A full stadium, and quite a few orange flags around too. Both sides look tense,and the opening 15 minutes are going to be crucial.

4th Min – Wonderful rugby by the Bulls! Great hands by Spies, who created the momentum and Derick Kuun inches short. Wonderful tackle by Lionel Mapoe.

Francois Hougaard scores the try after a Bulls cross kick. And of course Morne Steyn kicks the conversion from a tough angle!

Bulls ahed 7-0! Go Bulls Go!

6th Min – Penalty to the Cheetahs straight away after Bakkies Botha was offside at the ruck. Potgieter has an easy kick and pulls it. Bulls stay at 7-0. Could that kick be an omen for the Cheetahs?

9th Min – Cheetahs look dangerous with the ball in hand. They run straight and direct, and give the ball goood air to create space out wide. This is going to take a toll on the players and open up later in the game.

15th Min – Pressure, pressure, pressure. The Bulls absorbed everything the Cheetahs could throw at them. Once the error came, Fourie du Preez and Bryan Habana combined to make it look way too easy. Try!

Morne Steyn converts to give the Bulls a very handy 14-0 lead.

The Cheetahs have had 76% of the bal so far. Bulls have had to make a lot of tackles.

18th Min – Try to Bryan Habana. Out of nothing! A turnover at the ruck, Fourie du Preez saw the space and Habana’s pace did the rest. Habana had come inside and was ready for the kick. Brilliant.

No one has ever scored more than 2 tries in a Currie Cup final. Could Habana set a new record today?

Steyn converts from the sideline to make it 21-0.

25th Min – Morne Steyn has a chance 52m out and on the difficult angle.

What a kick. Morne Steyn take a bow. Bulls edge out to 24-0.

Bulls sloppy at the kick-off. It’s an area they haven’t looked sharp at today so far.

32nd Min – Sustained Cheetahs pressure and Frans Viljoen hit the ball at awesome pace. Try. The Cheetahs get on the board so there go my hopes of a clean scoresheet!

Pogieter converts to cut the Bulls lead to 24-7.

36th Min -  A second Cheetahs try. In the right corner, they certainly keep coming, and don’t get disheartened.

Potgieter nails the conversion from the sideline. Suddenly it’s only a 10 point gap. Bulls lead 24-14.

40th Min – Well worked by the Bulls from the lineout. We’ve only had 23% of possession, but they worked that beautifully for Morne Steyn to kick a drop goal. Vital points to make it 27-14.

Halftime Blue Bulls 27 Free State Cheetahs 14

It’s been all Cheetahs with territory and possession, but the Bulls have shown their class in nailing opportunities and creating space.

The Bulls will have to make sure they get more territory and possession in the second half. Brussow hasn’t been a factor so far, and I would imagine the Bulls will want to slow it down and ensure there are more lineouts.

40 Minutes is all that stands between this Bulls team and greatness.

43rd Min – Sustained Bulls pressure for the first time in the game. The penalty comes after the Cheetahs have to make lots of tackles.

Morne Steyn kicks the penalty to give the Bulls a handy 30-14 lead.

45th Min – Poor scrum from the Bulls. Shoddy play and the Cheetahs forwards produced some good interplay to score in the corner. Potgieter kicks the conversion and the Bulls lead 30-21.

49th Min – Jacques-Louis Potgieter kicks the drop. In the pocket and kicked it well. C’mon Bulls!!

Bulls 30 lead the Cheetahs 24.

54th Min – Penalty Bulls! About time! Jacques-Louis Potgieter penalised for holding on. C’mon Morne!

Morne Steyn kicks the 45m penalty and the Bulls breathe slightly easier at 33-24.

57th Min – Morne Steyn with a brilliant chip ahead. Not sure what the ruling was by Kaplan. I can’t work it out but the Bulls get a penalty. I thought Jaco Pretorius had a fair try.

Morne Steyn misses the penalty. Not fair!

66th Min – This game is just waiting for someone to produce a moment of brilliance now and win it for their side.

68th Min – Cheetahs discipline lets them down. They talked about not giving Morne Steyn opportunities, but pressure does that.

Morne Steyn kicks a 48m kick, from the tough angle. Bulls ahead 36-24. I think 3 more points will seal it.

74th Min – Cheetahs discipline falling to pieces. Richardt Strauss sent to the sin bin. Good job!

78th Min – Just running down the clock now.

Fulltime

Blue Bulls 36 Free State Cheetahs 24

The Blue Bulls are the CURRIE CUP CHAMPIONS!

What a year for the Bulls! Super 14 Champions. Currie Cup Champions.

The Bulls Boks have won every title they can possibly win. Tri-nations, British and Irish Lions series, World Cup, Freedom Cup, Nelson Mandela plate, Super 14, Currie Cup.

With just 4 hours to go until kick-off in the 2009 Currie Cup final between the Blue Bulls and the Free State Cheetahs at Loftus Versfeld, I’m getting slightly nervous, although still quietly confident of a Bulls victory!

The Blue Bulls are a champion side, full of stars and experience, and the current Super 14 champions. Whilst they haven’t dominated the Currie Cup this year, they go into the final as overwhelming favourites, at fortress Loftus.

Like most finals, I’m prediciting a conservaative game, with goal-kicking to be vitally important. In Morne Steyn, the Blue Bulls have the trump card. For the Cheetahs, Jacques-Louis Potgieter can be the equal, but he is inconsistent. If he has an off day, the Cheetahs will suffer, if he is on song, the Cheetahs are a chance.

The Bulls have the experience, game breakers, and tactical exponents to beat the Cheetahs comofrtably. They’ll look to replicate what has worked all year for them.

Sound tactical kicking, a good kick-chase, the lineouts and the brilliance of men like Pierre Spies, Fourie du Preez, Wynand Olivier, Bryan Habana and Francois Hougaard.

For the Cheetahs to have any chance, they are reliant on the three things that have gotten them to the final. Heinrich Brussow at the breakdown, a dominant scrum and taking the ball wide at pace to give their pacy back three try-scoring chances.

If they can match the Bulls in the tight five exchanges early on, they will rely on creating opportunities out wide. They’ll rely on their scrum to provide them with valuable momentum, and look to use Ashley Johnson at number eight to get them over the advantage line.

The Bulls need big games from Deon Stegmaan and Dewald Potgieter to match Brussow at the breakdown, and allow Morne Steyn time and space to get the Blue Bulls moving forward. He may have to utilise drop goals to keep the scoreboard ticking over, as the Cheetahs don’t concede many penalties.

If the Bulls exert the pressure they normally do, the Cheetahs will be forced into giving away penalties and the Blue Bulls will be able to get on top. The Bulls will look to start well, get the crowd behind them, and pressure the Cheetahs into mistakes.

I’m predicting a frenetic start, with the experienced Bulls players to dominate from the very beginning. A strong opening quarter effort should allow a healthy lead before the Bulls march to an unprecedented Super 14-Currie Cup double!

Blue Bulls by 15-20.

The 2009 Currie Cup final between the Blue Bulls and the Free State Cheetahs at Loftus Verfeld on Saturday will re-write the record books.

The Blue Bulls have an impressive Currie Cup record, and stand to achieve greatness never before achieved, if they win the Currie Cup for the 23rd time.

Only Western Province with 32 wins have won more Currie Cup titles.

The Free State Cheetahs, for a supposed breeding ground of Springboks, have only ever won the 4 Currie Cup titles, 3 coming in the last 5 years.

In the 8 times these 2 sides have clashed in the final, the Blue Bulls have only ever lost once. And that was the fateful day in 2005 when a momentary lapse of concentration, a yellow card for Bryan Habana and the cruel bounce of the ball handed the Cheetahs an improbable victory.

The Blue Bulls have the best record of all teams in South Africa over the past 10 years in terms of finals played (6) and titles won (3 outright, 1 shared). Add to that 2 Super 14 titles, and they have clearly dominated the South African rugby landscape in the professional era.

Over this period the Free State Cheetahs have only made 4 finals (2 wins, 1 shared title) and not one Super 14 semi-final.

Saturday present the Blue Bulls with a chance to make history that may never ever be repeated. They could become the only side to ever hold the Super rugby title, along with the Currie Cup.

For the Bulls Boks, they also hold every other title there is to hold. The Freedom Cup (South Africa/New Zealand), The Nelson Mandela Plate (South Africa/Australia), The Tri-nations, the British and Irish Lions series and the Rugby World Cup! The chances of any other players holding all those titles is slim, although not impossible if you are a Bull!

In my mind there is only 1 side deserving of victory on Saturday. 1 side had proven time and again they are the best side in South Africa, has the players, the management, the supporters deserving of another title, as just reward for consistent performances.

Go Bulle Go! Ek Bly ‘n Bull! Go Bulle Go!

The Blue Bulls/Northern Transvaal v the Free State Cheetahs in Currie Cup Finals:

1973: Northern Transvaal won 30-22 in Pretoria
1975: Northern Transvaal won 12-6 in Bloemfontein
1977: Northern Transvaal won 27-12 in Pretoria
1978: Northern Transvaal won 13-9 in Bloemfontein
1981: Northern Transvaal won 23-6 in Pretoria
2004: Blue Bulls won 42-33 in Pretoria
2005: Free State won 29-25 in Pretoria
2006: Free State and Blue Bulls drew 28-28 in Bloemfontein.

Last 10 Currie Cup finals:

1999: Lions v Natal, 32-9 in Durban
2000: Western Province v Natal, 25-15 in Durban
2001: Western Province v Natal, 29-24 at Newlands
2002: Blue Bulls v Lions, 31-7 in Johannesburg
2003: Blue Bulls v Natal, 40-19 in Pretoria
2004: Blue Bulls v Free State, 42-33 in Pretoria
2005: Free State v Blue Bulls, 29-25 in Pretoria
2006: Free State v Blue Bulls, 28-28 in Bloemfontein
2007: Free State v Lions, 20-18 in Bloemfontein
2008: Sharks v Blue Bulls, 14-9 in Durban

The Free State Cheetahs have named a strong side for their clash against the Blue Bulls at Loftus Versfeld this Saturday.

Whilst it is a strong side, with plenty of front row power, the last side to beat a Bulls side at loftus was the Hurricanes in last year’s Super 14! I can’t see that changing against a star-studded Blue Bulls side.

The Cheetahs don’t look to have the firepower in the second row, or in their midfeld to be able to beat the Bulls.

If the game was in Bloemfontein, they’d be a chance, but at Loftus, their only hope is to catch a lethargic Blue Bulls side after the enormous amount of rugby some of the Bulls (and Boks) have had to endure this year.

The Bulls will be too strong and have too much class for a Cheetahs side that has gotten lucky over the last month.

Free State Cheetahs

1. Wian du Preez
2. Adriaan Strauss (c)
3. WP Nel
4. Nico Breedt
5. David de Villiers
6. Heinrich Brussow
7. Frans Viljoen
8. Ashley Johnson
9. JP Joubert
10. Jacques-Louis Potgieter
11. Danwel Demas
12. Meyer Bosman
13. Corne Uys
14. Lionel Mapoe
15. Hennie Danniller

16. Richardt Strauss
17. Coenie Oosthuizen
18. Izak van der Westhuizen
19. Kabamba Floors
20. Tewis de Bruyn
21. Louis Strydom
22. Fabian Juries

Blue Bulls side for Currie Cup final

The Blue Bulls have named a formidable side for the Currie Cup final against the Free State Cheetahs at Loftus Versfeld this Saturday.

14 of the Starting line-up started against the Chiefs in the Super 14 final earlier this year. Only Akona Ndungane is missing, out with a broken leg. In his place is the highly talented Francois Hougaard, who is a star of the future.

The bench includes sub-sub and World Cup winning Springbok, Danie Rousouw. The unheralded Pedrie Wannenburg is a man with plenty of experience, coupled with some young and exciting players.

The Bulls have the intelligence, experience, pace, power and inspiration of Loftus Versfeld to add yet another title to their impressive list of achievements. Maybe after Saturday there will be no doubt who the best side in South Africa truly is!

Blue Bulls Side

1. Gurthrö Steenkamp
2. Derick Kuün
3. Werner Kruger
4. Bakkies Botha
5. Victor Matfield (c)
6. Deon Stegmann
7. Dewald Potgieter
8. Pierre Spies
9. Fourie du Preez
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bryan Habana
12. Wynand Olivier
13. Jaco Pretorius
14. Francois Hougaard
15. Zane Kirchner

16. Bandise Maku
17. Rossouw de Klerk
18. Danie Rousouw
19. Pedrie Wannenburg
20. Heini Adams
21. Burton Francis
22. Gerhard van den Heever

Western Province: Joe Pietersen, Gio Aplon, Juan de Jongh, Paul Bosch, Frikkie Welsh, Peter Grant, Dewaldt Duvenage, Luke Watson (captain), Duane Vermeulen, Francois Louw, Andries Bekker, Anton van Zyl, Brok Harris, Tiaan Liebenberg, Wicus Blaauw
Reserves: Deon Fourie, JC Kritzinger, De Kock Steenkamp, Schalk Burger, Ricky Januarie, Matt To’omua, Sireli Naqelevuki

Blue Bulls: Zane Kirchner, Francois Hougaard, Jaco Pretorius, Wynand Olivier, Bryan Habana, Morne Steyn, Fourie du Preez, Pierre Spies, Dewald Potgieter, Deon Stegmann, Victor Matfield (captain), Bakkies Botha, Werner Kruger, Derick Kuun, Gurthro Steenkamp
Reserves: Bandise Maku, Rossouw de Klerk, Danie Rossouw, Pedrie Wannenburg, Heini Adams, Burton Francis, Gerhard van den Heever

Plenty of tension in this semi-final to see who will face the Cheetahs next week. At the toss Victor Matfield almost forgot to shake Luke Watson’s hand. Or was it on purpose?

1st Min – Bakkies Botha is sent to the sin-bin for an elbow to the face at a ruck. It was more at the shoulder. Not sure it warranted a yellow card!

2nd Min – Bulls penalised for the second time.

5th Min – Bulls get a penalty for a high shot from Andries Bekker. When you’re that tall it’s hard to tackle any lower!

Morne Steyn has a kick of 38m and kicks it straight down the middle! Blue Bulls ahead 3-0!

7th Min – Great run by Wynand Olivier. The Province midfield is being targeted. Morne Steyn actually misses with the drop goal! But he has a penalty from in front.

No problem for Steyn. Blue Bulls ahead 6-0 with only 14 men.

10th Min – Penalty to Province for obstructing the kicker. A bit harsh. Province with a chance now.

12th Min- Bakkies Botha re-enters the game. Expect 40 strong minutes from the enforcer!

13th Min – Wicus Blaauw penalised at the scrum for Province. Could be very important in setting the tone of the scrums for the match.

14th Min – Morne Steyn misses  with another drop goal as he knew they had a penalty advantage. Steyn will have a penalty chance however.

Steyn makes no mistake and the Blue Bulls are ahead 9-0. Newlands is often a tough ground to kick at with the difficult wind to cope with and many visiting players have struggled here. It just shows how good Morne Steyn is. He hasn’t looked like missing.

18th Min – Another penalty for the Blue Bulls straight in front. This time for offside at the ruck. That was the result of good Bulls tackling and pressure at the ruck. Steyn makes it 12-0 to the Bulls.

20th Min – Great running by Province. They need to open the game up in my view. A bit loose with their passing, but they need to use their talented runners.

29th Min – Penalty to Western Province. Good pressure at the lineout and the Blue Bulls got it wrong. Stegmann penalised at the breakdown. Pietersen nails the kicks. Blue Bulls 12 Western Province 3.

33rd Min – Bakkies Botha just short, but the Bulls get a 5m scrum. Some great rugby by the Bulls and Dewald Potgieter tackled 2m from the line on the other side of the field. So close. Joe Pietersen and Gio Aplon, 2 small guys have made some vital and courageous tackles.

39th Min – Sustained Province pressure, but resolute defence from the Bulls. Province get the penalty and will have a chance from straight in front. Pietersen narrows the gap and it’s now 12-6.

Halftime Western Province 6 Blue Bulls 12

It’s been a fantastic atmosphere and intensity so far and only desperate defence from both sides and ensured no tries have been scored.

The Bulls have the class and firepower but will need to ensure they make their chances count. Western Province meanwhile will have to chance their arm and rely on someone to produce something special.

47th Min – Bulls applying all the pressure but they can’t crack the Province defence.

Schalk Burger on for Anton van Zyl, and Vermeulen will move into the second row. Interesting move.

50th Min – Habana penalised for a deliberate knock-down. Pietersen kicks it to make it Bulls ahead by 12-9. Geez this is getting close.

55th Min – Bulls starting to play to their strengths. Using the maul, and edging forward. Morne Steyn has a penalty attempt from in front. His kick makes it Blue Bulls 15 Western Province 9

58th Min – Gio Aplon. Where did he come from? He shows great gas to follow up the kick and that is a try! He got past Wynand Olivier expertly to score a try when 3 Bulls looked to have the kick covered.

Pietersen kicks the conversion to put Western Province in the lead 16-15.

C’mon Bulls!

64th Min – Penalty! Yes. Western Province penalised at the scrum and up steps Morne Steyn again.Straight over.

Bulls ahead 18-16.

66th Min – Unbelievable tackle by Schalk Burger on Fourie du Preez, just when the Bulls had momentum. Damn.

The Blue Bulls penalised at the scrum and now Western Province have great field position.

Gerard van den Heever on for Bryan Habana.

68th Min – Now the Blue Bulls are penalised for being offiside. Western Province kick the penalty and move into a 19-18 point lead. This is way too close for my liking!

Danie Rousouw on for Bakkies Botha.

Morne Steyn misses a drop goal. C’mon we just need one to go over!

77th Min – High tackle from Sireli Naqelevuki. Up steps Morne Steyn. Yes! Morne Steyn nails it. What a tough kick.

Blue Bulls 21-19 ahead. 2 to go.

Field position now! And no penalties!

Full time Blue Bulls 21 Western Province 19

That was close! What a great atmosphere and finish to the game. In the end experience and the boot of Morne Steyn won the game for the Blue Bulls.

7 penalties, difficult kicks, under pressure. The man is ice cool and just keeps producing miraculous performances. What a champion.

We now have a final at Loftus between the Blue Bulls and the Free State Cheetahs.

Sharks: Stefan Terblanche (captain), Odwa Ndungane, Adrian Jacobs, Riaan Swanepoel, JP Pietersen, Juan Hernandez, Ruan Pienaar, Ryan Kankowski, Jean Deysel, Jacques Botes, Johann Muller, Steven Sykes, John Smit, Bismarck du Plessis, Beast Mtawarira.
Reserves: Craig Burden, Jannie du Plessis, Albert van den Berg, Keegan Daniel, Rory Kockott, Monty Dumond, Andries Strauss.

Free State Cheetahs: Hennie Danniller, Lionel Mapoe, Corne Uys, Meyer Bosman, Danwel Demas, Jacques-Louis Potgieter, JP Joubert, Ashley Johnson, Frans Viljoen, Heinrich Brussow, David de Villiers, Nico Breedt (captain), WP Nel, Richardt Strauss, Wian du Preez.
Reserves: Coenie Oosthuizen, Izak van der Westhuizen, Hendro Scholtz, Kabamba Floors, Tewis de Bruyn, Louis Strydom, Fabian Juries

Disappointing crowd for a Semi-final. Is it a sign of the economic times?

2nd Min – The match has started amid great intensity. Almost like  test match. Going to be a great forward battle I suspect.

6th min – Jacques Louis Potgieter kicks an early penalty after the Sharks were offside at the ruck. Cheetahs ahead 3-0.

8th Min – Ashley Johnson dragged down inches short of the line! All started from a turnover inside Cheetahs territory and they spread the ball and ran straight and hard. Brilliant play.

10th Min – Brilliant counter attack from the Sharks. Hernandez almost lost the momentum, but Adi Jcobs ran straight and put Ndungane into space. Ndungane chipped ahead brilliantly and Terblanche adjudged to have scored even though I thought he lost it forward. So close at either end of the ground.

Hernandez misses a tough conversion. Sharks ahead 5-3.

18th Min – Ryan Kankowski offside at the lineout. Mapoe showed serious pace to get away from Pietersen but we go back for the penalty.

Potgieter misses. The score remains 5-3.

21st Min – Another penalty to the Cheetahs. A tough kick once again for Potgieter but these are the sort of kicks that either win or lose you a semi-final. Ndungane tackled and cries out in pain as he goes over on his ankle. Gets the strapping but not sure how long he’ll last.

Potgieter misses again. Same thing happened in their round robin game here.

26th Min – Great build up from the Cheetahs. Potgieter in the pocket but misses the drop kick.

Ndungane goes off and replaced by Monty Dumond.

35th Min – Sharks penalty after Terblanche blew a certain try. Just delayed his pass too long. JP Pietersen made the initial break and the vision and passing skills of John Smit came to the fore. The Sharks don’t use him enough.

Pienaar kicks the penalty against the run of play and the Sharks lead 8-3.

40th Min – Try to Ruan Pienaar. JP Pietersen makes the break and a clinical finish by the Sharks. Why isn’t Pienaar playing flyhalf?

Pienaar converts his own try.

Halftime Sharks 15 Free State Cheetahs 3

The Cheetahs have enjoyed the better of territory and possession, but haven’t been able to convert opportunities into points. The Sharks meanwhile have capitalised on their chances.

I suspect it’s a mountain too tough to climb back from for the Cheetahs, unless they can produce a couple of magic moments. Mapoe is capable, and I’d introduce Fabian Juries too.

43rd Min – The Sharks start the second half well, and Harnandez kicks a drop goal. Sharks ahead 18-3.

45th Min – Cheetahs get a penalty and the Sharks get a warning for repeated infringements. Potgieter kicks an easy one and the Sharks lead is reduced to 18-6.

48th Min – Another penalty for the Cheetahs at the ruck. Ref Marius Jonker didn’t get a number, else the repercussions may have been greater.

Cheetahs kick for the lineout.

52nd Min – The Chetahs go over the line and that’s a try! Marius Jonker almost awarded the scrum without using the TMO. However the right decision was made in the end. It’s now game on!

Potgieter kicks the conversion and the Sharks only lead by 18-13.

Johan Muller goes off and Albert van den Berg enters the game.

56th Min – Cheetahs in at the corner but Marius Jonker rules a foward pass. I thought it was a fair try. The ref is having to make some tough and crucial decisions here.

Now we have a brawl. Awesome. This is the way rugby use to be. A bit of emotion and passion comes into the fray. It’s good to see.

59th Min – Try! Pogieter picks up a stray pass and shows great pace to race all the way for the try. Under the poles.

With the conversion over the Cheetahs now lead 20-18!

62nd Min – Cheetahs lose a vital lineout and the Sharks get a penalty at the ruck. Pienaar converts it and the Sharks are narrowly ahead 21-20. 17 and a half minutes to go.

69th Min – Adi Jcobs through the gap but Brussow makes a vital steal metres from his goal-line. The Cheetahs are camped in their own half here.

75th Min – The Sharks get a penalty and Monty Dumond will attempt the kick from just inside his own half. The kick is wide.

4 Mins to go. The Cheetahs need possession and to get down the other end. A drop kick will do.

78th Min – The Cheetahs get a penalty and kick deep into the Sharks territory. It’s a cracker finish.

80th Min – Potgieter was in the pocket and makes the drop goal! Amazing. Cheetahs ahead 23-21. There’s still time left in this game.

It’s all over!

Full time Cheetahs 23 Sharks 21

What an amazing game. The Cheetahs dominated the first half and couldn’t score. In the second half it was all the Sharks and they couldn’t score.

The Sharks missed 6 drop goal attempts. Potgieter nailed his chance.

Brussow was awesome. He made some great tackles. Ashley Johnson was good with ball in hand, and the Cheetahs stuck to their game plan and just got home. Who will they play in the final?

The Semi finals see the resumption of some of the old rivalries in the South African game.

Natal Sharks vFree State Cheetahs
ABSA Stadium Kings Park, Durban

In recent times the Sharks have tended to struggle against the Free State Cheetahs. They’ll have the benefit of home ground advantage, and a much stronger side on paper. However as has tended to be the case between these 2 sides, it won’t count for much.

The Cheetahs showed in the Super 14, they know how to beat the Sharks, and often spoil their party. This season the Springboks have not had the desired impact on the Sharks that coach John Plumtree would have wanted. Injuries to key personnel haven’t helped in this regard.

However with such a large number of Boks available, this should be no excuse. I believe the problem for the Sharks is two-fold.

Firstly the team selections have not helped. A guy like Adrian Jacobs is fit and ready to go, but has not been given time. The Sharks backline has looked dangerous when he has been on the field, and unfortunately has not when Waylon Murray has been at centre. The loose trio is not settled either.

Secondly, I don’t rate Juan Martin Hernandez. The Sharks have lacked an effective playmaker and someone to dictate their game plan. It’s the same problem that derailed their Super 14 campaign once Ruan Pienaar got injured. I’d have put South Africa’s interests first and played Pienaar at flyhalf.

The Cheetahs have shown the strength of having a game plan that everyone understands. Injuries to key players doesn’t alter their style of play or game plan. They simply need greater consistency.

In key positions, I believe Naka Drotske has erred. The wings have played merry go round, whilst Fabian Juries is in scintillating form he should’ve played every game. He is such a talent and dangerous player, as his try at Loftus showed.

I believe the Cheetahs have the forward pack that can match the Sharks. I’m predicting a tough game, that will hopefully be close. In the end it could come down to the boune of the ball, goal kicking, or the extreme brilliance of 1 or 2 players.

Whilst I expect the Sharks to win, I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Cheetahs produce a huge upset.

Too close to call. Could go either way.

Western Province v Blue Bulls
Newlands, Cape Town

The traditional North-South grudge match that used to be the biggest game in South Africa.

Province have been playing exceptionally well. However in tight games like these it often comes down to experience, big match players, and guys who have the temperment to deliver under pressure. This is where the Bulls should be too strong.

Victor Matfield, Bakkies Botha, Pierre Spies, Fourie du Preez, Morne Steyn, Wynand Olivier, Bryan Habana. Province simply don’t have the same experience or class. They’d need everything to go right for them, and super human performances from Luke Watson and Andries Bekker. I think it’s asking for too much.

If Province fall behind early, it’ll be game over. The Bulls like to get in front, and get their confidence up. Province can’t afford to fall behind by mroe than 7-10 points or it’ll all be over.

Morne Steyn has been my player of the year, and this is where I believe he’ll expose the kicking game of Peter Grant who lacks the accuracy and distance for a modern flyhalf. In Francois Hougaard and Bryan Habana, Steyn will have chasers to reap the dividends of a good kicking game. That’s where the pressure will begin. From there it will only intensify!

A large factor in Provinces’ win over the Bulls in the round robin game was the scrumming of Wicus Blaauw. He was allowed to get away with putting his hand on the ground. As long as the scrum is policed adequately, Province won’t enjoy the same platform they did on that occasion. Just where they could beat the Bulls is hard to find.

Bulls by 15.

Whilst all us Blue Bulls fans will be supporting our boys at Newlands, we can all follow the great example of the Wonderland Nursery school as they show their support by singing the Bulls song!

Week 14 of the Currie Cup 2009 and the semi-finals are confirmed!

It took the last match in the 2009 round robin stage of the Currie Cup to determine exactly who and where the semi-finals will be played between.

Next week we have a Western Province – Bulls clash, and a Sharks – Free State Cheetahs match to look forward to. On form and experience, it looks like it will be a Sharks – Bulls final again in Durban!

Platinum Leopards 24 Blue Bulls 61

The Bulls started off slowly, before finding their rhythm. Whilst it was a convincing win in the end, they Blue Bulls don’t go into the Currie Cup semi-finals with the same momentum and home field advantage we enjoyed in the Super 14. It will be a tougher task, but last year’s disappointment and the return of key players will ensure we give it a good shot.

Griquas 30 Sharks 45

Griquas set the pace in the early stages of the Currie Cup, and started this game well. However they struggled to maintain their intensity and just couldn’t match the class of the Sharks side all over the field.

The Sharks will be sweating on their front row injuries they sustained ahead of the semi-finals next week.

Boland 10 Free State Cheetahs 55

The Free State Cheetahs put in a convincing performance even though they were disrupted bu injuries this week. It ensures they picked up some momentum to give them confidence ahead of their semi-final next week. However two easy games to finish off the round robin stages may not be the ideal preparation.

Golden Lions 27 Western Province 25

The Lions produced the upset of the round when they beat Western Province in a thriller at Ellis Park. Western Province started brilliantly, and were helped greatly by a man of the match performance from Andries Bekker.

However the difference between the good sides and the greta sides is putting teams away when you have them on the ropes. Whilst this Province side is developing well, they lack the expereience, and hard edge needed in the big matches.

Week 14 of the 2009 Currie Cup and the Cheetahs and Griquas are after the last semi-final spot.

Griquas started the competition so well, but in the end it may come down to 1 log point, or even points differential in the race to see who sneaks into 4th place.

Meanwhile the Sharks and Western Province have a battle too. Who will earn top position on the log? The victor will earn a much easier semi-final and thus a likely home final. It’s a critical reward, and one both sides will be desperate to achieve.

Platinum Leopards v Blue Bulls

A formality for the Bulls whose aims will be to play for the 80, pick up valuable momentum ahead of the semi-final and ensure a smooth re-introduction for Bakkies Botha and Fourie du Preez.

They have the benefit of the Friday night game and an extra day to prepare for the semi-finals too.

Blue Bulls by 61.

Griquas v Sharks

Depending on the score in Wellington with the Free State Cheetahs, Griquas go into this clash needing 2 log points. The Sharks will be just as desperate and need 5 to try and secure top spot.

The Sharks have gone off the boil the last few weeks, while Griquas are always tough in Kimberly. Whilst my head say’s the Sharks, don’t be surprised to see an upset.

Sharks by 12.

Boland v Free State Cheetahs

Wet conditions will severely dent the Cheetahs chances of earning a bonus point victory. They’ll have to rely on the Sharks winning and then score at least 4 tries in this one. How did they manage to get into semi-final contention after their poor start!

Cheetahs by 27.

Golden Lions v Western Province

Western Province have top spot to play for, and the luxury of knowing exactly what they have to do to secure it. The Lions have stated they are playing this like a final, but if they go behind early, they won’t have anything to play for and may not be as desperate.

Even though the Lions defence has been quite solid, I think Province will still get plenty of tries.

Province by 22.

Week 13 of the Currie Cup 2009 and the form book keeps changing!

With the semi-finals only two weeks away, sides are no doubt looking for settled lineups, and consistent form.

There are still 2 sides battling out the last semi-final position, but it’s the lack of consistency from the top 3 sides that makes this year’s competition hard to predict.

Free State Cheetahs 60 Platinum Leopards 17

The Free State Cheetahs did what they had to on Friday night, thrashing the Platinum Leopards. After going behind early, the Cheetahs replied with 60 unanswered points! This leaves them with faint hopes of still make the semi-finals.

Western Province 50 Boland 7

Western Province now move to the top of the log courtesy of points difference over the Sharks. Luke Watson was in dangerous form, but was aided by a good platform from his tight five. Province will relish the fact they can finish top of the log, and potentially earn a home final too, which will aid their playoff cause enormously.

Blue Bulls 61 Griquas 27

The Bulls will be pleased with putting 61 points past Griquas, however they will not be happy with the 4 tries they conceded. It’s been the story of their season so far, patches of brilliance, but not being able to maintain it for 80 minutes and leaking in too many soft tries. The return of Bryan Habana from his honeymoon made a massive difference, and hopefully his injury sustained towards the end of the game is only minor.

Griquas now need 2 log points against the Sharks next week.

Video highlights of the Blue Bulls v Griquas from Loftus.

Sharks 19 Lions 17

The Sharks would have expected to win this game fairly convincingly. Against a depleted Lions side however they looked anything like log leaders. With so many class individuals, their form over the last 2 weeks has been inconsistent. It poses a few problems for coach John Plumtree ahead of the semi-finals, especially from a selection poit of view.

Week 13 of the 2009 Currie Cup and 3 sides are starting to sweat on the last semi-final spot.

It’s down to the business end of the Currie Cup and 3 sides are vying for the last semi-final spot. They all need to gain valuable log points, whilst hoping their rival sides all slip up somewhere along the line.

Free State Cheetahs v Platinum Leopards

The Cheetahs need a large win to put the pressure on Griquas, and the Lions who are above them on the log. Should be a 5 pointer for the Cheetahs reasonably comfortably.

Cheetahs by 50.

Blue Bulls v Griquas

It’s time for the Blue Bulls to put together an 80 minute performance. They’ve looked good all season, but not for an entire game. The return of Bryan Habana from his honeymoon may be just the spark they’ve been looking for this season.

For Griquas, it’s important they try to get at least 1 bonus point, which may just get them into the semi-finals.

Bulls by 20.

Western Province v Boland

Boland always seem to lift for these local derbies, but they never seem to win. Nothing will change here, and it may be ight initially, but Province should get home easily enough.

Western Province by 30.

Sharks v Golden Lions

For the Lions to make the cut, they have to produce an upset against the Sharks or Western Province a week later. With injuries, and a Sharks side sure to make up for their disappointing effort last week, it will probably be a bridge to far.

Sharks by 17.

Week 12 of the Currie Cup 2009 and the venues for the semi-finals are almost confirmed!

A largely predictable weekend of results, but the manner they were achieved will leave some sides and coaches with plenty to think about.

The Sharks made sure of a home semi-final in Durban, but their 6 point victory over the Leopards was hardly convincing. Whilst it was hardly their top side, they’ve come up short in so many competitions in recent times that it will hardly inspire confidence in Durban. However to be able to play the playoff games at home in Durban will be very reassuring.

The match between Western Province and Griquas was expected to be a tight affair. Whether it was the rainy conditions or simply having to play catch-up rugby, Griquas were very disappointing. Too many basic errors cost them. It was interesting to hear Griquas coach Dawie Theron say that if they had wet conditions in Kimberly they wouldn’t train in it. Whilst that is hardly profession, they’ve barely had rain in Kimberly for the last 2 years, so that wasn’t a  factor!

Western Province will be very pleased with a great result, and if the Sharks slip again it’s still possible that province could top the log.

The Lions once again showed you never know what to expect from them when they piled on the points at Ellis Park. A 88-15 thrashing of Boland keeps them in the playoff race, however they have a couple of tough matches to finish their campaign with.

The Bulls v Cheetahs clash at Loftus was a virtual quarter final. After racing out to a substantial lead, the Cheetahs came back at Loftus like they have done on many recent occasions at Loftus. Maybe it was the fact they had nothing to lose, but throwing the ball around led to their momentum and try scoring. Fabian Juries scored a superb solo effort, and showed why a player of his talent deserves an opportunity to exhibit what he can do.

Ultimately it was the Bulls experience, and big match temperament that got them home by 3 points. It makes it tough for the Cheetahs to qualify from here, and whilst I envisage a Western Province v Bulls semi-final at Newlands, the Sharks could be playing anyone of the Cheetahs, Griquas or the Lions in the other semi-final.

Video highlights of the Bulls v Cheetahs from Loftus.

Week 12 of the 2009 Currie Cup and the Bulls take on the Cheetahs at Loftus.

With only 3 games round robin games remaining in the 2009 Currie Cup, it’s getting desperate for what amounts to a race for the 3rd and 4th playoff spots.

Griquas have their destiny in their own hands, but in facing 3 premier sides in the next 3 weeks they will be keen to ensure they can bag one more big scalp and ensure they make the semis.

In what amounts to a quarter final between the Blue Bulls and the Cheetahs at Loftus, the loser may struggle to make the semi-finals. It’ll be winner takes all in a brutal clash.

Sharks v Platinum Leopards

The Sharks at home will be looking to cruise home against the Leopards. Whilst they have a relatively easy run home, they’ll want to ensure they keep top spot and work on their moves, and their combinations before the sudden death stages.

It allows some of the Springboks who have not had significant game time recently such as Adrian Jacobs and Ryan Kankowski the chance to pick up some form ahead of the playoffs.

Sharks by 45.

Western Province v Griquas

Whilst most will be picking Western Province, and I’m no different here, I havea sneaking suspicion that Griquas could provide an upset. Western Province’s form is just starting to wane, they’ve lost Chris Jack and picked up some crucial injuries.

Griquas will be buoyed by their win over the Lions and now that one more win should ensure a play-off spot.

Western Province by 12 but I still think anything could happen.

Golden Lions v Boland

Little interest in this game. Boland now have to think of picking up some momentum for the ir quest to remain in the premier division next year. The Lions haven’t been consistent but should be untroubled in this one.

Lions by 22.

Blue Bulls v Free State Cheetahs

The game I’ve been waiting for! The Cheetahs have been a thorn in the side for the Bulls over the last few years, and it’s time for payback. Whilst Heinrich Brussow returns for the Cheetahs, they’ll still lack the overall class against a Bulls side welcoming 4 Springboks. In Victor Matfield and Morne Steyn you have 2 Boks who will control the game.

Victor will dictate the forward battle and direct play, whilst Morne will keep the scoreboard ticking over. If Jacques-Louis Potgieter has another bad day with the boot, the scoreline could get out of control. If they do go down, the Cheetahs will desperately need a bonus point or two.

Bulls by 12 (or more).

Week 11 of the Currie Cup 2009 and the Bulls are back into the top 4!

Western province predictably beat the Platinum Leopards and will be happy to have earned a bonus point. They are only 1 log point away from first position and now need to hold on to earn a home semi-final.

The Bulls had a large victory over the Boland Kavaliers in Wellington. Whilst the half-time score was only 22-16, a try fest in the second half saw the Bulls finish with an emphatic victory. With more Boks to ease back into the Blue Bulls campaign, and the next 2 games in Pretoria, the Bulls are back! They’ll be tough to beat from now on in.

The Free State Cheetahs bubble finally burst, going down 24-13 to the Sharks in Durban. The Sharks look to have top spot sown up with 3 relatively easy games to come. The Cheetahs meanwhile play a virtual quarter-final against the Blue Bulls in Pretoria next week. They might rue the fact they couldn’t earn a bonus point against the Sharks.

In Kimberly it was a tight tussle between Griquas and the Lions. Griquas were able to get home courtesy of a match haul of 26 points from Naas Oliver who exhibited superb goal kicking. This effectively rules the Lions out of contention for the 2009 Currie Cup and they can start to think of the Super 14 for 2010. I’d start by playing Earl Rose at flyhalf.

Week 11 of the 2009 Currie Cup sees the Bulls about to charge home.

With only 4 round robin games remaining, and the Springboks back into the mix, the Bulls are about to gain momentum and charge into the Currie Cup semis. The Bulls have played their hardest round robin games, and should be able to pick up some easy points to move up the log and safely into the semis.

The Sharks will also welcome back plenty of Springboks, and look to have a home semi-final firmly in their grasp.

The Cheetahs, Lions and Griquas are fighting for that last semi-final spot in my view. At this stage I favour the Cheetahs to get there, but losses to the Sharks and Bulls may put that in jeopardy depending on whether Griquas can produce 1 or 2 more upsets.

Platinum Leopards v Western Province

Western Province have started the competition so well, but their depth is about to be tested, and the departure of Chris Jack will also be significant. Whilst it’s been a good campaign, I think they’ll struggle come the playoffs when they find out the difference the Springboks make.

They’ll be too good for the Leopards though, and will be looking to make sure they get the bonus point.

Western Province by 28.

Boland v Blue Bulls

Whilst the last 3 weeks have been disappointing, it was always going to be important for the Blue Bulls to ensure they had enough points until the Springboks came back. It may make a home semi-final tough, but a series of easier opponents will allow this side to gain momentum and reclaim the Currie Cup.

Blue Bulls by 35.

Griquas v Golden Lions

A change of venue due to Bafana Bafana playing at GWK stadium. The little known Diamantveld High School will be the venue and one the Golden Lions will not be familiar with. This is do or die for both sides, and I’m picking home ground advantage to be the decisive factor.

Griquas by 9.

Sharks v Free State Cheetahs

The Cheetahs have plenty of momentum after 6 straight wins, however they come up against a tough side in the Sharks who are playing very confidently. Combinations are starting to settle, Juan Martin Hernandez is more comfortable, and the Sharks have one of the strongest benches around with John Smit, Bismarck du Plessis, Ruan Pienaar and Adi Jacobs.

It’ll be too tough for the Cheetahs who face testing times over the next few weeks.

Sharks by 12.

Week 10 of the Currie Cup 2009 saw the Blue Bulls unbelievably lose three in a row and move out of the top 4.

It’s been a tragedy for the Bulls. Another loss sees us slip out of the top 4 and the Cheetahs move in. It looks increasing likely that the Sharks and Western Province will get to host semis, and now I’m picking the Cheetahs and Blue Bulls to play against them.

The Bulls haven’t been getting smashed, but haven’t been playing their best rugby. Usually we end up winning these tight games. At least we have some easier games to come, and can gain our momentum back for the semis. Western Province look settled and dangerous, but my gut feeling is that the Sharks and Bulls will be contesting the final once more in Durban. We have a score to settle!

Week 8 of the Currie Cup 2009 has turned the tournament on its head.

The first week of the second half of the 2009 Currie cup has produced some stunning upsets.

The Platinum Leopards beat Boland, the Lions beat the Blue Bulls, Western Province beat the Sharks in Durban, and Free State beat the Griquas in Kimberly.

What is going on! Western Province now lead the log. A golden opportunity for my Blue Bulls has fallen through their fingers, What it does is to make the 4th semi-final spot wide open now, with all the pressure on Griquas.

Just who will get the last spot, between Griquas, the Free State Cheetahs and the Lions? It makes almost every game, every round that much more important. I’m sure there is drama still to unfold, I just hope the Blue Bulls come out unscathed!

Week 7 of the Currie Cup 2009 has produced 2 distinct groups in the log.

At the halfway point of the Currie cup 2009, the semi-finalists have been determined, barring a major train smash. In all likelihood, it’ll be tough to prevent a Blue Bulls v Sharks final in a repeat of the 2008 Currie Cup final. This time the Bulls won’t be so generous!

I’m looking forward to a Bulls victory, and being Super 14 AND Currie Cup champions. Even the loss of Bryan Habana won’t rain on our parade in Pretoria!