The Bulls owe the Highlanders!

Whilst the Bulls sit on top of the log after 3 rounds, there is no complacency in the squad, nor are they underestimating the Highlanders. Last season the Bulls were in a similar position before the Highlanders gave them a good hiding in Palmerston North and made life difficult for the Bulls on tour.

This year we owe the Highlanders a good walloping! We’ve generally found them quite easy opposition, and the Highlanders are now three weeks into a difficult tour and have to return to the highveld. As long as we don’t start poorly like we have done, we should be able to open a decent lead by half-time, before causing carnage in the second half!

Earlier this week Pierre Spies mentioned last years game is at the back of the Bulls’ mind, but they are seeking the improvements necessary to satisfy their own standards. “We have to make up for last year. We’ve had a good three weeks, but technically we can improve a lot, especially in the standards we want to reach as a team. We set very high standards for ourselves and while the results have been good for us so far, we want to attain the standards we set for ourselves” said Spies.

The Highlanders possess a no-name pack that does the basics well. We won’t kill them in the scrums, but we should dominate at lineout time. If we get our rolling mauls working we’ll have a great platform to launch attacks from.

Without Jimmy Cowan the Highlanders won’t have a lot of threat around the fringes, and the Highlanders backs are fairly ordinary. As long as we are solid in first time tackles, we’ll be able to exploit them in the midfield and create space for our back three, Hougaard, van den Heever and Kirchner who have been in great try-scoring form already.


The Bulls have continued with their rotation policy and even opted for a 5-2 split on the bench.
Heini Adams goes to the Blue Bulls Vodacom Cup side to get valuable game time ahead of the Bulls overseas tour as Francois Hougaard can cover scrumhalf if needed.

“Heini means a lot to us and it was important that he gets a full game before the tour starts” said Bulls coach Frans Ludeke.

Derick Kuun gains a second start keeping in-form flank Deon Stegmann on the bench, whilst Dewald Potgieter gets his first start of the year after recovering from his knee injury.

“It is part of the squad system and our rotation policy. The Super 14 is a race over a season, but the team comes first and everybody bought into it. We have spoken about it at length and everything is geared to giving ourselves a chance at the end of the season when the play-offs begin” continued Ludeke.

This illustrates the forward thinking the Bulls have had this season, and willingness to be bold. It also shows the Bulls want to win this competition, when too often South African sides simply aim to “do well.” How can they win the competition if the expectation is not there?

Danie Rousouw moves back to lock, meaning Flip van der Merwe drops back to the bench after starting 2010 strongly.

On the bench Rousouw de Klerk replaces Bees Roux who was suffered a large gash to the head in a freak accident with the scrum machine.


Captain Victor Matfield also has the distinction of captaining the Bulls for the 50th time in what will be his 99th Super 14 match. That’s a fantastic achievement, and in my mind Matfield has become the most valuable player in South Africa (if not the world!)

Matfield remains focused on the task at hand and is not underestimating this Highlanders side. “They have a strong set phase and can be very difficult opponents. They created enough chances against the Stormers and we realise that our A-game will be needed to beat them” said Matfield.

Morne Steyn meanwhile only needs 23 points to equal the Super rugby record for the fastest century of points in a season. Gavin Lawlwess set the record in 1997 after he was helped by scoring 50 points against the Highlanders.

Go Bulle Go!

Vodacom Bulls:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. Gary Botha
3. Werner Kruger
4. Danie Rousouw
5. Victor Matfield (c)
6. Derick Kuun
7. Dewald Potgieter
8. Pierre Spies
9. Fourie du Preez
10. Morne Steyn
11. Francois Hougaard
12. Wynand Olivier
13. Stephan Dippenaar
14. Gerhard van den Heever
15. Zane Kirchner

16. Bandise Maku
17. Rousouw de Klerk
18. Flip van der Merwe
19. Deon Stegmann
20. Pedrie Wannenburg
21. Jacques-Louis Potgieter
22. Jaco van der Westhuyzen

Highlanders:

1. Jamie Mackintosh
2. Jason MacDonald
3. Chris King
4. Josh Bekhuis
5. Tom Donnelly
6. Tim Boys
7. Alando Soakai
8. Steven Setephano
9. Sean Romans
10. Matt Berquist
11. Fetu’u Vainikolo
12. Jason Shoemark
13. Kenny Lynn
14. Ben Smith
15. Israel Dagg

16. Jason Rutledge
17. Bronson Murray
18. Hayden Triggs
19. John Hardie
20. Scott Cowan
21. Robbie Robinson
22. James Paterson

Referee: Jonathan Kaplan

Previous Super 14 results:

2006: Bulls 23, Highlanders 16 (Pretoria)
2007: Bulls 22, Highlanders 13 (Dunedin)
2008:Bulls 47, Highlanders 17 (Pretoria)
2009: Bulls 12, Highlanders 36 (Palmerston North)

The fifth week of the Super 14, and the Bulls and Stormers have a chance to solidify their positions as title contenders.

With a full bag of points, the Bulls should be able to remain top of the log, and set themselves up nicely in first position before they go away on tour. The Stormers face potentially their most crucial game of the season, a win here and they will firmly be ensconced in the top 4.

One of the Chiefs and Crusaders will drop further back into the pack, whilst the Waratahs and Brumbies both have important games against weak South African opposition where they will expect to grab bonus points. I’m actually expecting a strong showing from the Lions, and the  strong possibility of an upset.

Chiefs v Crusaders – Rugby Stadium, Hamilton

A crunch game for both sides as they want to remain near the top of the log. The best scenario for the Bulls and Stormers is a Crusaders win as they still have to travel to South Africa and may lost log points there. It could also deflate this Chiefs side who have a habit of losing numerous games on the trot (other than last season).

Both sides are evenly matched. Interestingly the Chiefs have opted to rest thug Sione Lauaki after his latest misdemeanour. I’m expecting the Crusaders to have the edge in the forwards, which could lay the foundation for their victory.

Even though the Chiefs backs are more dangerous, if they can;t get quality ball they can be nullified.

The battle of the flyhalves should go to Dan Carter and the Crusaders. Stephen Donald showed last week how unreliable his goal-kicking can be, and Carter will be worth a few more points than Donald.

Crusaders by 11.

Waratahs v Lions – Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney

The Waratahs struggled after having to come back from South Africa last week. That’s 2 games they’ve won without playing well, although they have sharpened their attacking game in recent weeks.

I still don’t think they ask enough questions of the opposition defence, and if the Lions maintain their defensive efforts from Canberra, they have the attacking skills and are improving enough to win this game. The numerous changes from Canberra don’t help however, and I’d have rather seen Burton Francis remain at flyhalf.

Whilst I truly think the Lions might upset here, I’m going with the stats and suggesting Waratahs by 9.

Brumbies v Sharks – Bruce Stadium, Canberra

Neither of these 2 sides have really impressed me this year. The fact that the Brumbies have only ever lost 2 out of their 35 games to South African opposition here holds them in good stead. Even though the first South African side to achieve that was the Sharks, I can’t see that being repeated here.

The major reasons being that other than the end of the Waratahs game when the Sharks actually produced something constructive on attack, they’ve look highly innocuous all season. The major reason being lack of go-forward from their loose forwards, and then lack of straight hard running 2-3 out from the ruck. Too much lateral running has rendered their back three ineffective, and Stefan Terblanche has looked to use his boot rather than run anything back.

It requires something strong like being reduced to 13 men to spark this Sharks side, and I still believe they are playing not to lose, as opposed to seeking the win.

Brumbies by 15.

Bulls v Highlanders – Loftus, Pretoria

Teams often struggle with the bye, but the Bulls appear fresh and ready to go. The Highlanders coming off a demoralising loss to the Stormers are also without inspirational captain Jimmy Cowan and that will blunt an already weak attack.

The Bulls use greater width than the Stormers do, and that will stretch the Highlanders even further than last week, although it may create some space for their outisde backs. Whilst they’ll find it easier to score, they’ll be defending more and the Bulls will threaten much more in attack.

We also owe the Highlanders for a shock upset in Palmerston North last year.This one could get ugly…show no mercy boys!

Bulls by 36.

Stormers v Hurricanes – Newlands, Cape Town

A must win game for the Stormers. Imperative. They showed massive intensity and focus last week, and their defence has been outstanding. It just requires a bit more precision in attack and they have the ability to win this one.

The Hurricanes looked fairly lethargic on the highveld last week, and with Conrad Smith back in the midfield, the Stormers defence will have to be on their game.

It’s in the middle of the forward pack however that I see as the greatest weakness for the Hurricanes, and Andries Bekker in particular should be able to exploit this. If the Stormers can use their driving maul more often, they should be able to gain easy metres and lay the platform for an important victory.

Stormers by 10.

Reds v Force – Brisbane

The Reds struggle to put together 2 decent performances. However this time they’ll be back home, and against a weak, struggling Force side this should be an easy win.

Played during the day on a Sunday, dry conditions will make bonus points the order of the day and hopefully we’ll see an open, attacking game.

Reds by 17.

Bye Cheetahs, Blues

Free State Cheetahs and Springbok flank Heinrich Brussow suffered a cruciate ligament rupture, possibly ending his 2010 season.

The incident occurred in the dying stages of the Cheetahs 28-12 victory over the Hurricanes in Bloemfontein. Whilst it is a massive blow to the Cheetahs (realistically they are not semi-final contenders), it represents an even bigger loss to the Springboks.

Brussow was a revelation in 2009, and was one of the standout Springbok players who had a massive influence on the Boks 2009 success. This culminated in Brussow being named South Africa’s young player of the year for 2009, along with provincial player of the British and Irish Lions tour.

It seems such a shame he got injured when the game was effectively over, and key players are often subbed to get a rest. It is easy to think “If only…”,  the fact remains Brussow was injured making yet another tackle and it is most likely his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) that is ruptured.

Brussow will have a surgical repair on Monday. Rehab after ACL injuries is typically 6-9 months, and Brussow’s year may effectively be over.

Who will Peter de Villiers turn to in 2010? Brussow showed the value of having a genuine opensider, and thankfully there is quality cover.

It would be easy to forget that Brussow was initally not even in the squad for the first Lions test and only got his opportunity because of a calf injury to Schalk Burger. Burger is back this year and has a chance to regain his treasured Bok number 6 jumper.

However I think Burger’s best years are behind him and it is an uncapped player that I believe deserves the Bok openside flank position. That being Bulls flank Deon Stegmann.

Whilst I really want to see Stegmann start in the number 6 jersey for the Springboks, I believe the selectors will be conservative and go with Burger.

I am sure no one would be happier to see Stegmann in the Bok jumper than his good mate Heinrich Brussow. They grew up playing together and are cut from the same cloth.

Prior to the Bulls clash with the Hurricanes in week 6 of the 2009 Super 14, I thought Stegmann was the stand out open side flank. He was subsequently suspended for a dangerous tackle in that game and never quite regained his exceptional form. Whether the suspension put him in two minds I am not sure, but Brussow’s form improved over the latter half of the super 14 and he deserved his Springbok call-up.

This year, in my opinion Stegmaan has been the best open side flank in the competition. He has adapted brilliantly to the new law interpretations and is still making plenty of turnovers. Add to that his massive work-rate and gizillion tackles per match and he is the perfect person for the Boks. He won’t let anyone down, and I think he can take the world by storm as Brussow did in 2009.

Cheetahs coach Naka Drotske said that Brussow is irreplaceable. Whilst I agree in regards to the Cheetahs, I disagree when talking about the Boks. Give Stegmann a go and we’ll all see!

The fourth week of the Super 14 saw the Bulls remain top of the log with a game in hand!

Both the Lions and Sharks produced important results in denying their Australian opposition bonus points which will have a telling effect at the end of the season.

Meanwhile in South Africa the Stormers showed they are still a semi-final prospect, whilst the Cheetahs helped them out by beating the Hurricanes.

The Reds produced the upset of the round, although the Chiefs will be highly disappointed with their efforts. The Chiefs negated their good work on the road by dropping a home game, showing that once again the Crusaders may be the Kiwi side to lead the way. They certainly look a different side with All Black captain Richie McCaw back.

Overall a good weekend for the Bulls, who keep their top log position and now have a game in hand. The next few rounds will be crucial to ensure the Bulls get enough log points to ensure the overseas trip doesn’t require a full house of points, and bonus points are not vital.

Picks 5/6
(Season tally 21/27 – 77.7%)

Chiefs (18) v Reds (23)

The Chiefs started strongly, scoring 3 tries within the first 20 minutes. They played with great width, creating massive holes in the Reds defence, and both wingers finished off superbly. Perhaps the critical mistake was that Stephen Donald missed all 3 conversions. None were easy, but he should’ve done better. Another easy penalty attempt went wide too, and when the Reds hit back with a try against the run of play, the gap was only 8 points.

It shows how opportunities must be taken. The Reds were then able to work their way back into the game with strong defence and slotting their own penalties.

The Chiefs may have been feeling the effects of returning from a 3 week road trip. They looked increasingly lethargic as the match wore on, and the errors increased. The Reds attitude held them in good stead, but their accuracy was not that much better. Pity they couldn’t score one more try to deny the Chiefs a bonus point. However it was still a great result for the Bulls!

Brumbies (24) v Lions (13)

The Lions improved their defence immensely and had to battle with a one-sided referee too.

Rain and wet conditions were never going to allow this match to be free-flowing, and initially both sides made plenty of errors as they adjusted from the summer conditions they’ve been enjoying.

The Lions led through an early penalty, but the Brumbies gradually started to gain dominance. They were helped immensely by ref Steve Walsh.

In the scrums, he was especially harsh. In the second half he got even worse. I’m not sure why he missed little knock-ons, and allowed the Brumbies to constantly be offside and collapse the mauls. Whenever the Lions made an error, or didn’t make an error in some cases, he pulled them up.

It was his demeanour and tone of voice more than anything that suggested he was being one-sided and clearly had it in for the Lions. I am not saying he changed the result of the game, but when a side get unfairly penalised so heavily, they can’t get any momentum. Instead of a lineout or scrum in opposition territory, you find yourself defending near you own goal-line. It makes a massive difference.

Walsh penalised the Lions plenty of times at the scrum, yet when the Brumbies went down he said he’d give him the benefit of the doubt! Where is the consistency?

The Lions didn’t help themselves however, and their kicking was poor. Matt Giteau returned his kicks with interest and the Lions had very little territory, often resorting to running out from their own 22m in the latter stages of the match.

Crucially they denied the Brumbies a bonus point. I was not very impressed with the Brumbies, and think they’ll struggle to make the semis. The Lions did impress with their attitude and commitment and hopefully they will get better and better this year.

I thought Francis was good at flyhalf. He made mistakes, but he’ll get better. Wandile Mjekevu looked stronger on defence and made a brilliant try-saving tackle in the second half.

Cobus Grobbelaar gets through a mountain of work, and Doppies La Grange plays close the ruck and makes great ball carries. On a dry field, he needs runners close to him and I think he needs a more dynamic centre outside him. I still think Carlos Spencer at inside centre and Doppies outside him may be the way to go.

Crusaders (33) v Blues (20)

The master taught his apprentice a lesson as Daniel Carter won the flyhalf battle over Stephen Brett. It has a massive influence on the game, and dictated proceedings.

The Crusaders were more clinical bar their lineouts than they have been. It showed that as they start to hit their straps they will still be dangerous although perhaps not as complete a  side as their were in their heyday.

The Blues scored a late try, but like some other sides, when you consistently fail to construct try-scoring opportunities you will fail to win games, and never be a semi-final contender. The Crusaders also missed a bonus point, ensuring the Bulls stay top of the log…for now!

Waratahs (25) v Sharks (21)

This game came down to both sides trying not to lose rather than aiming to win.

It was a scrappy game, with neither side really creating anything constructive, and both sides trying to kick deep into opposition territory. The Sharks showed late in the game, as desperation set in, you get rewarded for keeping ball, in hand, running hard and straight, and showing a bit of desperation!

Neither of these sides are semi-final material, they lack positive imagination and courage. The Sharks now have to surely come to grips with the fact this season is a write-off. Start building for the future!

Once again the ref was terrible. I’ve come to the conclusion, the Aussies are simply below standard, and possibly more incompetent rather than biased. (Well I am at least going to give them the benefit of the doubt…again).

Stormers (33) v Highlanders (0)

The Stormers are a side on the up, and showed how average the Highlanders are. However you still have to put sides like that away, and the Stormers did a great job thanks to their intensity.

The team spirit the Stormers are developing was evident by Deon Fourie’s performance in replacing Tiaan Liebenberg. When you can bring guys in that add such value, you’ll always be strong.

The Stormers have been fantastic this year in defence. To come away with a clean sheet and only 2 tries in 4 games is awesome. Slowly but surely their attacking prowess is starting to build and match the defensive levels.

Dewald Duvenhage had a great game around the rucks, running well and protecting the ball when it was scrappy. Couple with good tactical kicking, the Stormers played sensible rugby. They still struggle building the phases at times, but are getting ever more accurate and penetrative.

Jaque Fourie and Juan de Jongh are dangerous each time they touch the ball, without ever busting the line fully yet. I thought Sireli Naqelevuki was strong and had his best Super 14 game yet. Habana we know is awlays good and he was rewarded for his effort to seal the 4th try bonus point with a try only Habana can score.

The key for the Stormers is to now maintain consistency and become more polished in attack so that pressure turns into points.

Cheetahs (28) v Hurricanes (12)

Finally the Cheetahs have beaten overseas opposition!

It looked ominous as the Cheetahs conceeded a soft early try, but they came back superbly.

It shows the value of maintaining focus and intensity. Whilst not always accurate, pressure will always cause the opposition to make mistakes and the Cheetahs forwards were superb in being patient, making tackles and then capitalising on Hurricanes’ mistakes.

It helps having kickers who can boot the ball miles, and they were able to pin the Hurricanes back with field position to relieve the pressure. Whilst the Cheetahs didn’t ask a lot of questions on attack, they grew more confident as the game wore on and started to run from deeper in their own territory. I especially liked the tactic of 2 forwards running together, at pace in midfield. It paid handsome dividends and Juan Smith led by example superbly here.

It was an important win for both the Cheetahs, but more importantly the Bulls and Stormers super 14 hopes. It’s what South Africa has been lacking, making life difficult for touring sides to deny them easy log points. At the end of the season, these games will have the most telling effect on the log.

Super 14 log

The medical team of the Springbok under-20 rugby side saved the life of 15 year-old Desiree Jaftha.

The Baby Boks have been prepararing for their clash with Argentina on Saturday and have been based in Saldanha Bay, which is about 110km north-west of Cape Town.

As reported in the full story which can be found on Sport 24, the medical team of the Baby Boks were alerted by swimmers that Desiree Jaftha was drowning in the swimming pool of the team hotel.

Team doctor Arthur Williams and physiotherapist Wayne Hector initiated CPR and transported Jaftha to the Vredenburg Provincial hospital in the team Combi instead of waiting for the ambulance.

Jaftha’s condition stabilised and she has been released from hospital back to the family.

What fantastic work by the Bok medical team. They can be immensely proud of saving a life and putting their medical training to great use!

The Springboks will be boosted later in the year by the official unveiling of the new Springbok superpower – Bokkie!

He is the new Springbok mascot. Courtesy of Sunrise Productions in Cape Town, you can see the sneak preview…




Like most of the Boks, he gains superpowers when he puts the green and gold jersey on! With the lightning speed and acceleration, able to jump Kiwis and Wallabies in a single bound, the Boks will once again rule the world!

Go Bokkie Go!

The fourth week of the Super 14 and hopefully the only time the Bulls will not win!

Both the Bulls and the Force have the bye. I’m not sure why the Bulls always get a bye so early in the competition. It’s be much more useful after 6 or 7 weeks. At least the Bulls have a good draw other than the early bye.

However it will allow another side(s) to creep past the Bulls on the log, even if it is with a game over us!

Chiefs v Reds – Rugby Stadium, Hamilton

The Reds season looks to be on the downward spiral we are so familiar with. Injuries have tested their depth, and the reality of having to play away from home, and perform week in and week out should be too big an ask for this rubble side.

The Chiefs will be boosted massively with their best ever start to a super rugby season, log points away from home and the return of key game-breaking individuals. If the Chiefs are on song, this game could get ugly.

Chiefs by 20.

Brumbies v Lions – Bruce Stadium, Canberra

The Lions have made 8 changes and have to contend with the fact that South African sides have only won 2 of the last 32 games here!

However the Brumbies have not looked that impressive and find themselves having to travel back from Cape Town this week. If the Lions start well, anything is possible.

The introduction of Burton Francis at flyhalf could be the key change for the Lions. I really rate this youngster, and this could be his chance to shine. Whilst I’m being practical and expecting the Brumbies to win, I will be shouting hard for the Lions!

Brumbies by 11.

Crusaders v Blues – AMI Stadium, Christchurch

There is still an intense rivalry between these two sides even if it is not as strong as it use to be. The move of Stephen Brett to the Blues will be a good match up with Dan Carter as it is the master v the apprentice.

Neither side has been consistent,  but at home in Christchurch, with the return of Richie McCaw, I’m picking the Crusaders. They play a more consistent style of rugby, whereas the Blues have been hot and cold, and for me too inconsistent in their midfeld and forward pack, an area the Crusaders can exploit.

Crusaders by 11.

Waratahs v Sharks – Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney

Can the Sharks turn it around? There has been a lot of huffing and puffing this week, but words don’t produce results. I still maintain this Sharks side is going to sink further. They haven’t beaten the Waratahs in Sydney since 2000!

The Waratahs have to make the long trip from Pretoria, but showed they have a more galvanised unit and that should be enough to beat a side who has to throw caution to the wind and hope their gamble pays off.

Waratahs by 12.

Stormers v Highlanders – Newlands, Cape Town

The Stormers will welcome back inspirational captain Schalk Burger which should give them the composure they missed in the final quarter last week.

This Highlanders side shouldn’t pose any real problems if the Stormers are on top of their game. Jaque Fourie and Bryan Habana need to atone for poor efforts last week, and set the benchmark for a more clinical display on attack. Half-chances need to be converted into points.

This is the defining moment for the Stormers season. Lose and it is all over. Home games need to be won.

Stormers by 16.

Cheetahs v Hurricanes – Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein

Whilst most are picking the Hurricanes, I am not so sure. The Cheetahs have a poor, poor record against the Kiwis and Aussies, but at home against a depleted Hurricanes side, surely they have to win sometime?

The Hurricanes not only have personnel changes, but have to overcome travel up to the highveld. There’s never a better chance to knock them off.

If the Cheetahs simply played to their potential, rather than lacking energy and enthusiasm, they’d be very competitive. The introduction of Sarel Pretorius at scrumhalf may provide the spark. He is a fantastic player. The other guy is Robert Ebersohn at centre. If those two can get the backline to match the efforts of Juan Smith and Heinrich Brussow they stand a chance.

I hope I don’t regret this, Cheetahs by 9.

The third week of the Super 14 saw every New Zealand side win, and only 1 each for the Aussies and South Africans!

Let’s hope it is not a sign of things to come, but not much has changed from what we usually see.

The Kiwis dominated their overseas competition, and all picked up bonus points, whilst the Aussies and South Africans were bad at home and away from home.

The Bulls showed they are worthy defending champions and won’t give up their crown easily, whilst the Stormers for all their promise failed once again at home in front of a large crowd. Every year they lose when they are expected to win, and this result will have a massive impact on their campaign.

The Cheetahs were disappointing, the Reds inconsistent, the Lions simply not quite good enough, the Sharks a disgrace and the Force incompetent. Whoever thought 15 sides would be better than 14 was dreaming!

Picks 4/7
(Total this year 16/21)

Crusaders (35) v Sharks (6)

What an inept display from a side full of Springboks. The Crusaders were made to look way better than they deserved by a side who barely resemble a rugby side. The basics of the game shouldn’t be that hard to perform, especially in good conditions.

The Sharks will never win when their scrum constantly cannot hold steady and gets shunted backwards. It doesn’t present front foot ball, but the problem when the Sharks do have the ball is they don’t know what to do with it. Pienaar for all his talent still makes too many basic errors, the Sharks backline runs across field, and the backrow doesn’t get enough forward momentum happening.

It places far too much demand on individuals trying to produce something spectacular. JP Pietersen has become one of the great defensive wingers, primarily because he never gets any ball to attack with!

The Crusaders tried hard, but were also guilty of too many errors, however they gained in confidence as their lead mounted, and launched the attack on the bonus point in the nick of time! This tour is going to be hell for the Sharks now, and this season will have shades of the year 2000 about it.

Stormers (17) v Brumbies (19)

Has anything changed at Newlands? The Stormers always lose games they are expected to win, often when they are coming off a good win and have managed to get a great crowd!

The Stormers dominated the match, and blew 3 or 4 great try scoring opportunities. I thought they were unfortunate to be denied by the TMO early on for what I thought should have been a fair try. Had it been given the whole complexion of the match could have changed.

Instead the Stormers learnt what it means when you don’t take the opportunities presented and you allow a side to remain in the contest.

The Brumbies were like a boxer backed onto the ropes, taking every blow and counter-punching when possible. The second half was much the same, but the Stormers simply could not make the breakthough.

In the end I think their attitude of going for the win was commendable, but their execution and tactics lacking. Running the ball from deep in their own half was foolish in such a tight game, and eventually a Stormers error gave the Brumbies the win. This was a match the Stormers lost, as opposed to the Brumbies winning.

Jaque Fourie made 2-3 errors that were costly, and Bryan Habana constantly got pinged by ref Craig Joubert. Whilst I sympathise with him, you have to be smarter and not give the ref any reason to penalise you as it is too costly.

A possible turning point in the match was the substitution of Ricky Januarie for Dewald Duvenhage. Whilst Duvenhage is a great talent and kicks and tackles well, Januarie controlled possession better and marshaled his side well. The Stormers lost structure and moved away from their game plan in the final quarter.

Mind you the leadership in the Stormers forwards, and even Peter Grant and Jaque Fourie need to acknowledge they didn’t make the right calls under pressure. Hopefully the lessons will be learnt, but it’s an all too familiar position the Stormers find themselves in after 3 weeks, and the loss of valuable home log points may be too much to make up at the business end of the season!

The Brumbies will be mightily pleased to have gotten another win on the road. I’m surprised how ineffective they look with ball in hand. I thought the Aussies wanted to run everything, why did Ashley-Cooper kick so much possession back. In the end they were the right tactics however, and something the Stormers can learn from.

Hurricanes (33) v Lions (18)

A well deserved 5 points to the Hurricanes, but the Lions made it far too easy for them.

The Lions defence was better than the previous week, showing greater commitment and sting, but they allowed themselves to be put under pressure far too often with poor option taking, bad handling and the wrong tactics.

On attack the Lions did not look quite as dangerous as on the highveld, although they’ll be pleased with their ability to string together greater phases and ask more questions of the defence. Perhaps their loose forwards just need to get them over the advantage line more often.

The Hurricanes have looked dangerous again this season and after 3 rounds, are very handily placed towards the top of the log.

Reds (18) v Blues (27)

After a win last week, the Reds lacked the spark needed to produce a second victory. The Blues were able too dominate and control the game. The loss of James Horwill may have been the missing element for the Reds forwards.

The Reds did pose a lot of danger through their halves Will Genia and Quade Cooper, but their side could not capitalize on their breaks and running ability.

The Blues will be pleased to get a win on the road, including a vital bonus point late in the game.

Force (19) v Chiefs (37)

The Chiefs completed a great away trip with another bonus point victory.

Initially the loose approach by sides produced plenty of errors and handling mistakes. Early penalties were exchanged before the Chiefs opened a lead resulting from two sloppy Force lineouts.

The game remained close until the last quarter where the Chiefs were able to pull away and nab the bonus point try in the 77th minute!

The Chiefs gained 14 out of 15 log points on the road and now return in great position to their base in Hamilton. For the Force, that was their second home loss already in what will be a long season.

Cheetahs (24) v Highlanders (31)

The Cheetahs were very disappointing after having beaten the Sharks. Ill-discipline and poor defence led to penalties and the Highlanders were able to get on the front foot.

Poor handling led to a runaway try, and once the Highlanders had built a handy lead, the Cheetahs found it tough to play catch up. With 15 minutes left there was only a 2 point gap, but the Highlanders benefited from playing the game at the right end of the field and capitalising on Cheetahs mistakes.

A late try from Juan Smith made a draw possible, but it was the Cheetahs under pressure who found themselves on defence and thankfully ensuring the Highlanders didn’t get the bonus point try.

Bulls (48) v Waratahs (38)

The Bulls had to work hard to maintain their 13 match unbeaten record at Loftus.

Full match report and player ratings.

Down 17-0 early in the game and 16 points midway through the first half, the Bulls exhibited great courage and confidence to produce a stirring comeback. Whilst their attacking prowess was brilliant, it was also the defence just before and after half-time that won this game, coupled with a flawless kicking display from Morne Steyn!

The Bulls now have a week off, and probably only need another 6 wins from 10 league games.

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The Bulls were brilliant and showed why they are championship material once again.

They got ambushed by the Waratahs early on, a slight concern given we haven’t started well in our 3 games to date.
However after conceding 17 points after only 10 minutes, the Bulls once again showed that there is no need to panic,  and focused on implementing their game plan.

The Waratahs had shown they can be dangerous with ball in hand and using their pace out wide. However gradually the Bulls forwards started to gain momentum, and whether it was pressure or a change in tactics from the Waratahs, as they kicked more ball back to the Bulls, they started to run the ball back at the Waratahs and exert their own pressure with ball in hand.

The Waratahs started to feel the difficulty of making tackles at Loftus, and it blunted their attack. Constant pressure resulted in a good try to Francois Hougaard, and unfortunately when Fourie du Preez took a quick tap, young Gerhard van den Heever couldn’t dot the ball down as he was held up.

Not too long afterwards, Stephen Dipenaar was put through a gap beautifully and the Bulls went into the half-time break only 9 points behind, but more importantly had gained the momentum in the match.

After half-time the match continued in much the same vain, as the Bulls machine was in full throttle. The Waratahs did score 2 further tries, but they were limited to breakout opportunities.

I thought ref Marius Jonker did a good job, but he was fairly lenient on the Waratahs for repeated infringements. I’d have binned one of them and set the example.

Interestingly the Bulls turned down multiple opportunities to go for poles from penalties, opting instead to kick for the corner and set up a lineout. One such penalty occurred with only 3 minutes on the clock and the Bulls holding a 3 point lead.

At the post match interview captain colossus, Victor Matfield said they felt that there were multiple try scoring opportunities and rather than defending a 6 point lead and risking a possible loss, it was better to go for the try and seal the match.

It represents such a positive attitude and willingness to back one’s ability. The last time a South African side was this confident on a regular basis was the Sharks and Springboks in 1998 under Gary Teichmann.

The way the Bulls are travelling, the personnel at their disposal and the attitude they’ve exhibited make me proud to be a Bulls supporter and gives me confidence for the challenges that still lie ahead!



Bulls 48
Tries: Francois Hougaard (2), Stephan Dippenaar, Gerhard van den Heever, Wynand Olivier, Jacques-Louis Potgieter
Conversions: Morne Steyn (6)
Penalties: Steyn (2)

Waratahs 38
Tries: Tatafu Polota-Nau, Ben Mowen, Lachlan Turner, Drew Mitchell
Conversions: Berrick Barnes (2), Kurtley Beale
Penalties: Barnes (3)
Drop Goal: Barnes

Bulls player rating:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp – 8

Showed great pace at times with his chasing and his work-rate has been exceptional. Clearly reaping the rewards of a strong off-season and one of the unsung heroes of this Bulls pack.

2. Gary Botha – 7

Once again did his job well. Lineouts were very solid, and possibly not quite as dynamic with ball in hand as we’ve seen in the past, but he’s regaining the form of old.

3. Werner Kruger – 8

Improving in leaps and bounds. Struggled to provide the steady right shoulder at times, but was exceptional around the breakdowns and carrying the ball up close to the line.

4. Flip van der Merwe – 7

A good performance from the big lock, but didn’t quite reach the heights he did against the Brumbies. A willing ball carrier and made his presence felt in the tight.

5. Victor Matfield (c) – 8

Brilliant. Was all over the park, tidying up and controlling the Bulls side especially around the breakdowns. Was responsible for losing 1 lineout, just to prove he is human. However when the pressure was on, Matfield took responsibility and had the ball thrown to himself.

His confidence and faith in his side and summing up of the situation was perfect. Turned down multiple kicks at goal, which turned out to be great decisions. In my mind the most influential player in South African rugby over the last 10 years.

6. Derick Kuun – 6

A fairly quiet game in what will probably be a rare starting role. Not quite quick enough to the breakdown to make his presence notable, but the strength of the Bulls is their work as a unit.

7. Pedrie Wannenburg – 7

Always a willing ball carrier. Hasn’t really broken the line but always threatening and has been a trojan on defence. Made one bad error spilling the ball in the second half.

8. Danie Rousouw – 6

Generally coped well at number 8, but found it difficult picking the ball up from the base of an unsteady scrum. More suited to the lock position as evidenced when he made a great lineout steal that led to Francois Hougaard’s second try.

9. Fourie du Preez -7

Great service to his backline, and on the odd occasion he kicked, he did it well. Perhaps could run more and snipe around the fringes, but still the world’s best scrumhalf on any sort of form!

10. Morne Steyn – 9

Made a couple of kicking errors including the poor decision taking the 22m restart that put the Bulls under pressure. However he didn’t miss a place kick, including two crucial and difficult attempts converting tries into 7 pointers. That could have made all the difference as the Bulls gained a valuable lead.

His tactical kicking/up and unders were good, and he showed the Stormers that if you have to err at all, go for too much distance rather than too little and ensure youhave the opportunity to defend the runners.

11. Francois Hougaard – 8

Has fancy fast feet and looks threatening whenever he gets the ball. Made a couple of handling errrors, including one in space with the overlap but will become a great player.

12. Wynand Olivier – 7

Strong midfield presence and posing a lot of questions on attack. Did his job well.

13. Stephan Dippenaar – 7

Took his try scoring opportunity well and solid in midfield defence. Moved the ball along the backline really well.

14. Gerhard van den Heever – 8

Took good options and finished off well. A couple of Waratah breaks down his flank in the second half, but he’ll learn when to come in and make the spot tackle. Having a good start to the year so far.

15. Zane Kirchner – 8

Kicked well and contests the ball brilliantly on the counter. Makes great covering tackles and is an important player coming into the line and asking questions of the opposition defence.

16. Bandise Maku – 8

Ensured the scrums lost nothing when he came on and his set-piece play is very good.

17. Bees Roux – 7

Did what was expected.

18. Deon Stegmann – 9

Brilliant. So quick, but more importantly intelligent at the breakdowns. Prior to getting injured midway through last season I thought he was the best openside flank and this year he has reconfirmed his talent. Deserves a Springbok callup.

19. Dewald Potgieter – 7

Still feeling his way back.

20. Heini Adams -

Not used

21. Jacques-Louis Potgieter – 8

Carried the ball up well and offers the extra tactical kicking option. Took his try superbly.

22. Jaco van der Westhuyzen – 7

Didn’t have much to do, but showed his confidence running with the ball and putting a long kick in when needed.

Live updates from Loftus as the Bulls take on the Waratahs

Out come the Bulls to a great reception from their home crowd. C’mon Bulls we gotta win, and become the first South African side to win in round 3!

1st Min – Great start to the Waratahs. The Bulls have not been convincing from the restarts this year. Early opportunity to the Waratahs.

3rd Min – Damn! Poor start from the Bulls and Tatafu Polota-Nau charges over the line from the ruck.
Berrick Barnes converts to give the Waratahs a 7-0 lead.

5th Min – Waratahs run it out from their own 22m. They look dangerous so far and eventually earn a penalty.
Barnes has a penalty attempt and strikes it perfectly. 10-0.

9th Min – Kane Douglas goes over for the try. This is fantastic play through shoddy Bulls defence. We are in trouble tonight. The midfield defence is struggling.
Barnes kicks the conversion to make it 17-0 after 11 mins.

14th Min – Bulls drive close to the line. Just can’t get over.
Waratahs collapsing the maul and coming in from the side.

15th Min – Hougaard! Try. Beautiful sustained buildup and the Bulls are on the board!
Morne Steyn adds the conversion. 17-7. C’mon boys another couple of tries!

18th Min – Bulls made the overlap, but Hougaard couldn’t hold the pass in space. Bulls are starting to find their rhythm.

20th Min – Berrick Barnes with the snap drop goal. Waratahs extend their lead to 20-7.

21st Min – Penalty Bulls. Morne Steyn kicks 3 points and narrows the deficit once more to 10. It’s 20-10.

24th Min – Penalty to the Waratahs. Olivier pinged for not rolling away.
Waratahs 23-10.

26th Min – Another penalty to the Waratahs. The Bulls had a very poor scrum and allow the Waratahs to break out from their half.
Barnes lines up another penalty attempt.
He makes no mistake. Waratahs extend the lead to 26-10.

29th Min – Bulls penalty and they go for the corner.
Eventually a scrum will have to be set near the poles. Gotta score and get back in this one.

32nd Min – du Preez taps the penalty and runs, but van den Heever can’t put the ball down over the line. Damn!

34th Min – Dippenaar! Try. Great buildup and pressure. Waratahs need to be warned for repeated infringing.
Morne Steyn adds the conversion to narrow the gap to 26-17.

39th Min – Magnificent Bulls defence. Over 10+ phases on their tryline. Morne Steyn clears.
Critical defence to remain in the game.

Half-Time Bulls 17 Waratahs 26

The Waratahs started really well, but the Bulls are starting to wear them down, but we’ll have to overcome a 9 point deficit. C’mon guys!

41st Min – Early penalty to the Bulls.
Morne Steyn pulls back another 3.
Waratahs lead 26-20.
Just one score away now.

45th Min – Bulls starting get into stride. Kirchner down the left hand flank, just didn’t get the right bounce from his chip ahead. So close.

The Bulls have the altitude factor and 2 keys, Deon Stegmann and Dewald Potgieter still to come.

49th Min – Francois Hougaard in the left hand corner! Fantastic. Through the phases after the Waratahs lost a lineout. That was brilliant!
Morne Steyn to convert from the left hand touchline.
Was there ever any doubt? Bulls lead 27-26.
For the first time in the match we are in front!

Deon Stegmann comes on for Danie Rousouw.

53rd Min – Lachie Turner scores in the right hand corner for the Waratahs. Burgess making a couple of breaks from scrumhalf. Have to watch him.
Berrick Barnes had a kick from the right hand touch and can’t match Steyn’s effort.
Waratahs lead again, 31-27.

55th Min – Bulls penalty. Again they turn down the kick and go for the corner.
Another penalty on the Waratahs line. Only a warning, I’d have put someone in the bin!
Bulls opt to tap from in front of the poles.

57th Min – Try! Right hand touchline, the Bulls battered away and went wide to Gerhard van den Heever. Superb.
Bonus point try! Now we just need to make sure of the win.
Morne Steyn from the right hand touchline shows Barnes how to kick!
Bulls ahead 34-31.

Dewald Potgieter on the field for Derick Kuun.

60th Min – Accidental offside to the Waratahs. Now they have to play catch up. It’s a different mindset, and one that is so hard at Loftus!
Kurtley Beale replaces Lachie Turner.

Danie Rousouw comes back on for Flip van der Merwe. I think that’s a blood replacement.

61st Min – Damn, poor clearing from the scrum. And now we are under pressure again.

64th Min – Good midfield defence from the Bulls. We just need to play a bit deeper in the Waratahs half. I’d like a bigger lead!
Bees Roux on for Werner Kruger.

66th Min – Deon Stegmann earns the penalty at the breakdown. He is just awesome!

67th Min – Penalty to the Bulls. Waratahs tackler not rolling away.
Again the Bulls don’t kick at goal. Go for the lineout.

68th Min – A bit scrappy, but we earn a scrum 5m out. Have to score and make them pay!
I notice Bandise Maku is on for Gary Botha.
Olivier under the poles!!! YEAH! van den Heever was the dummy runner and Olivier ran into the gap.
Morne Steyn converts from right in front.
Bulls lead 41-31.

71st Min – The Waratahs score under the posts. Long range try, and Drew Mitchell finished well.
Now the Bulls only lead 41-38.

73rd Min – Waratahs running strongly, but get a penalty for obstruction.
Welcome chance to clear and set up a lineout.
Jaco van der Westhuyzen returns to super rugby in place of Francois Hougaard.

75th Min – Penalty to the Waratahs as the Bulls hold on at the ruck.
I don’t like the fact it could end in a draw too. That doesn’t help us at all.

77th Min – Phil waugh penalised at the breakdown. What do we do here?
Well Morne Steyn drills it deep into Waratahs territory. Going to grind down time now. We could have kicked that.

79th Min – There it is!!! We had the penalty, but Morne Steyn beautifully chips it over the top and Jacques-Louis Potgieter regathers for the winning try!
Of course Steyn converts to give the Bulls a 48-38 lead.

Full-time Bulls 48 Waratahs 38

What a great win for the Bulls. So much courage shown in coming back from 17 points down. We didn’t panic, and slowly imposed ourselves on the game.

Slightly concerning to concede so many points, and 4 tries, but hey we are outscoring the opposition and that’s all that counts.

We now have a week off, and it’ll be great to allow some of our players a chance to get back to full fitness and over the niggling injuries.

And thankfully we are at the top of the table!

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