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

Natal Sharks vFree State Cheetahs
ABSA Stadium Kings Park, Durban

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Too close to call. Could go either way.

Western Province v Blue Bulls
Newlands, Cape Town

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bulls by 15.

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