The fourth week of the Currie Cup for 2009 allows sides to almost cement semi-final spots.

At an early stage of the competition, the likely semi-final contenders have already taken shape. My picks were spot on last week except for the Bulls losing to the Sharks, but that was made more in hope than confidence.

I’m picking semi-final spots to go to the Bulls, Sharks, Western Province and either the Lions or Griquas. Griquas are building a valuable points buffer, but the Lions are only going to get better as the season goes on. If the Cheetahs lose this weekend, in my opinion their semi-final hopes are gone for 2009.

Lions v Griquas

A tough game to call, and vital in determining who will get into the 4th semi-final spot. As good as Griquas have played this year, at Ellis Park, I’m picking the resurgent Lions to come away with the win.

The Lions will suffer if Jano Vermaak doesn’t take the field, but they have a forward pack that can take Griquas on, and then use the likes of Earl Rose to make something of decent quality ball.

Lions by 10.

Western Province v Platinum Leopards

The Leopards are unlikely to win a match, and Western Province are starting to play quite nicely. They’ll be boosted by some returns from injury, noteably Duane Vermeulen.

I expect a close beginning, before Western Province gain the upper hand and run away with the second half.

Western Province by 23.

Free State Cheetahs v Sharks

Naka Drotske believes the desperation factor will help the Cheetahs. That hasn’t helped them all year. Despite the Sharks poor record in Bloemfontein, especially in recent times, I expect the trend to be reversed.

The musical chairs Nake Drotske is playing with Springbok wing Jongi Nokwe, shows the lack of direction from the Free State coaching staff, and that can hardly be helping the players. The Sharks are a settled squad and will benefit from having Argentinian Juan Martin Hernandez, in what is already a settled side.

Sharks by 10.

Blue Bulls v Boland

The Blue Bulls have had a tough start to the 2009 Currie Cup, and have been strongly affected by Springbok duty and injuries. They’ll welcome the chance to have an easy game at Loftus Versfeld against the Boland Kavaliers.

The strength of the Bulls so far this year has been the depth, settled playing pattern and confidence of the squad. If they get a roll happening they’ll rack up plenty of points. The 5 points will certainly strengthen their log position and keep them in touch for a home semi-final.

Blue Bulls by 50.