Week 11 of the 2009 Currie Cup sees the Bulls about to charge home.
With only 4 round robin games remaining, and the Springboks back into the mix, the Bulls are about to gain momentum and charge into the Currie Cup semis. The Bulls have played their hardest round robin games, and should be able to pick up some easy points to move up the log and safely into the semis.
The Sharks will also welcome back plenty of Springboks, and look to have a home semi-final firmly in their grasp.
The Cheetahs, Lions and Griquas are fighting for that last semi-final spot in my view. At this stage I favour the Cheetahs to get there, but losses to the Sharks and Bulls may put that in jeopardy depending on whether Griquas can produce 1 or 2 more upsets.
Platinum Leopards v Western Province
Western Province have started the competition so well, but their depth is about to be tested, and the departure of Chris Jack will also be significant. Whilst it’s been a good campaign, I think they’ll struggle come the playoffs when they find out the difference the Springboks make.
They’ll be too good for the Leopards though, and will be looking to make sure they get the bonus point.
Western Province by 28.
Boland v Blue Bulls
Whilst the last 3 weeks have been disappointing, it was always going to be important for the Blue Bulls to ensure they had enough points until the Springboks came back. It may make a home semi-final tough, but a series of easier opponents will allow this side to gain momentum and reclaim the Currie Cup.
Blue Bulls by 35.
Griquas v Golden Lions
A change of venue due to Bafana Bafana playing at GWK stadium. The little known Diamantveld High School will be the venue and one the Golden Lions will not be familiar with. This is do or die for both sides, and I’m picking home ground advantage to be the decisive factor.
Griquas by 9.
Sharks v Free State Cheetahs
The Cheetahs have plenty of momentum after 6 straight wins, however they come up against a tough side in the Sharks who are playing very confidently. Combinations are starting to settle, Juan Martin Hernandez is more comfortable, and the Sharks have one of the strongest benches around with John Smit, Bismarck du Plessis, Ruan Pienaar and Adi Jacobs.
It’ll be too tough for the Cheetahs who face testing times over the next few weeks.
Sharks by 12.
