Sanjay's Rugby World

The Springboks and Wallabies are fighting to avoid the Tri-Nations wooden spoon, and lift the Mandela Challenge plate.

The Wallabies have yet to win a game in this year’s Tri-Nations competition, but wins in their final two matches would see them relegated from final position, and a morale boosting second spot.

To do so they’ll have to win at altitude for the first time in the professional era, and break a 47 year drought on the highveld.

HIGHVELD ADVANTAGE

In the 18 Matches played on the highveld between the 2 sides, the Wallabies have only ever won twice. The last time was 47 years ago at Ellis Park in Johannesburg.

The Wallabies have won 1 of the 3 encounters in Bloemfontein, however that victory was 77 years ago!

The Boks have yet to lose a test to Australia on the highveld since re-admission, and the only places they have lost home test matches to the Wallabies in this period is on the coast, at Durban and Cape Town.

It’s a strange decision by the Wallabies to base themselves at sea level, this week they are in Durban. They will only travel to Bloemfontein on Thursday. I would imagine the Wallabies will once again run out of puff, and provided the Springboks can at least stay close, they should be able to overpower the Aussies in the last quarter of the match.

MILESTONES

The 71st Test match between the two sides, and their 34th Vodacom Tri-Nations match with South Africa leading 42-28, and 18-14 respectively.

Since 1992 that record stands at 21-20 to Australia.

A total of 750 caps among the starting XV makes this the most experienced Springbok side of all time. The previous record was the 700 caps shared by the starting XV for the Test against New Zealand in Wellington earlier in the tournament.

Victor Matfield plays his 42nd Tri-Nations match, makeing him the 2nd highest capped player in the tournament behind George Gegan (48).

The Boks have played the Wallabies 3 times in Bloemfontein, for 2 wins and 1 loss and an average winning score of 16-14.

The Wallabies have only ever won twice on the highveld, 1933 in Bloemfontein, and 1963 at Ellis Park.

The Springboks have played 17 times in Bloemfontein, winning on 13 occasions, drawing once and losing just three times.
Their average score is 27-16.

South Africa hasn’t lost a Test match at Vodacom Park since 2000 when it was edged out 27-22 by England.

John Smit leads the side for the 76th time, and for the 28th time in the Tri-Nations making him the most capped cpatin in the competition.

If John Smit scores a try, he will be equal the Springbok try scoring record for hookers in a test match, held by James Dalton and Bismarck du Plessis (5).

Bryan Habana is currently tied for the most Springbok test tries (38) with Joost van der Westhuizen.

Jaque Fourie and Jean de Villiers will play in their 22nd test as a centre pairing since their first test together in 2005 against Australia at Ellis Park, extending their Springbok record as a centre pairing.

Wayne Barnes of England will officiate as referee in his sixth Test match involving South Africa. Of the previous five tests South Africa have won three and lost two.

TEAM SELECTION

Springbok coack Peter de Villiers predictably kept changes to a minimum after his sides first win in this tournament.

Flip van der Merwe and Danie Rossouw trade places after van der Merwe needed time for a neck strain to recover, whilst what looks like a serious shoulder injury to Butch
James brings Gio Aplon onto the bench in his place.

It’s time for this Bok side to show what it can given the largely settled nature of the side and ability to make excuses gone.

WALLABY CHANGES

Australian coach Robbie Deans has made 3 changes to his forward pack, opting for bigger, more physical men to match the size of the Boks.

“All three of the players coming into the pack will offer us energy. They know what to expect and – perhaps even more importantly – know what is required in order to be successful” Deans says.

The opening stanza at Loftus showed that the Wallabies can take the game to the Boks, and by reacting to the Boks lineup, they are trying to take the Springboks on at their own game.

That is a recipe for their disaster, and I suspect they’ve already lost the game before it is played. Add to that the decision to base themselves down at sea-level, and it’s evident the mind games have the Wallabies spooked.

PREDICTION

The game is probably as good as over. The Wallabies won on South African soil in 2008 to take the Mandela plate, but at altitude, with this squad, I can’t see them getting close.

The Boks will be looking for a massive performance before the core of the side earns a rest.

Scrum half Francois Hougaard gave an indication of how important a big win is for the Boks in their last Tri-Nations test. “I don’t think we’re going for 17-10, we want to crush them this time” said Hougaard.

If the Boks get away to a good start it could get ugly, otherwise it’ll remain close until the last quarter similar to Loftus.

Boks by 11

Go Bokke Go!

Springboks:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. John Smit (c)
3. Jannie du Plessis
4. Danie Rossouw
5. Victor Matfield
6. Schalk Burger
7. Juan Smith
8. Pierre Spies
9. Francois Hougaard
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bryan Habana
12. Jean de Villiers
13. Jaque Fourie
14. JP Pietersen
15. Francois Steyn

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle
17. CJ van der Linde
18. Flip van der Merwe
19. Ryan Kankowski
20. Ricky Januarie
21. Juan de Jongh
22. Gio Aplon

The Wallabies:

1. Benn Robinson
2. Saia Faingaa
3. Salesi Ma’afu
4. Dean Mumm
5. Nathan Sharpe
6. Rocky Elsom (c)
7. David Pocock
8. Richard Brown
9. Will Genia
10. Quade Cooper
11. Drew Mitchell
12. Matt Giteau
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper
14. James O’Connor
15. Kurtley Beale

16. Stephen Moore
17. James Slipper
18. Ben McCalman
19. Scott Higginbotham
20. Luke Burgess
21. Berrick Barnes
22. Anthony Faingaa

Referee: Wayne Barnes (England)

The Wallaby side for the Tri-Nations and Nelson Mandela Plate clash to be played at Free State stadium in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

The Australians have made 3 changes to their forward pack as they look to match the Springboks physicality. It may limit their mobility slightly, and play into the hands of the Boks however who would prefer a slower, more structured game.

The Wallabies:

1. Benn Robinson
2. Stephen Moore
3. Salesi Ma’afu
4. Mark Chisholm
5. Nathan Sharpe
6. Rocky Elsom (c)
7. David Pocock
8. Ben McCalman
9. Will Genia
10. Quade Cooper
11. Drew Mitchell
12. Matt Giteau
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper
14. James O’Connor
15. Kurtley Beale

16. Saia Faingaa
17. James Slipper
18. Dean Mumm
19. Richard Brown
20. Luke Burgess
21. Berrick Barnes
22. Anthony Faingaa

The Springboks resisted the temptation to make major changes for their last Tri-Nations encounter against the Wallabies in Bloemfontein.

With little riding on this game other than the Mandela challenge plate, Bok coach Peter de Villiers could have used this opportunity to test some players at International level, given that so much of the Bok focus has been placed on the World Cup.

Instead we have largely the same side, even though de Villiers has said many of his more experienced players are tired and need a rest.

In Smit, Matfield and Habana, de Villiers knows he has. Why not test some new players?

The Springbok coach sees it differently, preferring to focus on his responsibility to field the strongest side for the nation.

There are 2 changes which see Flip van der Merwe and Danie Rossouw change their posittions between the bench and starting lineup due to Flip van der Merwe straining his neck in the test match at Loftus Versfeld, and being given extra rest time.

The other change brings Gio Aplon on to the bench for Butch James who has dislocated his shoulder and will be sidelined for several weeks. James is seeing a specialist in Pretoria, and until then the full extent of the damage is unknown.

This is the side that was named on Tuesday at the press conference.

Springboks:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. John Smit (c)
3. Jannie du Plessis
4. Danie Rossouw
5. Victor Matfield
6. Schalk Burger
7. Juan Smith
8. Pierre Spies
9. Francois Hougaard
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bryan Habana
12. Jean de Villiers
13. Jaque Fourie
14. JP Pietersen
15. Francois Steyn

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle
17. CJ van der Linde
18. Flip van der Merwe
19. Ryan Kankowski
20. Ricky Januarie
21. Juan de Jongh
22. Gio Aplon

The Springboks started off poorly against the Wallabies, but finished the stronger of the 2 sides in their 44-31 victory at Loftus Versfeld.

Until the last try to JP Pietersen in the 80th minute, the game was either side’s for the taking.

The stats sho that Australia enjoyed the greater territory and possession, but became increasingly less effective as the match wore on and they became affected by the altitude.

Their decision to stay in Cape Town until 2 days prior to kick off may have been a mistake, as they hoped to emulate the All Blacks and finish stronger than the Boks.

The Springboks were ale to force the Wallabies into playing to the Bok strengths, and the lineout steals reflect this.

Most of the other stats were remarkably similar, indicated by the fact the game was in the balance until the last minute, but the 31 missed tackles by the Wallabies may have been the key statistic.

It was also evident how poor the tackling was throughout the match, with 52 missed tackles. This led to first phase play being effective for both sides, and is reflected in both sides rarely taking the ball past 7 phases.

Have the Springboks turned the corner in their 44-31 win over the Wallabies at Loftus Versfeld?

Just as the Boks win over the All Blacks in Rustenburg in 2006 was a turning point, this ugly yet important test victory over the Wallabies, may define the Boks 2011 Rugby World Cup campaign.

RELIEVED BOKS

After the match, Springbok captain John Smit was a relieved man as he was asked how he felt.

“Certainly it’s a good feeling. Last week my heart was broken, this week just feels so good to be able to let Victor enjoy it in front of his home crowd, it’s almost a fairytale” said Smit.

“It’s difficult when you get a start like that because you can look at it in 2 ways. You can see yourself as having a massive handicap and trying to chase it the whole time or you can see it as 60-70 minutes to go to get your game going and be patient.”

“We know we made one or two mistakes that gifted them tries but we also knew we have the whole game ahead of us. There was no inexperience or panic in the team and thankfully a few guys have seen this before and come back from it.”

THE BOKS HAVE LEARNT THEIR LESSON

Smit said the side was able to draw on past experiences, including the comeback test against the Lions last year, and no doubt from the disappointment of just 7 days ago at Soweto.

“Thankfully we’ve been in situations like where we’ve been able to learn from this. A year ago we were in a similar situation on this field against the British and Irish Lions.”

“As long as you draw on all those experiences, and we’ve worked hard in our 4 weeks off. Last week was better and this week was even better. Now we’ve just got to make sure we keep on improving.”

His vice-captain Victor Matfield echoed his skipper’s thoughts as he said, “Luckily we are experienced enough to know that when you start like that, you have to stick to the things you know and you don’t go out of your game plan. We stuck to what we knew and things started to happen for us.”

“I think it also helped the way the Wallabies wanted to play, it gave us the freedom to play and we knew if we played then things would happen for us.”

Springbok coach Peter de Villiers admired the composure his side showed, and will be aware his side was from perfect in grinding out a win.

“You will never play the perfect game. Last week we were a lot more intense, but this week we were more composed. In Soweto the guys were afraid to make mistakes and that showed in our play. Today that wasn’t the case and I think we benefited from that” de Villiers said.

AUSTRALIAN THREAT

With another game against Australia next week in Bloemfontein, de Villiers was well aware of the threat the Aussies posed.

“This defeat doesn’t make Australia a bad team. We did well to put pressure on their key players, but they are dangerous when they get space and we’ll have to be aware of that again next week. They’ve got some good dancers in the team, guys who can dance without hearing music. We’ll have to be a lot tighter defensively if we want to shut them out again.”

BOK FOCUS

When asked if he intended to lead the Boks into the next World Cup, Smit was emphatic in his desire to keep leading the Boks.

“No you’ll see me around. [It’s] certainly gonna be a year that I want to play well and I’ll be there. I’ll be putting my hand up. It’ll be up to the selectors and coaches to see if I’m good enough next year.”

“When you’re losing you’re always gonna cop it so we’ll just make sure we work hard.”

With Peter de Villiers set to lead us to rugby’s holy grail, one can clearly see where the Bok focus lies.

“Victor and I are relieved that it is done and dusted and now it is time to start on the next chapter. But we do that one day at a time and we know how much we need to improve and how much work there is for us to be ready for next year. It’s not all about this Tri-Nations, it is about being ready for next year’s seven week process” said Smit.

Whilst I have no problem with that as I also believe the World Cup is the most important trophy, I am not sure enough experimentation have taken place, or enough opportunities have been given to those who deserve it,

de Villiers appears to know who is strongest line-up consists of, and that will certainly be formidable, but what if one of his key players sustains an injury just before the World Cup?

Rudolf Straueli found out how they can bite one in the bum when his key weapons Bob Skinstad, Andre Pretorius and Jean de Villiers were ruled out of the 2003 World Cup.

It’s an important lesson for de Villiers to remember.

Now should be the perfect time to put in place contingency plans just in case.

The Springboks overcame a 14-0 deficit to finish the stronger of the 2 sides as they beat the Wallabies 44-31 at Loftus Versfeld.

Springboks 44

Tries: Juan Smith, Gurthro Steenkamp, Pierre Spies, Frans Steyn, JP Pietersen
Conversions: Morne Steyn (4), Butch James
Penalties: Morne Steyn, Francois Steyn

Wallabies 31

Tries: Will Genia, James O’Connor (2), Dean Mumm
Conversion: Matt Giteau
Penalty: Matt Giteau


It wasn’t a classic or error-free performance, but the Boks finished the stronger of the 2 sides as the Wallabies once again got spooked at altitude.

There was still a mixture of good and bad from the individual players however, as I am still convinced that we could select a better Springbok line-up.

Springbok player ratings:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp – 6

Carried the ball strongly at times to clean up loose ball. Took his try exceptionally well, showing great strength and determination.

2. John Smit (c) – 5

Better performance in the lineouts, his one wayward throw cleaned up by the athleticism of Matfield.

Always gives 100% , but is a yard or two short of pace around the field, and lacks the dynamic play that most other hookers bring.

3. Jannie du Plessis – 4

A largely anonymous performance in the tight or with ball in hand.

4. Flip van der Merwe – 5

Worked hard around the field, but didn’t carry the ball as strongly as he usually does. Possibly struggled to back up his strong effort from a week earlier.

5. Victor Matfield – 6

Missed two tackles early on that led to Wallaby tries. Came back strongly however, dominating the lineouts as the Boks played to his strengths more as the game wore on.

Will be happy to break the Springbok hoodoo of losing on in your 100th test!

6. Schalk Burger – 4

Not fast enough to play in the fetching role. Was not able to break the gain line with ball in hand and set those up around him.

Was also not visible in support for the linebreaks and offload chances created by the Springbok midfield which has to be his job.

7. Juan Smith – 6

A fantastic work rate in defence and attack. Not always accurate, coughing up at least 3 balls in good attacking positions, but took his try well with a great handoff on Drew Mitchell.

8. Pierre Spies – 3

Explosive with ball in hand without busting through tackles. Fortunate not to get subbed for Kankowski.

Is becoming a liability on defence. Goes in way to high, without fully committing himself. Someone needs to teach Spies to tackle!

9. Francois Hougaard – 9

A match winning performance from the young scrumhalf who reminds me of a young Joost van der Westhuizen. Dangerous sniping around the fringes, good kicking game and excellent covering on defence.

A couple of poorly weighted kicks and needs to improve the speed of his pass. However brilliant running with the ball, and made a match winning tackle on Adam Ashley-Cooper that could’ve won the game for the Boks.

Most players miss the tackle completely when they are one-on-one and the winger steps back inside, such as when JP Pietersen did it to Kurtley Beale late in the game, so for Hougaard to dislodge the ball on Ashley-Cooper was an unbelievable tackle!

10. Morne Steyn – 8

A much improved performance from Soweto with a great all round kicking game.

Took the ball to the line and asked questions of the Wallaby defence that created more space out wide. Was a strange decision to substitute him in the second half.

11. Bryan Habana – 1

Woeful. From IRB player of the year in 2007 to one of the worst. Had said through the week he was ready to step up and produce an improved performance.

Missed an easy kick that gifted O’Connor a try. Was barely seen after that, albeit partly due to Bok tactics.

12. Jean de Villiers – 6

Missed two tackles early on that led to Wallaby tries, but came back strongly running the ball. Had no support to make anything off his linebreaks which is not his fault.

13. Jaque Fourie – 6

Strong at times with ball in hand, but not able to step like de Jongh can, or link up with his outside support.

14. JP Pietersen – 5

Took his try well, but didn’t offer much else. Unlike the Wallaby wingers the Bok wings don’the look for enough work and try to get involved.

15. Francois Steyn – 3

Gio Aplon would’ve been much better for the Boks. Inaccurate with his kicking, it appeared Steyn was scared to run the ball back initially.

Caught on defence numerous times, almost cost the Boks in the first few minutes as Drew Mitchell got close. Gave away the penalty that led to the Wallabies second try.

Missed another tackle on Slipper in the 60th Min that almost cost the Boks. For all Kirchner’s detractors, at least he is solid in defence.

Kicked 1 long range penalty, but if Morne Steyn was on, he would’ve got it anyway.

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle – 6

Gave away a silly penalty early, but tackled well and made a great turnover later in the game. The scrum looked weaker as soon as Chili entered however.

17. CJ van der Linde – 3

Not on long enough to be rated.

18. Danie Rossouw – 5

Made a few tackles but didn’t make impact required.

19. Ryan Kankowski –

Not used

20. Ricky Januarie –

Not used

21. Butch James – 6

Solid with his kicking, but didn’t offer anything else.

22. Juan de Jongh -

Not used.

The Springboks overcame an early Wallaby onslaught to win 44-31 in their Tri-Nations test at Loftus Versfeld.

Springboks 44

Tries: Juan Smith, Gurthro Steenkamp, Pierre Spies, Frans Steyn, JP Pietersen
Conversions: Morne Steyn (4), Butch James
Penalties: Morne Steyn, Francois Steyn

Wallabies 31

Tries: Will Genia, James O’Connor (2), Dean Mumm
Conversion: Matt Giteau
Penalty: Matt Giteau

BOKS OVERCOME BY EMOTION?

The Wallabies weren’t able to capitalise on a dream start, and it was the Boks who had more gas in the tank as they produced a stronger second half performance to close this match, and keep their Loftus record against Australia intact.

Whether the Boks just don’t deal with the emotion of milestones well enough I’m not sure, but the Wallabies struck early through some poor defence.

Initially it was Jean de Villiers and Victor Matfield who missed Will Genia close to the Bok line, and then from a kick, poor Springbok chasing, and missed tackles from de Villiers and Matfield again, let the Wallabies score a superb long range effort.

The Boks struck back with a great inside ball to Juan Smith, something they don’t use often enough.

However from the restart Bryan Habana produced one of the biggest shockers of his career as he missed the ball and gifted James O’Connor a try.

The Boks once again ensured the Aussies weren’t able to build a substantial lead, scoring through a well worked try at the attacking lineout to Gurthro Steenkamp who showed great determination to barge over.

However more poor defence allowed the Aussies to score a bonus point try after just 25 minutes! At this level, conceding 4 tries is not good enough, let alone just after the first quarter of the match is completed!

At half-time the score was 28-24 to the Wallabies, who probably felt they deserved a greater lead as they had the better of the half.

BOKS STRONG IN SECOND HALF

The Springboks came back stronger as the match wore on, and actually outscored the Wallabies 20-3 in the second half.

The Boks were able to stop the Wallaby runners by making the game tighter. More lineouts, where Victor Matfield could dominate, played into the Springboks hands.

The Wallabies had their chances, but passes weren’t sticking like the initial exchanges. I think the altitude got to them, and Robbie Deans made a coaching hash as he failed to utilise his bench and inject fresh legs.

The Boks meanwhile appeared to have learnt from Soweto, and Peter de Villiers used his bench much better and showed confidence to substitute his captain John Smit and goal kicker Morne Steyn (for Chiliboy Ralepelle and Butch James). Although I am not convinced you should sub either your captain or flyhalf/goal-kicker.

NOT A COMPLETE PERFORMANCE

Whilst the Boks were satisfied to have gotten the win, it was not a complete performance at all.

The Springbok player ratings reflect the wide range of inconsistency in individual performances, which stifle the sides ability to be consistent.

Some players are excelling (Francois Hougaard), others displaying the Bok attitude without always executing correctly (Juan Smith, Victor Matfield, Morne Steyn, Jean de Villiers), and others just woefully inadequate and needing to be dropped (John Smit, Bryan Habana, Pierre Spies).

The Boks did hold onto the ball better than previous performances, and were even rewarded with a great try to Pierre Spies as they went through 10 phases. This kind of play needs to be replicated more.

There was still a propensity to kick away too much ball (and Frans Steyn was guilty of that), but I felt Morne Steyn started to vary his kicks well as he mixed up the high kick with long range kicks for touch.

DE VILLIERS IS SAVED!

Just as in 2006 when a victory over the All Blacks saved Jake White’s career, this win probably ensures de Villiers will remain coach until the 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

The onus now is for the Boks to keep improving, and produce more consistent performances away from the fortresses of Loftus and the Highveld, in places such as the UK and New Zealand.

The Boks have made some interesting selections ahead of their match against the Wallabies at Loftus on Saturday.

Francois Louw not included in match 22

This was even after de Villiers applauded Pococks performance in Brisbane and acknowledged his threat for this weeks game.

“They will rely on the a player like Quade Cooper to use the inside ball to bring big runners like Rocky Elsom into the game. We also cannot ignore the impact of David Pocock at the breakdown. He will definitely be a factor” said de Villiers.

“He is a very good player and we have made plans to ensure that he does not give us problems at the breakdowns.”

CONFIDENT COACH

The Springbok coach has supreme confidence in their game plan and tactics, even though they have been found wanting this season, and in are stark contrast to how the Bulls and Stormers have played.

“We will continue to focus on what we must do and how we want to play. We let ourselves down last weekend but if we can stay within our structures and limit the mistakes and lapses we will be successful” said de Villiers.

“How do you tell a guy who has played well that he is not part of the team, or is on the bench?” said de Villiers at Monday’s press conference.

“But that is part and parcel on my job as coach that sometimes I must make unpopular decisions. The reality is that there are only 15 places in the starting line-up and I have to do what I believe is best for the team.”

IS STEYN READY?

de Villiers has rushed Francois Steyn back into the starting line-up upon his return to the Springbok squad.

However his coach at Racing Metro in France (former French scrumhalf and coach??? Pierre Berbizier) believes that is a mistake.

Asked if he was ready for Test rugby, Berbizier replied “I don’t think so.”

“I said that to the South African team officials, whether Francois is ready for an international match against teams which are already at their fifth or sixth game.”

Instead of introducing Steyn from the bench, de Villiers wants him to start even though Gio Aplon is unlucky to be dropped.

As much as the rugby public want to see Steyn back, and the Boks rate his strength, goal-kicking and big boot; it’s his defensive ability, positional play, and lack of ability to glide around players like Aplon can that worries me most.

Gio Aplon out of Springbok match 22

“Gio did not do anything wrong but we have an opportunity to see Frans play. He also offers us another kicking option which will take some pressure off Morné Steyn” said de Villiers.

If that is the case and he wants to see what other players can offer Aplon could have been accommodated for an out of form Bryan Habana. After all surely de Villiers knows what he has in the experienced winger.

WHERE IS THE CONSISTENCY?

Similarly de Jongh could have played with either Jean de Villiers or Jaque Fourie. Instead de Jongh got the chop.

“Juan will be a great one day but Jaque Fourie is one already. He has played 60 Tests and, with the exception of his yellow card in Brisbane, has done well for us all season” said de Villiers.

“It was a difficult decision, and I am convinced Juan will become a world class player, but Jaque is an experienced player who did not let us down before” explained de Villiers.

Brisbane was a crucial match and de Villiers is not being hard enough on an experienced player who let the side down badly with his yellow card.

All we ask is for consistency in selection criteria and the same rules for every player. This is something that has not been evident during de Villiers’ reign.

While I think it’d make the Boks stronger, I feel sorry for the talent we are not utilising that must wonder what they have to do to be given a decent opportunity!

Last year John Smit stated that “Excuses were for losers”

Springbok Captain John Smit

“It’s always hard talking after the game when you are the loser. To be honest, we had very little to take out of the first three games” said Smit.

“If we get a little closer to our intensity levels we want every week, we know we can make any team ordinary”

“On Sunday I woke up with my wife and children and realised the biggest positive is that if we play right we will win any game every time.”

“Suspensions haven’t helped us, and as much as we have excuses, we only have ourselves to blame. There is hurt and this weekend will highlight that. We’ve felt this feeling before.”

“You want to reflect back on this in a year’s time when you need it — when you’re 20-all against Fiji. You want to remember this hurt. You want to reference back to this moment when you feel like actual death to get you out of that.”

“Hopefully we can do that and keep our intensity like that for seven weeks in a year’s time.”

With all the experience, World Cup winners, Super 14 and Currie Cup winners in the squad, I’m surprised they need these lessons.

LIABILITY IN MIDFIELD

Fourie reunites with Jean de Villiers to form the Springbok midfield for the first time in a year.

Jaque Fourie assured the Springbok rugby public that the centre combination will not be a liability in this weeks clash against the Wallabies.

Both Fourie (4 weeks) and de Villiers (2 weeks) have served suspensions for recent spear tackles.

“No, it’s not a risk to run out with two centres that recently served suspensions for spear tackles. It won’t happen again.” said Fourie.

“We spoke about it and will also remind one another during the game to complete the tackles. We both made the mistake of wanting to go upwards with the opponent too quickly. It happens in the blink of an eye, but I don’t think we will make the same mistakes again” said Fourie.

Just how much can we trust the word of Fourie? He was suspended for a spear tackle against the All Blacks after the final Tri-Nations test in Hamilton last year.

Did Fourie not his lesson after that incident?

It will be interesting to see this week just what lessons the Boks have learnt. Let’s hope we can smash the Aussies, because I for one won’t be forgiving if we lose, and I certainly won’t be tolerating excuses or apologies!

The late, great Springbok coach Kitch Christie once said:
“Look in the mirror.
You can never fool yourself.”

Current Springbok coach Peter de Villiers and his side would do well to heed his advice, rather than feed us the constant dribble they have this week about how good they were against the Al Blacks and almost won the game.

Almost does not win games, does win World Cups, and does not satisfy the rugby public.

Since the match against the All Blacks in Soweto, this is some of what has come out of the Springbok camp:

“What I saw today (Saturday after the All Black game in Soweto), we can beat any team on any given day. We can dictate territory and possession and for the best part of the day we did it today” stated de Villiers.

The fact of the matter is the Boks did not deliver. Even a 79 minute effort where you lose the game means that you weren’t good enough, end of story.

“In the second half we went a bit out of our structure and became a lot more defensive and didn’t see the ball much.”

“There was just one kick between us and an easy win. The result didn’t go our way but we were within five or seven minutes of pulling off a great result” continued de Villiers.

SHOW ME THE BABY!

There is a quote I often remember when thinking about sport. It is: “The world doesn’t care about the labour pains, they just want to see the baby”

de Villiers would do well to remember it. All we’ve heard since the first loss in this Tri-Nations is excuses and how well the side has done, yet what have we got to show for it?

After the test against the All Blacks in Wellington, de Villiers said he did not know what else the Boks had to do to win, as he felt they had played well.

“I have watched the video of the match over and over again and what I have realised is that I got too caught up in winning and losing last week and didn’t focus enough on the team performance” said De Villiers.

A 12 point loss is all that matters. I don’t care if we play badly, just show me the baby! (winning result!)

De Villiers also went on to say, “If I was to make it personal and to say they played for me then I would have to say the players really stood up for me. That makes me feel really good.”

All I can say is I feel like utter crap after any Springbok loss, let alone 4 on the trot, and one on our home turf in the magical kingdom of Soweto on our Highveld.

In showing his strategy for the match against the Wallabies, de Villiers stated, “There were just one or two critical errors against the All Blacks and that does not convince me that major changes are needed”

THE BENCH

I also said I was concerned with the makeup of the bench last week (and this week) with no specialist player to cover the back three. de Villiers did not use Butch James because he did not want to take off Morne Steyn and lose his ace goal kicker.

“That was one of the reasons we did not give Butch (James) a chance last week, Frans will make a difference by bringing an extra option with his goal kicking. We all know what he can do” said De Villiers.

I question why have Butch on the bench then? After the first test escape against the Lions last year de Villiers admitted he got his substitutions wrong and had learnt a lesson.

This week he said he had made an error in not using all the reserves at his disposal.

“Sometimes those decisions work for you, but there can be other times when they don’t. Injuries forced me to make some moves. As for the others, one can debate whether it was a mistake or not” de Villiers said.


I question if de Villiers has learnt anything in his time in charge of the Boks. Whilst I don’t think he should copy anyone else as he has his own strengths, he would be wise to take note of Kitch Christies advice, and look within.

Like most Bok supporters, I would rather hear less excuses and just be given the results we are all looking for!

The Springboks are looking to regain their pride and retain the Nelson Mandela Plate

After 4 consecutive losses the Boks take on the Wallabies at Loftus with plenty to play for.

There are records to keep in tact, the Nelson Mandela plate, and the Tri-Nations wooden spoon at stake.

Normally I would be confident, especially on the highveld, but the Boks are in a dark place right now, and may only be spared by the fact this Wallaby side is very average.

MILESTONES

The 70th Test match between the two sides, and their 33rd Vodacom Tri-Nations match with South Africa leading 41-28, and 17-14 respectively.

Since 1992 that record stands at 21-19 to Australia.

Victor Matfield becomes the 3rd South African to reach 100 test caps, and the 15th player of all time to do so.
His 41st Tri-Nations match makes him the 2nd highest capped player in the torunament (41 with George Smith) behind George Gegan (48).

The Boks have played the Wallabies 4 times at Loftus, for 4 wins and an average winning score of 29-14.

The Wallabies have only ever won twice on the highveld, 1933 in Bloemfontein, and 1963 at Ellis Park.

The Springboks have lost just 2 of their last 10 tests at the ground, both times to the All Blacks (2003 and 2006).

John Smit leads the side for the 75th time, and for the 27th time in the Tri-Nations making him the most capped cpatin in the competition.

Jaque Fourie becomes the first Springbok to play 50 tests as a centre.

If John Smit scores a try, he will be equal the Springbok try scoring record for hookers in a test match, held by James Dalton and Bismarck du Plessis (5).

Bryan Habana will become the most capped Springbok wing (63). He is currently tied for the most Springbok test tries (38) with Joost van der Westhuizen.

Pierre Spies needs 1 more try to becoming the leading try scorer as a Springbok eighth man that he holds with Gary Teichmann, Bob Skinstad and Joe van Niekerk (6)

Referee Alain Rolland of Ireland will officiate South Africa for the 12th time, the joint highest with Paddy O’Brien (New Zealand).

TEAM SELECTION

Springbok coack Peter de Villiers said that his side was selected with the challenge posed by the Wallabies, and not the defeat to the All Blacks.

I believe his hypocrisy in selecting sides has once again been exposed. The pack remains the same. The two standouts from last week, Flip van der Merwe retaining their positions.

van der Merwe was under pressure from Danie Rossouw, whilst Smith has been under an injury cloud all week with an abdominal strain.

The lack of a fetcher flank is interesting, given de Villiers praise of Wallaby flank David Pocock. Francois Louw has been discarded from the bench with Ryan Kankowski taking his place.

Of Kankowski, de Villiers said “He played well for the Sharks last week and we need his physicality and his pace.”

Whilst I believe the Bok problems start from the tight five who aren’t dominating, it’s the backline changes that I find interesting.

Francois Hougaard deservedly retains his spot, but it’s the dropping of Juan de Jongh and Gio Aplon for Jaque Fourie and Francois Steyn that I find interesting.

de Jongh and Aplon are small guys, and there is a perception, even within the Springbok camp, that they are too small.

Both were defensively brilliant agains the All Blacks, and had limited opportunities on attack.

Fourie has been average at best this year, and was suspended for a spear tackle after the clash against Australia in Brisbane. de Villiers could have sent a strong message to his squad by not selecting Fourie for this match, and in de Jongh he may even have a better player.

Francois Steyn is a popular choice, but I still think his long range goal kicking doesn’t cover up enough of his weaknesses to be warranted.

Not the best Springbok side, but certainly one still capable of doing the business with a conservative game plan if the Aussies can’t match the Boks up front or take their chances successfully.

PREDICTION

The Boks have been predicatable only by the poor performances so far this year.

With such a proud record agains the Wallabies both at Loftus and on the highveld, one would expect the Boks to win in the normal course of events, but they haven’t been playing like their World Champion status deserves.

Their saving grace is that this is one of the worst Australian sides of the professional era. For that reason it is hard to predict a winner.

At Loftus you would expect the Boks to win. However it depends just what the Wallabies bring to the party.

If the Aussies can hold the ball, run the Boks wide and expose the lack of a fetcher flank, they are a chance.

For the Boks to win, they’ll have to hope the kick chase brings early results to allow some confidence to attack with ball in hand, else they won’t score tries.

It will be an intruiging clash of styles, and the thing that may save the Boks is a fierce home crowd, the desperation of not suffering 5 consecutive defeats and the lack of confidence the Wallabies have at altitude.

Boks by 8…but i’m not very confident!

Go Bokke Go!

Springboks:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. John Smit (c)
3. Jannie du Plessis
4. Flip van der Merwe
5. Victor Matfield
6. Schalk Burger
7. Juan Smith
8. Pierre Spies
9. Francois Hougaard
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bryan Habana
12. Jean de Villiers
13. Juan de Jongh
14. JP Pietersen
15. Gio Aplon

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle
17. CJ van der Linde
18. Danie Rossouw
19. Francois Louw
20. Ricky Januarie
21. Butch James
22. Wynand Olivier

The Wallabies:

1. Benn Robinson
2. Saia Faingaa
3. Salesi Ma’afu
4. Dean Mumm
5. Nathan Sharpe
6. Rocky Elsom (c)
7. David Pocock
8. Richard Brown
9. Will Genia
10. Quade Cooper
11. Drew Mitchell
12. Matt Giteau
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper
14. James O’Connor
15. Kurtley Beale

16. Stephen Moore
17. James Slipper
18. Ben McCalman
19. Scott Higginbotham
20. Luke Burgess
21. Berrick Barnes
22. Anthony Faingaa

Referee: Alain Rolland (Ireland)

The Wallabies have named their side for the Tri-Nations and Nelson Mandela Plate clash to be played at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.

The Wallabies:

1. Benn Robinson
2. Saia Faingaa
3. Salesi Ma’afu
4. Dean Mumm
5. Nathan Sharpe
6. Rocky Elsom (c)
7. David Pocock
8. Richard Brown
9. Will Genia
10. Quade Cooper
11. Drew Mitchell
12. Matt Giteau
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper
14. James O’Connor
15. Kurtley Beale

16. Stephen Moore
17. James Slipper
18. Ben McCalman
19. Scott Higginbotham
20. Luke Burgess
21. Berrick Barnes
22. Anthony Faingaa

The Springboks have made 2 changes to the starting lineup from the side that lost to the All Blacks in Soweto.

This is the side that was named on Tuesday at the press conference.

Springboks:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. John Smit (c)
3. Jannie du Plessis
4. Flip van der Merwe
5. Victor Matfield
6. Schalk Burger
7. Juan Smith
8. Pierre Spies
9. Francois Hougaard
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bryan Habana
12. Jean de Villiers
13. Jaque Fourie
14. JP Pietersen
15. Francois Steyn

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle
17. CJ van der Linde
18. Danie Rossouw
19. Ryan Kankowski
20. Ricky Januarie
21. Butch James
22. Juan de Jongh

The All Blacks beat the Springboks 29-22 in Soweto because they were fitter, hungrier for victory and backed their ability.

Springboks 22

Try: Schalk Burger
Conversion: Morne Steyn
Penalties: Morne Steyn (5)

All Blacks 29

Tries: Tony Woodcock, Richie McCaw, Israel Dagg
Conversion: Dan Carter
Penalties: Dan Carter (4)

Springbok player ratings:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp – 5

Lost a crucial ball early on and largely annonymous for much of the game. His game is going backwards in a sid struggling to establish a collective forward platform.

2. John Smit (c) – 3

Warning bells rang out for me when Smit achieved his milestone as it seems that whenever a South African player reaches a milestone, it always ends poorly for the side.

Did not do his job. Missed his first 2 lineout throws, and missed a crucial tackle at the end that contributed to the All Blacks victory.

It’s time for Tiaan Liebenberg and Bismarck du Plessis. Smit is no longer the man to lead us at the World Cup. I feel sorry for Smit, he has been a great captain, but his time is up.

3. Jannie du Plessis – 5

Made a great tackle on one of the All Blacks that stopped his momentum. Unfortuntely these sorts of moments are too far and few between. We desperately need a decent tighthead.

4. Flip van der Merwe – 7

A strong work rate, carried the ball strongly and made numerous tackles. Showed great intelligence to get Burger over the line for the try.

Why would you sub one of your best players? The Boks looked much weaker when he left the field.

5. Victor Matfield – 4

Needs a rest. Matfield is not on his game. An average Matfield is still better than most International locks and he makes plenty of tackles and works hard.

However he took 2 very bad options. 1 at the base of the ruck when letting Hougaard clear the ball right should have resulted in a try, and secondly getting caught at an attaking ruck late in the second half turned the ball over. These sorts of mistakes are rare when Matfield is fully fit.

6. Schalk Burger – 7

Tried valiantly in a losing side. Unfortuntely with no openside flank he needed to play towards the ball more, and create more steals. The Boks often make good tackles, but lack the right body position to effect turnovers. Needs to bring that back to his game rather than standing wide all the time.

7. Juan Smith – 8

The strongman of the Bok pack. Goes forward tirelessly, makes tackle after tackle and boosted the Bok pack immensely. Made 1 error losing the ball in contact in a great attacking position early in the second half.

Like Flip van der Merwe should never have been subbed. Too valuable to the Boks on the sidelines.

8. Pierre Spies – 3

Not sure what has happened to Spies. Appears reluctant to tackle, and needs to learn how to help effect turnovers.

Reduced to making 1 or 2 average runs per game. Has been completely overshadowed by Kieran Read and needs to be dropped. Burger at 8 or an eighthman in the mould of Duane Vermeulen would be so much better.

9. Francois Hougaard – 8

A brilliant game from the youngster. Defensively brilliant and backed himself and ran the ball at the All Blacks. Hooray! Someone in the side gets it!

Needs a bit more polish in his kicking and needs to clear the ball quickly every time.

10. Morne Steyn – 3

Was great with his kicking at poles, but a letdown in general play.
Missed kicks at touch and poor passes gifted the ball back to the AB’s and he failed to get his side moving forward.

11. Bryan Habana – 4

A busy game, made his tackles and caught the ball well at kickoffs. All his opportunities seem to come from the opposition giving him possession rather than from his own team. What a waste.

12. Jean de Villiers – 7

A strong presence in the midfield, and carried the ball strongly. Just didn’t have enough ball to work with.

13. Juan de Jongh – 8

The kid can tackle. Was brilliant on defence, even when faced with All Blacks in space and a full head of steam. Hopefully the coaches now never question his defensive ability.

Had barely no say on attack as the ball was never presented to him in space.

14. JP Pietersen – 6

Defensively a great winger as he showed when catching Carter, however never used as an attacking weapon from the Boks.

15. Gio Aplon – 6

Brilliant running the ball, just glides past defenders. Was solid in defence too, but where he needs work is positional play and kicking the ball back, a strength of Kirchner’s. I’d still favour Kirchner at 15, and Aplon on the right wing.

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle -

Not used.

17. CJ van der Linde – 3

No impact other than to give away a crucial penalty. Silly silly stuff.

18. Danie Rossouw – 4

Minimal impact when he subbed Flip van der Merwe and like most of the Bulls has lost form since being with the Boks. Surely tht is a big concern?

19. Francois Louw – 4

Anonymous when he came on the field. Just hasn’t adapted to the step up of Tri-Nations rugby. Heinrich Brussouw will be the opensider at the World Cup.

20. Ricky Januarie – 4

Needed to help protect the ball when setting up for the drop goal. I’ve always been prepared to optimistically believe he’ll come right, but if I was coach he’d be axed.

21. Butch James -

Not used.

22. Wynand Olivier –

Not used.

The Springboks were beaten 29-22 by a fitter, more determined All Blacks side in a historic night at FNB Stadium, Soweto.

Springboks 22

Try: Schalk Burger
Conversion: Morne Steyn
Penalties: Morne Steyn (5)

All Blacks 29

Tries: Tony Woodcock, Richie McCaw, Israel Dagg
Conversion: Dan Carter
Penalties: Dan Carter (4)


On home soil, at a new intimidating venue designed to aid the Boks, it was the All Blacks that left the black township of Soweto triumphant.

The Boks had started the match well, but in the end were out-played and out-thought as the All Blacks finished the fitter and hungrier side that allowed them to whitewash the Boks 3-0 this year.

The Boks will feel aggrieved they lost this match in the last few minutes, but in reality the All Blacks desered their victory as they have in their previous 2 encounters this season.

Sure the ref once again favoured the All Blacks at the breakdown, but the Boks weren’t smart enough, or physical enough to combat them.

The Boks may have had a 5 point lead going into the last 10 minutes, but again they couldn’t make it count. You can’t rely on scoring 1 try and winning games at this level. A defensive mindset cost the Boks, whilst the All Blacks did all the attacking.

The Boks felt they played well and lost the game at the end, but the game was lost before the game started in terms of mindset and game plans.

The Boks did very little in this game with ball in hand. Where are the moves to construct tries? Why have runners like Juan de Jongh, Gio Aplon and Bryan Habana when they never get the ball in space?

THE DIFFERENCE

The difference was summed up by the captains after the game.

“We knew if we kept believing and kept playing with ball in hand, the points would come” said All Black captain Richie McCaw.

Whereas Springbok captain John Smit said “We controlled the game well in the first half, but weren’t accurate enough in the second. We made a few errors like missing touch, and gave away a few penalties.”

“At 22-22, we had planned to take the ball back up field and set Morne Steyn up in the pocket for a drop-goal. Then we conceded a turnover and I missed that tackle. It was game over. I couldn’t be more disappointed to miss a tackle to lose my 100th Test” said Smit.

Whilst I don’t have a problem with going for a drop goal, the midset of the All Blacks is to use the ball and score tries. The mindset of the Boks is kick and chase (only) and they don’t know how to take the ball through phases and ask consistent questions of the opposition.

There is only so many tackles a side can make. The All Blacks run the ball at you, and if the Bok defence holds and they force a turnover, it gets booted straight back at the All Blacks to run again. That will never win games as sooner or later a whole will appear. The All Blacks simply showed the patience to wait the full 80 for it to occur.

On home soil at an inspirational venue, having had a 3 week break to recuperate and recharge, it is unnacceptable for the Boks to lose.

All Black coach Graham Henry suggested his side had superior fitness level, and he was right. The Boks ran out of puff. I would add they are stronger mentally, and more determined too. Tight games often go to the side who simply wants it more.

“This team is one I would go to war with, they have character and togetherness and this is a very special win for the All Blacks. We have to pay tribute to our fitness coach Nick Gill as we were in great shape in those last 10 minutes. Our fitness levels were superb and that and our heart was what got us through this game” said Henry after the game.

DENIAL

Springbok captain John Smit tried to deny his side had run out of puff.

“I don’t think we ran out of steam, but the accuracy of doing the things wasn’t the same as in the first half” said Smit. Unfortunately that is exactly how to define fitness. When you are fit and sharp you can execute, as you tire you can’t.

Where to from here from the Boks? A handful of players showed they deserve to run out in the green jersey, whilst others need to be dropped. This was reflected in the Springbok player ratings.

Coach Peter de Villiers now faces the biggest 2 tests of his life against Australia. The only thing counting in his favour is that the Aussies are also very average, so it will once again come down to attitude and desire!

Saturday’s Tri-Nations test match between the Springboks and the All Blacks promises to be a truly spectacular event.

Besides featuring the top 2 sides in the world, in what is rugby’s greatest rivalry, the match will be special for many reasons.

It will be the first rugby match at FNB Stadium (Soccer City) which was re-built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. It is also the first test match to be played in Soweto.

A record crowd of 92 000 will make it one of the biggest crowds in South African history.

FLAG RECORD

The day is set to kick off with a 20m flag being released into the crowd before the game.

Fans will also endeavour to set a new World Record at half-time by bringing and waving their South African flag.

Started by the keep flying initiative, and partnered by Lead SA and Vodacom, the attempt is being made to get the largest number of flags flying in a single stadium by the crowd, with proof to be sent to the Guinness book of world records.

The aim is to keep alive the tremendous spirit that was displayed during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Vodacom marketing executive Enzo Scarcella, said “We want to make the day extra special. This Test is extra special. Just over a month ago we showed the world what a vibrant, amazing nation we are and how we can achieve the impossible, by working together.”

“We wanted to continue that momentum, let the world take notice again of the spirit of South Africa and mark the day as another exceptional one in our sporting tapestry. There could have been no better hallmarks than through the passion and commitment of our Player 23’s” said Scarcella.

PLAYING RECORDS

Springbok captain will also celebrate his 100th test cap on this historic occasion. He becomes only the 2nd South African after Percy Montgomery, and the 14th player of all time to do so.

All Black captain Richie McCaw will lead the All Blacks for the 51st time, equalling the record of hooker Sean Fitzpatrick.

SPECIAL CAMERAS

Spidercam in use at FNB Stadium

The day and game will also feature special cameras.

The Vodacom fan cam, used at the Super 14 final, captures a 360 degree HD image photographing the entire stadium and every spectator in it.

Spider-cam used so successfully during the 2010 FIFA World Cup will also be in operation.

Whilst used during the 2007 Rugby World Cup and Twickenham; it is the first time Spidercam will be used for a rugby match in the Southern Hemisphere.

Spidercam operates on 4 cables and allows the camera to get ultra-close and offer unique overhead perspectives on the playing field.

In addition there will be the use or a helicopter camera, and an ultra-motion camera giving super slow-motion replays.

Spidercam in use at FNB Stadium

Peter de Villiers and the Springboks have under-performed in the 2010 International season, and have come out criticising the referees and officials after every Tri-Nations game they’ve played this year.

They’ve also come out suggesting the All Blacks cheat and get away with murder at the breakdown.

Are they justified?

Whilst I believe the Springboks will generally always get a raw deal, it’s up to the Boks to be better than their opposition and the officials, and not allow the ref to influence the game so heavily.

Former New Zealander Paddy O’Brien is head of the IRB referees, and like most officials doesn’t like South Africa. Whenever anything bad happens to the All Blacks he’ll step in and “fix” the problem such as the recent incident with the South African assistant referee Cobus Wessels.

Former Australian coach Bob Dwyer released stats that show the All Blacks concede the highest number of penalties per yellow card, but that is largely irrelevant.

The All Blacks are dominating this year’s Tri-Nations competition because they’ve been the smartest team so far.

All Black captain Richie McCaw say’s that any players who doesn’t adapt at the breakdowns is “an idiot” and he provides the Boks with the lesson they need to learn.

“When you get close to a yellow card, you need to get back and make sure you don’t give another penalty away. When you get a warning you have to be smart about it” said McCaw.

“When you are there you have to adapt to the referees interpretations. That’s what frustrates me the most about this debate, is that players don’t learn the way the referee interprets the breakdown” explained McCaw.

“You can moan about it all you like but if you’re not getting what you want then you’re an idiot. You need to change personally and for the team. You have to adapt to each referee because no ref is identical” stated McCaw.

McCaw is a great player because he knows the boundaries. Sure he gets away with murder, but he knows what he can and can’t away with. How often does he get yellow carded?

Former Bok captain Corne Krige this week said, “You have to cheat if you are an openside flank. That is why you are in the team. If you can’t do it properly and get away with it, you won’t be picked.”

“I think one should look at it differently. If the All Blacks are getting away with murder, they are doing it right. “My job as openside flank was to disrupt my opponents and slow the ball. If the guys did not sort me out and the referee did not penalise me, I kept at it. That’s rugby” said Krige.

“People say Richie cheats, but for me he’s an incredible player because his job as an openside flank is to play on the edge. If he cheats and the referee does not catch him out, he has had a great game as far as I’m concerned because that is what an openside flank does. You have to be able to cheat well.”

“New Zealand play intelligently. They are more subtle than us. We’re not dumb, but make blatant errors that are seen by referees” continued Krige.

In fact I believe it’s a New Zealand tactic to bait the Boks, and the problem is we fall for it far too often. It throws us off our stride and distracts us allowing the All Blacks to do what they do best.

The Bok management have to take responsibility and not allow this sort of distraction to occur.

Krige also said “I don’t think someone took Bakkies aside and told him how things work and that he’s not irreplaceable. He’s an incredible player and belongs in any Bok team if he’s managed well”

Therein lies the problem. Until we get smarter and teach our players the right behaviours, we’ll always keep complaining about the officiating.

Whilst the claims are often justified, we can’t change it so we might as well live with it and adapt to it!

On a historic day, the Springboks need to stand up, Lead SA and make South Africa proud!

After 3 consecutive losses overseas, the Boks are under massive to deliver in front of their home fans on what is going to be an awesome occasion.

A 92000 strong crowd for the first ever test match in Soweto will aid the Boks, but they’ll need to have improved dramatically from the recent form to deal with this All Blacks side.

MILESTONES

First ever test match at this venue, and the first in Soweto.

81st Test match between the two sides, and the 34th Vodacom Tri-Nations match between the 2.

New Zealand’s dominance in recent times is reflected in their 23-10 Tri-Nations winning tally between the 2 countries.

Springbok captain will also celebrate his 100th test cap on this historic occasion. He becomes only the 2nd South African after Percy Montgomery, and the 14th player of all time to do so.

This will be his 74th match as Captain, and in leading his side for his 26th Tri-Nations match, is the most capped captain in the Tri-Nations.

Victor Matfield is the most capped Springbok (23) against New Zealand.

If John Smit scores s try, he will be equal the Springbok try scoring record for hookers in a test match, held by James Dalton and Bismarck du Plessis (5).

Bryan Habana will become the most capped Springbok wing (63). He is currently tied for the most Springbok test tries (38) with Joost van der Westhuizen.

Pierre Spies needs 1 more try to becoming the leading try scorer as a Springbok eighth man that he holds with Gary Teichmann, Bob Skinstad and Joe van Niekerk (6)

All Black captain Richie McCaw will lead the All Blacks for the 51st time, equalling the record of hooker Sean Fitzpatrick.

TEAM SELECTION

This is a much more balanced Springbok side than the ones selected whilst overseas.

I still don’t believe we have the right tightheads, and I think Jannie du Plessis is very fortunate, whilst John Smit hasn’t been at his best this season.

They’ll need to stand up because the Boks have been awful this season because our tight five has been dominated.

Flip van der Merwe deserves his start, and should allow Victor Matfield to concentrate on what he is best at.

The back row is strong, and will gives us great ball carrying ability, but we don’t have a specialist fetcher to play to the ball.

If we can carry the ball through phases and work as a pack at the breakdown we’ll ask questions of the All Blacks, but if we are forced to tackle, tackle, tackle again, who’ll win us the ball on the ground?

Francois Hougaard at scrumhalf is a star in the making. Thankfully we now have a scrumhalf who will clear the ball quickly, as well as snipe around the fringes when it’s on.

The backline is more dangerous, with all players capable of breaking the line. In Hougaard, Juan de Jongh and Gio Aplon we have guys who will step, and this will test the All Black tacklers.

I question the make-up of the bench however.

Is Chiliboy our second best hooker? Is Rossouw fit enough? Why have a fetcher (Francois Louw) on the bench? And there is no specialist outside back who can cover wing or fullback.

Let’s hope it doesn’t come back to haunt us.

PREDICTION

At home, we have to win! However I am not confident.

Much will depend on whether the Boks can turns things around mentally and physically.

If our tight five can’t match the All Blacks again, the game is lost.

If we play to our strengths, use more lineouts, chase more accurate kicks and use de Jongh and Aplon to slice the All Black defence we’ll create enough opportunities to put pressure on the All Blacks.

Then we can use the advantage of the altitude and the crowd to power us home!

Boks by 9…hopefully!

Go Bokke Go!

Springboks:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. John Smit (c)
3. Jannie du Plessis
4. Flip van der Merwe
5. Victor Matfield
6. Schalk Burger
7. Juan Smith
8. Pierre Spies
9. Francois Hougaard
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bryan Habana
12. Jean de Villiers
13. Juan de Jongh
14. JP Pietersen
15. Gio Aplon

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle
17. CJ van der Linde
18. Danie Rossouw
19. Francois Louw
20. Ricky Januarie
21. Butch James
22. Wynand Olivier

All Backs:

1. Tony Woodcock
2. Kevin Mealamu
3. Ben Franks
4. Brad Thorn
5. Tom Donnelly
6. Jerome Kaino
7. Richie McCaw (c)
8. Kieran Read
9. Jimmy Cowan
10. Daniel Carter
11. Joe Rokocoko
12. Ma’a Nonu
13. Conrad Smith
14. Cory Jane
15. Mils Muliaina

16. Corey Flynn
17. John Afoa
18. Sam Whitelock
19. Victor Vito
20. Piri Weepu
21. Aaron Cruden
22. Israel Dagg

Referee: Nigel Owens (Wales)

The fixture list for the last Tri-Nations in 2011 has been released.

2011 sees the Tri-Nations resort to a single round, ie the teams will play a single round on a home and away basis. This is due to the Rugby World Cup being scheduled for later in the year.

It will also be the last Tri-Nations, as the competition will expand to accomodate Argentina in 2012.

The Springboks once again have a tough schedule as they play 2 away games first up that will play a crucial role in determining if they still remain in contention for the title when they play their home games at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium (Port Elizabeth) and Durban.

With the Rugby World Cup being the major prize in 2011, it is possible sides may experiment or rest players ahead of the biggest event in World Rugby.

2011 Tri-Nations Schedule:

July 23 – Australia v South Africa, Sydney
July 30 – New Zealand v South Africa, Wellington
August 6 – New Zealand v Australia, Auckland
August 13 – South Africa v Australia, Durban
August 20 – South Africa v New Zealand, Port Elizabeth
August 27 – Australia v New Zealand, Brisbane

Former Wallaby and Fox Sports presenter Brendan Cannon used the Wallabies 30-13 victory over the Springboks in Brisbane to show Peter de Villiers just what he really thinks of him.

In the week leading up to the test match at Suncorp Stadium, the Fox Sports commentary side were taking digs at Springbok coach Peter de Villiers, with Cannon saying, “I can’t believe that senior players like John Smit and Victor Matfield allow themselves to be controlled by this guy. He is a clown. He surely does not coach the team.”

The Boks decided that no Springbok player or member of management would speak to Fox until Cannon apologised on air.

Of course Cannon was always going to apologise (whether he meant it or not) for the sake of Fox Sports’ coverage and interviewing the Springbok side.

“I hereby wish to publicly apologise to Bok coach Peter de Villiers for comments I made about him on The Rugby Club TV programme on Wednesday evening. I am sorry if I offended him,” said Cannon on Fox Sports on Friday 23rd July.

Peter de Villiers at the Springbok press conference

He started off the questions, directed only at Springbok coach Peter de Villiers, and not the captain John Smit as he clearly had an agenda.

He asked a stressed and subdued Peter de Villiers, “Are you the right man to take the Springboks into the nest Rugby World Cup?” Cannon was clearly having a go at de Villiers, implying that he thought the Springbok coach was not the right man.

de Villiers could only reply with “You’ll have to ask my employers.”

It was an interesting set of events. Cannon was well within his rights to do so, but I don’t believe he acted with good sportsmanship, although de Villiers has not helped matters by seeking an apology for a comment that simply stated Cannon’s views. As a Springbok coach, criticism comes with the territory and de Villiers neds to be thicker skinned with those of opinions.

I just hope de Villiers will end up with the last laugh at the completion of the 2011 Rugby World Cup, but for now, Brandan Cannon is probably feeling pretty smug!