Sanjay's Rugby World

The Springboks start off their home season in 2010 with a single test against France, before two test matches against Italy.

The venues are yet to be confirmed, as the 2010 Soccer World Cup has put some major rugby venues off limits.

The Boks will then have a 3 week break before starting their Tri-nations campaign.

The Boks open the tournament by playing the All Blacks at Eden Park for the first time since 2001, and then move to Wellington for a second test against the All Blacks. From there they move to Brisbane, a ground that has not been kind for them in recent times, to play the Wallabies.

For the home leg of the Tri-nations, the Boks have made a smart moving in scheduling another 3 consecutive test matches (because they are the only side who has to do this twice, it does disadvantage the Boks) all on the Highveld. The Australasian sides don’t have as good a record, and don’t enjoy playing on the Highveld nearly as much, so it’s a smart move.

First will be the All Blacks at Ellis Park in their first trip their since 2004 (why has it been so long?) before facing the Wallabies at Loftus Versfeld and Bloemfontein.

Springboks’ International fixtures for 2010:

Springbok Home Test Matches (venues to be confirmed):

June 12 – South Africa v France, Newlands
June 19 – South Africa v Italy, TBC
June 26 – South Africa v Italy, TBC

2010 Tri-nations schedule:

July 10 – New Zealand v South Africa, Auckland
July 17 – New Zealand v South Africa, Wellington
July 24 – Australia v South Africa, Brisbane
July 31, Australia v New Zealand, Melbourne
August 7 – New Zealand v Australia, Christchurch
August 21, South Africa v New Zealand, Johannesburg
August 28 – South Africa v Australia, Pretoria
September 4 – South Africa v Australia, Bloemfontein
September 11 – Australia v New Zealand, Sydney

This season produced the most consistent set of Springbok performances I have seen since 1998. It has been great to see the Boks playing towards their potential, and reaping the rewards for doing so.

As a unit they were exceptional, and this allowed individuals to perform with great distinction. there was rarely a bad performance as individuals, and this is testament to a great coach in Peter de Villiers who has produced a happy side, that can simply concentrate on performing their role for the side.

Here are my Springbok player ratings for the Tri-nations 2009.

Springbok Player ratings:

1. The Beast Mtawarira – 7

Has so much talent, and has improved immensely. Needs to put all aspects of his game together at the one time. His scrumming was his weak point, however he may also have been unfairly penalised and could not adapt to inconsistent rulings.

His strengths are with ball in hand, a high workrate and although the Beast is a highly visible player, it was his work off the ball that impressed me. He made numerous tackles and did the dirty work at the rucks time and time again.

2. Bismarck du Plessis – 8

Had a great season and finally showing the promise we’ve all known he possesses. Strong at the set-piece, goes unrecognised for helping the Springbok lineout dominate. Acts as an extra loose-forward at times, and contributed greatly with physicality and steals at the breakdown.

With ball in hand du Plessis was always dangerous, often creating offloads. However his main improvement this season has been his discipline. In the past du Plessis was too hot headed, this year he gave away one penalty. It’s a mark of how far he has come when during the Perth test he was encouraging John Smit to remain calm after some bizarre rulings.

3. John Smit – 8

An inspirational captain, cool, calm and collected at all times. Is the Greatest Springbok captain since Francois Pienaar and a tremendous ambassador for South Africa.

Has coped really well since moving to tighthead prop. Always has a strong workrate around the field. Can be counted on to drive the ball up when needed, and produced strong counter rucking at the rucks. The scrum in Hamilton where he demolished Tony Woodcock shows there’s nothing wrong with his scrumming ability, he just needs to gain greater consistency.

Highlight of the year was his left footed grubber which Matfield scored from in Cape Town. Legendary.

4. Bakkies Botha – 8

The Springbok enforcer had his most consistent season in a long time. Knows his role and performs it exceptionally well. Cleans out the rucks, leads the physical challenge from the Boks, and works extremely hard around the fringes. Gave away a few penalties for entering the ruck from the side, but never cost his side.

His cover tackling this year was superb, shutting down dangerous opposition attacks.

5. Victor Matfield – 9

John Smit is the leader, and Victor Matfield is the brains of the Springboks. Without peer as a lineout jumper he unlocked both the All Black and Wallaby lineouts immediately. He spooks the opposition before they have even thrown the ball in.

Scans the field and controls the direction of play particularly well, and works hard to make tackles around the ruck area. His handling was once again superb all around the field, especially in bending down to score the try collecting John Smit’s grubber.

6. Heinrich Brussow – 7

Showed the value of having a true opensider. Got the better of both Richie McCaw and  George Smith, which is not easy to do. Effected numerous steals, especially in the South African leg, which helped the Boks dominate territory and possession.

Had one bad game in Brisbane, where his handling especially let him down. But bounced back strongly in the final match in Hamilton. Deserves his spot ahead of Schalk Burger.

7. Juan Smith – 8

The strongman of the Springbok forward pack. Produces great performances week in and week out. Solid on defence, and gets through a mountain of tackles. How he picks himself up to be ever present to carry the ball forward is beyond me.

Took great options this year when the ball was loose, setting up the next phase of attack.

8. Pierre Spies – 7

A solid season from the Superman, but didn’t get to show any of his absolute brilliance as he did in the Super 14. Worked really hard making tackles, and carrying the ball up, often from a standing start, yet that never stopped him getting over the advantage line.

Was extremely safe picking the ball up from the base of the scrum, and often had to work behind a unsteady scrum. The one area of improvement needed is fielding the high kicks and getting his timing right under the high ball. Too many balls were left to bounce and luckily caused no harm.

9. Fourie Du Preez – 9

The World’s best scrumhalf. Stood up in the key games and made his presence felt.

His option taking was great. Cleared the ball well, and took the option to run at the right times. That was highlighted with the quick tap that produced a try in Perth.

Kicked more in the South African leg and his kicks were spot on, giving his chasers he right amount of time to put extreme pressure on the opposition. Also took the high ball brilliantly himself, not sure how such a small guy gets so high in the air! Never spills the high ball.

10. Morne Steyn - 9

Playing flyhalf in his debut Bok season, Morne Steyn succeeded brilliantly. After single handedly securing the British and Irish Lions series, Steyn continued in the same vein, and produced outstanding goalkicking that secured three home victories. Didn’t miss a kick in Hamilton and outplayed Dan Carter to ensure the Boks got home.

Steyn’s option taking got better and better, and his willingness to take responsibility to ensure the Boks are moving forward says everything about his attitudede and temperament. Whilst Peter de Villiers rate Ruan Pienaar very highly, Steyn ensured he cannot be dropped, and I can see him becoming a Springbok legend.

11. Bryan Habana – 8

His Tri-nations campaign was characterised by an extremely high workrate off the ball. Made numerous tackles, especially chasing the high kicks. Was equally as good making cover tackles, including 2 brilliant individual efforts in Brisbane. It also goes unnoticed how frequently he runs down the right flank and constantly reads the game to make himself contribute for his side.

Showed in Perth how dangerous he can be when he has the ball and ran exceptional lines to score from a set scrum.

12. Jean de Villiers – 7

Got better as the season went on. Solid in defence, carried the ball strongly, and finished off with a trademark intercept try. His partnership with Jaque Fourie ensured the Springboks had a solid midfield.

13. Jaque Fourie – 7

Was exceptionally solid one on one, under the high ball and in the Springbok midfield. Scored a couple of great tries (Bloemfontein and Perth), but made a few too many errors in the last couple of games. Unfairly suspended at the conclusion of the Tri-nations, probably due to the Springboks success which doesn’t sit well with the Aussies and Kiwis.

14. JP Pietersen – 7

Is a complete winger and like Habana works hard off the ball. Chased kicks tirelessly, made numerous tackles and carried the ball strongly when required.

His kicking has come on over the last couple of years but remains his one weakness.

15. Francois Steyn – 8

Provided the ‘x’ factor in Hamilton with his long-range goalkicking. In the past Steyn has been fairly inaccurate with his goalkicking, usually with a strike rate closer to 1 in 3. In Hamilton he nailed 3 from 3, all over 50m! Unheard of.

Was solid at the back with his kicking game, but could have joined the line more often and created more opportunities to score tries. Has shown he will be sorely missed as he heads to France.

Chiliboy Ralepelle -

Not used often enough to make an assessment.

Jannie du Plessis -

Not used often enough to make an assessment.

Andries Bekker – 4

Is enthusiastic, but lacks the bulk of a Bakkies Botha or the skill of Victor Matfield. A hard ask to replace Bakkies Botha as he is not in the same mould. Highly respected by Victor Matfield and will grow into a better player with more time.

Danie Rousouw – 5

Remains a great bench option but his impact was barely noticed this series. Perhaps suffering from lack of game time, needed to provide greater ability to get his side moving forward as a ball carrier.

Schalk Burger – 5

A much better player playing on the blindside. Physical and abrasive, but lacks the accuracy he had a few years back. Always gives 100% and remains a good option for the bench.

Ryan Kankowski -

Not used often enough to make an assessment.

Ricky Januarie -

Not used often enough to make an assessment.

Adi Jacobs – 5

Came on in Brisbane and made crucial errors. The game was being lost in other areas but ensured his performances were not seen in a positive light when opportunities were so limited.

Ruan Pienaar – 6

Lost his flyhalf position after an inept goalkicking display in Bloemfontein. Remains a dangerous threat when running the ball, but needs to exhibit greater consistency with his kicking. Not sure that fullback is a position he should pursue, and needs more game time at flyhalf.

Odwa Ndungane – 8

Performed well when coming in for JP Pietersen. Works hard off the ball and chased the kicks well, Lacks the same physicality of Pietersen which counts against him in tight games, but a handy backup player.

Peter de Villiers – 9

Showed how much he has learnt over the last 12 months. The fact that this is the happiest Springbok side in a long time is translated in their on field performances. I like the fact the players are empowered to make greater decisions and not behave as robots. And the players are thriving under his leadership.

Outperformed Graham Henry and Robbie Deans. Had plans to counter their strengths and other than Brisbane, his rivals could not counter his game plan. Could become one of the great Springbok coaches.

The Springboks were dominant in the 2009 Tri-nations, and this is reflected in my Tri-nations XV.

The Springboks have had one of their best years ever. In winning the Tri-nations title they clearly exhibited the best side, playing superbly as a unit rather than as individuals.

In putting together my Tri-nations XV, it was extremely difficult to think of which Australians or New Zealanders were better than a Springbok in a particular position. For the first time in a long time the All Blacks don’t have many players dominating their positions on the world stage. It is a reflection of where South African rugby is at present that they have numerous world class players.

In some positions where there were world class players to choose from in each position, it came down to who performed under pressure, and made match winning contributions for their side.

Sanjay’s Tri-nations XV:

1. Benn Robinson
2. Bismarck du Plessis
3. John Smit (c)
4. Bakkies Botha
5. Victor Matfield
6. Heinrich Brussow
7. Juan Smith
8. Pierre Spies
9. Fouire du Preez
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bryan Habana
12. Berrick Barnes
13. Jaque Fourie
14. JP Pietersen
15. Francois Steyn

16. Andrew Hore
17. Beast Mtawarira
18. Nathan Sharpe
19. Richie McCaw
20. Will Genia
21. Dan Carter
22. Mils Muliaina

Coach: Peter de Villers

Props

Benn Robinson was the stand out loosehead for me, and was an exceptionally strong scrummager. The Beast Mtawarira was great in the loose, had a very high workrate and made many tackles, but his scrumming let him down.While Tony Woodcock for the All Blacks is always a good player, he did not stand out this season.

John Smit takes the tighthead spot for his high workrate and leadership. He could have covered hooker and allowed a second prop on the bench instead of Andrew Hore in the absence of props on the bench who can cover both sides of the scrum.

Hooker

No competition here with Bismarck du Plessis standing out from the rest. Andrew Hore earns the reserve spot as I went with a conventional bench, however I’d probably have preferred John Smit as my reserve but he hasn’t played hooker for some time now.

Locks

Once again the Springbok pairing of Bakkies Botha and Victor Matfield pick themselves. Strong, physical, skillful. Bakkies does the hard work and Matfield provides the lineout genius. Once again it was hard to pick a reserve, but Nathan Sharpe is always solid and offers a replacement for Bakkies late in the game.

Loose Forwards

This was perhaps the hardest area to call. I’ve opted for an all Springbok back row. Heinrich Brussow was the form openside flanker, and shaded Richie McCaw and George Smith in their encounters this year. McCaw remains a class player and can cover both flank positions from the bench.

Juan Smith earns the blind spot flank position because of his strong workrate, and he never has a bad game. He was the unsung hero of the Bok pack this year.

Pierre Spies was my eighthman, and although he has tons of potential and was always dangerous, there was a lack of competition for his spot. George Smith was solid, but eighthman is probably not his best position.

Halfback

Fourie du Preez is the world’s best halfback. His performances in Perth and Hamilton were sublime.

Flyhalf

Morne Steyn won games. His goal kicking was superb and tactical kicking great. Dan Carter remains a world class player, but Morne Steyn never put a foot wrong. In Hamilton, Carter was forced into some poor options at times. Matt Giteau remains dangerous but didn’t dictate play for his side, and it was not one of his better seasons.

Centres

Berrick Barnes gets the inside centre position and had a good season. His kicking game was very good, and his ability to get his outside backs away perhaps just shades Jean de Villiers.

At outside centre Jaque Fourie was very solid, creating an enormous presence in the midfield, tackling superbly and running straight and hard.

On the bench, Dan Carter covers 10 and 12.

Wings

Bryan Habana and JP Pietersen were the form wingers. They had high workrates, and were a large factor in the dominance of the Springbok kicking game. Defensively they both solid, and on attack always dangerous.

Fullback

Francois Steyn. Fights off a strong challenge from Muliaina, but his all round game and match winning goal kicking gives him the edge. Mils Muliaina gets the reserve spot, being able to cover fullback, centre and possibly wing. James O’Connor was dangerous and had some good performances, but was too erratic overall.

Coach

Love him or hate him, Peter de Villers has built an imposing record. Tactically he was very astute, and his Tri-nations rivals have not worked out ways to counter him just yet. Learnt valuable lessons from the British and Irish Lions series and changed his approach. Not sure Graham Henry and crew are as quick on the uptake, while Robbie Deans doesn’t have the same quality of talent to work with.

The Springboks won the Tri-nations title for 2009 with another superb display against the All Blacks in Hamilton. However not everyone was impressed with the manner of victory!

Brett Harris wrote it is “Time to cut a penalty goal’s value” in the Australian after the Springbok victory. His views are shared by many in Australia, but I struggle to see the logic.

He wrote, “When a team has a “rocket launcher” instead of a goal kicker it is surely enough reason for the IRB to seriously consider reducing the value of penalty goals from three points to two. The capacity to kick a penalty goal from 60 metres distorts the game and is a way of accumulating cheap points”

He went on to say “A team can be attacking 40 metres from the opposition line, commit an infringement, and be punished with a penalty goal. Knowing the opposition has a long-distance goal kicker like Francois Steyn also influences teams to play conservatively. Having a kicker like Steyn on the opposition team means you have to play inside your opponent’s 40 metre line or risk three points being scored against you every time you infringe”

Harris also felt “conceding two points is still a deterrent as is the threat of a yellow card.”

In my view this one again smacks of sour grapes. You can’t change the rules because one or two players are simply very good at what they do. Rather than blame the rules, the Wallabies and other sides need to come up with strategies to counter the Springboks strengths and utilise their own.

Last year the Springboks played poorly. The coaching staff were largely to blame, and did not adapt to their rules of the time. This year the Springboks have succeeded because they have the best coaching team.

The players in all three Tri-nations sides are largely the same, however the Boks came up with plans and strategies that no one else has effectively countered consistently this season. The Wallabies achieved this in Brisbane, and it had nothing to do with penalties being worth 3 points.

It has always been my view that if a team infringes, then they should be punished. (The problem of inadequate reffing, and penalising teams unfairly is another issue!). It doesn’t matter if you make the mistake in your 22 or on the opposition’s goal-line, you suffer the consequences.

Harris is essentially saying it is fine to infringe in certain areas of the field and one shouldn’t concede points if far enough away from their own goal-line. In my view it is not fair to infringe no matter where on the field you are. Teams know that if they are in opposition territory and unable to concede points, they will infringe more often because the consequences are are not as severe.

Harris also said, “As goal-kicking techniques improve the range of goal kickers will also increase and long distance kickers will become more common.” I don’t believe that will happen. The legendary Don Clarke was able to kick goals from 50m out with a leather ball and the torpedo style kick. based on Harris’ logic, kickers should be banging them over from 100m now!

The game of rugby has always been heavily influenced by goal-kicking. It’s part of the game. Scores of 6-3, 9-6 etc etc were common many years ago and made rugby the game it is today. Nothing needs to change.

We don’t need to necessarily see massive amounts of tries. Not at the expense of the fundamental contest for possession and rewarding teams that are dominant in the key elements of the game, set pieces, breakdowns, physicality etc.

Each Tri-nations game this year (so far) was won by the dominant side. In South Africa the game has never been more popular, their fans want to see their side winning. I’d suggest to Mr Harris that if the Aussies were also winning, the Australian public would care less how many points a penalty was worth.

Argentina are joining the Tri-nations.

It was confirmed on Monday by SANZAR that Argentine will be joining the Southern Hemisphere showpiece rugby tournament from 2012 to create a new 4 team tournament.

It’s a welcome addition to a largely monotonous schedule, and Argentina thoroughly deserve greater international exposure after receiving little help from the IRB or SANZAR thus far.

It marks a great development for Argentinian rugby. Most of their professional players currently play in Europe, and this will hopefully boost the game in Argentina. Assurances have also been made to ensure Argentina field their strongest side, regardless of where their players are based.

The tournament will be played at the conclusion of the new Super 15, from about mid-August through to mid-October. In Rugby World Cup years the format will be abbreviated and played in July/August.

The tournament format will consist of each nation playing one another on a home and away basis. This means there will be 12 matches in total (increasing from the current total of 9). Each side will play a total of 6 matches, meaning each existing side does not play any additional number of games.

It will also help the Springboks who have always had the hardest travel schedule. Whilst it still won’t be easy, there will be less matches for the Springboks in Australasia, and hopefully the tours can become shorter.

Finally after all years of talking it will be great to see the superpowers help a developing rugby nation, and I suspect it can only help Argentinian rugby.

Once again the Springboks have been dealt to by a different set of laws to anyone else.

Jaque Fourie was suspended for 4 weeks, for a dangerous tackle on All Black centre Ma’a Nonu in their Tri-nations encounter in Hamilton.

Once again we see a different set of standards being used for the Springboks compared to any other international side.

The referee Nigel Owens had a bad game in Saturday night’s test between the Springboks and the All Blacks. I’m not sure if we can say he is biased as he did an adequate job in the match between the Springboks and All Blacks in Durban this year. I struggle to comprehend how his performance could have become so one-sided so quickly. I am not sure what the Springboks did to him, but quite clearly he had it in for the Boks in Hamilton.

His very first call of the game from the kick-off resulted in an All Black penalty. Soon after he penalised John Smit for slipping. No scrum reset as is the norm was even offered. As it was the first scrum of the game I find that completely unfair.

Later he penalised the Boks for being in front of the kicker when Pierre Spies made a clearing kick. In the 50th Min the All Blacks were in almost the same position as they kicked downfield. No penalty on that occasion!

I thought the All Blacks were quite negative at ruck time, either coming in from the side, or lying over the ball. It disrupted the Springboks rhythm, but hey they got away with it so they did the right thing in persisting with those tactics.

When Joe Rockocoko took out Bryan Habana in the air, more than a penalty was warranted. Whilst a yellow card would have been fair, personally I’d have been happy with a strong warning. However when Kieran Read shoulder charged Bryan Habana, going out of his way to step into the Springbok flyer, it was definitely yellow card material. The fact that no warning was even given was disgraceful.

And then Jaque Fourie was suspended for 4 weeks for the following tackle.

Whilst it is definitely reckless and dangerous, I find it hard to fathom how it warrants a 4 week suspension. Last year an All Black Brad Thorn made a dangerous and late pre-meditated tackle that ruled John Smit out of the remainder of the Tri-nations. He got a one week suspension.

Matt Giteau tries to take off Fourie du Preez’s head and gets no citing.

Bakkies Botha legally cleans out at a ruck and gets 4 weeks.

Where is the consistency? Why are there different rules for the Springboks? Why does the world delight in suspending South Africans?

Effectively Jaque Fourie is out for 5 weeks. Usually when a player is suspended, the suspension starts immediately and if there is a bye for instance a 2 week suspension turns into a 1 game ban. In Jaque’s case they ensured his suspension starts from a much later date, effectively increasing his suspension time.

It’s time the South African rugby union stood up and made a stronger stand than armbands can make. The prejudice against South Africans must stop. Next they’ll want to cite us for winning the Tri-nations!

The Springbok’s 32-29 victory over the All Blacks in Hamilton was just reward for an excellent Springbok side.

It’s been a season of milestones for this Springbok side who have won every major title this year. 2 Years after winning the World Cup, they can add the British and Irish Lions series, A Tri-nations title, The Freedom Cup and the Nelson Mandela Plate.

In Hamilton they achieved their third consecutive victory over the All Blacks for the first time since 1949. They’ve now beaten the All Blacks in their last two encounters in New Zealand too, which must give them great hope of becoming the first side to defend the Rugby World Cup in 2 years time. Slowly but surely this Bok side is switching the mental dominance between these two sides around.

Well coached

Like all the Springboks’s Tri-nations victories this year, the Springbok pack was magnificent in suffocating the opposition. However the role of the backline in complementing a dominant forward pack should not go unnoticed. New Zealander Ian Jones commented that the Springboks were winning the little battles, and each player knew his role and worked hard for the collective team effort.

I’d definitely agree with that. I don’t think people acknowledge just how good a coach Peter de Villiers is The fact that the players have taken tremendous ownership this year, and look the happiest Springbok squad since Francois Pienaar led the side in 1995 is testament to that. Jean de Villiers said “I think Peter has been the right guy at the right time and he definitely has to take the credit for all our victories. We are getting the victories and Peter must take the credit for it. He has managed to keep the guys together and make it a successful team”

Peter de Villiers has stated that the Springboks aim to win every single battle on the rugby field. Every lineout, every scrum, every breakdown. You can see the effort the players make to do so, and it has resulted in greater consistency and performances.

Couple with a great Springbok player captain and leader in John Smit, and assisted by Victor Matfield, this Springbok side is focused, composed and confident. On Saturday I felt they got the rough end of the refereeing decisions, but whereas in the past it may have been an excuse, this side simply controlled their own destiny by rising above the circumstances.

The lineout once again reigned supreme from start, and put massive pressure on the All Blacks. The All Blacks weren’t able to get front foot ball and when they tried to spread it to the backline the Boks rushed up through the midfield forcing Stephen Donald to cut back inside where the Springboks forwards were waiting. Consequently the Boks enjoyed good territory and possession.

Goal kicking and direction

Francois Steyn was magnificent in kicking 3 long range penalties. Normally he misses one or two, but his ball striking was spot on. He is a tremendous talent who has started to blossom under de Villiers reign recently, and his loss to South African rugby is becoming larger and larger.

Morne Steyn’s option taking was brilliant and he kept the Springboks moving forward. During the week he stated it was his role to keep the Springboks going forward, even if he was receiving ball on the back foot which makes it tough for any flyhalf to shine. His ability to take responsibility and step up to the challenge demonstrates to me that he will achieve even greater things as Springbok flyhalf, if that is possible.

All Black flyhalf Dan was under tremendous pressure and did not play badly. he kicked out of hand and at goal particularly well, but he didn’t have the same quality of personnel around him.

Scrums

The scrums were one area that neither side dominated. The All Blacks would have fancied their chances here after the Springboks recent woes. They did pressure the Bok scrum and a couple of times Pierre Spies came up with errors, but when it truly counted with 18 minutes to go, the Springbok scrum stepped up and demolished the All Black scrum on All Black ball when the All Blacks had all the momentum going for them.

It is not necessarily dominating every battle, but the key ones that help carry your side to victory.

Mental domination

Earlier this week John Smit told us that the Boks liked to be 1 or 2 scores ahead going into the final quarter. Whilst the All Blacks came back hard after they looked down and out at 29-12, I always felt the Boks had control of this game. The calmness exhibited by the Springbok leadership of Smit, and Victor Matfield showed me just how mentally astute and tough this Bok side is.

With all 3 Tri-nations side building for World Cup in New Zealand in 2 years time, the Springboks are in a great place mentally with their successes this season. Their strength lies in remaining humble, not being satisfied with their successes and looking to get better and better so they can successfully defend their World Crown. Whilst it won’t be easy, we have a great chance of repeating our success!

Good as a unit, and great as individuals. Every Springbok player played with tremendous commitment and put their body on the line.

Springbok Player ratings:

1. The Beast Mtawarira – 6

Only had 1 decent run with ball in hand, but this was a time for head down and graft from the big man. He worked hard in defence, and made tons of tackles. Had to chase attackers in open play and never stopped trying. A good workmanlike performance without the glamour.

2. Bismarck du Plessis – 9

Got stronger and stronger as the match progressed. Solid in the set-pieces, but it was his work around the rucks and mauls that sets him apart. He made numerous steals in the second half, turning over ball, getting this side on the front foot and putting pressure back on the All Blacks. Has been tremendous this season.

3. John Smit – 9

Captain courageous took numerous knocks but kept going and going. He is as tough a man as I’ve ever met, and led this side superbly. Produced a great scrum effort midway through the second half, and was prevalent all over the field when he has to carry the ball or make tackles.

4. Bakkies Botha – 8

Back to full fitness, and back to his destructive best. At the heart of the rucks, keeps the Springboks going forward and competing.

5. Victor Matfield – 8

Unlocked the All Black lineout early on, but is also invaluable in directing this Bok side around the park on attack too. Scans the field superbly, and in the second half he was in complete control and never gets rattled. Helps John Smit tremendously as a leader.

6. Heinrich Brussow – 7

Worked really hard at the breakdowns trying to put pressure on the All Blacks at each ruck. Controlled the ball well at the back of the maul, really gets into position brilliantly, protecting the ball from the opposition. Wasn’t helped by the ref who should’ve penalised the All Blacks for coming in from the side.

7. Schalk Burger – 6

A tough ask trying to fill in for Juan Smith. Worked hard, but not playing his best rugby this year. Would make almost any other international lineup though.

8. Pierre Spies – 8

Made some good runs, even from a standing start. Always kept All Black defenders honest. Struggled at the base of the scrum a few times in the second half. His workrate is good, at one stage he was beaten by Nonu and turned and got back to tackle him and knock the ball from his grasp. That’s workrate.

9. Fourie Du Preez – 9

The World’s best scrumhalf. Once again he took all the right options when the pressure went on. Created a pin point kick that led to the Bok’s first try.

10. Morne Steyn - 10

During the week he mentioned it was hard for flyhalves going backwards, but it was his job to use those chances to get the Boks going forward. He did exactly that. Took all the right options, and made no errors (compared that to Carter). Kicked every shot at goal and a difficult drop goal.

11. Bryan Habana – 8

Works exceptionally hard without the ball. Makes tackles, chases kicks and runs up and down both sides of the field! Even when he’s not scoring tries he is extremely valuable.

12. Jean de Villiers – 7

A solid last game in Bok colours, at least for now, for Jean de Villiers. Great intercept try, as only he and Habana can do.

13. Jacque Fourie – 7

Solid in the midfield and covered on defence well. Is imposing on defence.

14. Odwa Ndungane – 8

Not a big man physically, but has a big heart. Got isolated once when the Boks got caught unaware receivng a kickoff. Other than took took great options, kicked well, chased well and did everything expected of an International winger.

15. Francois Steyn – 8

Kicked 3 penalties from inside his own half. Unbelievable. 53, 59 and 61m. That’s an extraordinary effort. Didn’t miss on effort and a testament to the work he has done with Percy Montgomery. Missed one simple take in the second half, but solid otherwise.

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle -

Not used.

17. Jannie du Plessis -

Not used.

18. Danie Rousouw -

Not on long enough to be rated.

19. Ryan Kankowski – 7

Good with ball in hand when the Boks needed go forward. Did everything expected of an impact player.

20. Ricky Januarie -

Not on long enough to be rated.

21. Adi Jacobs -

Not on long enough to be rated.

22. Ruan Pienaar – 0

Not used.

Peter de Villiers – 9

Disrupted with injuries, but got team selection spot on, and the tactical play of the Boks was superb in conditions that would have been expected to favour the home side. Is now one of the most successful international coaches.

The Springboks beat the All Blacks 32-29 in their Tri-nations clash in Hamilton.

It was a deserved victory for a champion Springbok side, which was very focused on their task all week. Even a large number of injuries couldn’t prevent the Boks from producing an enormous performance from a dedicated squad, who underlined the strength that currently exists in South African rugby.

To win the third game on tour was a  remarkable effort. Even more remarkable given that last year no Tri-nations side won their third consecutive game. Doubly more remarkable when you take into account the Springboks have done it twice this year, and are always tasked with the hardest draw where they have to play three consecutive weeks twice in the competition to the others side once.

It was the result of hard work, and dedication.

Once again the Springboks went behind, this time to a very dubious penalty in the first minute of the game from the kick-off. This season I’ve been so impressed by how the Springboks bounce back. This was epitomised by losing Springbok strongman, Juan Smith just before kick-off.

After the early Dan Carter penalty, the Springboks started to find their feet. Initially they took the ball through numerous phases and showed they possess more skills that just being able to kick. Francois Steyn knocked over a 61m penalty. It’s the biggest kick I’ve ever seen other than Percy Montgomery’s 63m drop kick at Kimberly. That was at altitude, this was at sea level in New Zealand.

Another Francois Steyn penalty had the Boks in front.

John Smit was penalised for slipping in the first scrum. That’s a harsh call in my view, and Carter levelled the scores.

The Boks then worked the phases beautifully while Morne Steyn positioned himself in the pocket for a brilliant drop goal.

Fourie du Preez, who had a great game around the rucks and mauls put up a beautiful up and under that got the Boks going forward, and du Preez then ducked over from a ruck to score the first try.

Once again the Boks were penalised almost immediately and Carter’s penalties were keeping the All Blacks in the game.

I felt the Boks weren’t getting much help from the ref, but a Kieran Read shoulder charge off the ball brought another penalty. I question why there wasn’t a warning if not a yellow card.

Pressure from the All Blacks just before half-time was met by determined Springbok defence that gave the Boks a 10 point lead at the break.

At the beginning of the second half the Boks once again started off well and had chances they didn’t take. Accidental offside from a ruck a few metres out from the All Black line helped the All Blacks survive.

After 11 minutes an intercept try to Jean de Villiers gave the Boks a 17 point lead. Last week in Brisbane, Jean mentioned to us that he hadn’t scored an intercept for a while, and would be happy with any try. I know how hard he works on reading the play, so it was particularly pleasing to see him get rewarded.

At this stage I believed the Springboks became a touch complacent and the All Blacks became more desperate to avoid humiliation. Along with the effects of 3 tough weeks, the All Blacks started to get on the front foot and the Boks were doing a lot of defending.

It was energy sapping stuff, and the Boks weren’t getting many calls from the ref.

With 18 minutes to go, the All Blacks had a penalty right in front and were 10 points behind. I believe Richie McCaw made the wrong decision in going for the scrum. They scored a penalty soon after but the Boks were getting closer to victory.

With 8 and a half minutes to go the Boks got another penalty and a 10 point lead was very handy. Earlier this week John Smit told us at a press conference that he liked to be at least one score ahead going into the last 20.

It’s the Boks pattern, and from in front they controlled proceedings, even though an All Black try with a few minutes to go left Springbok supporters sweating out the final few minutes.

It was a great victory for the side, with each player’s performances vital in producing a great team effort.

The Springboks can enjoy a well deserved break before returning for the closing stages of the Currie Cup.

An hour to kickoff, and the Springboks man of steel, Juan Smith is not playing.

I saw him go down and stretch his back/leg at training on Wednesday, and obviously he is not right. Schalk Burger will take his place in the starting lineup.

Also it’s important to remember the last time these two met in New Zealand, the Springboks won. They’ve also won the last 2 games between these two sides too. Got to be a good omen.

It’s all to play for. The Tri-nations, the IRB number 1 world ranking. The Springboks deserve it, but they haven’t won anything yet. 80 Minutes stand between the Boks and greatness.

Live updates

1st Min – A bullshit call by the ref gives the All Blacks an early penalty. All Blacks lead 3-0 after Carter drills it.

4th Min – Springboks give the penalty away for holding onto the ball. Encouraging signs for the Boks however who looked dangerous with ball in hand.

5th Min – Sivivatu offside. Francois Steyn to try from his ten metre line! That’s a 60m attempt. I saw him kicking them from 55m on Wednesday.
What a kick he gets it! The biggest kick I think I’ve ever seen! 3-3!

9th Min – Springboks starting to impose themselves at the breakdown. John Smit took a hit to the nose, and has blood coming out of it. He’s one of the hardest men I’ve ever met.
Francois Steyn kicks a 59m penalty! Awesome. Springboks ahead 6-3!

15th Min – John Smit penalised at scrum time for a slip. Harsh call in my view. Dan Carter kicks the penalty and the scores tied at 6-6.

17th Min – Morne Steyn in the pocket and kicks a drop goal. Awesome. He now has has the most points in a Tri-nations season. Springboks ahead 9-6.

19th Min – Fourie du Preez you little gem! A great up and under, followed up by the enforcer Bakkies Botha who did tremendously well. Fourie dived over from a ruck. Try!
It all came from Matfield putting pressure on at the lineout and winning one against the throw.
Morne Steyn converts.
Springboks ahead 16-6.

22nd Min – Springboks penalised immediately from the kickoff. Dan Carter kicked off well to the left and the All Blacks pressured Ndungane. I thought the penalty was harsh.
Dan Carter kicks it.
Narrows it to 16-9 to the Springboks.

26th Min – The All Blacks are playing the ball on the ground. C’mon ref. Finally pings them.
Francois Steyn from 53m out. Brilliant.
Springboks ahead 19-9.

28th Min – Sivivatu carried it over the sideline. It was Wayne Barnes who gave the ball to the All Blacks. This is cheating! Be fair!

33rd Min – A shoulder charge by Kieran Read gets recognised by touch judge Wayne Barnes. Finally.
Morne Steyn kicks the penalty from the sideline.
A handy 22-9 lead to the Springboks.

35th Min – The ref pings the Springboks for being offside.
Dan Carter kicks another penalty and we have the Springbok lead cut to 22-12.

39th Min – The All Blacks have a great chance deep in Bok territory, Springboks have to dig deep.

40th min – Great defence from the Springboks. Holds the All Blacks out. Awesome physicality.

Halftime Springboks 22 All Blacks 12

It’s been a great first half. The Springboks have been pin point with their kicking, and have dominated the lineouts.

The scrums have gone to the All Blacks and the breakdown has been reasonably even. I’ve felt the ref has favoured the All Blacks, so the Boks have done well.

Victor Matfield, Bakkies Botha, Heinrich Brussow, Bismarck du Plessis and John Smit have had mammoth efforts to lead this forward pack. Morne Steyn has taken his options well and kept the Boks going forward. Francois Steyn has provided the finishing touches, and killed the All Blacks with three penalties from his own half.

It’s going to be a tough second 40. The Boks are backing up after 2 tough games against the Wallabies. But I have great faith in this Bok side.

Second half

42nd Min – A great up and under. Sivivatu spilled it and Bismarck almost got there. A golden opportunity goes begging.

43rd Min – Francois Steyn misses a drop attempt from halfway on the touchline. And only just misses. Struck it very sweetly

46th Min – Helter skelter stuff. The All Blacks running well and the Boks countered brilliantly through Odwa Ndungane. Field position is so important at this stage.

48th Min – John Smit makes a massive hit on Brad Thorn. I’m sure John would’ve enjoyed that one given the illegal tackle Thorn put on John Smit last year.

49th Min – Spies gets beaten by Nonu who has looked dangerous. However Superman Spies shows great courage and speed to get back and make a turnover.

51st Min – Jean de Villiers gets an intercept! Just last week we were talking about the fact he hasn’t scored an intercept try in a while and he said he’d just be happy to get any try. I enjoyed de Villiers getting that one!
Morne converts.
The Springboks lead 29-12. An emphatic win is what I’m after.

55th Min – Now even Richie McCaw makes an error. Drops the ball cold. This is awesome. I’ve waited a long time for the Boks to dominate the All Blacks.

57th Min – The All Blacks take a quick tap and score down the left hand side. Sivivatu scores the try.
Carter converts.
The Springboks lead is cut to 29-19.

60th Min – The All Blacks are coming back very strong. A run by Carter almost led to a try, and now they have a penalty out in front. They call for the scrum. Springboks have to dig very deep and get down the other end.

62nd Min – A great scrum by the Springboks. A chance to slow it down. McCaw made the wrong decision there. You always take gift points on offer in a test match.

65th Min – Another bullshit call. The All Blacks dive over the top and the Springboks finally get penalised. This is ludicrous! Carter kicks it from in front and now the Springboks lead is 29-22.

68th Min – A couple of subs for the Springboks.
Ryan Kankowski comes on for Schalk Burger, possibly due to injury. Looks like the ribs.

71st Min – Great Springbok pressure. It just shows how important territory is to build pressure. Everntually the mistake comes. Penalty to the Springboks. Step up Morne Steyn.
Morne kicks it.
Springboks lead 32-22. Handy lead with 8 and a half to go.

75th Min – Springboks in their own half. Need to boot it down the other end.

77th Min – Changes. Ricky Januarie on for Fourie du Preez who looks tired. Adi Jacobs on for Bryan Habana. Danie Rousouw on for Bakkies Botha.

78th Min – Carter kicks to the corner and McCaw scores. Carter kicks the conversion from the sideline.
Springboks lead 32-29. 2 Minutes to go.

81st Min – We win! Unbelievable.

Full time Springboks 32 All Blacks 29

The Springboks are World Champions.

The Springboks are the IRB number 1 ranked side.

The Springboks are Tri-nations champions.

The Springboks beat the British and Irish Lions.

The Springboks hold the Freedom Cup (played between South Africa and New Zealand)

The Springboks hold the Mandela plate (played between South Africa and Australia)

The Springbok sevens hold the IRB World sevens title.

The Bulls are Super 14 Champions.

This is glory.

The Springboks take on the All Blacks in Hamilton in what could turn out to be the  Tri-nations decider for 2009.

The Springboks are looking to bounce back after a flat performance against Australia in Brisbane last week. Conversely the All Blacks are well rested and fresh after a three week break.

The Springboks have based themselves on the Gold Coast of Australia this week, copping plenty of flack from the New Zealand media for their late arrival into New Zealand.Even New Zealand Prime Minister John Key had this to say “I think it’s misguided actually and I think when they come here on Saturday, they’ll come to realise that they like the place even less when they’ve been thumped by the All Blacks.”

I’ve been following the Springboks at their Gold Coast base this week, and once again their focus and mindset has impressed. They’re not worried what the New Zealand media have to say, preferring to focus only on preparing they way they want to for the crucial encounter in Hamilton.

The New Zealanders meanwhile should focus on their own game. They can hardly talk, earlier this year they based themselves in Pretoria and only travelled down to Bloemfontein on the Thursday for their test match against the Springboks. In any case the Kiwis should worry about themselves, the Springboks can do whatever they like, and their only concern is making sure they turn up come kick off on Saturday night.

The Springboks have had a light training week, and although disrupted by injuries/niggles to Bryan Habana, Jacque Fourie, Pierre Spies, Juan Smith and Fourie du Preez, they are looking to return to the physicality that brought them success in their first 3 Tri-nations games. Whilst the All Blacks have one of the World’s premier flyhalves in Dan Carter, if the All Blacks can’t match the Springboks physicality, even he won’t be able to get the All Blacks on the front foot.

The Wallabies showed the All Blacks last week how to beat the Springboks, but whether the All Blacks can emulate their Trans-Tasman neighbours remains to be seen. I’m expecting the Springboks to play a tighter, more disciplined game. As Bakkies Botha said this week, the Springboks lacked intensity in Brisbane against the Wallabies. Expect that to be rectified for this week’s clash with the All Blacks.

The Springboks need to slow the game down, and use their domination of the set pieces to control the game. The lineout led by Victor Matfield should once again reign supreme, and if they dominate early it will cause the All Blacks to be spooked once again. The scrums are the grey area. Will the Springbok scrum struggle once more?

Whilst it hasn’t dominated the All Blacks, it hasn’t struggled either. The Springboks only appear to have problems facing the Wallabies, where John Smit has mentioned this week that the lower height the Wallaby front row packs down with is more difficult to counter. Against the All Blacks he says it is simply a matter of using more brute force! The Springbok captain maintains that the Springbok scrum is not struggling, but simply needs some consistent refereeing policing it.

The All Blacks need 9 log points from their last 2 games, and need to deny the Springboks a bonus point. With wet conditions forecast, I’m not expecting the All Blacks to make the 4 tries a priority. I think they’ll focus on denying the Springboks a bonus point for coming within 7 points, and be happy with a win. If the Springboks can edge out in front early, as they so often do, the All Blacks will be under immense pressure, which could just open up massive opportunities to score from.

I’m predicting an immense physical battle. The Springboks are no longer afraid of this All Blacks side, and have the blueprint to beat the All Blacks, even on their home turf. There may not be too many tries scored, but I’m expecting the Springboks to get home by 9, and wrap up the Tri-nations for 2009!

Last 3 Springbok-All Black results in New Zealand:

2008 Dunedin: NZ 28 SA 30

2008 Wellington: NZ 19 SA 8

2007 Christchurch: NZ 33 SA 6

Springbok side to play the All Blacks in Hamilton

The Springbok are sweating on a couple of injuries, but have named largely the same side to face the All Blacks.

The only change is Francois Steyn coming into the starting lineup at the expense of Ruan Pienaar who drops back to the bench.

Bakkies Botha is back to full fitness, but Pierre Spies, Juan Smith, Jacque Fourie, Fourie du Preez and Bryan Habana have all had niggles to overcome this week.

The Boks need to hit back hard if they are to beat the All Blacks and claim their third Tri-nations title. There is also the small matter of the IRB number 1 world ranking up for grabs too.

The Springboks:

1. Beast Mtawarira
2. Bismarck du Plessis
3. John Smit (c)
4. Bakkies Botha
5. Victor Matfield
6. Heinrich Brussow
7. Juan Smith
8. Pierre Spies
9. Fouire du Preez
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bryan Habana
12. Jean de Villiers
13. Jaque Fourie
14. Odwa Ndungane
15. Francois Steyn

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle
17. Jannie du Plessis
18. Danie Rousouw
19. Schalk Burger
20. Ricky Januarie
21. Adi Jacobs
22. Ruan Pienaar

The Springboks crashed to a 21-6 defeat to the Wallabies at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane on Saturday night.

Brisbane has not been kind to the Springboks, having not won here since 1971. Whilst the Aussies got a couple of tries late in the game to seal it, they thoroughly deserved their victory.

The Springboks started off well, but didn’t capitalise on their chances. It looked like it might be a repeat of Perth, but on this occasion the Wallabies defence held firm, and when they got chances they put points on the board. The Springboks don’t enjoy playing catch up rugby, and pressure started to mount on the Boks who made uncharacteristic errors.

John Smit said afterwards “The Springboks were a bit flat” but it was certainly not through lack of effort or poor preparation. At this level there is little separating the top sides, and the Wallabies were able to absorb pressure and create plenty of their own. The Boks were guilty of playing too loose, trying to run the ball too often, and too laterally. This suited Australia who were able to play around the Springbok forward pack.

For Australia, Berrick Barnes ws outstanding on attack, asking many questions of the springbok defence, which for the most part held firm. It was only in the last 20 minutes that they started to get on top. The Australians were perhaps unlucky to go close on 3 occasions and be denied by the TMO. This was due to desperate Springbok defence, although du Preez’s tackle on Will Genia was fortunate not to be a penalty try or a yellow card in my view, as it would have resulted in a certain try had the Springbok defence retired 10m. With such a lucky break the Springboks could not turn something out of it as Australia scored soon afterwards.

The little things that have made the Springboks dominant in the Tri-nations thus far were not evident on this occasion. Poor tactical kicking, and being dominated physically at the breakdown allowed Australia to get the upper hand. I was surprised the Boks didn’t try to slow the game down, use the rolling maul more often and kicks for territory, but that was the result of pressure, and having to play catch up rugby.

There were some good individual Springbok performances, but as a whole the cohesion between forwards and backs wasn’t quite there.

I bumped into Springbok selector and former coach Ian Macintosh after the game, who mentioned the second week on tour is always the hardest. Whether that is true or not, the Springboks have to be much better in their last game in Hamilton to wrap up the Tri-nations.

At the press conference after the game, a battle scarred John Smit said “excuses are for losers, so we have no excuses.” Victor Matfield backed this up and said they don’t need to change anything, they just need to do what has worked for them thus far and execute more accurately.

This Springbok side is a special side. It has a fantastic team spirit and work ethic. Whilst they have wrapped up the Nelson Mandela plate, they’ll be hurting immensely by this loss, however they have a chance to make things right against the All Blacks in a weeks time.

Some strong individual showings at times from the Springboks, but it lacked the finish as a unit that we’ve seen in previous games. Each player needs to take more responsibility, and the forwards were unable to give the backs a strong platform in the second half. consequently errors came all over the park, and pressure on each player escalated until errors were forced.

A massive step up is required for their last Tri-naions game.

Springbok Player ratings:

1. The Beast Mtawarira – 5

Worryingly his scrumming has been poor in the Tri-nations. It is now seriously affecting the Springbok’s game, and needs to be rectified. It is also starting to affect other portions of his game, and only had 1 noteworthy run with the ball. Needs greater consistency.

2. Bismarck du Plessis – 6

Performed well in the lineouts and around the park. Could perhaps lift his workrate and use his strength to offload in the tackle more. Needs to take a more direct line on attack.

3. John Smit – 6

A good effort around the park, but got lifted in the scrum and penalised too frequently. Should have changed the tactics in the second half to utlise the Springboks’ strengths more.

4. Bakkies Botha – 5

Was under a slight injury cloud coming into this game, and not one of his best. Will benefit from another week to get physically back into shape.

5. Victor Matfield – 7

Spooks the opposition at lineout time, which is his forte. Made numerous tackles, and wasn’t a strong factor on attack where he normally directs the side around the field.

6. Heinrich Brussow – 5

Was a step behind the action and that led to him only getting 1 turnover. Was outplayed by his Aussie counterparts, and made his handling let him down on attack.

7. Juan Smith – 8

Once again the man of steel in the Springbok pack.  Makes hundreds of tackles, always willing to carry the ball up, and mopped up plenty of loose balls around the ruck and lineout.

8. Pierre Spies – 7

Always a danger with ball in hand, but would benefit from greater space being created for him by his tight five. Takes the high ball well, but a little inaccurate all round.

9. Fourie Du Preez – 6

Started off well, but faded as the game progressed. Made a try saving tackle on Genia, but prehaps needed to dictate play more, and use the box kick more frequently.

10. Morne Steyn - 5

Limited opportunities with place kicks this week, but his tactical kicking was slightly off the mark. Didn’t allow the Springboks to contest enough balls, and wasn’t helped having his usual wingers gone. Needed to control the side better.

11. Bryan Habana – 7

Made 2 try saving tackles, and was brilliant on defence. Unfortunately when he left, the Boks lacked the attacking edge needed to score tries.

12. Jean de Villiers – 8

Made an excellent break in the first half, but couldn’t convert it into points. Was dangerous with ball in hand, and needed to control the midfield more in the second half.

13. Jacque Fourie – 6

Has taken his chances well lately, but couldn’t;t round off a break from de Villiers this time. Made errors and took poor options as the pressure mounted.

14. Odwa Ndungane – 6

Limited opportunities on attack, but took the right option when isolated a few times in the first half. Chased the kicks well, but lacks the ‘x’ factor to convert half chances into tries. I’d have Nokwe there any day.

15. Ruan Pienaar – 6

Couldn’t break the first line at any stage, but took solid options. Kicking game was not accurate enough, and doesn’t contest the up and under. A specialist fullback may be a better option.

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle -

Not used

17. Jannie du Plessis -

Not used

18. Danie Rousouw – 5

Has done very little all international season. Perhaps needs more game time.

19. Schalk Burger – 5

Tries hard, but not accurate enough and not making an impact. Was noticeable when he came on with Danie Rousouw, momentum shifted to Australia.

20. Ricky Januarie -

Not used

21. Adi Jacobs – 5

Took a very poor option and nearly gifted Australia a try. Limited chances otherwise.

22. Francois Steyn – 5

Didn’t offer anything on attack other than through the boot.

Peter de Villiers – 9

Took the defeat on the chin, but tactically the Boks need to return to their strengths and play with more structure. Hs tried to run more since arriving in Australia, but may need to return to the proven formula.

I’m  sitting in the media centre at Suncorp Stadium next to Bob Skinstad and Matt Pearce of Supersport, the SA rugby commentators.

The Springboks got a massive cheer on their arrival onto the field to warm-up. There are swarms of Springbok jumpers around the ground and in the crowd.

The Springboks look massively impressive. Just need to ensure we get the job done now!

It was awesome to hear the national anthems! Tremendous pride to hear ‘Nkosi Sikeleli!

5th Min- Wallaby penalty after a great start for the Springboks. Giteau from just inside the Springbok half kicks it and the roar is deafening. Australia lead 3-0.

13th Min – It’s been a tight contest. I just feel the Springboks are just about to break loose. The Wallabies are trying to spread the ball, probably their best chance.

17th Min – Great Springbok cover defence and Bryan Habana has just saved a try in the corner. Phew! What a roar from the Aussie crowd though. Sickening!

21st Min – Springboks look dangerous with ball in hand but just making a few handling errors. With the humidity here in Brisbane, it can make handling that much more difficult in the evening. C’mon Bokke!

23rd Min – Jacque Fourie so close after a great run by Jean de Villers through the middle.

26th Min – Springboks pinged for being offside? Matt Giteau nails the penalty and Australia unfortunately lead 6-0.

29th Min – Great snap shot drop goal from Morne Steyn and the boos go up from the Aaussie crowd. Narrows it to 6-3.

31st Min – Lachie Turner replaced by Peter Hynes who is predominantly a left wing.

33rd – Polota-Nau replaced by Stephen Moore.

35th Min – Good Springbok defence. Had to be desperate and Matt Giteau takes a right footed drop goal. Australia ahead 9-3.

36th Min – Springboks look to hit right back and earn a penalty. Adi Jacobs on for Bryan Habana. Morne Steyn nails the penalty. Australia ahead 9-6.

40th Min – Springboks so close but a forward pass disallows the try.

Halftime Wallabies 9 Springboks 6

A good half for the Wallabies. I just feel the Springboks have played a bit loose a76nd probably need to play tighter. Use the maul and box kick a bit more, and put pressure on the Wallaby back three, and strangle the life out of them.

45th Min – Springboks enjoying good territory. Have to make it count.

53rd Min – Wallbies disallowed a try. Phew, I thought it was going to be a penalty try for not being back ten.

55th Min – Awesome Springbok defence as the Aussie crowd start to urge their side. Springboks hanging in their like a champion side. Now they need to hit back.

61st Min – TMO rules no try after a well weighted Aussie kick, and Adi Jacbs threw it back to Matt Giteau. Close.

63rd Min – Wallabies work a good try through our midfield defence which had a huge gap. Aussies now ahead 16-6. Boks need to dig really deep now.

65th Min – Our scrum disintegrated. Aussies now have a penalty chance, and this game is slipping from our grasp. It’s going to take something special to come back.

67th Min – Nothing more annoying than an Australian crowd! Especially when we’re losing.

76th Min – Game is sealed for the Wallabies as James O’Connor scores a try. Something about Brisbane that just ain’t right for the Boks. With the conversion wide Australia still lead 21-6. Ouch!

Full time Wallabies 21 Springboks 6

Not a good result for the Springboks. I thought momentum changed when Brussouw and Botha went off, but we were only just in the contest at that stage anyway. Disappointing but hopefully we can boune back next week against the All Blacks.

The Wallabies played well and Berrick Barnes was outstanding at running their backline.

This week the Springboks have shown the sort of side they have evolved in under Peter de Villiers.

There has been no complacency, no high-fives for winning in Perth, and no talk about getting 2 log points to seal the Tri-nations. Instead the Springboks have shown they are simply strongly focused on winning their next test match.

In Brisbane, where there are rival football codes, and an AFL game across town on the same night, it must be a new sensation for the Springboks to escape some of the media spotlight. It has not taken from their focus or sense of occasion. This Springbok side simply goes about it’s business. It answers only to its teammates, its supporters and its country which it represents with enormous pride.

The Boks are on top of their game, and are brimming with confidence in their ability. Impressively they realise they are only as good as their next 80 minutes and start at nil-all against Australia on Saturday night. They’re immune to criticism about their tactics, preferring to focus on the aspects they can control, and then improve, improve, improve.

It’s hard to see where Australia can beat the Springbok side. Possibly by gaining parity in the forwards,if they spread the ball and create chances through Giteau and Barnes and finish accurately they might just get there. But they’ll have to start well, and go for 80, because this Springbok side has responded to everything thrown at in this year’s Tri-nations.

I’m picking the Springboks to win again, not because of their physicality, their brute strength, or their consistent team selection. The Springboks are better because they’re a champion side. Their determined, mentally strong, and have only 1 focus. To go for the kill and put away the Wallabies. The Tri-nations title for 2009 will be an added bonus.

Springboks by 12.

Springbok side to play Australia at Suncorp Stadium

The Springboks once again trained with great intensity, determination and focus as they prepare for their clash with the Wallabies at Suncorp stadium.

Sanjay with Springbok Physio Rene Naylor

At the Springbok press conference, John Smit and Peter de Villiers once again impressed with their humility, and desire to win on Saturday. Unlike Robbie Deans and the Wallabies, Peter de Villiers has a winning side, and has once again maintained consistency of selection.

Sanjay with Springbok captain John Smit

With the Tri-nations almost in the bag, de Villiers has learnt valuable lessons from the British and Irish Lions series where he made substantial changes in the third test. He won’t make the same mistake again. By playing his strongest side he has sent a clear message how important every test match is to the Springboks, and that is reflected in the improved results and attitude compared to previous Springbok sides.

I look forward to Saturdays game as we look for a clean sweep over the Aussies, regaining the Tri-nations, and with it every single trophy and series we play for. It will mark an amazing season and classify this Springbok side as one of the greatest ever.

Sanjay with the Beast Tendai Mtawarira

1. Beast Mtawarira
2. Bismarck du Plessis
3. John Smit (c)
4. Bakkies Botha
5. Victor Matfield
6. Heinrich Brussow
7. Juan Smith
8. Pierre Spies
9. Fouire du Preez
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bryan Habana
12. Jean de Villiers
13. Jaque Fourie
14. Odwa Ndungane
15. Ruan Pienaar

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle
17. Jannie du Plessis
18. Danie Rousouw
19. Schalk Burger
20. Ricky Januarie
21. Adi Jacobs
22. Francois Steyn

Monday’s Springbok training session highlighted to me the strength of this Springbok side.

Their practice at Brisbane Boy’s College may have been short and sharp, but they are on a mission and got the job done. They are focused, hungry, humble and definitely not complacent.

This is the happiest Springbok side in a long time. The players have mentioned as such, and it is evident in their demeanour. It makes a huge difference in their on-field performances, but more importantly the psyche.

Springbok forward pack practices lineout

Too often in the past, Springbok sides have lost the mental battle. This side has only gone from strength to strength since winning the World Cup. There are extremely talented individuals. Pace. Power. Strength. This side has all the physical elements necessary to be successful. Mentally as a unit they are so hungry. Not to simply be the best. But to perform to their potential.

At it’s potential this Springbok side is unstoppable. The first 20 minutes against Australia showed that. The remaining 60 minutes highlighted they are not the finished product. Through their training, their focus, their coach, it is plain to see this Springbok side is striving to aim higher. As Peter de Villiers say’s, they aim to win every little battle on the field. Every collision, every breakdown, every scrum, every lineout. Total rugby. It’s what it is all about.

The training session was run very much by the players. Springbok manager Arthrob Petersen told me that he’s so impressed by how motivated this side is, and how they almost run themselves. Everyone knows their job, they don’t need to be told what to do, they simply go out and do it. There was very little words from the coaching staff, the players were shouting encouragement at one another, motivating each other, and showing the urgency of a side that has much to prove and improve.

Sanjay and Springbok manager Arthrob Petersen

From the side of the field, and at the Springbok press conference, Peter de Villiers has shown he is developing into the World’s best coach. He is a character. Enjoy’s a laugh, but has a focus and a plan, to make the Springboks unstoppable. His philosphy is total rugby. Empowering the players. That he has done.

Tactically he knows what he wants. He may be a small guy, but he’s a strong man. Strong enough to know his game plan. Strong enough to let the criticism of the media, the public (most of from Australia and New Zealand), and the style of play pass him by, and focus on what his job dictates. Ensure the Springboks win. Each and every game.

Sanjay and Springbok Coach Peter de Villiers

During the British and Irish Lions series, I mentioned that I thought he got a few things wrong. de Villiers has recognised this. He has learnt, and is learning from his mistakes. He won’t make the same mistakes twice.

There are injury concerns to Bakkies Botha (knee) and Bryan Habana (groin), but it will take more than that to derail a Springbok train that is looking to smash the Wallabies to smithereens this Saturday. They’re taking it one game at a time, and in the process, becoming one of the greatest Springbok sides of all time.

Bakkies Botha and Bryan Habana

Another strong effort from the Springboks, who are the form side in the world at present. Strong all around the feild, and showed more weapons in their arsenal in this encounter, but prehaps weren’t as clinical as previous Tri-nations games.

Plenty to work on, but showing the desire and commitment to achieve great things.

Springbok Player ratings:

1. The Beast Mtawarira – 5

Repeatedly penalised in the scrums for hitting on the angle. Usually a strong scrummager, was just out technically on this occassion. Carried the ball once or twice strongly, but didn’t perform any running with ball in hand that stood out. Perhaps needs to show greater consistency.

2. Bismarck du Plessis – 6

Is ever present around the park and adds a huge physical presence. However his game wasn’t polised in the set-pieces this time. Penalised once for popping the scrum, and missed 2 crucial lineout throws, the second led to a Wallaby try. However it was reassuring and an indication of how far he has developed when he motioned for John Smit to calm down after the ref was repeatedly pinning the Boks.

3. John Smit – 7

Another solid effort from the Bok captain. Strong with ball in hand, and maintains a high workrate. Like the rest of the front row, just needs to be more clinical and efficient.

4. Bakkies Botha – 7

Gets through an enormous amount of work. Worried me when he took a hit to the kee early, but like a true soldier, he keeps marching on. Is brilliant on cover defence and cleaning out.

5. Victor Matfield – 7

The brains of the Springbok pack. Never has a bad game, but didn’t dominate the lineouts. By next week I’m sure he’ll crack the Wallaby code however. Is instrumental in dicatating the Springbok pattern.

6. Heinrich Brussow – 7

Was watched a lot closer this game and was ever present all over the park. His handling let him down on a couple of occassions,  just needs to be a more effective link between forwards and backs.

7. Juan Smith – 8

The unsung hero of the Springbok pack. Is growing more and more into an “Andre Venter” like player. Has a massive workrate, on defence and attack.

8. Pierre Spies – 7

Always a danger, and whilst he didn’t get through any gaps, always presents the halfbreak and gets over the gain line. Many many of his teammates, just lacked a bit of precision in the second half.

9. Fourie Du Preez – 9

The world’s premier halfback once again dictated terms. His kicking is inch perfect, took his try superbly, but it’s his reading of the play that stood out for me. Also takes the high ball extremely well and shows massive courage for a little guy. Indispensable for the Boks, and man of the match in his 50th test.

10. Morne Steyn - 6

Missed 2 kicks, one from virtually in front. Mixed the sublime with the average, just making too many little errors, like kicking the ball out on the full. Won’t be satisified, but is growing with confidence and occasionally could’ve played the percentages better rather than chance his arm a couple of times deep in his half.

11. Bryan Habana – 8

2 well deserved tries for the Springbok flyer. Works hard off the ball, and ran some impressive lines, especially in creating his second try. Was solid in defence, an aspect of his game that is often under-rated. Was also all over the field, and worked really hard off the ball.

12. Jean de Villiers – 8

His best game this year. Created space for those around him, and exploited the new Wallaby midfield pairing superbly. Makes a big difference to the Boks when they have someone creating space for the three-quarters and outside backs.

13. Jacque Fourie – 8

Solid in defence, but more importantly worked well with John de Villiers and his outside backs to get the Springboks going forward and into gaps. Took his try superbly.

14. JP Pietersen – 6

His kicking game was erratic, mixing a couple of great kicks with 2 poor clearances. Has a high work rate around the field, working well in tandem with Habana. Possibly picked up a hamstring injury, we’ll only know its extent in time.

15. Ruan Pienaar – 7

Solid game but didn’t do anything spectacular. Worth another shot at fullback, and prehaps just needs more game time.

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle -

Not on long enough to make a telling contribution

17. Jannie du Plessis -

Not on long enough to make a telling contribution.

18. Andries Bekker -

Worked hard, but prehaps needs to focus more on the basics. Not sure that substituing him for Bakkies Botha is the right move. Danie Rousouw would give us a “like for like” and better balance overall to the side.

19. Schalk Burger – 6

Worked hard making tackles, but unable to effect any steals.

20. Ricky Januarie -

Not on long enough to make a telling contribution

21. Wynand Olivier -

Not used

22. Adi Jacobs - 5

Made one handling error with the line beckoning. Limited opportunties otherwise.

Peter de Villiers – 9

Got the tactics spot on initally, and used the subs well. The only downside was closing shop early, and the poor scrums. Was impressed with his humility after the game, and desire to keep improving.

The Nelson Mandela plate returns home to it’s rightful place in South Africa as the Springboks beat the Wallabies 32-25 in Perth.

It was another brutal victory from the Springboks who changed tactics slightly from their first 3 performances in the Tri-nations.

Before the match I was surprised to hear Aussie commentator Greg Martin say the “Springboks looked arrogant.” I’m not quite sure how they did that, but many in Australia thought the Springboks decision to arrive so late before the game showed disrespect. I’d say it was more disrespectful for the media not to find out why the Springboks arrived as late as they did, for they had plenty of valid reasons. In the end their decision was vindicated anyway.

Once again the Springboks started brilliantly. The Wallabies made errors, and were surprised from some of the Springbok tactics to run directly at the Wallaby midfield. It allowed the Springboks to gain momentum, get over the advantage line, and it was difficult for the Wallabies to knock the Boks back.

A brilliant lineout where the ball was first mauled upfield, followed by transfer to the left flank got the Springboks going forward and awarded a penalty. Fourie du Preez ever the intelligent reader of a situation, took a quick tap as he has so often done in the past and it produced a try. Playing his 50th test, it was a fitting moment for the World’s premier scrumhalf.

Just 5 minutes later Jacque Fourie hit the ball at pace from a scrum and the Springboks were in again. It was simply just perfect timing and a little swerve that produced a try. for all those who say the rules don’t allow teams to score tries, this showed just how simple it can be. Rather than blame rules, teams should look for creativity and solutions to producing tries such as these.

Almost inexplicably Morne Steyn missed the conversion from virtually right in front. It’s almost the only place he can miss from these days! Luckily it didn’t have a telling effect on the game. At this point the Springboks were dominant, the Wallabies were psychologically scarred and having to play catch-up rugby the entire game.

Once the Springboks kicked a penalty and moved to a 15-0 lead, having a 3 score buffer proved to be far too much for the Wallabies to come back from.

They did enjoy a good period leading up to half-time, where with ball in hand they started to pose serious questions of the Springbok defence. However the addition of 2 penalties was never going to be enough to seriously put them back into contention. A try from Bryan Habana resulted from a great up and under, superb chasing and good finishing. A halftime score of 22-6 allowed a mental comfort zone from the Boks.

The Wallabies however scored early from a good build-up and Matt Giteau is always a dangerous customer close to the ruck with his fancy stepping.

The Wallabies were then able to get back into the game through their scrum. Bryce Lawrence was penalising the Springboks, and I’m not sure how justified all the penalties were, as the Springbok front row was starting to get frustrated. The net effect was the Australians were able to enjoy strong territorial advantage and get back into the game.

The Springbok defence held up magnificently and when Habana missed a chance for a try in the corner, they worked a superb set move from scrum close to the Wallaby line to send Habana in untouched. At 29-13 the game was over.

With 6 minutes to go and a 19 point lead, the Wallabies were the side showing greater desperation and they worked 2 good tries when the Springboks had sealed the game. A final scoreline of 32-25 probably flattered the Aussies, and I was surprised to hear Robbie Deans and some of the Aussie commentary team say they were only 1 score away in this contest. In my view, the game was effectively over mid-way through the second half and the Springboks took their foot off the accelerator and became defensive.

Overall I thought the Boks played well initially and then became less accurate as the match wore on. They looked impressive with ball in hand, and showed tactically they can mix it up and play whatever the situation demands. Worryingly the scrum was shambolic, and work will have to be done there.

The defence by and large was quite solid, and they had to make many tackles in the game. There is plenty still to work on, whilst I thought the Wallabies actually took a step backwards in their development this season. They’ll welcome back the return of Nathan Sharpe and Berrick Barnes, but they perhaps need to try something different to try and overcome a confident, well-oiled Springbok machine.

It was pleasing to see the humility of the Springboks in victory. Neither John Smit nor Peter de Villers felt they had to answer the critics, preferring instead to focus on playing what is ahead of them, and ensuring winning rugby is the first order of the day.

I think this Bok side is deceptive. It focuses on percentage rugby, involving a lot of kicking, but it has great class in the backline and can shift the ball and produce more running rugby of required. Much like the Bulls showed in the Super 14.

For the Springboks it was a good team effort with plenty of strong individual performances. The balance of the side is awesome with very few weaknesses. However injury concerns for Bakkies Botha and JP Pietersen could see changes forced upon the side.

Next week we move onto Brisbane, a traditionally unhappy venue for the Boks. 2 Log points will seal the Tri-nations for 2009. Lets hope we can wrap it up and ensure another week of misery for the Wallabies!