Played |
Points |
|
| Stormers | 4 | 20 |
| Sharks | 5 | 19 |
| Crusaders | 5 | 17 |
| Reds | 4 | 17 |
| Blues | 5 | 16 |
| Waratahs | 4 | 14 |
| Bulls | 4 | 13 |
| Highlanders | 5 | 13 |
| Force | 4 | 11 |
| Hurricanes | 4 | 11 |
| Brumbies | 4 | 11 |
| Chiefs | 5 | 10 |
| Cheetahs | 5 | 7 |
| Lions | 5 | 7 |
| Rebels | 5 | 6 |
| Stormers | 4 | 20 |
| Sharks | 5 | 19 |
| Bulls | 4 | 13 |
| Cheetahs | 5 | 7 |
| Lions | 5 | 7 |
| Reds | 4 | 17 |
| Waratahs | 4 | 14 |
| Force | 4 | 11 |
| Brumbies | 4 | 11 |
| Rebels | 5 | 6 |
| Crusaders | 5 | 17 |
| Blues | 5 | 16 |
| Highlanders | 5 | 13 |
| Hurricanes | 4 | 11 |
| Chiefs | 5 | 10 |
Many of the round 5 matches were played in wet weather, emphasizing how poor sides are at executing the basics at the moment. Ball security, getting caught behind the advantage line and poor goal kicking are having a massive influence and deciding matches.
I still believe the standard of refereeing is poor, creating inconsistent rulings and uncertainty at the breakdown. However sides are adapting, and some sides are being punished for being unintelligent.
The Crusaders, Cheetahs and Force all picked up valuable away wins, whils the Waratahs and Bulls, normally so strong at home, will be licking their wounds in front of their faithful fans.
The Sharks suffered their first defeat of the season in a tight affair at Hamilton.
The wet conditions were always going to make running rugby difficult, and whilst the Sharks started well and kept the Chiefs pinned in their half, it was the Chiefs who dominated territory and possession by the end of the match.
This was largely through using an effective pick and go, and runs around the fringes which kept the ball away from the dangerous Sharks forwards, Willem Alberts and Bismarck du Plessis who made a huge amount of tackles, but didn’t get the same opportunities on attack.
Referee Garratt Williamson was poor, often allowing the Sharks to creep up offside which negated the Chiefs backline, so they were smart to keep the ball tighter. However they just couldn’t crack the Sharks defence when it mattered most close to the line to open up what would have been a matching winning lead with a try.
In the end the match could have gone either way, but it was the Chiefs who played smarter rugby and kept the ball away from the Sharks main threats.
The Sharks defence was good, but it’s their attack that did not provide enough of a threat. Lambie was solid at flyhalf, rarely making a mistake, but failing to ignite a backline that is unable to create space or momentum in the centres. They’ll need to improve this if they want to challenge the Crusaders next week at Twickenham!
The Reds had scored only 3 tries in their first 3 matches, but were delighted to put 7 past a disappointing Rebels outfit.
The Rebels were too slow to the breakdown, handing plenty of ball to the Reds playmakers of Genia and Cooper to dictate play in a one-sided affair.
With a gluttony of possession, the Reds produced a complete performance as their interplay and variation through their forwards and backs was spot on.
After the match Reds captain Will Genia appeared happy with his sides progression. “We have been struggling to score points, particularly tries of late and to score that many tries and that many points is very satisfying.”
Losing captain Stirling Mortlock will have to get used to losing comments, pretty much saying what he has said after all 4 matches to date, “(Missing) tackles were telling and likewise our turnovers and we couldn’t put any pressure on these guys and they really made us pay off our turnovers as well.”
The Crusaders produced a dominant second half effort, running in 5 tries (6 for the match) to hand a crushing defeat to the Highlanders.
The first half was an even battle, but a poor goal kicking display from Highlanders flyhalf Tony Brown allowed the Crusaders to head into the break with a handy 13-6 lead.
In the second half, the Highlanders began slipping off tackles, and with increased possession and accuracy they were made to pay by a clinical Crusaders side who signalled they are the side to beat in this year’s competition.
The Blues won a match that turned dramatically as Hurricanes hooker and captain Andrew Hore got sin-binned late in the second half.
It had been an even battle up to that point, with the Hurricanes holding more of the momentum, but Hore tried to be sneaky by using his hands at a ruck and his side paid the penalty for ill-discipline.
The Blues took full advantage to score 2 tries in his absence and then finish off the Hurricanes in style, to win by 24 points.
In possibly the biggest upset in Super Rugby history, the Cheetahs scored their first win in Australia, and their first win outside South Africa since 1997!
The Cheetahs showed what commitment and a determined effort an produce, winning the collisions around the field. Heinrich Brussow was immense, stealing 5 balls at the breakdown, and winning penalties for his side.
It put the Waratahs under pressure, and they struggled to find their rhythm as they went to the break 6-3 down.
A cross kick from Berrick Barnes midway through the second half went horribly wrong as Riaan Viljoen claimed it and put Sarel Pretorious in space, who found a flying Philip Snyman which put the Cheetahs out of touch. They were able to seal it with another late try for a famous victory!
The Force were the smarter of the 2 sides as they outclassed the Lions at Coca-Cola Park.
In wet conditions, ball security, territory and possession were always going to be key, and the side playing catch up rugby were always going to struggle.
The Force applied the early pressure, and were also rewarded with an early try as the crashed the ball up close to the ruck before moving it to the left flank where they had created space.
The Lions could not take full advantage of James O’Connor’s sin-binning, but were able to gain a 1 point lead courtesy of an Elton Jantjies drop goal.
However Cameron Shepherd immediately got the Force back into the lead with a well gathered chip kick, and the Lions could not cope playing catch up again, making poor decisions as they tried to get back into the game.
The Lions suffered from running too deep, taking time to build up momentum and never really getting over the advantage line with their forwards. They need to play flatter and vary their play more. The loss of Doppies la Grange was also huge in that the midfield lacked penetration.
The Bulls suffered the humiliation of a second successive defeat at Loftus by a more disciplined and determined side.
The Stormers have been unable to score many tries, but were able to keep the scoreboard ticking over courtesy of poor discipline by the Bulls. Offsides and transgressions at the ruck gave Peter Grant too many opportunities, and it was always going to be difficult trying to play catch up in wet conditions.
The Bulls did produce the try of the match with a few minutes remaining in the first half, going into the break just 2 points down.
Morne Steyn then had a chance to put the Bulls into the lead but missed one of several kicks on the night. The Stormers were able to capitalise with their own penalty just moments later, as the Bulls became more and more desperate.
Man of the match Dewaldt Duvenage then ripped a ball away from Gary Botha, and Bryan Habana showed his class close to the line to make Bjorn Basson look silly, as he had tried to let it go over the goal line for a 22m dropout.
The Bulls seem uninterested in a bonus point for finishing within 7 as they continually strove for another elusive try, but continued to makes mistakes in a night to forget at Loftus.
Matfields charity is The Walter Sisulu Paediatric Cardiac Centre for Africa, and this week the 2 paid the centre a visit.
Both are tremendous ambassadors for the game, and proud role models for the Bulls and South Africa. Despite Botha’s tough image, he is a gentle giant and these photos prove how much they do off the field.
Keep up the good work guys!
They’ve had 2 weeks to regroup and prepare for the Stormers who have not won a Super Rugby match at Loftus since 2003!
It promises to be a tough, physical match between last year’s finalists.
The Stormers have opted for a physical side to counter the Bulls up front and in the backline.
Stormers coach Allister Coetzee has tried to ensure that he has enough experience and class in his substitutes to counter the effects of the altitude, the fatigue factor, and the impact the Bulls bench players usually bring.
The increased physicality may be why Juan de Jongh misses out ahead of Jaque Fourie.
“We must mention the specific plan we have for this game” Coetzee said earlier this week.
The Bulls meanwhile have selected a formidable side determined to set the ledger right at Loftus.
Bakkies Botha has recovered from a foot injury, partnering his mate Victor Matfield at lock, moving Danie Rossouw back to the bench, a position where I feel he can contribute more to the game.
Also on the bench are Gary Botha and Francois Hougaard who are coming back after injuries. It will be interesting to see where Francois Hougaard is utilised, and I get the feeling he is more likely to appear on the left wing than scrumhalf.
Bulls coach Frans Ludeke has also opted to load 5 forwards and only 2 backs on his bench , indicating the Bulls will aim to smash the Stormers up front.
In all, 17 players that were involved in the final of the Super 14 in May, 2010 will again be in action.
Victor Matfield will equal Pedrie Wannenburg (113) as the most capped Bulls player in Super Rugby. Matfield has played 104 times for the Bulls and eight times for the Cats.
Matfield will extend his South African record to 64, for captaining a side in Super Rugby.
Morne Steyn will be looking to extend his Super Rugby points records at the Bulls and South Africa for most points in a career (806), most penalties in a career (135), most conversions in a career (144) and most dropped goals in a career (17).
The Stormers have not won a Super Rugby match at Loftus since 2003.
Not one of the present Stormers side has won a Super Rugby match at Loftus.
7 Bulls’ players have not lost a Super Rugby game against a fellow South African side (in 13 outings).
Victor Matfield last lost to a South African team back in February of 2007 (against the Sharks in Durban).
One of the Bulls strengths is their ability to bounce back, rarely lose twice in a row, and most importantly take responsibility as individuals for the collective effort. Their attitude to their loss against the Highlanders speaks volumes about their character, and determination not to let their fans down again.
The Bulls got together for the first time since on Monday since their defeat to the Highlanders.
“The defeat we suffered against the Highlanders was a good wake-up call for all and we are keen to get back to our winning ways” said coach Frans Ludeke.
“There was some straight talk on Monday and all the negative emotions from that game are out of their system.”
“Every week is very important and as we saw two weeks ago, you have to be on top of your game or else you’ll be in trouble.”
Bulls captain Victor Matfield highlighted the individual battles, but stressed the need to focus as a team on what matters most.
“The most important thing is for the team to come out on top and play well together and if we support each other on the day individuals will look good on the day” said Matfield.
“I really hope the guys won’t focus on those little battles. I’ll hope that they focus on what we must go do on the field to go win the game.”
“We want to get back to our standards of play and the way we believe we should be playing. We weren’t happy with the way we played in the last game so we really need to bounce back and play a good game against quality opposition.”
It is apparent how highly the Bulls rate the Stormers, but they are not necessarily in awe or intimidated by them.
The Stormers may have been criticised for their lack of try-scoring so far this year, but the Bulls are focusing on what they need to do rather than getting caught up in a war of words.
“They don’t come bigger than the Stormers, so we prepared accordingly. The team is always motivated when it’s the Stormers. The focus is not on the opponent, but on what we need to do to be successful on Saturday” said Ludeke.
“Considering how easily we have been conceding tries, we are not in a position to comment on the Stormers’ lack of tries.”
And the Bulls don’t need any further motivation that playing a north-south derby.
“They are still undefeated, which proves their quality. This is always a big game for all of us, but even more importantly, it is a home game and we need to use that advantage. We are experienced, yes, but that only counts if we apply ourselves properly” said Matfield.
“The Stormers were in the final last year and are definitely one of the top teams in the competition so it will be a huge challenge for us. We are playing the Stormers in a North/South derby so I don’t think I’ll have to say too much to motivate the team.”
Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph highlighted the differences between the 2 sides.
“They are very different teams. The Bulls are quite content going from set-piece to set-piece. They are very direct and base their game around a very experienced forward pack” said Joseph.
“The Stormers are quite happy to chance their arm and have a good balance to their game. They can run it at you, they can counter, they certainly have a good defence and they showed against us at the breakdown that they are very physical.”
Bulls coach Frans Ludeke highlighted his side will look to dominate the physical contact points, and no doubt worked on his sides defence after looking decidedly shaky against the Stormers.
“We worked on a few things that weren’t right and believe that it will yield the desired result.” said Ludeke early in the week.
“We have to dominate and control the gain line.”
It’ll be a tight, torrid affair initially. The Bulls will look to dominate up front, and create space out wider by sucking in the Stormers defence close to the ruck initially.
The Bulls should be able to keep the scoreboard ticking over through a combination of Morne Steyn and the odd try.
The Bulls defence will lift from their last effort, and won’t have too many problems against a side who won’t be able to get their forward player makers wide as they usually do, and once it does go to their
backline, their wide lateral running should be easy pickings for a determined Bulls defence.
The Bulls will look to start well, build a lead and wear their opponents down. The Stormers will try and match the impact players the Bulls possess and whoever can produce some moments of magic against tiring defences later in the game may emerge the winner.
Bulls by 14.
1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. Chiliboy Ralepelle
3. Werner Kruger
4. Bakkies Botha
5. Victor Matfield (c)
6. Deon Stegmann
7. Dewald Potgieter
8. Pierre Spies
9. Fourie du Preez
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bjorn Basson
12. Wynand Olivier
13. Jaco Pretorius
14. Gerhard van den Heever
15. Zane Kirchner
16. Gary Botha
17. Rossouw de Klerk
18. Flip van der Merwe
19. Danie Rossouw
20. Derick Kuun
21. Francois Hougaard
22. Francois Brummer
1. Wicus Blaauw
2. Deon Fourie
3. Brok Harris
4. Rynhardt Elstadt
5. Andries Bekker
6. Pieter Louw
7. Francois Louw
8. Duane Vermeulen
9. Dewaldt Duvenage
10. Peter Grant
11. Bryan Habana
12. Jean de Villiers (c)
13. Jaque Fourie
14. Danie Poolman
15. Gio Aplon
16. Ethienne Reynecke
17. CJ van der Linde
18. De Kock Steenkamp
19. Nick Koster
20. Ricky Januarie
21. Gary van Aswegen
22. Juan de Jongh
Referee: Keith Brown
Assistant Referees: Glen Jackson and Phillip Bosch
TMO: Shaun Veldsman
2006: Bulls 43, Stormers 10 (Newlands)
2007: Bulls 49, Stormers 12 (Loftus)
2008: Bulls 16, Stormers 9 (Newlands)
2009: Bulls 14, Stormers 10 (Loftus)
2010: Bulls 10, Stormers 38 (Newlands)
2010: Bulls 25, Stormers 17 (Final – Orlando Stadium)
The Bulls will be desperate when they face the Stormers in a repeat of last year’s final.
The top 2 Kiwi sides, the Highlanders and Crusaders also face each other in a match at the house of pain, whilst John Mitchell’s current side take on his former side in Johannesburg.
The Sharks currently lead the competition, but for my mind do not look like championship material.
The Chiefs have been their usual inconsistent selves, and on their day are capable of playing brilliantly.
It depends which Chiefs side turns up, and the odds are stacked against them having only beaten the Rebels at home since the end of the 2009 season.
The third week on tour is generally the toughest, and I pick the Chiefs to bounce back from a close loss last week as they have the backs to hurt the Sharks defence which showed sides of cracking for the first time this season last week against the Rebels.
Chiefs by 8.
The Reds have been poor this season, whilst the Rebels are hardly a huge threat.
It promises to be a match to avoid, with neither side playing well or possessing the stars to attract attention.
The Reds should be more experienced, at home and fresh from their bye, while the Rebels will suffer having lost Mark Gerrard at the back.
Reds by 12.
The Highlanders have a long trek back from Cape Town to face an in-form and rampant Crusaders side.
It promises to be a tough, uncompromising battle up front, one that the Highlanders have to win to have any chance.
If the Crusaders can match the Highlanders forwards, and they are one of few sides who can, their backline will dominate against an ordinary Highlanders backline.
Crusaders by 15.
Traditionally a tough venue for the Hurricanes. Neither side has got going this season, with the Hurricanes having had a stop start season because of the bye and the Christchurch earthquake.
The Blues return from a fairly successful tour, but have not been playing consistent rugby. It could be their ‘up week’ but I expect the Hurricanes will be better for their outing last week and have less injury worries.
Hurricanes by 9.
Despite the return of Heinrich Brussow, this Cheetahs side will not win any matches on the road. The best they can hope for are bonus points!
It doesn’t matter how good or bad the Waratahs are, the Cheetahs will lose because of their mental application.
Waratahs by 15+.
The Lions finally had a win last week and maybe that is the catalyst they need to move onto greater heights.
They’ll need to be more accurate in the finer details such as their handling and goal kicking, but the Force shouldn’t pose too much of a threat outside of James O’Connor.
The Lions greatest threat is themselves. If they stay switched on for the full 80 they’ll win this comfortably.
Lions by 12.
A rematch of last year’s final!
Neither side has been able to recapture their form of last year so far.
For the Stormers I feel their problems are not fixable as the loss of Tiaan Liebenberg takes away some go forward and physicality at the rucks which pulls in their forwards who play out wider such as Andries Bekker and Schalk Burger (when fit!). I doubt they’ll score enough points to worry the Bulls.
The Bulls will be motivated by having lost in their last encounter at Loftus, a feat that does not occur very often. Expect a big performance, and the Stormers may feel the brunt of it.
Bulls by 14.
In the Super 10, there were 2 pools with the top 2 in each pool reaching the semis, and then producing finalists.
When the competition expanded to the Super 12, and later 14, the sides played each other side in a round robin format, before producing semi-finalists. Playing every other side (home and away over 2 years) made it a fair competition.
This year’s format defies logic, and as a critic of the new format it amazes me how everyone jumps on the bandwagon lauding it. I am sure half these people will be more vocal against it in time, but for now everyone is prepared to see the positive in it.
The idea for having an international competition is to play the international sides, why then have sides play their 4 countrymen twice and only 8 out of the 10 international sides?
It makes for a more uneven competition. For instance an Australian side like the Waratahs gets to play the Brumbies, Force, Rebels and Reds twice, and could potentially not have to play the Bulls and Crusaders. Whereas the Crusaders play the Blues, Chiefs, Highlanders and Hurricanes twice, whilst potentially not playing the Rebels and Cheetahs. You can’t tell me that is fair when you add up the log points!
So we bring all these sides together from around the globe, to increase the local derbies? because it’s what the fans want?
We have the Currie Cup (South Africa) and ITM Cup (New Zealand) where there are local derbies, so why do we want more of the same in Super Rugby?
Just because Australia does not have a local competition should not mean they should hold the other 2 countries to ransom with the structure of the competition (The other 2 are idiots for agreeing to a format that Australia want to compete with AFL and League as Rugby union comes a distinct 3rd amongst fans in Australia).
What it does is devalues the Currie Cup and ITM Cup where sides will be unable to field their top sides, and it makes it a B grade competition.
Having the Bulls play the Stormers/Western province 4 times in round robin matches is not the answer either. For instance the Bulls fielded a ‘B’ side in the Super 14 last year, devaluing the contest.
Accenture provided a detailed analysis of the Currie Cup some years ago, where the consensus was (and any intelligent rugby administrator or player would probably agree in private) that strength v strength is the key, and in the Currie Cup 6-8 teams was the desired number.
We have more matches than ever over a longer season, where the players and matches are faster, bigger and more super Duper. Yeah right, who are we kidding?
Watching the Force play the Rebels, or the Lions and the Cheetahs is barely exciting or high class rugby. The purpose of an international competition should be a short duration, intense competition amongst the elite each country has to offer.
The South Africans and New Zealanders should then continue to play Currie Cup and ITM Cup, providing the fans with the local derbies they desire, and giving their countrymen the chance to rub shoulders playing amongst the nation’s top players.
It’s not South Africa’s and New Zealand’s fault that the Aussies tried a similiar competition and failed (Mind you they barely persisted with it, and it’s taken years for the Currie Cup and ITM Cup to build their history).
It has been evident to me that the standard of officiating has been poor, and for some sides decisive.
This has been evident with multiple penalties, sometime fairly and other times a guessing game at; scrum time, offside lines and most importantly the breakdowns.
What I have noticed is that some sides, especially the Reds and Highlanders, go off their feet, lie over the opposition’s ball and slow down their opponents attacking options.
The referee needs to penalise offences such as these, else it negates the opposing sides ability to get quick ball and attack, and hence less tries which is what SANZAR want to promote to bring in the fans.
I have no problem with less tries, but I do have a problem with inconsistent and one sided rulings.
What has struck me most during games, is the biased whistle blowing, and one side gaining an advantage from having different interpretations.
For instance in the Blues v Crusaders game I felt the Blues were harshly treated. In the Lions v Blues match, the Lions had their breakdown ball unfairly disrupted which cost them attacking options. And this past weekend, the Rebels were unlucky when the Sharks were constantly offside around the ruck.
SANZAR Referee’s boss Lyndon Bray has admitted the referee’s have been poor and made some wrong decisions in ruling the tackle ball area.
“We spoke to all the teams and referees about general execution at the tackle, where we think there are some definite player inaccuracies regarding leaving of the feet and then getting out of the way” Bray told New Zealand newspaper the Sunday News.
“As referees, we haven’t hit that hard enough or with enough accuracy in the first three weeks. We need to tighten up from an accuracy point of view, both in terms of how the players implement their execution at the breakdown and also how we’re refereeing that.”
“An example of that is the defender who’s on his feet and gets over the ball. We’ve had a bit of inaccuracy about when he is legal and not winning that ball.”
“So from our point of view we’re talking about a 10-20% improvement in terms of execution on those things. If we get that, we can make that tackle ball area better.”
“The Highlanders are a classic example of at team that’s changed tactically and they have more numbers going into that breakdown. So we need to make sure they’re doing that legitimately.”
I welcome some better performances from the referee’s, but in all honesty, I’ll just be glad to have consistent rulings that don’t favour any 1 side (unless it’s the Bulls of course!) and make for a fair contest!
Played |
Points |
|
| Sharks | 4 | 18 |
| Stormers | 3 | 16 |
| Waratahs | 3 | 14 |
| Highlanders | 4 | 13 |
| Bulls | 3 | 13 |
| Crusaders | 4 | 12 |
| Reds | 3 | 12 |
| Hurricanes | 3 | 11 |
| Blues | 4 | 11 |
| Lions | 4 | 7 |
| Force | 3 | 7 |
| Brumbies | 4 | 7 |
| Chiefs | 4 | 6 |
| Rebels | 4 | 6 |
| Cheetahs | 4 | 3 |
| Sharks | 4 | 18 |
| Stormers | 3 | 16 |
| Bulls | 3 | 13 |
| Lions | 4 | 7 |
| Cheetahs | 4 | 3 |
| Waratahs | 3 | 14 |
| Reds | 3 | 12 |
| Force | 3 | 7 |
| Brumbies | 4 | 7 |
| Rebels | 4 | 6 |
| Highlanders | 4 | 13 |
| Crusaders | 4 | 12 |
| Hurricanes | 3 | 11 |
| Blues | 4 | 11 |
| Chiefs | 4 | 6 |
The Sharks are picking up valuable log points on the road, and even just a few bonus points from their remaining 2 tour matches will see them head home in a strong position.
However the Crusaders possibly hold their biggest threat, the 7 times champions looking in ominous form themselves, showing they will be hard to beat at home, and are never easy when they have to travel either.
The Stormers are winning ugly, but staying in touch, whilst the Cheetahs and Force are the only 2 winless sides are 4 weeks.
The Crusaders signalled their Super Rugby threat this season with a crushing victory over the Brumbies.
The Brumbies started well, scoring an opportunistic try as Matt Giteau was able to pick up a loose ball his side knocked on to score a lucky try.
The Crusaders kept in touch with 2 early Dan Carter penalties.
Once the Brumbies added another penalty to make it 10-6 after 18 minutes, they never scored again. Giteau was sinbinned for a professional foul and the Crusaders pounced on the opening.
Andy Ellis burst through some gaps to set up the Crusaders first try, and then 3 quick tries in 7 minutes after half-time sealed the game and the bonus point victory for the Crusaders who clinically finished off the Brumbies.
Crusaders captain Kieran Read was pleased with his sides performance, “You have to work teams over before you can put the ball wide and in that second half it just came off and the boys played really well.”
Whereas his counterpart Matt Giteau was at a loss to explain where it is all going wrong, “We have to look at ourselves pretty hard, it’s not the start we wanted for the season. I think we will bounce back but we just have to show a lot more character than that because it was disappointing.”
The Sharks got away with 5 log points, but were extremely lucky to do so.
They started off better, winning the collisions at the breakdown and exerting the greater physical dominance. Initially it appeared as if the Sharks were never in danger of losing, but the Rebels refused to give in and started to feed off the Sharks mistakes and exert their own pressure.
They held the ball well, varied their play, especially through flyhalf Danny Cipriani and fullback Matt Gerard and gradually gained momentum.
From 13-3 down, the Rebels scored 20 unanswered points and with 30 minutes to go looked set for an unlikely victory. However an AC joint dislocation forced Gerrard from the field and a subsequent yellow card to Cooper Vuna allowed the Sharks to set up a try to Lwazi Mvovo who had threatened all night.
The Sharks scored twice more, albeit from mistakes from the Rebels who failed to hold on to the ball and be clinical when it mattered most.
Former South African Jarrod Saffy was immense for the Rebels at the breakdown, matching the great work Bismarck du Plessis did for the Sharks.
Bismarck looked in great form around the field, but his lineout throwing was woeful, throwing skew on many occasions.
The Rebels to their credit never gave up and were rewarded with 2 bonus points when they scored their 4th try late in the game.
The Sharks looked great at times, but lack the polish of a championship winning side. The backline continues to look average. Patrick Lambie was brilliant with his goal kicking which had a massive impact on the final proceedings, but I’m not convinced his all around play is good enough just yet.
For the second consecutive week the Stormers played a tryless match, and utilised the sharp shooting of flyhalf Peter Grant to get them home.
It came on the back of a massive defensive effort, especially in the second half when the Highlanders threw everything they had at the Stormers.
The Stormers had to make over twice as many tackles as the Highlanders, and their desperation and commitment shone through.
The breakdowns produced a battle royale as referee Steve Walsh officiated this area poorly and the sides were confused with the inconsistent rulings. The Highlanders for the second week in a row were able to flop over the ruck or enter from the side to slow the opposition ball, but Walsh did penalise them on occasion.
There were some great and important turnovers from both sides, who failed to commit enough numbers at time, allowing their players to get isolated and lose momentum for their respective teams.
Apart from the second half of the Highlanders, neither side was able to produce enough sustained forward momentum for their strike runners to capitalise.
The Stormers defence was magnificent except for Bryan Habana who rushed up out of the line far too often. Mind you he may have been trying to hard after a nightmare first half an hour where he made mistakes and was penalised far too often.
Gio Aplon showed his class and looked the most dangerous player for the Stormers, along with Juan de Jongh who provided great acceleration without ever getting the space he needs to operate in. Jaque Fourie also looked strong when he came on, and the Fourie-de Jongh combination in my mind offers more than the predictable straight running of captain Jean de Villiers.
The Stormers travel to Loftus next week and will need to produce more than the 1 try they’ve scored in 240 minutes of Super Rugby so far this year.
Playing their first game in 22 days, the Hurricanes were able to hold on for a valuable victory.
The first quarter was an arm wrestle as neither side could crack the opposing defence, and Stephen Donald opened the scoring as he forced his way over as the Chiefs applied sustained pressure.
After a penalty goal, the Hurricanes hit back through John Schwalger, but 2 Stephen Donald penalties gave the Chiefs a 13-10 lead at the break.
Former Hurricanes player Scott Waldrom extended his sides lead with a try shortly after half-time, but Aaron Cruden kept the Hurricanes in touch.
Former Hurricanes captain Tana Umage was subbed, and Tyson Keats scored soon after to give the Hurricanes the lead. Replacement flyhalf Daniel Kirkpatrick nailed 2 long range penalties to give his side the needed breathing space going into the last 10 minutes.
Despite a late try from the Chiefs, it was not enough to steal it at the end.
The Blues escaped with a dramatic draw against the Force.
Despite being outplayed for much of the match against a committed Force side, the Blues hung in the contest and took advantage of the Force being reduced to 14 men to score a late converted try, and then forcing a mistake from the Force who were looking to hold onto possession and run the clock down.
It presented Stephen Brett with a 40m penalty to snatch the draw after the full time siren had already gone.
The Force deserved a win after James O’Connor had set up the Force’s only try in the 38th minute and kicked well at posts to give his side what should have been a big enough lead.
The Force are still winless and their captain Nathan Sharpe was desperately disappointed, “It stinks. We controlled the game for most of it and to end up with a draw is very disappointing.”
The Lions recorded their first win in 23 months halting a losing sequence of 17 losses in a row!
The Lions have forgotten how to win, and after starting well in the opening quarter, let the Cheetahs back into the game with handling errors and silly penalties.
I have forgotten what it feels like to win a Super Rugby match and let us hope this is the first of many victories. We came so close to winning so often and nearly threw this one away a couple of times” said Lions captain Franco van der Merwe afer the match.
Whilst the Lions should be commended for their brave approach, running the ball from their own goal line, they’d be better served to play for safety more often, and bring the element of variation into their running at all costs approach as it has and could cost them in closer matches.
“We give our supporters palpitations sometimes when we run the ball from inside our ’22, but we have a game plan and must stick to it” emphasised van der Merwe.
The goal kicking of Lions flyhalf Elton Jantjies was adequate, but if he can become more consistent, it’ll ensure the Lions are not so reliant on scoring so many tries.
One bonus for the Cheetahs was that Springbok flank Heinrich Brussow returned to Super Rugby, getting through 45 minutes and creating massive nuisance value at the breakdown, not being hampered by the new law interpretations.
With an overseas tour looming, the Cheetahs look set to make the bottom of the conference and overall logs firmly their own!
The Lions should be able to post their first win in 18 matches, whilst the New Zealand and South African conenders get a chance to stake their claims with the Bulls earning a rest after their disappointing effort at Loftus last week.
The Crusaders look ominous and the season has barely started. The Brumbies lack the consistency and class of previous years, and this will be a tough match for them.
The Crusaders forwards will be too strong, and whilst the Brumbies may provide some initial resistance, once the Crusaders gain the ascendcy, their backs will be able to run havoc.
The Brumbies defence is going to have to be spot on to avoid a massacre.
Crusaders by 15.
The Sharks are being talked up as they lead the log, but they have yet to do anything special.
Their defence is a strong point, which won’t have any trouble against an ineffective Rebels attack.
The Sharks forward pack is too big, and too strong, and provides a great platform for their bumbling backs to do whatever they want. They can’t really construct too many tries, but it doesn’t matter as sheer weight of possession and territory will take it’s toll.
The Sharks just need to ensure they walk away with a 4 try bonus point.
Sharks by 15+.
The Stormers have to win their home games and have not been playing very well, whilst any more points the Highlanders can earn on the road will be a real bonus and could make or break their season.
The Highlanders have less pressure on them, and have the game to be able to beat the Stormers.
The Stormers did not lose to any New Zealand sides last year, and proved they know how to handle the Kiwis. But they laid a solid foundation with their forward efforts last season, and this year they’ve struggled to match sides up front.
The Highlanders can take the Stormers pack on and hurt them, as without Tiaan Liebenberg and Schalk Burger they lack the hard edge, especially around the fringes. It’s also meant that Andries Bekker and Francois Louw have to play tighter, with more responsibility on their shoulders.
The Stormers backline has looked impotent, and the question will be whether Gio Aplon can spark them from the back with his return.
The Highlanders will be buoyed by their victory over the Bulls and will be looking for their second big scalp in 2 weeks, and I wouldn’t put it past them. But Im going with my heart on this one.
Stormers by 6.
The Hurricanes have had a horror start with one lost a bye and a cancelled match. It hasn’t helped them gain any momentum, whilst the Chiefs will have regained confidence with their first win last week.
At home, the Hurricanes have usually done well against the Chiefs, but they may be a tad underdone for this encounter.
The start will be imperative, if the Hurricanes can stay in touch they are a good chance, but if the Chiefs start where they left off against the Rebels, it’ll be over fairly soon for the Hurricanes.
Hurricanes by 4.
The Force have always struggled, and without David Pocock their season will be twice as tough.
The Blues were patchy against the Lions but got away with a win. They are due a big performance so it is likely to be this week with a more experienced and dangerous starting lineup.
Blues by 10+.
The Cheetahs are at that familiar stage of the season where it all starts to go pear shaped and effectively only have pride to play for.
They are reaching desperation point with the dropping of Naas Olivier for Sias Ebersohn at flyhalf. They’re not sure what they want to do, or how to do it.
The Lions are on an upward cure but now have to start winning. After 17 consecutive losses, I’m confident this is the week they stop the rot.
The Lions forwards have been good, and can nullify the Cheetahs strength, their pack.
In the backs, the Lions will be too quick and too classy for a Cheetahs side that is more solid than spectacular. The Lions have not struggled to score tries this season, it’s been their defence and goal kicking which has let them down. As long as they
Lions by 22.
The Highlanders showed that if you can match the Bulls up front, you give yourself a good show of beating them. Thankfully few sides are able to do so, especially at Loftus.
I’ve mentioned previously that the reason why the Bulls are the best provincial side in South Africa (and possibly the planet) is not because of talent, but because of their off field structures and attitudes.
Dewald Potgieter’s column on Supersport this week highlights the attitude and resolve of the Bulls as a group, and why you can’t keep a good side down.
Sides lose all the time, but at the Bulls a loss feels like a train smash, and the guys take it very seriously, look within themselves and work damn hard to ensure it doesn’t happen again.
It may not be their only loss this season, but as fans we can’t ask for more than their introspection and 100% effort.
I remain a forever proud Bulls supporter and like all Bulls fans I am right behind our boys, we’ve got a Super Rugby title to win! Go Bulle Go!
Round 3 saw plenty more tries as the Kiwi sides had a perfect 4 from 4, whilst the mighty Bulls suffered an unexpected loss at Fortress Loftus.
Immediately after the game, Bulls captain Victor Matfield summed it up fairly politely.
“Ja, that wasn’t good enough. Our attack wasn’t too bad but our defence was shocking. That’s something we’ll have to go and work on. We just have to go back and we’ll be back in 2 weeks time” a disappointed Matfield said.
The Bulls have a bye next week before their next match against last year’s finalists, the Stormers when the Bulls return to Loftus.
It’s a good chance for the Bulls to regroup and work on their deficiencies.
“It’s always nice to have a bye but we’ll have to work hard, get everything right and when we come back play better” said Matfield.
“We will be back in two weeks time after a bye but there is a lot of hard work to do first. The past doesn’t count any more. We need to focus on what’s happening now. We need to play better in 2 weeks time.”
“It’s going to be a big game. It’s the 2 sides that played in the final (in 2010).”
Bulls coach Frans Ludeke was visibly disappointed, but vowed his side will fix their mistakes and come back even stronger this season.
“This was not good enough and it was obvious there were areas where we didn’t play well like at the breakdowns and in broken field play where we created a lot of space for them which almost played into their hand” said Ludeke.
“But we will fix it – they are things that we can fix because we are committed and we have a whole season ahead of us so we are still in the race and hopefully we can sort it out before the next game.”
The Bulls were outmuscled at contact points, and weren’t helped by referee Stu Dickinson’s poor policing of the breakdown.
It’s normally an area the Bulls are strong at, and they work well as a unit. Against the Highlanders they could not manage to steal any balls, and turned over or had their own possession slowed down far too often to build any pressure.
“We are normally very accurate in what we do, it is one of our strengths, but we were not accurate tonight” said Matfield.
The Highlanders were able to get away with flopping over the ball, and highlighted a reason that rucking should return to the game.
“We did not commit enough numbers there (at the tackle) at times and there were instances when they forced us off the ball” said Ludeke.
“We will know better what went wrong there once we have a look at the video, but we definitely didn’t do well there on the night.”
It appears to defy logic, as the system will not favour any 1 side, as each team has 2 byes, and thus gains 8 points, per season.
In my mind it simply makes the log harder to read and understand, but SAZAR take the opposite view.
The rationale is that it ensures the respective Conference tables provide a more accurate picture of the relative rankings of teams each week through the regular season.
If the 4 points weren’t awarded and a team had a bye in week one of Super Rugby they would remain behind the other teams in total points available to be earned until all other teams have a bye.
It doesn’t make any sense to me, but it appears here to stay! Pretty soon it’ll only be mathematicians who can understand Super Rugby!
The Bulls had highlighted the strengths of the Highlanders in the week leading up to the game, but were more focused on improving their possession, the breakdown and accuracy in attack.
“The Highlanders are playing with self-confidence. Their ball retention and breakdown play are particularly impressive, but that said we are looking forward to the challenge” said Ludeke.
“They are also the first overseas team we face, which makes it more exciting for us.”
Ludeke highlighted the importance of possession, ball control, advantage line, territorial advantage and momentum as being critical factors for the Bulls., and was hammered into his side during the week’s training.
“Getting quality possession and making sure we get over the advantage line is going to be important” said Ludeke.
“Once we got momentum and got quick ball against the Cheetahs, things became easier, and that is what will be about the weekend. If we do the right things, the gaps will open up and we can score points.”
On Saturday night, perhaps the determining factor in producing a winner was that the Highlanders simply wanted it more.
Under Jamie Joseph the Highlanders have simply returned to traditional rugby values, which is evident in their demeanour and results.
“We have seen the passion with which they play. It’s difficult to stop them when they are on the front foot” acknowledged Ludeke.
It’s very rare that the Bulls lack the motivation and drive at Loftus, in front of their fanatical supporters, and maybe it provides a valuable wake-up call as the side let themselves and their fans down.
“We are more disappointed in the way we played at home as we know that you have to win your home games and we let one slip tonight” said captain Victor Matfield after the loss.
Played |
Points |
|
| Sharks | 3 | 13 |
| Highlanders |
3 | 13 |
| Stormers | 2 | 12 |
| Waratahs | 3 | 10 |
| Blues |
3 | 9 |
| Bulls | 3 | 9 |
| Reds | 3 | 8 |
| Crusaders | 3 | 7 |
| Hurricanes | 2 | 7 |
| Brumbies | 3 | 6 |
| Chiefs | 3 | 5 |
| Force | 2 | 5 |
| Rebels | 3 | 4 |
| Lions | 3 | 3 |
| Cheetahs | 3 | 2 |
| Sharks | 3 | 13 |
| Stormers | 2 | 12 |
| Bulls | 3 | 9 |
| Lions | 3 | 3 |
| Cheetahs | 3 | 2 |
| Waratahs | 3 | 10 |
| Reds | 3 | 8 |
| Brumbies | 3 | 6 |
| Force | 2 | 5 |
| Rebels | 3 | 4 |
| Highlanders | 3 | 13 |
| Blues | 3 | 9 |
| Crusaders | 3 | 7 |
| Hurricanes | 2 | 7 |
| Chiefs | 3 | 5 |
The standard of Super Rugby varies greatly between the sides, hardly what I would describe as ‘Super’.
The Highlanders and Blues picked up massive victories on the road, although I felt both sides got away with murder at the breakdown that disrupted their opposition who did not know how to respond.
The Crusaders may have greater concerns than just rugby, but proved they are always tough to beat, whilst the Sharks continue to win ugly and lead the South African conference.
And the Aussies…well who really cares?
The Crusaders overcame the emotion of a turbulent couple of weeks to post a morale boosting win for the side and their legion of supporters.
The crusaders even gave up their traditional red and black strip, wearing specially designed shirts in the traditional red and white colours of the West Coast union, to honour the Pike River mine victims from November.
Having had 2 weeks between matches, they started slowly as the Waratahs picked up from where they left off against the Reds,
Their aggressive defence foreced the Crusaders into basic errors, and they were able to score 2 tries to Tom Carter and Luke Burgess.
3 missed kicks from Daniel Halangahu cost the Waratahs, as the Crusaders kept in touch via 3 Dan Carter penalties.
After 25 minutes the Crusaders appeared to lift another gear as they got a scrum turnover, before Robbie Fruean intercepted to run 45m unopposed for his sides first try.
He grabbed his second soon after, and the Crusaders went into the break with a 26-13 lead.
Sonny Bill Williams scored his first try for the Crusaders soon after the break to open an unassailable lead, with the Crusaders eventually winning 33-18.
Crusaders captain Kieran Read had this to say after the game, “There was a hell of a lot of pressure that we put on ourselves and the way the guys stood up was just awesome. We hope we put a wee smile on the face of the people.”
The Lions simply do not know how to win as they crashed to their 17th successive defeat.
They could easily be 3-0 this season instead of 0-3, showing they are an improving side, but a naive side.
The Blues started brilliantly, being gifted possession and territory from a Lions side that got their tactics from the kickoffs horribly wrong all match.
The Lions defence is quite good, but there is only so many tackles you can make, and the Blues probed superbly to score first.
To their credit the Lions were able to hit back almost immediate each time, making their most of limited opportunities. It’s a trait the Kiwi sides have had for years, they can get outplayed but stay in touch and then dominate later in the match.
After 2 tries apiece the Lions looked to finish the first half stronger with incisive running through their tireless back row of Derick Minnie, Josh Strauss and Warren Whiteley who were mighty impressive.
A yellow card for the Blues allowed the Lions to capitalise and go to the break with a handy 8 points lead.
The Lions simply could not put the Blues away at the beginning of the second half and will rue missed chances. Jaco Taute was highly impressive from the back, coming into the line often and creating numerous linebreaks for the Lions.
However poor finishing cost the Lions, whilst the Blues were like a boxer on the ropes, absorbing everything being thrown at them and biding their time.
Many may question Blues coach Pat Lam’s decision to leave many of his more experienced players on the bench, but it proved to be a masterstroke as I believe he knew the altitude would affect them, and he wanted to have a more experienced side at the end to finish the job.
It proved to be the difference, as Rene Ranger score 2 easy tries against a tiring Lions side that lost it’s early accuracy.
Elton Jantjies had a good game, highlighting his potential, but he made a crucial knock-on when the Lions were dicing with danger by throwing the ball around in their 22, and that provided Ranger with the chance to seal the match.
The Lions in their desperation lost all sense of composure as the had a chance to kick a penalty that would have given them a second bonus point and possibly a chance to win the match. It highlighted their brave approach, but they need to temper it with common sense.
One senses the Lions may be 1 win away from a real breakthrough, while the Blues were understandably chuffed to have earnt 5 points on the road.
The Chiefs won their first match at home since 2009, picking up a bonus point victory in beating a disappointing Rebels side.
The Chiefs left it until the dying stages of the game to score their 4th try and got better and better as the game progressed.
Territory and possession eventually became too much for the Rebels, as the Chiefs got their attacking game going as they provided straight, hard running in midfield which allowed space for their back three to exploit against a weak defence.
The Rebels are currently just not good enough at the set piece and basics of the game to compete at this level.
Captain Mils Muliaina left the field with a back complaint, leaving Liam Messam to take over the captaincy role.
The Reds overcame a 12 year losing streak to beat the Brumbies at Canberra stadium.
The Reds were the more patient, disciplined side as they were outscored 4 tries to 1, but were able to keep the scoreboard ticking over through Quade Cooper.
The Brumbies one again suffered poor goal kicking, and Matt Giteau is in poor form in general play too. He takes the ball sideways, limiting the space for those outside him. He looks better at second receiver when Robbie Coleman comes inside him.
The Reds were able to build a lead, and stay in front thanks to a steady stream of penalties and errors from the Brumbies to beat the Brumbies for the first time ever at Canberra stadium.
The Sharks got a valuable 5 points on the road in a match marred by a red card.
It was a bit of opportunism by Odwa Ndungane that got the Sharks onto the board early, and put the Force under pressure. The Force were not helped by early injuries, especially to David Pocock.
Once Roroy Sidey was red carded for a spear tackle on Odwa Ndungane, the contest was effectively over.
The Sharks scored 3 first half tries, and will be happy they have yet to concede a try in 3 matches, but they would have expected to put more tries past a Force side that played over 60 minutes with 14 men.
The Stormers overcame a valiant Cheetahs side at Newlands.
It was not a classic Stormers performance who were unable to get their game going by a determined Cheetahs side. The Cheetahs more than held their own in the tight exchanges, but lacked the finishing power and handling skills to put more pressure on the Stormers.
The 34 degree heat may have been a factor, but neither side were able to get their running game into action. Simple errors ruined the continuity for each side, and the tryless game came down to a penalty shootout between the 2 sharp shooters, with Peter Grant showing he is in great form.
Bulls (28) v Highlanders (35)
The Bulls have suffered their first loss at Loftus, and their first in a home game since 2008.
The Highlanders were the side with more desperation and commitment, dominating the tight exchanges against a Bulls side whose defence went missing.
With territory and possession, the Highlanders got over the gain line far too easily, and eventually the holes opened up.
The Bulls as they often do, mounted a late comeback but it was too little too late as the Highlanders signalled they may not be a fancy side, but they can compete, and they are making a statement in 2011!
Bulls 28
Tries: Flip van der Merwe, Fourie Du Preez, Bjorn Basson
Conversions: Steyn (2)
Penalties: Steyn (3)
Highlanders 35
Tries: Adam Thomson, Josh Bekhuis, Kade Poki (2)
Conversions: Tony Brown (3)
Penalties: Tony Brown, Robbie Robinson (2
It doesn’t happen often but the Springbok front ranker was totally putplayed by his opponent Chris King. Needed to lead from the front.
Where was Chiliboy? Threw ok into the lineout, but anonymous in the tight exchanges. Hasn’t taken his opportunity presented by Gary Botha’s injury.
Had a hard night against Jamie MacKintosh and neither won the battle. However not strong enough at the breakdown which has been a strength in recent weeks.
Needed to step up taking over from Bakkies Botha but minimal impact with ball inhand or tackling. Just not accurate enough with first time tackles.
One of his worst games in the Bulls jersey. made plenty of tackles which is usual, but uncharacteristically poor on attack with handling and passing errors. Did not lead well, getting frustrated with Stu
Dickinson.
Earned a yellow card which I felt was unlucky given what the Highlanders were getting away with. Competed ferociously at the breakdown and you can’t ask for much more than that.
Made plenty of tackles and tried gamely but hasn’t started the season strongly on attack. Needs to get over the gain line more frequently and strongly.
Wasn’t able to get his side over the advantage line when it was needed and not accurate enough on defence.
Struggled to get into the game, and spent too much time remonstrating with the ref. When his side is under pressure at the breakdown needs to get the ball out faster otherwise the turnovers occur.
Cost his side 3 points and a shot at leading with a poor tap penalty in the first half.
Largely reduced to kicking the ball out to touch. His line kicking was adequate, and didn’t have enough ball to work with.
Has been disappointing all season. Not strong enough on defence, nor accurate enough on attack. Needs to up his work rate.
Made too many handling errors, costing his side momentum and possession.
Worked hard on defence, and ran straight and hard.
Too upright at times taking the ball forward, and made uncharacteristic handling errors. A poor game all round.
Tried gamely but largely reduced to a defensive role.
Wasn’t able to have the same impact this week as he did against the Cheetahs.
Not used
Battled gamely when he came on, but just did not have enough support from his teammates.
Not used
Not used
Not used
Very little opportunity when he came on.
Got smashed everywhere. Dominated at the collision. Provided no go forward for their backs.
Had little quality ball, but made too many handling errors when they did receive it. Other than Zane Kirchner, it was awful.
Not what we have come to expect. The defence was at times non-existent with the Highlanders able to makes yardage at will. Were overshadowed by the Highlanders desire and commitment, something that shouldn’t happen at Loftus.
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