The third week of the Currie Cup for 2009 sees the chance for a pecking order to be established.

Whilst it is still early days in the competition, vital log points are being won and lost in crucial exchanges that will have a massive impact by the time the log points need to be tallied up. At this stage it looks like the Bulls, Sharks, Western Province and Griquas might contest the semis.

Sharks v Bulls

The Bulls have to travel down to Durban for a tough game at Kings Park. Compounded with having to do without their Springboks, the Bulls also a number of vital injuries, and weren’t helped when Wynand Olivier was called into the Springboks as cover. However this Bulls side is more than just their Boks, and these youngsters will equip themselves well against a Sharks side that still has plenty of grunt.

Both sides lack for experience at flyhalf, and this is where the prodigiously talented Francois Brummer can make a name for himself. He played well last week, and needs to control this Bulls side around the field. The Sharks meanwhile have a steady flyhalf in Monty Drumond, but don’t expect him to do anything spectacular.

This game should be close, and if the Bulls can sneak home they will almost certainly be assured of a semi-final spot, whereas a loss brings them right down into the pack and plenty to fight for.

Bulls by 6.

Western Province v Free State Cheetahs

The Cheetahs brought their Super 14 experience with them and shown they know how to sew up the bottom of the table! They face the very real danger of seeing their semi-final hopes slipping slowly from away from them unless they can win in Capetown. Western Province have been playing quite well, with a bunch of youngsters who are injecting real enthusiasm into their side. Add to that the hard edge someone like Chris Jack brings to their pack and they being ultra competitive.

I fear we won’t see the Cheetahs make the semi-finals this year, and Western Province to win this one by 10.

Griquas v Boland

Boland have made plenty of changes, including dropping their captain. It’s a recipe for disaster and shows they are clutching at straws, rather than progressively building throughout the Currie Cup. Griquas meanwhile are playing nicely. They’re picking up valuable bonus points, and simply need a couple of scalps against the “bigger unions” to seriously contest for a semi-final spot.

Griquas by 21.

Platinum Leopards v Lions

The Leopards need to enjoy their time in the Currie Cup, because it won’t last for that long. They have some good players, but will be lucky to win a game. The Lions seem to be on the improve and will look for their first win, but more importantly to continue to make strides in their development and playing pattern.

Lions by 21.