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The Lions Dilemma

June 11, 2013 in Uncategorized

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The main problem the Lions have faced in their preparation for the Super Rugby knockout matches against the Kings isn’t the fact that they have some of their main players out on loan but the fact that they haven’t been able to get quality opposition and this trend continues with WP deciding to send a water-down WP side instead of a Stormers team to play the Lions on Saturday.

The indications are that WP will send a team made up of their Vodacom Cup and junior players with only three fringe Stormers players in the squad and one can be fairly certain that the Sharks will do the same the following week.

I can appreciate that the Stormers and the Sharks, given their spate of injuries this season, don’t want to risk their Super Rugby players in what is essentially a practice match but this doesn’t help the Lions much in their preparations.

The Lions have had sufficient opportunities to hone their attack but what they need now is opposition that will not only offer a stiffer defence but also will test their own defence but it seems they will not get that.

It serves no purpose to beat these sides comfortably and by good margins and getting no defence practice.

I suggest that coach Johan Ackermann drastically change the game plan for the remaining matches in the first half in order to provide defensive practice. This can be done by kicking all possession to the opposition allowing them to attack at will, in other words, revert to a Stormers game plan, and even allow them to take a half time lead then, in the second half, set about overcoming the opposition defence and regaining the lead.

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2013 Super Rugby Round 17 Preview

June 6, 2013 in Uncategorized

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The B&I Lions tour down under is really screwing with Super Rugby where all we’ll see are two Wallaby-depleted Aussie derbies, which makes it a bit of a coin toss as to who will win and this also screws up one’s fantasy league.

The June Internationals also start this weekend.

My Superbru:

Super Rugby:
Last week: 5/6
Overall: 64/101
Percentage: 63.37%

B&I Lions Tour:
Last week: 2/2
Overall: 2/2
Percentage: 100,00%

Super Rugby:

Fri, 07 June
Brumbies v Rebels: SAST 11h40 – Canberra Stadium, Canberra

Both teams lost some key players to the Wallabies, which evens it out a bit, but the Brumbies should continue their march to stay on top of the Aussie conference.

Brumbies by 6

Sun, 09 June
Force v Waratahs: SAST 08h05 – NIB Stadium, Perth

Another coin toss but with Peter Betham, Cam Crawford, Bernard Foley and Brendan McKibbin still available the Waratahs should have too much for the Force.

Waratahs by 6

B&I Lions Tour:

Sat, 08 June
Reds v B&I Lions: SAST 11h30 – Brisbane

A Reds team devoid of a number of Wallabies should be easy meat for the Lions even though Quade Cooper is still there, without Will Genia he just isn’t a threat.

British & Irish Lions by 18

June Internationals:

Sat, 08 June
Japan v Wales: SAST 07h00 – Hanazono Stadium, Osaka, Japan

No contest even with Wales missing a number of players.

Wales by 25

New Zealand v France: SAST 09h35 – Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand

Dan Carter may be out but Cruden has been the form flyhalf this year anyway. France has been really poor this year with their only win in five matches a home win against Scotland and I don’t see them troubling the All Blacks too much.

New Zealand by 15

Samoa v Scotland: SAST 17h00 – Kings Park Stadium, Durban, South Africa

An extra week in the country, and a trashing of their dirt trackers by the Golden Lions, might just be what they needed to light a fire under them but they are missing some of their key players. However, Scotland isn’t the strongest team around and it should be a close tussle. I’m going with a Scotland win mainly because Samoa really didn’t impress in any department last week.

Scotland by 9

South Africa v Italy: SAST 19h00 – Kings Park Stadium, Durban, South Africa

Some exciting selections for the Boks against an Azzuri side that performed quite well during the Six Nations beating both France and Ireland. The battle up front will be titanic but overall the Boks have too much fire power.

South Africa by 15

Argentina v England: SAST 21h10 – Estadio Padre Ernesto Martearena, Salta, Argentina

Playing at home against a Lions-depleted England side I’m going with the Pumas to win

Argentina by 8

Sun, 09 June
USA v  Ireland: SAST 02h30 – BBVA Compass Stadium, Houston, USA

So the Irish have only won two of their last 10 tests and lost to Italy in their last game and they lost some players to the B&I Lions. If the Eagles ever had a chance of beating Ireland it’s this match. But I don’t see that happening.

Ireland by 15

Top 5 players per position (UDT Fantasy League)

Outside backs: Willie le Roux, Jesse Mogg, Frank Halai, Henry Speight, Raymond Ruhle
Centres: Israel Folau, Johann Sadie, Robert Ebersohn, Joseph Tomane, Jean de Villiers
Flyhalf (kickers): Morne Steyn, Christian Lealiifano, Quade Cooper, Beauden Barrett, Patrick Lambie
Scrumhalf: Nick White, TJ Perenara, Piet van Zyl, Piri Weepu, Will Genia
Loose Forwards: Ben Mowen, Scott Higgenbotham, Jack Schatz, Liam Messam, Michael Hooper
Locks: Hugh Pyle, Brodie Retallick, Andries Bekker, Francois Uys, Rob Simmons
Front Rows: Ged Robinson, Coenie Oosthuizen, Ben Tameifuna, Adriaan Strauss, Wyatt Crockett

Top Try Scorers
1. Frank Halai (Blues)    8
1. Israel Folau (Waratahs)    8
3. Henry Speight (Brumbies)    7
4. Cam Crawford (Waratahs)    6
4. Scott Higginbotham (Rebels)    6
4. Tim Nanai-Williams (Chiefs)    6
4. TJ Perenara (Hurricanes)    6
4. Willie le Roux (Cheetahs)    6
9. Alfie Mafi (Force)    5
9. Bernard Foley (Waratahs)    5
9. Gareth Anscombe (Chiefs)    5
9. Hosea Gear (Highlanders)    5
9. Hugh Pyle (Rebels)    5
9. Jesse Mogg (Brumbies)    5
9. Julian Savea (Hurricanes)    5
9. Peter Betham (Waratahs)    5
9. Raymond Rhule (Cheetahs)    5
9. Rene Ranger (Blues)    5
9. Rod Davies (Reds)    5
20. Matt Todd (Crusaders)    4

Most Try Assists
1. Bernard Foley (Waratahs)    12
2. Aaron Cruden (Chiefs)    7
3. Will Genia (Reds)    6
4. Beauden Barrett (Hurricanes)    5
4. James O’Connor (Rebels)    5
4. Quade Cooper (Reds)    5
4. Rene Ranger (Blues)    5
8. Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies)    4
8. Patrick Lambie (Sharks)    4
8. Willie le Roux (Cheetahs)    4
11. Elton Jantjies (Stormers)    3
11. Francis Saili (Blues)    3
11. Gareth Anscombe (Chiefs)    3
11. Israel Folau (Waratahs)    3
11. Johann Sadie (Cheetahs)    3
11. Matt Toomua (Brumbies)    3
11. Michael Hooper (Waratahs)    3
11. Nic White (Brumbies)    3
11. Nick Phipps (Rebels)    3
11. Winston Stanley (Force)    3

Most Linebreak Assists
1. Bernard Foley (Waratahs)    15
2. Aaron Cruden (Chiefs)    13
3. Israel Folau (Waratahs)    7
3. Quade Cooper (Reds)    7
5. Will Genia (Reds)    6
6. Elton Jantjies (Stormers)    5
6. James O’Connor (Rebels)    5
6. Jason Woodward (Rebels)    5
6. Rene Ranger (Blues)    5
10. Aaron Smith (Highlanders)    4
10. Ben Smith (Highlanders)    4
10. Cornell du Preez (Kings)    4
10. Francis Saili (Blues)    4
10. Ma’a Nonu (Highlanders)    4
10. Matt Toomua (Brumbies)    4
10. Morne Steyn (Bulls)    4
10. Nic White (Brumbies)    4
10. Nick Phipps (Rebels)    4
10. Willie le Roux (Cheetahs)    4
20. Liam Messam (Chiefs)    3

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2013 Super Rugby Round 16 Review

June 2, 2013 in Uncategorized

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The Clan finally got their act together while the Stormers .. um .. the Stormers .. um ..

The Bulls continued in their bid for a home semi while the Brumbies are staying ahead of the rest of the Aussies.

The Chiefs stay at the top of the log, the Force near the bottom and the Sharks at least aren’t the only team anymore that lost to the Highlanders.

My Superbru:

This week: 5/6
Overall: 64/101
Percentage: 63.37%

Super Rugby:

Crusaders v Waratahs:  23-22

Why do coaches feel it necessary to replace players who are playing well? For 50 minutes the Tahs were in control and leading 22-10 when coach Cheika decided to make a spate of replacements including scrumhalf Brendan McKibben, who was not only managing the game well but kicking his goals. Result – the Tahs lost 23-22. And a good bit of captaincy by George Whitelock helped after a try from a penalty lineout which brought the Saders to within 5 points he resisted going for another try at the next penalty and rather took the three points on offer with 17 minutes to go. Did you watch that Jean de Villiers?

Brumbies v Hurricanes: 30-23

In a closely fought battle Jesse Mogg didn’t do his chances of making the Wallabies team any good conceding too many turnovers too easily in tackles while the Brumbies were on the attack. The win gives the Brumbies clear lead at the top of the Aussie conference before the winter test break and with games against the Rebels (H) and the Force (A), both of which they would expect to win, they should finish there.

Highlanders v Blues: 38-28

I should have watched this game rather than try and watch the Stormers Kings game. Finally the Clan played like one expected they would from the start of the season.

Reds v Rebels: 33-20

Another game I probably should have watched rather than the Stormers Kings game.

Stormers v Kings: 19-11

Fortunately my livestream went on strike from boredom after about 20 minutes. Meh

Cheetahs v Bulls: 25-30

A good game but the Cheetahs were always playing catch-up. After praising their aggressive defence in a previous post the Cheetahs, unfortunately, went for a more passive defence this time and allowed Hougaard and Steyn too much space to dictate the game, Hougaard probably having his best game at scrumhalf in two years. Deserved Bok squad call-ups for a number of players from both teams and they should end 1-2 in the SA conference with both teams in the play-offs.

B&I Lions Tour:

Barbarians v B&I Lions: 8-59

The B&I Lions just way too good for the BaaBaas but getting a good run before the serious stuff starts.

Lions Challenge:

Golden Lions v Manu Samoa: 74-14

The Golden Lions sent a clear message to the Kings – watch out! Blowing away the Manu Samoan dirt trackers 10 tries to two was unexpected, they are the #7 rugby nation after-all. One can blame the unsettled nature of the Samoan squad, the fact that they were missing some first choice players, the travel or the altitude but it still was an impressive performance by the Lions’ Vodacom Cup Plus side with Marnitz Boshoff, Derick Minnie and Stokkies Hanekom just three of the guys who had good games.

Video highlights: http://www.supersport.com/video/play.aspx?id=245614

Seen at the Stormers Kings game:

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Friday Funnies

May 31, 2013 in Uncategorized

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Funnies to light up your weekend

Enjoy the rugby!

Power Rankings #15: Highlanders

At least the Highlanders are showing creativity, imagination and quite stunning commitment when it comes to finding different ways to lose. The most peculiar thing about their season is that here they are with just one victory from their star-studded squad and not a peep about sacking the coach. Who knows whether sacking Jamie Joseph is a good idea or not – but for form’s sake, more people should be suggesting it.

A customer asked… “In what aisle could I find the Blou Bul wors?”
The clerk asks…”Are you a Blue Bull supporter?”
The guy, clearly offended says… “Yes I am, but let me ask you something.
“If I had asked for Italian sausage, would you ask me if I was Italian?
Or if I had asked for German Bratwurst, would you ask me if I was German?
… Or if I asked for a kosher hot dog would you ask me if I was Jewish?
Or if I had asked for a Taco, would you ask if I was Mexican?
Or if I asked for Polish sausage, would you ask if I was Polish?”
The clerk says…”No,I probably wouldn’t.”
The guy says…”Well then, because I asked for Blou Bul wors… “Why did you ask me if I’m a Blue Bull Supporter?”
The clerk replied…”Because you’re in Builders Warehouse”…

I was in the public toilets and had just sat down, a voice from the next cubicle said “Hi!, how are you?”

Embarrassed, I said, “I’m doing fine”

The voice said “So what are you up to?”

I said, “Just doing the same as you, sitting here!”

From next door, “Can I come over?”

Annoyed, I said, “rather busy right now”

The voice said, “Listen, i will have to call you back, there’s an…

Power Rankings #12: Stormers

In the 1980s England became rather fond of picking the self-styled hard man Micky Skinner. He named himself Mick the Munch and produced videos of his best work way before anyone else was even thinking about self-promotion. But Skinner was a blow-hard – he would famously arrive at any stramash [fight] way after the real hard men had actually sorted it out. He’d flounce around with his mullet, snorting and threatening but no one took him seriously. The Stormers are way too much like Micky Skinner.

Power Rankings #9: Sharks

This is going to be a season of ‘if only’ for the Sharks. If only they ran the ball a bit more in Durban. If only they weren’t convinced that Pat Lambie is so good when he appears to be so limited. If only Frans Steyn could lose a bit of weight and find a better attitude. If only they hadn’t lost to the Highlanders. Actually, of all the if only scenarios, that last one is the most painful.

Water into wine

More Power Rankings from New Zealand Herald: http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10887317

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The secret to the Cheetahs’ success

May 31, 2013 in Uncategorized

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The Cheetahs’ 2013 Super Rugby campaign has been their most successful to date and it all comes down to one factor – their defence. This year the Cheetahs have managed to add a defensive element to their game that was missing in previous years and have played a much more balanced game.

However, it’s not as if they’ve tried to copy the Stormers uber-defensive strategy, they’ve not. In fact, they are still fairly poor tacklers but the difference is that they are putting in so many tackles and cover tackles that, in the bigger scheme of things, the slipped tackles don’t really matter.

Unlike the Stormers’ passive defensive structure the Cheetahs have been very aggressive on defence and rather than waiting for the opposition to run at them they have tackled them behind the advantage line, not giving them the opportunity and space to attack. And not only did that prevent opposition attacks, it gave the Cheetahs front foot ball when they effected turnovers allowing them to counter attack.

Against Attempted Made Made % Ineffective Ineffective % Missed Missed %
Sharks 142 113 80% 11 7.75% 18 12.68%
Chiefs 143 97 68% 13 9.09% 33 23.08%
Highlanders 273 220 81% 12 4.40% 41 15.02%
Force 213 175 82% 13 6.10% 25 11.74%
Force 193 155 80% 14 7.25% 24 12.44%
Rebels 124 108 87% 6 4.84% 10 8.06%
Stormers 158 131 83% 6 3.80% 21 13.29%
Bulls 159 124 78% 7 4.40% 28 17.61%
Sharks 174 146 84% 10 5.75% 18 10.34%
Kings 188 165 88% 5 2.66% 18 9.57%
Hurricanes 139 103 74% 16 11.51% 20 14.39%
Reds 228 178 78% 18 7.89% 32 14.04%
Kings 176 138 78% 13 7.39% 25 14.20%
2310 1853 80.22% 144 6.23% 313 13.55%
177.69 142.54 80.22% 11.08 6.23% 24.08 13.55%

 

Looking at their tackle stats it is clear, for the most part, that they lost games (marked in bold) where they were more passive on defence, especially at the start of the season, and their last loss against the Hurricanes clearly shows a drop in intensity in their defence.

Where the Stormers have been unable to effectively add an attack dimension to their passive defensive system, the Cheetahs have been able to reinvent their game by adding a good defensive strategy without blunting their attack too much. While it’s not a perfect defence, having conceded 25 tries (9 more than the Stormers), they have improved dramatically over last year when then they had let in 36 tries at the same stage of the competition.

The Cheetahs have a good chance of beating the Bulls this weekend if they don’t revert to a passive defence like they did the previous time they played the Bulls.

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Lions cancel the SA Barbarians game?

May 30, 2013 in Uncategorized

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The Golden Lions, arranging games to prepare them for the Wooden Spoon Knockouts against the Kings after Super Rugby, was scheduled to play the French Barbarians. This match was cancelled, according to French reports, due to the French BaaBaas wanting a three match tour but only the Golden Lions match had been arranged.

The Golden Lions then asked the SA Barbarians to arrange a replacement match, which they did, putting together a squad on short notice for a match to be played on 8 June. Now an unconfirmed report on suparugby.com claims that the Golden Lions cancelled this match on Tuesday, after the BaaBaas squad was announced, because the Golden Lions coaches “didn’t see any value in playing it”.

Cancelling a match on short notice after all the effort that went into arranging it, also on short notice, and with kit sponsors all lined up seems an ungrateful move by the Golden Lions, especially considering the reported reason behind the cancellation.

On the other hand, the GLRU has one objective with these matches – to prepare the Golden Lions for the knockout games. At this stage of their preparations there is no sense in playing a match against a mediocre team that will offer them very little competition and looking at the BaaBaas squad it is a mediocre team made up of some 1st Division players, juniors, students and a few overseas based players playing in the lesser leagues. The squad even includes two of the Golden Lions own players!

Backs: Darryl Veenendaal (Bedford), Hansie Graaff (Griffons), Vainon Willis (Blue Bulls), Lohan Jacobs (Blue Bulls), Francois Brummer (Cheetahs), Courtnall Skosan (Blue Bulls), Jacques-Louis Potgieter (Dax), Paul Bosch (Montpellier), Luzuko Vulindlu (Griquas), Clayton Blommetjies (Blue Bulls).
Forwards: Shaun Malton (Nottingham), Dee-Jay Terblanche (Pumas), Os Hamman (Maties), Myles Tucker (Maties), Derick Minnie (Golden Lions)/Jonathan Adendorff (Griquas), JC Janse van Rensburg (Golden Lions), Jared Saunders (Saracens), Bees Roux (Treviso), Edwin Hewitt (Griquas), Eoin Sherrif (Saracens), Corné Steenkamp (Pumas), Marnus Schoeman (Griquas), Davon Raubenheimer (Cheetahs).
http://www.suparugby.com/pages/Default.asp?More=Leeus%20en%20Baabaas%20afgelas%20-%2029%20Mei%202013&FeatureID=20912&SectionID=21

My first reaction after reading about the cancellation was one of disappointment, not so much about the match but about the GLRU’s last minute action which smacked of ingratitute and arrogance, and maybe it does, but the GLRU has one duty, to prepare the team for the knockouts, and playing meaningless festival matches at this stage would be counter productive, especially as they can probably put together a more competitive team from within their own ranks using fringe players, juniors, club and varsity players.

The decision, while practical, may not have been the most politically correct one for the GLRU to take. Unfortunately actions like these do not make you friends and do not endear you to the wider rugby supporting public and the Golden Lions do not have many friends left, as was demonstrated when they were voted out of Super Rugby.

Note: The report is unconfirmed at the time of writing.

Also published on Lionspride

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Golden Lions vs Manu Samoa

May 29, 2013 in Uncategorized

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The Golden Lions face their toughest test in their preparation programme this weekend when they play Manu Samoa.

Manu Samoa, ranked 7th by the IRB, has selected what many regard as their strongest squad outside of the RWC as French clubs released their players for the winter tour after complaints to the IRB last year by the Pacific Island nations.

Even though a number of first choice players will not be available this weekend due to club commitments, injuries or suspensions (Kahn Fotuali’i – BaaBaas, Joe Tekori – Castres in Top 14 Finals, Tusi Pisi – Super Rugby, Alapati Leiua – Super Rugby, Daniel Leo – Suspended, Kane Thompson – Injured) they will still be able to field a relatively strong team that will test the Golden Lions.

Manu Samoa’s last 3 games

9 November 2012 – Beat Canada 42-12
16 November 2012 – Beat Wales 26-19
24 November 2012 – Lose to France 22-14

Apart from JC Janse van Rensburg and Derick Minnie being back, Deon Helberg out injured and Hendrik Roodt suspended the Lions are fielding close to the same team that won the Vodacom Cup final two weeks ago with Warren Whiteley retaining the captaincy.

Helberg’s injury necessitated a backline reshuffle with Deon van Rensburg moving to the wing and  Stokkies Hanekom slotting in at centre. Derick Minnie plays from the bench and Gavin Annandale comes in at lock in place of Roodt.

Given the style of rugby played by the Pacific Islanders the match will be a physical confrontation of a nature many Lions players have not encountered before and the youngsters’ resolve and physical and defensive capabilities will be severely tested.

I don’t know anything about the Samoan players but based on the team’s world ranking they should win the match against the Golden Lions Vodacom Cup Plus side even though they’re not at full test strength. This is the time for the Lions players to show that they are capable of playing at a higher level than the Vodacom Cup and that they are on track for the knockouts at the end of July.

This match is an opportunity for the Golden Lions to sharpen up their defensive structures, something that has been of less importance and a bit of a worry during the previous matches this year. Getting the right balance between attack and defence is necessary as the team moves towards the knockouts against the Kings.

Manu Samoa by 8.

Leeus: 15. Chrysander Botha, 14. Deon van Rensburg, 13. Stokkies Hanekom, 12. Alwyn Hollenbach, 11. Anthony Volmink, 10. Marnitz Boshoff, 9. Michael Bondesio, 8. Warren Whiteley (c), 7. Warwick Tecklenburg, 6. Jaco Kriel, 5. Hugo Kloppers, 4. Gavin Annandale, 3. Ruan Dreyer, 2. Robbie Coetzee, 1. JC Janse van Rensburg.
Replacements: 16. Francois du Toit, 17. Jacques van Rooyen, 18. Willie Britz, 19. Derick Minnie, 20. Ross Cronje, 21. Lionel Cronje, 22. Dylan des Fountain 23. Ruan Combrink/CJ van der Linde

Samoa:

Possible starting XV against the Golden Lions:
15. Paul Williams (c), 14. James So’oialo, 13. Seilala Mapusua, 12. Sinoti Sinoti, 11. Alesana Tuilagi, 10. Ki Anufe, 9. Jeremy Su’a, 8. Taiasina Tu’ifua, 7. Ofisa Treviranus, 6. Alafoti Faosiliva, 5. Filo Paulo, 4. A loose forward, 3. Cencus Johnston, 2. Ti’i Paulo, 1. Sakaria Taulafo

Squad:
Forwards: Census Johnston (Toulouse), Logovi’i Mulipola (Leicester Tigers), Sakaria Taulafo (London Wasp), James Johnston (Harlequins), Ti’i Paulo (Clermont), Wayne Ole Avei (Bordeaux Beagles), Manu Leiataua (North Harbour), Kane Thompson (Canon Eagles), Iosefa Tekori (Castres), Daniel Leo (Perpignan), Teofilo Paulo (Cardiff Blues), Taiasina Tuifua (Newcastle Falcons), Alafoti Faosiliva (Bristol), Ofisa Treviranus (London Irish), Jack Lam (Hurricanes), Piula Faasalele (Castres), Fa’alemiga Selesele (Moata’a, Samoa).

Backs: Junior Poluleuligaga (Exeter Chiefs), Jeremy Su’a (Crusaders), Alatasi Tupou (Manu Samoa 7′s), Tusi Pisi (Hurricanes/Suntory Sungoliath), Ki Anufe (Auckland), Sinoti Sinoti (Zebre), Johnny Leota (Sale Sharks), Isaia Tuifua (Vigo, Spain), Brandon Va’aulu (Tokyo), Alesana Tuilagi (NTT Shining Arcs), Alapati Leiua (Hurricanes), Robert Lilomaiava (Vaiala, Samoa), Paul Williams (Stade Francais), James So’oialo (Wellington).

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2013 Super Rugby Round 16 Preview

May 28, 2013 in Uncategorized

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Predicting the match results isn’t getting any easier with the games getting tighter as the play-offs loom and the chances of upsets increase. There just aren’t that many sure wins or certain losses to pick at the moment and on any day any team can beat any other team, if you catch my drift.

In other matches the B&I Lions kick off their tour to Australia this weekend with a match against the Barbarians in Hong Kong before going down under while the Golden Lions take on Manu Samoa in their preparation for the Wooden Spoon Knockouts against the Kings.

My Superbru:

Last week: 3/7
Overall: 59/95
Percentage: 62.11%

Super Rugby:

Fri, 31 May
Crusaders v Waratahs: SAST 09h35 – AMI Stadium, Addington Christchurch

Both teams come off losses last weekend that set their campaigns back. While the Saders are still in the top six the Tahs are languishing at 8th and struggling to make the play-offs. Both teams need the win and with what the Kiwi commentators call “winter rugby” expect a tight game and not too much expansive running. Dan the Man will want to make up for his poor game last week against the Chiefs and the Saders are virtually unbeatable at home.

CRUSADERS to beat Waratahs by 6

Brumbies v Hurricanes: SAST 11h40 – Canberra Stadium, Canberra

The Brumbies stepped up their game last week after a few weeks of lackluster performances and will want to cement their top of the Aussie conference spot against a Canes side whose wheels have come off.

BRUMBIES to beat Hurricanes by 9

Sat, 01 June
Highlanders v Blues: SAST 09h35 – Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin

Can the Clan win another game? Yes, they can but I don’t think they will. I doubt if there is any motivation left in a the side that promised so much pre-season while the Blues are looking to get into the top six.

BLUES to beat Highlanders by 6

Reds v Rebels: SAST 11h40 – Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

The Rebels upset the Waratahs and the Reds were upset by the Stormers last week. Can the Rebels continue on that path or will the Reds stand up? This is one of the calls that should have been easy but isn’t. I don’t think the Reds will underestimate the threat and will step up their game but the game is going to be close.

REDS to beat Rebels by 5

Stormers v Kings: SAST 17h05 – DHL Newlands Stadium, Cape Town

The Stormers’ win over the Reds would have boosted the team’s morale but it depends on their game plan how far they win. Are they going to stick to a safety first defensive game or are they going for a meaningless 5 pointer? They wouldn’t want to gift the Kings scoring opportunities which may come back and bite them, so probably a hybrid as the Stormers leaked tries as soon as they got too adventurous.

Note: After losing Steven Sykes and Siyanda Grey the availability of Luke Watson (flu) and Demetri Catrakilis (calf strain) will only be confirmed on Thursday.

STORMERS to beat Southern Kings by 15

Cheetahs v Bulls: SAST 19h10 – Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein

Probably the toughest game to call for the weekend with both teams playing well and both teams virtually assured of play-off spots. The Cheetahs have never beaten the Bulls in Super Rugby but they have been breaking their old records this year. The Cheetahs have defended well this season while using their attack more sparingly than in past years. They’ve also been on a good winning streak, apart from the glitch against the Canes, but the Bulls have been winning too and are masters of the conservative game plan, they won’t give away too many try scoring opportunities. A battle of the boot on the cards? Then Morne must win but my predicted margin might be too generous.

BULLS to beat Cheetahs by 9

Bye/s: Chiefs, Force, Sharks

B&I Lions Tour:

Sat, 01 June
Barbarians v B&I Lions: SAST 13h30 – Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong, China

As a festival game the result is immaterial but the Lions should get their tour off on a winning start.

British & Irish Lions by 10

Lions Challenge:

Sat, 01 June
Golden Lions v Manu Samoa: SAST 14h30 – Ellis Park, Johannesburg

A tough physical battle is on the cards but Samoa, the #7 ranked nation, should win even though it’s their first match and their players still need to gel after coming from all corners of the earth. But it will be a good test for the Golden Lions.

Samoa by 8

Top 5 players per position (UDT Fantasy League)

Outside backs: Willie le Roux, Jesse Mogg, Frank Halai, Henry Speight, Raymond Ruhle
Centres: Israel Folau, Johann Sadie, Robert Ebersohn, Joseph Tomane, Jean de Villiers
Flyhalf (kickers): Morne Steyn, Christian Lealiifano, Quade Cooper, Beauden Barrett, Patrick Lambie
Scrumhalf: Nick White, TJ Perenara, Piet van Zyl, Piri Weepu, Will Genia
Loose Forwards: Ben Mowen, Scott Higgenbotham, Jack Schatz, Liam Messam, Michael Hooper
Locks: Hugh Pyle, Brodie Retallick, Andries Bekker, Francois Uys, Rob Simmons
Front Rows: Ged Robinson, Coenie Oosthuizen, Ben Tameifuna, Adriaan Strauss, Wyatt Crockett

Top Try Scorers

1. Frank Halai (Blues)    8
1. Israel Folau (Waratahs)    8
3. Henry Speight (Brumbies)    7
4. Scott Higginbotham (Rebels)    6
4. Tim Nanai-Williams (Chiefs)    6
6. Alfie Mafi (Force)    5
6. Cam Crawford (Waratahs)    5
6. Gareth Anscombe (Chiefs)    5
6. Hugh Pyle (Rebels)    5
6. Jesse Mogg (Brumbies)    5
6. Julian Savea (Hurricanes)    5
6. Raymond Rhule (Cheetahs)    5
6. Rod Davies (Reds)    5
6. TJ Perenara (Hurricanes)    5
6. Willie le Roux (Cheetahs)    5
16. Akona Ndungane (Bulls)    4
16. Ged Robinson (Rebels)    4
16. Hosea Gear (Highlanders)    4
16. Jean de Villiers (Stormers)    4
16. Peter Betham (Waratahs)    4

Most Try Assists
1. Bernard Foley (Waratahs)    11
2. Aaron Cruden (Chiefs)    7
3. Beauden Barrett (Hurricanes)    5
3. James O’Connor (Rebels)    5
3. Quade Cooper (Reds)    5
3. Rene Ranger (Blues)    5
3. Will Genia (Reds)    5
8. Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies)    4
8. Patrick Lambie (Sharks)    4
8. Willie le Roux (Cheetahs)    4
11. Elton Jantjies (Stormers)    3
11. Francis Saili (Blues)    3
11. Gareth Anscombe (Chiefs)    3
11. Israel Folau (Waratahs)    3
11. Johann Sadie (Cheetahs)    3
11. Matt Toomua (Brumbies)    3
11. Morne Steyn (Bulls)    3
11. Nic White (Brumbies)    3
11. Nick Phipps (Rebels)    3
11. Winston Stanley (Force)    3

Most Linebreak Assists
1. Aaron Cruden (Chiefs)    13
1. Bernard Foley (Waratahs)    13
3. Israel Folau (Waratahs)    7
3. Quade Cooper (Reds)    7
5. Elton Jantjies (Stormers)    5
5. James O’Connor (Rebels)    5
5. Rene Ranger (Blues)    5
5. Will Genia (Reds)    5
9. Aaron Smith (Highlanders)    4
9. Ben Smith (Highlanders)    4
9. Cornell du Preez (Kings)    4
9. Francis Saili (Blues)    4
9. Jason Woodward (Rebels)    4
9. Ma’a Nonu (Highlanders)    4
9. Matt Toomua (Brumbies)    4
9. Nic White (Brumbies)    4
9. Nick Phipps (Rebels)    4
9. Willie le Roux (Cheetahs)    4
19. Liam Messam (Chiefs)    3
19. Tom Marshall (Crusaders)    3

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by Baylion

2013 Super Rugby Round 15 Comments

May 27, 2013 in Uncategorized

12 Comments »

Tags: ,

The world is in decline, earth’s ozone is depleting, El Niño is wreaking havoc with the weather patterns and Super Rugby has turned up side down. I didn’t watch most of the games this weekend, just tracked the scores, but I was mostly at the wrong end of the results with my predictions with only the Clan, the Kings and the Sharks losing as they were supposed to :) .

In the one match I watched the student became the master as Cruden outplayed Carter in the Chiefs victory to remain at the top log while halting the Crusaders’ comeback.

Apart from the Rebels win over the Waratahs the Stormers win must rank as the biggest upset as they took on the Reds with a severely depleted team. The Stormers and Bulls scraped good wins while the Cheetahs had me worried during the first half before running away in the second half.

Just goes to show that, as the season’s end draws near, it will become more and more difficult to predict the winners in most of the matches. If this weekend’s matches are anything to go by the games are becoming more tactical and less “entertaining” with only two teams scoring more than one try – the Chiefs scoring three and the Cheetahs four – and the defences being tightened up.

Log and matches left:
The Aussie team only have three matches left, including byes, and there’s a chance that only one of them will end in the top six but as the nearest contenders have tough closing schedules the top six teams seem to have a virtual lock on the playoff spots.

1. Chiefs – 52 (1)
Bye, Hurricanes (H), Crusaders (A), Blues (A)
With a bye and matches against the Canes and the Blues the Chiefs must be favourites to end on top.

2. Bulls – 50 (2)
Cheetahs (A), Kings (H), Sharks (H), Stormers (A)
Apart from the Kings match the Bulls have some tough matches left but should do enough to finish top of the SA Conference but they can’t afford to slip more than one of the other matches if they want to finish second.

3. Brumbies – 50 (3)
Hurricanes (H), Rebels (H), Force (A)
A string of “easy” matches should see them comfortably finish top of the Aussie log and if the Bulls slip they could even end second overall.

4. Cheetahs – 45 (5)
Bulls (H), Stormers (A), Blues (H), Bye
Three tough matches and a bye but they should finish second in the SA conference ad in the playoffs.

5. Reds – 45 (6)
Rebels (H), Bye, Waratahs (A)
Even winning all their matches could see them out of the running if the Blues can pick up some results again but the Blues have it tough

6. Crusaders – 42 (4)
Waratahs (H), Highlanders (A), Chiefs (H), Hurricanes (H)
Three home matches and a match against the Clan should be enough for them to finish second in the Kiwi conference and in the playoffs.

7. Blues – 42
Highlanders (A), Sharks (A), Cheetahs (A), Chiefs (H)
Three away games including a tour to South Africa makes it a tough home stretch.

8. Waratahs – 39
Crusaders (A), Force (A), Reds (H)
The loss against the Rebels dented their hopes and they should finish short.

9. Hurricanes – 38
Brumbies (A), Chiefs (A), Highlanders (H), Crusaders (A)
I don’t see them picking up more than one win on the home stretch and they will drop further down the log.

10. Sharks – 34
Bye, Blues (H), Bulls (A), Kings (H)
A bye and a game against the Kings won’t be enough to get to the playoffs and they’ll be just short

11. Stormers – 34
Kings (H), Cheetahs (H), Kings (A), Bulls (H)
Two games against the Kings and three home matches makes it theoretically possible to make the playoffs but very unlikely but they could end above the Sharks.

12. Rebels – 32
Reds (A), Brumbies (A), Highlanders (H)

13. Kings – 24
Stormers (A), Bulls (A), Stormers (H), Sharks (A)
Four tough games, three of them away, and no wins likely should see them drop at least another spot with the Force on a bye

14. Force – 23
Bye, Waratahs (H), Brumbies (H)

15. Highlanders – 17
Blues (H), Crusaders (H), Hurricanes (A), Rebels (A)
They could come right, get a few wins and move off the bottom of the log but I won’t hold my breath.

Coming up:

31 May 2013
Crusaders v Waratahs – AMI Stadium, Christchurch
Brumbies v Hurricanes – Canberra Stadium, Canberra

1 June 2013
Highlanders    v Blues – Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin
Reds v Rebels – Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Stormers v Kings – DHL Newlands Stadium, Cape Town
Cheetahs v Bulls – Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein

1 June 2013
Golden Lions v Manu Samoa – Ellis Park, Johannesburg

Lions Challenge – The next step

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by Baylion

Friday Funnies

May 24, 2013 in Uncategorized

3 Comments »

Funnies and some of the New Zealand Herald Power Rankings for Week 14

Some light-hearted stuff to help live through the interesting and potentially nerve wracking (and nerve wrecking) clashes coming up this weekend.

Enjoy the weekend!

The first one isn’t a funny though.

For fathers and sons – Harry Chapin’s Cats in the cradle

http://youtu.be/etundhQa724

Power Ranking #2: Chiefs
Big Ben is out. Big Ben comes in. Will anyone notice? Probably Wyatt Crockett will as Tameifuna, who will now start at tight-head for the Chiefs in place of the injured Afeaki, is a world class scrummager (for 50 minutes before he needs to collapse in a heap and refuel). The battle between those two will be intriguing. Partly to see if Tameifuna really is as good as only Power Rankings says he is, but to also get a handle on whether Crockett really is the cheating bastard everyone says he is.

Power Ranking #4: Reds
It was a weekend of considerable angst and disappointment for the Reds. First, they lost to the Cheetahs. Then Quade Cooper was left out of the Wallabies 25-man squad despite being head and shoulders the best first-five in the country. According to Deans the omission was down to Cooper’s flimsy defence. Well talk about pot calling the kettle black because that explanation was the flimsiest defence ever of a really bad decision which was made for entirely different reasons. Cooper won 38 caps not being able to tackle. James O’Connor, who will replace him, can’t tackle and nor can Berrick Barnes.. The ‘toxic environment’ comments made last year by Cooper are probably never going to be forgiven.


Power Ranking #5: Blues
It’s a tough call for the Blues now – do they let Graham Henry loose again in the media or lock him up for the rest of the season? Surely let him out as in one outburst he made numerous valid points, the most pertinent of which was that the poor refereeing and TMO decisions weren’t responsible for them losing in Christchurch. For all the giant strides they have taken this year, the Blues still aren’t quite yet fully equipped for winter rugby – kick and chase; catch and drive; scrum and blast…it’s still not really them.


Power Ranking #9: Sharks
Sharks prop Jannie du Plessis is a qualified doctor so he would know if he’d had one too many knocks to the head. He would know, surely, if his brain wasn’t functioning and making sense? Hmm apparently not. “For sure,” he said when asked if the Sharks, lying 10th, can make the playoffs. “I mean stranger things have happened.” Okay Jannie name one. Bet you can’t.

Power Ranking #12: Stormers
Everyone has the Blues pinned as Super Rugby’s great underachievers, but come on, lets be real – it is the Stormers. No titles – not one and only a solitary appearance in the final. These boys are way better than that – or at least they should be, but never are and never will be if they continue to play as they did last week. “To be honest, it was embarrassing,” said coach Allister Coetzee. “The players understood the importance of this game and finishing the tour on a high, but, yet again, we were our own worst enemies.”

For Leeubok:

More Power Rankings: http://www.nzherald.co.nz/rugby/news/article.cfm?c_id=80&objectid=10885642