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.
