Super 14 Talk

[TiGeR]

South considers Monday Night Football

Wednesday April 12 2006
Super 14 schedule may be changed at TV behest
Rugby's expanded Super 14 schedule could soon undergo radical changes - as early as next season - with Monday and Thursday games one of the suggestions.

Reports in New Zealand's Dominion Post suggest that, along with the NPC, may change coverage of the rugby weekend so that the seven games are not condensed into just two or three days.
Rugby Union deputy chief executive Steve Tew confirmed yesterday that the NZRU will talk to Sanzar partners Australia and South Africa about expanding the Super 14 match weekends when they meet in July.
Reports from Australia suggest that, there at least, the suggestion would meet with a positive response.
There were logistical and draw issues for a competition played in three countries with different time zones and considerable travel involved.
But Tew said having more days to offer could be important when Sanzar looks to renegotiate the broadcasting deal, which expires in 2011, it has with News Ltd.
"It's problematic, but we have committed to have a look at it," Tew was quoted as saying.
"Some unions would be prepared to try it but others are very concerned abut what it will do to their gate income."
Sky's head of sport, Kevin Cameron, has complained of the continual "logistical challenges" covering the second round of the Air New Zealand Cup (formerly NPC) with seven games played over three days.
There are similar concerns about the new Super 14 when three or four games are regularly played on the same day.
"It's something we have been talking to the union about and we'd be really keen to look at either Monday or Thursday nights," said Cameron.
"You had a game last Saturday afternoon [NZ time, between the Highlanders and Force in Dunedin] and there didn't seem to be any more people there.
"The culture's changed and people are too busy doing things in the afternoon now. We have the figures to show the (viewing) figures are nowhere near as high in the afternoon as they are at night.
"Monday night is a well proven product [with the NFL in the United States] and it's a time slot that does well with viewers.
"Gates are a concern, but how much of a concern we won't know till it's tried and persevered with. Friday night rugby took a while to catch on too."
"There seems to be an acceptance that over time it will happen, but the Rugby Union wants to do more research first."
That research involves talking to fans and discussing with provincial unions the impact a radically revised draw would have on their gate sales.
The suggestion has met with initial scepticism from one of New Zealand's biggest franchises though.
Hurricanes chief executive Malcolm Holmes said any changes to include Mondays and Thursdays in the Super 14 draw would have significant consequences on gate sales and corporate hospitality.
"I'm sure from a broadcasting and TV product perspective there would be interest in it, but from a provincial union, franchise and fan level there would be very strong resistance," he said.
In Australia, Fox Sports rugby boss Matt McKeown has said that one such proposal for Monday and Thursday games has already been rejected by the South African Union.
McKeown also accepts the 'inevitability' of the move though, and spoke of his approval of it.
"We're very much in favour of that and think it would be a great move forward," McKeown said.
"Rugby in Australia is looking to push hard and attract a bigger audience. The only way to do that is when you're not competing against other sports.
"I can guarantee it will be on the agenda at the next broadcasters' meeting (with Sanzar) in July and our points will be made forcefully."
The new slots on Monday and Thursday would help the sport by filling voids where Australia'a more popular sports, Rugby League and Australian Rules Football, do not feature.
South Africa's rejection of the initial proposal could now be contractually void as well, as the most recent broadcasting Super 14 contract stipulated that schedule changes can only be turned down on the basis of player welfare.

[biffon]

How well did the Tah's and the Blues play this week

Blues v Force
Eish.. demolished the competition. although some would say it was a forgone conclusion with the force, but that was the forces first "thumping" in 7 games so respe[t to the the boys from north harbour!!

Tahs v Brumbies
The power of Mortlock was just not enough to prevent the brumbies folding under the pressure.. Rogers is very definitely a contender for the player of the year in my books, what a playmaker!
hey and the 'Del had some GREAT intelligent plays.... all round a good game.. a little messy at times though... anyone care to comment on the other games.

Stormers v Chiefs
the stormers get thumped by the chiefs, actually it was a closer game than the scoreline told, i enjoyed some of the running rugby made for good spectator food

reds v Bulls
hows the big "upset" of the weekend with the reds pipping the bulls.
Going to be some afriks noses out of joint this week hey!

Crusaders v Cheetahs
Predictable from the top performers at the moment... i really think the aussie teams are trying hard to trump themselves up to beleive they have the intensity to match these guys but i doubt it!!! go the 'Canes!!

looking forward to next week!! see you then!

[Shayne]

Brumbies were stronger in the first half. Waratahs kicked up a gear in the second and it was obvious the Brumbies were missing Larkham.

Bulls shot themselves in the foot this week. Shame.

[TiGeR]

Credit where its due- the 'tahs were OUTSTANDING in their application of pressure, which resulted in 3 tries from turnovers ...still concerned about their inability to CREATE tries with all ther great runners & playmakers... Brumbies missed Larkham, but in this game, you have to adapt to injuries etc...

The 'saders again were OFF the HOOK- enough said- they are a shoo in for the title...

SA sides...no comment! (load of rat shit!)...nice for the Reds to come through a tough one...& always a pleasure to see the 'canes playing so well coming off a bye (ok, they were ring rusty but they did a job against a competent side...)

[TiGeR]

The road to the play-offs

Monday April 17 2006
Who can catch the Crusaders?
There are four rounds remaining in the regular season of the inaugural Super 14 competition and it is generally accepted that the table-topping, unbeaten Crusaders will be one of the teams in the play-offs that get underway on the weekend of 19 and 20 May.

The second-placed Waratahs are also regarded as sure bet by the bookies, while the Hurricanes and Brumbies are said to be good investments also.
But is this really so cut-and-dried? Who can overtake these teams on the standings in the next few weeks and how many teams can actually still reach the play-offs?
Well, given a myriad of unlikely but possible results over the next few weeks, the 12th-placed Stormers could still reach the semi-finals.
Unlikely, but possible.
It is just as unlikely as the Crusaders not making it. But should the Crusaders fail to win any of their four remaining games they could still drop out of the running.
The only two teams currently out of the running for places in the play-offs are the 13th placed Cats (who can, at best, finish fifth) and the last-placed Western Force (who could still make it up to sixth).
We set out below all the possible scenarios that the next four weeks could produce, but please bear in mind that in most cases where we list the 'best possible finish' it will require an extraordinary set of results - not impossible, just improbable.
Here goes - team by team:
Crusaders:
Current position: 1st
Best possible finish: 1st
Worst possible finish: 8th
Remaining fixtures:
21 April: v Force, away
29 April: v Stormers, away
5 May: v Bulls, away
12 May: v Brumbies, home
Waratahs:
Current position: 2nd
Best possible finish: 1st
Worst possible finish: 8th
Remaining fixtures:
28 April: v Highlanders, away
6 May: v Chiefs, away
13 May: v Hurricanes, home
Hurricanes:
Current position: 3rd
Best possible finish: 1st
Worst possible finish: 12th
Remaining fixtures:
22 April: v Brumbies, away
29 April: v Chiefs, home
5 May: v Reds, home
13 May: v Waratahs, away
Brumbies:
Current position: 4th
Best possible finish: 1st
Worst possible finish: 12th
Remaining fixtures:
22 April: v Hurricanes, home
29 April: v Reds, home
6 May: v Highlanders, home
12 May: v Crusaders, away
Bulls:
Current position: 5th
Best possible finish: 1st
Worst possible finish: 13th
Remaining fixtures:
22 April: v Cats, home
29 April: v Sharks, home
5 May: v Crusaders, home
13 May: v Stormers, away
Sharks:
Current position: 6th
Best possible finish: 1st
Worst possible finish: 14th
Remaining fixtures:
22 April: v Blues, home
29 April: v Bulls, away
6 May: v Stormers, home
12 May: v Force, home
Chiefs:
Current position: 7th
Best possible finish: 1st
Worst possible finish: 14th
Remaining fixtures:
21 April: v Cheetahs, home
29 April: v Hurricanes, away
6 May: v Waratahs, home
13 May: v Blues, away
Blues:
Current position: 8th
Best possible finish: 1st
Worst possible finish: 14th
Remaining fixtures:
22 April: v Sharks, away
29 April: v Cheetahs, away
6 May: v Cats, away
13 May: v Chiefs, home
Highlanders:
Current position: 9th
Best possible finish: 3rd
Worst possible finish: 14th
Remaining fixtures:
28 April: v Waratahs, away
6 May: v Brumbies, away
12 May: v Reds, away
Cheetahs:
Current position: 10th
Best possible finish: 2nd
Worst possible finish: 14th
Remaining fixtures:
21 April: v Chiefs, away
29 April: v Blues, home
6 May: v Force, home
13 May: v Cats, home
Reds:
Current position: 11th
Best possible finish: 3rd
Worst possible finish: 14th
Remaining fixtures:
21 April: v Stormers, home
29 April: v Brumbies, away
5 May: v Hurricanes, away
12 May: v Highlanders, home
Stormers:
Current position: 12th
Best possible finish: 3rd
Worst possible finish: 14th
Remaining fixtures:
21 April: v Reds, away
29 April: v Crusaders, home
6 May: v Sharks, away
13 May: v Bulls, home
Cats:
Current position: 13th
Best possible finish: 5th
Worst possible finish: 14th
Remaining fixtures:
22 April: v Bulls, away
28 April: v Force, home
6 May: v Blues, home
13 May: v Cheetahs, away
Force:
Current position: 14th
Best possible finish: 6th
Worst possible finish: 14th
Remaining fixtures:
21 April: v Crusaders, home
28 April: v Cats, away
6 May: v Cheetahs, away
12 May: v Sharks, away

[biffon]

Force have been hit by another round of injuries to their core player group. Brendan Cannon is out of this weeks "top n bottom" match up against powerhouse Canterbury Crusaders. Hilgendorf is out as well with a fractured eye socket.
Fortunately Scott Staniforth is back this week - we will need him for sure!

Also good news (maybe?) is that Matt giteau is close to signing with the force and it is just a matter of timing and some finer points on length of contract that are being negotated.

What a great steal!!! and if we get mitchell from the reds and willie tonga from the NRL - watch out super14 2007!

[Shayne]

WHAT THE FUCK? Matt Giteau? Seriously???

[TiGeR]

Ja, Gits is looking to move west to be with his childhood mate Matt Henjak (remember them as rookies for the brumbies with those RIDICULOUS haircuts & even MORE ridiculous hair dye?!)

Anyway, if you have the patience to read it, attached are excerpts of a case study i did for the Golden Lions Rugby Union (old Transvaal Rugby Union) & Cats franchise re: sorting out the mess their in...apart from last yrs Craven week team which played & won in the final (they had a good coaching staff if i say so myself! he he he!) ALL their A sides are battling in local provincial tournaments...& if you dont read the WHOLE article, look out for the bit about the Brumbies psyche up before their game Vs Sharks in 2001 final...under the heading TEAM CULTURE...:smiley20:

“The key to success is how you prepare”: A case study on the emergence of the Brumbies & the resurgence of the NSW Waratahs as powerhouses in Super 12/14 Rugby. By Will Mbanga: supercoach@icecold.co.za (supercoach@icecold.co.za)

In the quest for success, preparation is paramount- success in the modern era is quantified by the results of the teams, the trophies/ championships won, the consistency of the team & the development of people within the system. If you were to measure outcomes, such as match statistics (tackle efficiency, gain line efficiency, possession, territory etc) then this holds true. When measuring the inputs (skills, conditioning, mental training, special skills) after every performance, the consistency and positive influence of these factors might well be the edge that separates success & failure. Every professional program works on the area of High Performance (skills, conditioning, mental toughness & player development) so the advantage any one team has over another from season to season will generally be small. So how do top programs like those of the Brumbies, the Crusaders & in more recent seasons, the Waratahs do so well consistently? By investing in value added concepts & doing the basics well, great teams like the Crusaders, have their ups and downs in any given season, but it rarely affects the end result as can be seen in their dominance in both NPC & super rugby.
As coaches and players at the highest level, we should spend most of our time striving for these ‘add ons’ to enable us to achieve the best performance on the night. The focus of our high-performance & academy coaches, should be on creating players for the next level- while there is the risk of losing players to other organisations and overseas, if we build a sustainable program, the right players will come: as Kevin Costner was advised in the movie ‘Field of dreams’; "If you build it, they will come."
The key aspects that need to be addressed in any rugby high performance program are:
· Physical conditioning (speed, strength, stability, power, cardio-respiratory fitness, agility, flexibility)
· Skill (position specific & general skills)
· Game plan (Tactical capacity of the players to adapt to the conditions & nullify opponents strengths)
· Attitude (mental toughness, team spirit & social responsibility)
· Professional development (academic & vocational courses to develop players professionally)
There are many other factors one could add in, as well as creating sub-sections & breaking some of the above aspects further, but rugby is a simple game, so I will keep to basic terms. I believe that to be successful, the program must deal effectively with skills, physical and personal development. Thereafter, these aspects of development must be spread to all levels of your program.
Too often people have been fooled into seeing a team as representing the program- the Sharks & Reds in particular have suffered in recent years from having a successful team & not having an effective program in place below that. To their credit, both franchises recognised this & began to develop their programs, academies & recruitment processes. Consistency of performance at all levels is also a valid measure of a good rugby program- the Bulls have been consistent within SA for a number of years, & Sharks are getting there again, with their U19, U21 & Vodacom cups sides starting to perform well in their various competitions. Their academy is arguably the best in the country with the Bulls & WP academies not far behind.
People must understand that progress in terms of rugby programs takes time- a strong, shared sense of responsibility/ accountability & more importantly, the will to be successful are required. Alongside this is getting the recipe right in terms of the intervening factors- the right blend of coaching staff, players & administrators, development initiatives as well as other value adds. There are five things that determine whether a union is going to retain or attract the best players on the circuit;
· Finance
· The union’s rugby program (coaching, player recruitment & development)
· The standard of competition at club & provincial level,
· The lifestyle in the city/ provincial base.
· Team culture
These fundamentals are the same anywhere in the world of professional sport you go & will not ever change significantly. If you were to look at these categories for your province, what would you find?
Finance- The big five SA provincial unions have no problem pulling in the players they want from a financial perspective. The Free State Cheetahs have suffered years of predation at the hands of their more financially viable neighbours, but are beginning to retain their best players, which is good for the game. The Bulls in recent years have used their finances wisely in terms or recruitment & development, as did the Lions & Sharks in the early nineties.
Rugby program-
1. Recruitment is critical in achieving your aims and getting the results you desire. Many coaches have made comments about the Waratahs' strength in depth. Locally, the Blue Bulls have dominated local competitions by recruiting well & developing their players successfully. Building successful teams/ squads isn’t achieved without the adherence to strict criteria, exceptional coaching, good scouting systems (the Sharks, Bulls & WP are excellent at this) & a program that will ensure that players can & will achieve their rugby potential. Recruitment must be a continuous process- players will come & go through transfers, big money offers, injury & retirement. Successful programs become wonderful supermarkets for other teams but the cycle is continuous. Our job is to ensure our program is a fulfilment of dreams for all stakeholders involved. The NSWRU & the Waratahs spend Aus$1 million on developing their next player and they have almost 100 players in their development program. Of those, 33 players are contracted full time with the Waratahs and the rest are involved in either their NSW ‘A’ or NSW academy programs. Within this second group of 60-odd players, the real development is taking place because that is where the business of recruiting & developing the talent available to produce future Wallabies.
Development of players within a rugby program is two fold- there must progressions both in rugby specific (skills & physical conditioning) & personal development (education, career advice & life skills) aspects. If the program offers a clear pathway, good players can get to where they want, the union achieves success & stakeholders get a return on investment. The NSWRU spends approximately 60 per cent of its ARU grant on development even though they are aware that many players developed by them will end up playing for rival franchises. But they spend that money because their aim is to find and retain the best players. Recruitment then becomes easier as players want to be part of the success of your program. If you can't deliver both on & off field results, then the credibility of your program & union or franchise will take a severe knock.
“If you run at the back of the pack each year, then people will come for the money. If you run at the front, then people will come for the opportunity and challenge to be with the best. More than half of a professional player's income will come from the ARU if they are selected for the Wallabies. The programs that are best at delivering Wallabies are the ones that players will be attracted to.” Ewen McKenzie (Head coach: NSW Waratahs)
Standard of club competition- The competitiveness of the school & club structures below provincial level are critical to the feeder system & growth of future provincial players. The union needs to ensure that its game development department is working effectively in developing the game, ensuring that resources are utilised maximally. All levels of the game below the professional program needs to be geared towards providing or recruiting competent, talented people. Former Wallabies coach Eddie Jones often talked about the difference between winning and losing being "two or three per cent". Players want to enjoy their rugby and achieve their goals of playing representative rugby- if your program or team is not performing, then all the money in the world will not improve your long term prospects. This applies to the standard of your club competition, the quality of yours schools program & development initiatives, depending on what level you start your recruitment. A stronger feeder system is a huge benefit to your professional program.
Lifestyle- Smart players will factor in far more than money when making their career decisions- representative prospects, personal development, comfort & quality of life of their families being major considerations.
Team culture- “IT WAS moments before the 2001 Super 12 final. Outside, rain was pelting the sell-out Canberra crowd as they anxiously waited for the Brumbies to take on the Sharks in the quest for their first Super 12 title. Inside the Brumbies' dressing room, all eyes were on skipper George Gregan. The atmosphere was supercharged as Gregan repeatedly slammed his fist into his hand, his face contorted as he fired up his troops. Walking down the Bruce Stadium tunnel after Gregan's fierce rev-up, ACT team adviser David Pembroke turned to coach Eddie Jones and asked: "Do you think we'll win?" "Of course we'll win," Jones replied. "They're so scared of George they'll do anything to win.
The Brumbies went on to smash the Sharks 36-6 that night. But it was the motivation behind the win that Jones so aptly summed up - the desire to meld as a team to satisfy Gregan - that defines that moment and their decade-long history of success. The "us versus them" mentality that had grown at the Brumbies - borne out of the players' perceptions they were discards from NSW and Queensland - for example, could not be replicated at the Waratahs. Rugby historian & author of “The Brumbies: The Super 12 Years” Michael McKernan, says foundation coach Rod Macqueen must take much of the credit for the ever-present camaraderie at the ACT.
There was a sense, not of being an underdog, but of being different. "They grew out of an environment where they were told before they played their first Super 12 game that if Transvaal didn't beat them by 100 points, then Transvaal would have failed. "One of the things about their culture is they have always seen themselves as playing in adversity and the only way they can combat that adversity is to stick together, to be good mates. The other factor is simple geography, McKernan says. Brumbies players lived, trained, ate, played and socialised together in the early days and, to a large extent, still do today.
"NSW have recently created a strong culture, which is special," former Wallabies & NSW captain Phil Kearns says. "From 1993 until Ewen took control, I don't think there was a strong culture at NSW." McKenzie had specific ideas about the culture he wanted to create when handed the top job in 2004. Many believe it's no coincidence McKenzie was a foundation member of the Brumbies side that went on to become Australia's most successful Super 12 franchise. McKenzie, later assistant coach at the ACT, says he didn't set out to replicate the Brumbies' culture at the Waratahs, but admits his experience there had some influence on the way he approached the job at NSW. At the top of his list was a strong focus on attitude, leadership, player input and accountability - elements McKenzie says are also important to the Brumbies' ongoing success."We've worked harder at finding ways for players to be accountable and be included," he says. "They don't run the show but they certainly have a lot of input and a lot of opportunity to influence what we're doing. However, he soon discovered that what worked at the Brumbies and elsewhere didn't necessarily fit with what he found at the Waratahs. "Every culture is different, you have to look at the people you've got and model it around what's appropriate for the time," he says."I probably went in there with thoughts and ideas that were created elsewhere and trying to impose some of those things is dangerous.
"How you manage change and transition and try to move a group of people through it is a delicate process and if you get too heavy-handed you can come a cropper. "I realised that we needed to be a bit more specific about the uniqueness of NSW and we tailored it much more and did a lot of work on the personal development side of things." Although he can't do anything about the geography of the team he coaches, McKenzie has worked hard to build a real sense of unity and belonging at the Waratahs. He has brought back overseas tours. They have been part exercise in team bonding, part opportunity to discover who has real leadership skills and who, perhaps, doesn't fit in with the culture McKenzie wants.
"The culture in NSW is what you see when you walk in the door - how people behave, how they relate to each other, how they perform on and off the field," McKenzie says. "All are important and it only works if you've got like-minded people, which is the similarity between the Waratahs and the Brumbies. It appears both ... have a lot of like-minded people and are heading in a clear direction." (Sydney Morning Herald; NSWRU, ACTRU & ARU archives)

References:
· ACTRU
· ARU archives. www.rugby.com.au (http://www.rugby.com.au/)
· Ewen McKenzie : Head coach NSW Waratahs; former player & assistant coach to the ACT Brumbies & Wallabies.
· NSWRU
· Sydney Morning Herald. www.smh.com.au (http://www.smh.com.au/)
“The Brumbies: The Super 12 years”: Michael McKernan

[biffon]

great read tiger - very inspiring, can i come coach someone now???!!!!

[TiGeR]

Bro, the rugby world needs decent coaches...especially here in SA! :smiley36:

[biffon]

http://foxsports.news.com.au/story/0,8659,18893165-23210,00.html

Force given reasons to be cheerful
By Tim Clarke
April 22, 2006

WITH Matt Giteau seemingly on his way (Edit: a verry rich man), and the Crusaders licking their wounds after escaping from Subiaco with a fortunate draw, the Western Force left for South Africa today with two more reasons to be cheerful.
With an official announcement about Giteau's imminent arrival likely tomorrow (confirmed today! :D ), the Force embarked on its three match tour with two surprise inclusions, Lachlan MacKay and Junior Pelesasa both in the 26 man-squad flying to Johannesburg.
Both players had been originally ruled out for the season after suffering serious injuries, Pelesasa breaking his right ankle and MacKay damaging knee ligaments early in the year.
However, both were today talking positively about playing in one of the Force's three upcoming games on the road, against the Cats, Cheetahs and Sharks.
Pelesasa said being close to playing, after such a serious injury, was a bonus.
"The first two or three weeks were pretty tough, but as I got the cast off things moved along pretty well," Pelesasa said.
"I am pretty sure I can play the last two or three games ... I don't want to jinx myself, but we will see what happens when we get over there."
As has been the way of the Force this year, it was not all good news, with Brendan Cannon to miss the trip to undergo neck surgery next week, and young fly half Scott Daruda also absent after damaging a shoulder.
Playmaker MacKay said his comeback might be pushed forward because of the injury to Daruda.
"I am going to have to try and push to make that first game, in saying that though, the legs might be a few weeks away," MacKay said.
"I don't want to go an do anything silly, and end up ... back at home."
Also included in the squad to tour was David Pocock, who will fly to South Africa from Dubai after playing his part in the Australian triumph at the under-19 world championships.
Meanwhile, the club were still digesting last night's astonishing 23-23 draw against the tournament favourite Crusaders, and the contentious decision which denied the Force a massive upset.
Australian TV referee Geoff Acton was at the centre of the controversy, when he denied Haig Sare a last ditch, match-winning score by ruling the winger slid into touch whilst grounding.
With extensive replays seemingly inconclusive, the try was still chalked off, a decision which left Sare bewildered.
"I thought the replay showed that his legs were out and my legs were still in the air, so I was pretty adamant it was a try," Sare said.
"It would have been great for rugby, so I thought no-one in their right mind would have disallowed the try but it wasn't to be.
"We do feel robbed a little bit."
Crusaders coach Robbie Deans said he had been impressed, but not surprised by the Force's performance, and admitted his team had been below par.
"It would be fair to say we were off the pace, but a large amount of credit deserves to go to the Force for that," Deans said.

[biffon]

Go the Force !!!- South Africa here we come - i think its going to be interesting... maybe theyll get two deserved wins hey... i cant see them winning against the sharks though. those natal boys are really playing well....

[TiGeR]

The Force were OUTSTANDING! (& they got Giteau!) 'saders despite being SHOCKING are STILL unbeaten...credit to them for THAT! Brumbies were gutsy Vs 'canes, Bulls SMOKED the Cats as expected...(i might have a job again at te Lions :smiley36: ) Sharks were on good form Vs Blues & starting to come right...enjoyed the Cheetahs Chiefs game...Stormers are JAMMY as ANYTHING to have played shit for 75 minutes & AWESOME for 5 mins & got away with a win...

[biffon]

Yeah stormers were lucky to win their game, but hey the team that makes hay wins the game!

Im glad the sharks are playing well, and glad they beat the blues, blues suck! i hate them

on that note i need to get a few games for my old man to watch...anyone know where i can get online vids of the games other than torrents?

[biffon]

heres some interesting info on the FORCE's Season so far for those that might be interested of course...

Force 2006 season scores

Force v Crusaders 23-23 Diff: 0 round 11
Force v Blues 8-39 Diff: 31
Force v Highlanders 22-25 Diff: 3
Force v Stormers 25-26 Diff: 1
Force v Bulls 21-30 Diff: 9
Force v Waratahs 7-32 Diff: 25
Force v Reds 18-29 Diff: 11
Force v Chiefs 9-26 Diff: 17
Force v Hurricanes 5-29 Diff: 23
Force v Brumbies 10-25 Diff: 5 round 1

Total points for/against = 148/284
Tries for/against = 17/36

versus Cats 2006 season scores

Cats v Bulls 17-46 Diff: 29 round 11
Cats v Sharks 8-36 Diff: 28
Cats v Reds 16-23 Diff: 7
Cats v Highlanders 14-16 Diff: 2
Cats v Crusaders 15-43 Diff: 28
Cats v Waratahs 3-50 Diff: 47
Cats v Brumbies 7-28 Diff: 21
Cats v Hurricanes 16-29 Diff: 13
Cats v Chiefs 21-16 Diff: -5
Cats v Stormers 12-23 Diff: 11 round 1


Total points for/against = 129/310
Tries for/against = 10/36


To Note:
1)Force have played 5 games where the score line difference was less than 10
2)Cats have come within 10 points only 3 times - one of which they won
3)Of the 5 close games the force have actually been in front at half time every time
4)Force have lost with a margin of over 20 three times whereas the Cats have lost big 5 times.
5) Force have scored 5 tries more and given away 26 points less than the cats this season

6)Cats are favorites to win at odds of 5 to 2 (WTF!!!) :(
( current Odds as of 10:55 WST Monday 24 April)

[Shayne]

Cats are hard to beat at Loftus Park. Even harder for the new comers.

I think the odds seem fine.

[biffon]

im stll going to bet on the force to win.. call it blind faith or whatever

[Aboriginal]

I'll be very surprised if the force don't win against the cats!

[TiGeR]

Ellis Park is a bit of fortress...but NOT with THESE pussy Cats! :smiley36: I suspect they will fight hard at home & MAYBE the Force's inexperience & lack of gamebreakers will cost them in the end...but the smart money HAS to be on the Force after last w/end's performance!

[Shayne]

One lucky game against the Crusaders and now they are the bees knees. This weekend will prove whether it was or not.

[TiGeR]

Not quite the bees knees mate...but definitely a team growing in confidence, character & experience...on the other hand you have the Cats, whose star is DEFINITELY waning. They might come out fighting & do the job, but their basics are SO poor its frightening! (there's the old african proverb that comes to mind "corner a cat & it WILL kill you"....bring on fri! I can hardly wait!

[Moses]

glad to see the 'Tahs are still performing... next step finals ;)

[biffon]

yeah all thanks to the force the tahs are one step closer to a home final

[Shayne]

Looks like its going to be a Cusaders - Brumbie, Waratahs - Hurricanes semi final. Any other realistic options?

[biffon]

If Hurricanes lose then it might be another SA team in there with a serious chance(Bulls or Sharks .. whoever wins that match)

but unlikely they will lose this game against the chiefs...we will see chiefs have pulled off a couple of upsets this year already

[Aboriginal]

I hope the Sharks get through, Bulls are boring. Really like the way they have been playing this season. Jeez and Moses makes an appearance!

[TiGeR]

SA rugger supporter to the last!

[biffon]

waaahahahah superb!

[Shayne]

Hell thats funny. Nice Tiger.

[Aboriginal]

Nice one Tiger. What you think of the Sharks vs Bulls? Should be bruising but hope the sharks show some flair and beat the boneheads! Secretly hope the stormers win at home. Carter on the bench for crusaders, maybe complacent again? lets hope so. About time there was a real shock

[TiGeR]

I think Bulls will use the bludgeon & Sharks will use the rapier (thats a slender sword to all you uneducated okes out there :smiley36: ) ...thing is, in SA derbies the bludgeon tends to win more games than any other approac because when dutchmen play dutchmen, the testosterone levels are off the HOOK...especially any North Vs South, coast Vs platteland; engelsman Vs afrikaaner type matches...so the heart says Sharks, but head says Bulls...especially as they are hurting & need the points...& are playing at fortess Loftus Versfeld!

'saders are wisely rotating their stock to ensure fresh meat for the semis & finals...the guys have to peak for both...not complacent, good player load management. I think every team is allowed a 'shocker' in this tournament & that was theirs...despite being TOTALLY inept on the day, they still didnt lose their composure & never looked like losing...the sign of a championship team.

[Shayne]

Totally agreed Tiger. Everyone wants to see the Sharks win but its just not going to happen as its a home game for the Bulls. Would like to see the stats of the last time the Sharks actually beat the Bulls at home.

[biffon]

come on guys lets not be realists our whole lives - you gotta live the dream... like me
I still believe the Force will win S14 this year!! :D

[biffon]

Campo stirring the pot again.

http://foxsports.news.com.au/story/0,8659,18948274-23217,00.html

What will happen to the Brumbies?
By David Campese
April 28, 2006


IT was 15 years ago, while speaking at a function soon after the 1991 World Cup, that I made a joke about being rugby's first millionaire.
British journalists had been constantly on my back, wanting to know whether I was being paid illegally in Italy at a time when the game was still amateur. The crack about a bulging bank account was deliberate and it had them in a frenzy.
Truth be told, there never was a million for me. Nothing near it. Not like these days when players can chalk up seven figures in a single season.
Matt Giteau is the latest of the big earners and good luck to him.
When you think back only three World Cups, to 1995 when the game was still played for love not money, that is one extraordinary transformation. Rugby union has come a long way.
But there will be plenty of old-fashioned followers who wonder whether it's moved in the right direction.
Gone are the days when you grew up wanting to play for the club where you lived. Chris Whitaker, NSW captain, still talks about when he was a kid and all he wanted to do was play first grade for Randwick.
He lived that dream from the amateur era and represented Randwick with pride. But all his top-class footy has been played in the world of sporting professionals. It's the realm of rich young men who don't need to work.
Most of them would have no idea about the struggles of some past players who would train every day, hold down demanding jobs and wear the state and national jumpers just for the honour of the green and gold.

Going professional has taken away some of that romance. But the modern-day player will not be complaining - not when 23-year-olds such as Giteau can sign deals that will set them up for life before the contract expires.
Giteau is a very talented player and I have no problem with him cashing in on his ability and profile. That's what makes the world turn. It's the era of survival and money and the Force needed him badly.
But the burning question out of all this is: What will happen to the Brumbies?
Losing Giteau is a major blow, especially when they know George Gregan, Stephen Larkham, Bill Young and maybe others will walk out the door after next year's World Cup.
I just hope the Brumbies administrators who sided with the players to dump David Nucifora as coach don't start shedding the crocodile tears.
Nucifora was axed because he felt it was time to shake up the older generation. He wanted to start bringing on the next crop of Brumbies and make the transition a smooth one.
He wanted to avoid the very drama the Brumbies are going to face next year when so many of their quality players leave at the same time. Even worse they have lost the best of their young stars in Giteau.
Those senior players got what they wanted when Nucifora was shown the door. But the Brumbies could pay for it down the track and will have, in part, only themselves to blame.

[biffon]

i fear he is actually correct in this prediction... i hope not though

[Poison]

Ya great post Tiger with the Super Sport Page.. HAHAHAHA

[Shayne]

Its sad now. Money rules the sport and love for your club / team no longer comes into the game.

[biffon]

that was always going to happen the moment they started paying player match fees... hell they even started doing it at Harare sports club, used to get $100 a game and i was only in the 2nd team

[Shayne]

I played Harare Sports Club Under 21's (1sts). We won the title for 2 years in a row and i never got paid a cent. Bastards ripped me off.

[biffon]

haha
only 1st & 2nds were paid...
and they only started doing it just before i left, i think i got paid for three games..
I also played the Mvurwi rugby fest when Kobus Wiese & krew came down from SA to watch... that guy is HUGE!!! i remember him walking through John Ewings folks front door and having to stoop and turn sideways to get through!!.
He showed us a bruise he got from the last weekends currie cup match.. fucksakes that looked Aiynah!!!

[TiGeR]

Kobus is 6'5 & 140kg...big guy!? I'll say! :smiley3:

Go the Force! he he he! The Cats need an embarassing loss like that to get the politicians to get busy sorting it out!

[Aboriginal]

I think the cats are already embarrassed for the whole season. The worst thing is they played their best period of rugby away and even then did'nt look convincing. The Force have been close finishers in most games home and away. I reckon they will put one over them with not too much effort.

Post about campo is quite funny in that is shows quite an educated persona hey. Now days with all the professionalism there are some real dumb ass guys playing. can't see Matt Rogers or Wendell sailor writing like that. Hah ha. Waratahs are looking like gaining another leaguie in Mark Gasnier. Aussies are in uproar in the amount of money going around. (Giteau 4.5mil over 3yrs) what do Sa and NZ players get paid I wonder. Anyone know?

[biffon]

actually wendell writes some GREAT peices for the same newspaper.. i will post one sometime. but yeah Matt im not so sure about! :D

[Shayne]

Force and Cats Draw. I told everyone that they werent going to win at the Loftus Fortress. On a side note, ADam won SHITLOADS by putting 300 on the draw at 28/1 in vbookie!

[Aboriginal]

Bastardo! Nice one Adam.
Yah not surprised that the Cats lost they are truly rubbish. Although did come back for the draw and hence take the title for second from the bottom feeders!

Go the Sharks!!!!!!!!!!!

[TiGeR]

SA players have got the unions over a barrel (still the after effects of the Newscorp/ Kerry Packer circus / Francois Pienaar & co. after the '95 RWC) & are on HUGE salaries...

Interesting games this w/end- tahs Highlanders was stuffed by the rain, so nice to see that the tahs showed REAL character & can win an arm wrestle in crap conditions, which will hold them in good stead for semis & a possible final in Christchurch...i though Cats & Force was very ordinary...EXCITING & ABSORBING in itself but really nothing to write home about in the grander scheme of things...thought the Brumbies were OUTSTANDING the way they were so clinical in their demolition of a competent Reds team...the 'canes were CLASSY in their loose trio & dominated the Chiefs across the park- not sure which is game of the w/end for me, Sharks Bulls or Cheetahs Blues....think the Bulls Sharks just shades it for quality..Sharks in the 2nd & Bulls in the 1st half....just watching the 'saders Stormers now..certainly a good 1st 40 by the Stormers...

[TiGeR]

Pretty impressive performance by the Stormers...'saders looked very flat but still, i wouldnt be stressed as a coach- they still showed signs of being a contender for the finals...if the 'tahs can hang onto top spot then semis could be 'tahs brumbies at Aussie stadium & 'saders 'canes at Jade... WHAT a pleasure! otherwise it'll end with 'tahs playing 'canes & brumbies playing 'saders...either way, some great rugger still to come!

I have to say at this juncture that it has been a long tourney already & while there are only really 5 teams left in the hunt & realistically only one of the 'saders, 'tahs or brumbies with a chance of getting the flag, the top sides have done well to perform so consistently well week in, week out...especially with the physical demands on the players...it is TRULY the worlds toughest provincial competition!

[Aboriginal]

Interesting results this weekend. Crusaders finally lost to the Stormers Yay but bit late l;azy bastards
Sorry about the Bull/ Sharks score too. At least the bulls sounded like they actually played some good rugby for a change. Canterbury next week. Chance of them losing two in a row? Hmmm Can't see the Bulls overtaking ACt unless the brumbies really stuff up and the Bulls play out of their skins. Bot highly unlikely. Anyway some clincher games next week cant wait!

[Shayne]

Pretty impressive performance by the Stormers...'saders looked very flat but still, i wouldnt be stressed as a coach- they still showed signs of being a contender for the finals...if the 'tahs can hang onto top spot then semis could be 'tahs brumbies at Aussie stadium & 'saders 'canes at Jade... WHAT a pleasure! otherwise it'll end with 'tahs playing 'canes & brumbies playing 'saders...either way, some great rugger still to come!!

The last week is going to be damn exciting. If the Bulls can win against the Crusaders next week, they have a strong possibilty of making the top four.

[Shayne]

Hmm Interesting!


The road to the play-offs
Sunday April 30 2006
Four more fall by the wayside

There are just two rounds remaining in the regular season of the inaugural Super 14 competition and now just eight teams remain in the running for a place in the play-offs - albeit some with such mathematically remote chances that it would require a bizarre set of results for them to make it.
And even more outlandish is the fact that the Crusaders, who two weeks ago were regarded as certainties for a place in the play-offs, have still not secured enough points - having played to a draw against the Force and lost to the Stormers, collecting just two points from their last two matches. With games against the Bulls and Brumbies remaining they are no longer certainties.
Unlike last week, six teams are now out of the running - with the Stormers (despite their brilliant win over the Crusaders), Highlanders, Cheetahs and Reds joining the Cats and Force as also-rans.
What must be heartbreaking for a team like the Stormers is that they did what they needed to - collect a full five points against the Crusaders - but with the Hurricanes and Brumbies both winning they have run out of games to make up the difference.
The irony is that the Chiefs, who lost to the Hurricanes and failed to collect a single point, are one of those with a mathematically remote chance of sneaking in. The Blues' fortuitous one-point win in Bloemfontein over the Cheetahs also kept their hopes alive.
The Sharks, another team who lost, stayed in the hunt thanks to the two bonus points they collected. But they require either the Brumbies or Hurricanes to lose both their remaining matches and then the Sharks must win by considerable margins against the Stormers and Force.
The Bulls kept their hopes alive by taking five points against the Sharks, but they still require the Hurricanes and/or Brumbies to lose in the remaining weeks if they want to sneak in the back door. They have matches against the Crusaders and Stormers coming up.
We set out below all the possible scenarios that the next two weeks could produce, but please bear in mind that in some cases where we list the 'best possible finish' it will require a number of results going in favour of that team.
Here goes - team by team:
Waratahs:
Current position: 1st
Best possible finish: 1st
Worst possible finish: 5th
Remaining fixtures:
6 May: v Chiefs, away
13 May: v Hurricanes, home
Crusaders:
Current position: 2nd
Best possible finish: 1st
Worst possible finish: 5th
Remaining fixtures:
5 May: v Bulls, away
12 May: v Brumbies, home
Hurricanes:
Current position: 3rd
Best possible finish: 1st
Worst possible finish: 6th
Remaining:
5 May: v Reds, home
13 May: v Waratahs, away
Brumbies:
Current position: 4th
Best possible finish: 1st
Worst possible finish: 8th
Remaining fixtures:
6 May: v Highlanders, home
12 May: v Crusaders, away
Bulls:
Current position: 5th
Best possible finish: 1st
Worst possible finish: 8th
Remaining fixtures:
5 May: v Crusaders, home
13 May: v Stormers, away
Sharks:
Current position: 6th
Best possible finish: 3rd
Worst possible finish: 11th
Remaining fixtures:
6 May: v Stormers, home
12 May: v Force, home
Chiefs:
Current position: 7th
Best possible finish: 4th
Worst possible finish: 12th
Remaining fixtures:
6 May: v Waratahs, home
13 May: v Blues, away
Blues:
Current position: 8th
Best possible finish: 4th
Worst possible finish: 12th
Remaining fixtures:
6 May: v Cats, away
13 May: v Chiefs, home
Stormers:
Current position: 9th
Best possible finish: 6th
Worst possible finish: 12th
Remaining fixtures:
6 May: v Sharks, away
13 May: v Bulls, home
Highlanders:
Current position: 10th
Best possible finish: 6th
Worst possible finish: 12th
Remaining fixtures:
6 May: v Brumbies, away
12 May: v Reds, away
Cheetahs:
Current position: 11th
Best possible finish: 6th
Worst possible finish: 12th
Remaining fixtures:
6 May: v Force, home
13 May: v Cats, home
Reds:
Current position: 12th
Best possible finish: 7th
Worst possible finish: 14th
Remaining fixtures:
5 May: v Hurricanes, away
12 May: v Highlanders, home
Cats:
Current position: 13th
Best possible finish: 12th
Worst possible finish: 14th
Remaining fixtures:
6 May: v Blues, home
13 May: v Cheetahs, away
Force:
Current position: 14th
Best possible finish: 13th
Worst possible finish: 14th
Remaining fixtures:
6 May: v Cheetahs, away
12 May: v Sharks, away

[Oldboy]

go the bulls, i hope they kick the crusaders ass all over that paddock & GIVE THEM HORNS.

[TiGeR]

Mate...the 'saders have NEVER lost 2 games in a row in Super rugby history...WHAT a CRAZY w/end!? H/landers sneaking in against the Brumbies, Force standing up for their first hoorah against the Cheetahs of all teams! Cats doing the Blues, Chiefs doing the 'tahs, 'saders blowing out the Bulls (a win was expected, but not in such emphatic fashion- i was there in Loftus with all the whining Bulls supporters :smiley20: ) Reds giving the 'canes a tough game & Butch "no arms in the tackle" James returning for the Sharks..& Sharks win vs the Stormers...:smiley20: :smiley32: :smiley3: :smiley36: :smiley19: :smiley13: :smiley29: what a range of emotions, what a w/end of rugger!

[biffon]

i agree - rode high as a kite last night on the force win and then the blues had to lose against the cats to keep the force at the bottom of the pile again....

I was really impressed withn the sharks stormers game, best running rugby ive seen in a while, and the sharks truck & trailer rolling maul is the best in the business, force are going to have their hands full next week!

Well done the Chiefs and The Highlanders! for their great upsets, feel sorry for the Tah's but for the silly Mat Rogers brain explosion at the end they mightve won.

[biffon]

yeah and what is the big deal about butch james?
he had a really quiet night ... in contrast Brent Russell is worth TOP DOLLAR! that little guy is like a bullet, and whats more he can tackle too unlike Paulse who has a similar running style.

hed be in my World XV for sure!

[RustyBear]

Ive missed all of the games so far i cant beleive it and its all ur fault biffon thanks, anyway who is winning any S.A teams up there? How are the sharks doing?

[biffon]

sharks are doing well, really picked up their game this year... pity they didnt get a bonus points this week as they would have been in with a realistic chance of getting into the finals, they still can but there has to be some miracle... i think brumbies have to lose without getting a point and the Bulls also have to lose, and then they have to beat the western Force and get a bonus point... as i said they need a miracle..
GO THE FORCE!! hehe

[RustyBear]

Maybe by some miracle the force and the bulls could come down with a mysterious bug and forfit their points to the sharks. Go The SHARKS.........

[TiGeR]

Going to take more than a miracle- the teams that got stung this w/end will be playing for their lives next w/end... ('tahs & 'saders for a home semi & possibly final, Brumbies & 'canes for a place & possibly no. 3 spot in the last four (rather take on the 'tahs than the 'saders in a semi!) & then with a North Vs South derby Bulls & Stormers will go at each other hammer & tongs, while Sharks might not have much petrol in the tank & Force have a spring in their step...what an intruiging final round robin w/end! :smiley20: :smiley32:

[biffon]

http://foxsports.news.com.au/story/0,8659,19067208-5002381,00.html

LEADING orthopaedic surgeon Dr Merv Cross last night slammed rugby union's decision to suspend Australia captain George Gregan for just one week, describing his weekend spear tackle as "disgusting" and worthy of a 10-week ban.

The kid glove treatment of Gregan, after his dangerous Super 14 tackle on Highlanders winger Richard Kahui, came as the National Rugby League charged Melbourne's Michael Crocker with a grade four dangerous throw on South Sydney's Shane Rigon.
Crocker will be suspended for nine matches if he enters an early guilty plea, 12 if he fights the case and loses.
"The fact Gregan only got one week is disgusting," Cross said.
"(Gregan's) tackle was dangerous. Had it been another player, you can't help but think he would have been given a bigger suspension," Dr Cross said.
"You only need to see one player become a quadriplegic and everyone loses interest (in the sport).
"I think league has got it right, I don't think union has.
"I thought that rugby union, given the incidence of neck injuries, would have been more severe than just one match.

Many experienced commentators and players from both codes believe Gregan's spear tackle was worse than Crocker's.
The impending suspension of Crocker, who has been outed seven times since 2002, will end his chances of representing Queensland in this year's State of Origin series.
"Michael Crocker is a bloke who should have known better," Dr Cross said.
Crocker's grade four charge carries a base penalty of a seven-week ban which would be increased because of past offences.
Gregan's one-week ban means he will miss the fourth-placed Brumbies's final regular season match against the Super 14-leader the Crusaders in Christchurch on Friday night.
But he will be available for the semi-finals the next weekend if the Brumbies make the top four.
Former dual international Ray Price is one former player not calling for tough action.
He said he had viewed both tackles and had no problems with either.
"(Kahui) landed across the back of his shoulder," Price, arguably one of the greatest forwards to play league and union, said.
"Gregan didn't have his hands between his legs. I saw nothing wrong with the tackle."
Asked about the Crocker tackle, Price said: "It was a good tackle."

[Adam]

Go the BRUMBIES:smiley20: :smiley20: :smiley20: kick some south island ass.

[biffon]

http://foxsports.news.com.au/story/0,8659,19096435-5002381,00.html
Force re-signs Pocock
By Bret Harris
May 11, 2006

WESTERN Force has re-signed outstanding Australia under-19 openside flanker David Pocock for another two years.

One of Australian rugby's brightest prospects, the Zimbabwean-born Pocock rejected an offer from Queensland.
Pocock may celebrate his re-signing with his first appearance for Force when it plays the Sharks in Durban on Saturday. As part of coach John Mitchell's development policy, Pocock is in line to start at openside flanker if he passes a fitness test on a leg injury he sustained in the Australia under-19 team's recent world championship-winning campaign in Dubai.
Junior Pelesasa is expected to start at outside centre following his stunning comeback from injury in Force's historic win against the Cheetahs in Kimberley last Saturday, with Josh Graham moving to the wing

[biffon]

further to that article - i can confirm that Pocock will be Starting on the field tonight! yeah baby!
Well done lad may you go from strength to strength... maybe someday soon you'll be wearing the green and gold of the wallabies!

i beleive as a tribute to this, all TCB members need to bet $100 on the force winning tonight!

[biffon]

ooooh Brumbies are in SERIOUS strife... just got thumped by the saders..
opening the way for the sharks or the Bulls to snatch 4th spot - we will see how the game goes tonight against the force - i dont honestly know how the game will go... looking forward to it thats for sure!!!

[TiGeR]

OUCH!:smiley19: :smiley18: ...Damn we got SPANKED by the 'saders!?...

Well, the 'saders were OUTSATNDING this morning (SA time) in their demolition of the Brumbes..showed what a championship side they are...all the ppl who were doubting with their resting players & rotation policy, loss to the Stormers, draw with the Force etc saw today just how canny Robbie Deans & his coaching staff are & what a quality group those 'saders players are..especially after losing 9 players end of last yr's S12 :smiley3:

[Shayne]

Well the Brumbies are out for the SECOND year in a row. So depressing. They really shot themseleves in the foot by losing to the Highlanders. Shows you how important bonus points are....

[zambezilover]

go the BULLS

[RustyBear]

seeing as the sharks are out then come on the bulls

[Aboriginal]

Yah go the boneheads!

[Billy]

Right people who is going to win the super 14?? is there betting on that yet. The crusaders are going to crush the bulls today then move on to win the final!

[TiGeR]

Well, the smart money says the 'canes wont have enough in the tank to beat the 'saders at Jade...but what an intruiguing final! Look at the battles at loose forward, at half back, at midfield, in the back three...I can hardly wait!:smiley20: :smiley32:

[Shayne]

What a dissapointing super 14 semi's.. Waratahs and Brumbies both shot themselves in the foot and have noone else to blame but themselves.

Well done to the Bulls for giving it their best and actually making the semi's. They never were going to compete with th Saders.

Noone will stop them this year....

[izabokkeman]

I agree, but if the canes can tighten up there game at the break down and sort out there set plays................aw who am I kidding Saders will win it tho wouldnt mind the canes winning just to make a change bloody saders been on top to long got to make room for the others man share a little !!!!!

[chantillylace]

Hey Billy - check out the Super 14 Talk thread in the Sports Chat section!

[biffon]

ive moved billy's post here to keep it neat - sorry blair :D

[RustyBear]

who won the super 14

[Shayne]

Finals are next weekend. Crusaders vs Hurricanes who are lucky to get through. Dodgy ref decision that cost the Waratahs the game.

Interesting point here. Waratahs have lost 15 of their 16 games under Kaplan, the SA ref that cost the Waratahs this game and twleve of those i think have been away games.

[biffon]

thats is a seriously dodgy stat considering how well the Tahs have done in the last two years!

ive never liked SA refs anyway , i think the only one i enjoyed was Tuppa Henning cause he was so bad it was funny to watch!

but honestly its not the refs that get my hackles up its the commentators.. SA ones are usually ex rugby players that cant speak english properly, the New zealand comentators are so critical of everything everyone does on the field - as if they could do better!!!
and the aussie commentators are so one sided its embarrasing! so i cant win there i think!

maybe the broken english of the SA guys is the best, at least theyre semi-impartial to good rugby from the away team!

[Shayne]

Just seen that the Waratahs today launched an offical complaint against Kaplan.

And I confirmed the stats. Waratahs have lost the last 14 of 15 games under him and 12 of those have been away.

[biffon]

http://foxsports.news.com.au/story/0,8659,19205507-5002381,00.html
McKenzie seething with referee
By Peter Jenkins
May 21, 2006

WARATAHS coach Ewen McKenzie will lodge an official complaint about South African referee Jonathan Kaplan's handling of Friday night's semi-final loss in Wellington.

A seething McKenzie confirmed last night he would detail a string of decisions in the 14-16 defeat to the Hurricanes that completed a late-season collapse from NSW and dumped them from title contention.

Annoyed initially by two scrum rulings that turned into a 10-point punishment, McKenzie rolled out a lengthier log of alleged injustices after watching a replay of the game in the early hours yesterday.
His grievances included:
Skipper Chris Whitaker being marched 10m and into goalkicking range for the Hurricanes;
Kaplan failing to play a reasonable advantage when NSW was in a try-scoring position;
The referee approaching a NSW forward, not the team captain, to make a key second-half decision;
A lineout penalty against flanker Phil Waugh that McKenzie claims was inconsistent with other rulings;
NSW being penalised for a collapsed scrum that gave the Hurricanes a match-winning penalty;
Kaplan failing to penalise the Kiwis for wheeling a scrum and then giving the Hurricanes the feed from the reset, which led to their only try.

"I will detail it," said McKenzie, who will send his protest to tournament bosses via the Australian Rugby Union. "All I want is consistency. All I ever talk about is consistency. And I don't know how it can all be so inconsistent.
"I've bitten my tongue for a long time but I'll be outlining it now because it doesn't seem to get any better."

The Waratahs have lost 12 successive games on the road with Kaplan in control.
"I've been aware of the statistics for some time," McKenzie said.
"I've sat on them assuming things will get better. But they haven't."
McKenzie was livid about the brief advantage Kaplan played as the Waratahs attacked deep inside the Hurricanes quarter while trailing 13-11 in the 67th minute.
NSW had formed a driving maul from a lineout, only to have the Hurricanes infringe short of the line. Kaplan held out an arm for advantage but did not allow play to develop beyond one more phase before awarding the Waratahs a penalty near touch.

Winger Peter Hewat kicked the three points to put NSW one point in front - a lead wiped out when Kaplan controversially penalised the Waratahs for collapsing a scrum three minutes later.
"What advantage was there for us near their line," McKenzie said. "We virtually drove that maul over before [the Hurricanes infringed], so it should have been a penalty try, to be honest. Then when [centre Sam] Norton-Knight hits it up under the posts he blows play up and takes it back to give us a penalty on the sideline. We had numbers on them if he lets play continue.

"If he gives us three phases before calling it up, like he gave them, maybe we score a try and we're in front by three, possibly five.
"It was the only time in the game he played a one-phase advantage."

[Shayne]

I can see why they are so pissed off.

[izabokkeman]

heres the stupid thing tho all refs make game breaking decisions, I there was that one try wales or someone made against the boks once, coz the ref told John Smit the captain to go talk to your players about repeated infrindgements at the breakdown. and while he was tlking the other team took a quick penalty and scored, the ref allowed it. Shit happens get over it humans make mistakes, and unfortunatley humans can never be 100% impartial, it is almost impossible. You just have live with the ref and play the game, besides the aussies are sore losers

[Shayne]

That was the game against Ireland.

[biffon]

no correction... NSW are sore losers... the WesternForce were gracious in taking up the wooden spoon this year! hehe

[Aboriginal]

NSW were never in the game. Did well to stay so close though. Hurricanes deserved to win. ozzys just don't like losing. Bit like Zimbo's really will bitch and moan when they do. (I think were just all moaned out at the moment though with all our losses in and off the sports arena)

Pity its an all NZ final. Not sure I can be arsed to watch it. The crusaders have to be favorite by a huge margin. Anti climax final really!

[biffon]

well im not so sure.. the Saders have shown that they do have off games...

Against the force and the Stormers come to mind..
And the Tahs did well to nearly beat them earlier in the season.

but ill still bet for them :D

[Billy]

Any predictions on the score I rate it will be 22-16 to the crusaders, i also think that western force is going to kick ass next year, so watch this space!

[biffon]

hehe billy lad...a man after my own heart!! go the FORCE

may the FORCE be with you....


also think the score this weekend will be close!

[izabokkeman]

heres what i dont understand tho is that the SA teams are full of talented players yet the dont perform go figure!!!

[Shayne]

also think the score this weekend will be close!


I hope not. I put all my money on a big win....

[Billy]

i hope its close i put my limited savings on a narrow margin!! who do i have to kill to get a better credit rating? ha ha.

[Shayne]

Join the TCB world cup soccer comp. You get 10 Grand for free :)

[TiGeR]

HEY! This is a rugby thread...no :smiley35: swearing allowed! :smiley36:
am SO bleak! have to work over the S14 final! :smiley19: i havent missed a Super rugby final since the S10 days!

[Shayne]

That was possibly the worst anti climax final ever. What shocking conditions.. i could hardly see a thing on TV. Love the commentators though. "Carter puts up a high up and under. Who knows where it is now and where it'll land"..

At least i didnt buy and ticket and go to the game, thankfully.

[biffon]

that was pathetic i never thought i would want to change channels during a s14 game....
everytime they went to the camera up in the grandstands i wanted to throw a brick at the screen. what dumfucks! you couldnt fucking see anything from up there the fucking dipshits!!!! (camera operators)
and i lost money cause they didnt win by more than 13... screwups!!

[Shayne]

They seriously should of postponed that game in hope of better conditions. Even if it was delayed until next weekend...

Did you see the stats? Crusaders had like 83% territory.. imagine if the game was played in perfect conditions? Margin would of been +30?

[TiGeR]

Team of the Tournament

Monday May 29 2006
All things wild and wonderful
The inaugural Super 14 competition has come to and end, with the Crusaders walking away with the trophy yet again - for the sixth time out of eight Super Rugby finals. There is no doubt they are the undisputed masters of Super Rugby.
http://www.planetrugby.com/mediastore/images/editorial/New_Zealand/carter_dan_crusaders_110x14.jpg
Nobody could Get Carter in 2006


But how did the individuals do this year?
Our intrepid team of selectors sat down over the weekend to decide on our Team of the Tournament for 2006.
At times we felt like following the example of Tana Umaga and Chris Masoe and belting each other.
But with the help of some strong liquid refreshments we managed to keep our composure and finalised our team.
It is a selection of all things wild and wonderful - wild horses (Brumbies), wild storms (Hurricanes) and the wonderful Crusaders. Oh, yes there is the odd flower (Waratahs), Bull, Highlander and even a Cheetah in the mix.
As was to be expected, the Crusaders are best represented, with four members. They are followed by fellow finalists, the Hurricanes, and the Brumbies, with three members each. The Waratahs (two), Bulls, Highlanders and Cheetahs (one each) make up the numbers.
Here's our team of the tournament:
15 Leon MacDonald (Crusaders):
After a slow start to the season he dominated our weekly teams at the business-end of the season.
Bubbling under: Mils Muliaina (Chiefs)
14 Clyde Rathbone (Brumbies):
Consistent and powerful throughout the past three months.
Bubbling under: Rico Gear (Crusaders)
13 Stirling Mortlock (Brumbies):
When he departs the scene he is going to leave a gaping hole in Australian rugby.
Bubbling under: Ma'a Nonu (Hurricanes)
12 Aaron Mauger (Crusaders):
He is so effective that sometimes you do not even realise it... until you watch the video of a game and then see how much havoc he creates.
Bubbling under: Scott Staniforth (Western Force)
11 Lote Tuqiri (Waratahs):
He was always a far better buy (from league) than Wendell Sailor.
Bubbling under: Mark Gerrard (Brumbies)
10 Dan Carter (Crusaders):
No argument!
Bubbling under: Tony Brown (Sharks)
9 George Gregan (Brumbies):
Another player that is going to leave a huge void in the near future.
Bubbling under: Ruan Pienaar (Sharks)
8 Rodney So'oialo (Hurricanes):
It was a close call between him and Richie McCaw as our captain.
Bubbling under: Mose Tuiali'i (Crusaders)
7 Richie McCaw (Crusaders, captain):
Captain fantastic. The master of turnovers and another very special player.
Bubbling under: George Smith (Brumbies)
6 Jerry Collins (Hurricanes):
He may be guilty of some king hits at times and he does tend to push the boundaries, but he remains in a class of his own.
Bubbling under: Troy Flavell (Blues)
5 Dan Vickerman (Waratahs):
He is now close to being the world's top No.5 lock.
Bubbling under: Nathan Sharpe (Western Force)
4 Bakkies Botha (Bulls):
At times he was fighting a lonely, but valiant, battle in the Bulls pack.
Bubbling under: Johan Ackermann (Sharks)
3 Carl Hayman (Highlanders):
The most dependable tighthead in the tournament.
Bubbling under: BJ Botha (Sharks)
2 Andrew Hore (Hurricanes):
Another player that showed his true class at the business-end of the season.
Bubbling under: Corey Flynn (Crusaders)
1 Os du Randt (Cheetahs):
Sure, he might only have played 50 minutes at a time, but he still got through more work and put in more tackles than most props do in 80 minutes anyway.
Bubbling under: Tony Woodcock (Blues)
Looking back at our weekly selections:
Form XV Week One: 15 Chris Latham (Reds), 14 Wendell Sailor (Waratahs), 13 Ma'a Nonu (Hurricanes), 12 Matt Giteau (Brumbies), 11 Rico Gear (Crusaders), 10 Percy Montgomery (Sharks), 9 Ruan Pienaar (Sharks), 8 Scott Fava (Western Force), 7 Richard McCaw (Crusaders), 6 Chris Masoe (Hurricanes), 5 James Ryan (Highlanders), 4 Johan Ackermann (Sharks), 3 Carl Hayman (Highlander), 2 Anton Oliver (Highlanders), 1 Tony Woodcock (Blues).
Bubbling Under XV Week One: 15 Werner Greeff (Stormers), 14 Lome Fa'atau (Hurricanes), 13 Ronnie Cooke (Cheetahs), 12 Andries Strauss (Sharks), 11 Bryan Habana (Bulls), 10 Dan Carter (Crusaders), 9 Fourie du Preez (Bulls), 8 Mose Tuiali'i (Crusaders), 7 AJ Venter (Sharks), 6 Kabamba Floors (Cheetahs), 5 Hugh McMeniman (Reds), 4 Chris Jack (Crusaders), 3 Campbell Johnstone (Crusaders), 2 Andrew Hore (Hurricanes), 1 Heinke van der Merwe (Sharks).
Form XV Week Two: 15 Sam Norton-Knight (Waratahs), 14 Giscard Pieters (Cheetahs), 13 Morgan Turinui (Waratahs), 12 Matt Giteau (Brumbies), 11 Digby Ioane (Western Force), 10 Dan Carter (Crusaders), 9 Sam Cordingley (Reds), 8 Rodney So'oialo (Hurricanes), 7 George Smith (Brumbies), 6 Daniel Heenan (Brumbies), 5 Jason Eaton (Hurricanes), 4 Chris Jack (Crusaders), 3 BJ Botha (Sharks), 2 Andrew Hore (Hurricanes), 1 Tony Woodcock (Blues).
Bubbling Under Week Two: 15 Adam Ashley-Coopers (Brumbies), 14 Lome Fa'atau (Hurricanes), 13 Stirling Mortlock (Brumbies), 12 Elton Flatley (Reds), 11 Mark Gerrard (Brumbies), 10 Berrick Barnes (Reds), 9 Enrico Januarie (Cats), 8 Mose Tuiali'i (Crusaders), 7 Richard McCaw (Crusaders), 6 Kabamba Floors (Cheetahs), 5 Albert van den Bergh (Sharks), 4 Mark Connors (Reds), 3 Carl Hayman (Highlanders), 2 Schalk Brits (Stormers), 1 Greg Somerville (Crusaders).
Form XV Week Three: 15 Ben Blair (Highlanders), 14 Clyde Rathbone (Brumbies), 13 JP Nel (Bulls), 12 Elton Flatley (Reds), 11 Bryan Habana (Bulls), 10 Dan Carter (Crusaders), 9 Sam Cordingley (Reds), 8 Rodney So'oialo (Hurricanes), 7 Richard McCaw (Crusaders), 6 Rocky Elsom (Waratahs), 5 Francois van Schouwenburg (Bulls), 4 Bakkies Botha (Bulls), 3 Carl Hayman (Highlanders), 2 Kevin Mealamu (Blues), 1 Tony Woodcock (Blues).
Bubbling Under Week Three: 15 Percy Montgomery (Sharks), 14 Rico Gear (Crusaders), 13 Neil Brew (Highlanders), 12 Seilala Mapusua (Highlanders), 11 Mark Gerard (Brumbies), 10 Nick Evans (Highlanders), 9 Ricky Januarie (Cats), 8 Nick Williams (Blues), 7 Chris Masoe (Hurricanes), 6 Gerhard Vosloo (Cats), 5 James Ryan (Highlanders), 4 Chris Jack (Crusaders), 3 Neemia Tialata (Hurricanes), 2 Anton Oliver (Highlanders), 1 Os du Randt (Cheetahs).
Form XV Week Four: 15 Ben Blair (Highlanders), 14 Sosene Anesi (Chiefs), 13 Stirling Mortlock (Brumbies), 12 Seilala Mapusua (Highlanders), 11 Scott Hamilton (Crusaders), 10 Nick Evans (Highlanders), 9 Chris Smylie (Highlanders), 8 Sione Lauaki (Chiefs), 7 Richie McCaw (Crusaders), 6 Wycliff Palu (Waratahs), 5 James Ryan (Highlanders), 4 Chris Jack (Crusaders), 3 Carl Hayman (Highlanders), 2 Anton Oliver (Highlanders), 1 Deacon Manu (Chiefs).
Bubbling Under Week Four: 15 Leon MacDonald (Crusaders), 14 Peter Hewat (Waratahs), 13 Neil Brew (Highlanders), 12 Matt Giteau (Brumbies), 11 Mark Gerrard (Brumbies), 10 Stephen Larkham (Brumbies), 9 George Gregan (Brumbies), 8 Ryno van der Merwe (Cheetahs), 7 Juan Smith (Cheetahs), 6 Solly Tyibilika (Sharks), 5 Jason Eaton (Hurricanes), 4 Kobus Grobbelaar (Cheetahs), 3 BJ Botha (Sharks), 2 Kevin Mealamu (Blues), 1 Os du Randt (Cheetahs).
Form XV Week Five: 15 Leon MacDonald (Crusaders), 14 Clyde Rathbone (Brumbies), 13 Mark Ranby (Chiefs), 12 Jean de Villiers (Stormers), 11 Lote Tuqiri (Waratahs), 10 Mat Rogers (Waratahs), 9 George Gregan (Brumbies), 8 Rodney So'oialo (Hurricanes), 7 George Smith (Brumbies), 6 Pierre Spies (Bulls), 5 Dan Vickerman (Waratahs), 4 Ross Skeate (Stormers), 3 Carl Hayman (Highlanders), 2 Adam Freier (Waratahs), 1 Joe McDonnell (Hurricanes).
Bubbling Under Week Five: 15 Johan Roets (Bulls), 14 Akona Ndungane (Bulls), 13 Ma'a Nonu (Hurricanes), 12 Wynand Olivier (Bulls), 11 Hosea Gear (Hurricanes), 10 Jimmy Gopperth (Hurricanes), 9 Fourie du Preez (Bulls), 8 Mose Tuiali'i (Crusaders), 7 Richie McCaw (Crusaders), 6 Luke Watson (Stormers), 5 Victor Matfield (Bulls), 4 Bakkies Botha (Bulls), 3 Greg Somerville (Crusaders), 2 Schalk Brits, 1 Nick White (Highlanders).
Form XV Week Six: 15 JP Pietersen (Sharks), 14 Odwa Ndungane (Sharks), 13 Anthony Tuitavake (Blues), 12 Aaron Mauger (Crusaders), 11 Henno Mentz (Sharks), 10 Tony Brown (Sharks), 9 Chris Whitaker (Waratahs), 8 Rodney So'oialo (Hurricanes), 7 Chris Masoe (Hurricanes), 6 Troy Flavell (Blues), 5 Dan Vickerman (Waratahs), 4 Johan Ackermann (Sharks), 3 John Afoa (Blues), 2 Schalk Brits (Stormers), 1 Os du Randt (Cheetahs).
Bubbling Under Week Six: 15 Isa Nacewa (Blues), 14 Clyde Rathbone (Brumbies), 13 Marius Joubert (Stormers), 12 Rua Tipoki (Blues), 11 Mark Gerrard (Brumbies), 10 Meyer Bosman (Cheetahs), 9 John Senio (Blues), 8 AJ Venter (Sharks), 7 George Smith (Brumbies), 6 Jerry Collins (Hurricanes), 5 Victor Matfield (Bulls), 4 Ross Skeate (Stormers), 3 Carl Hayman (Highlanders), 2 Andrew Hore (Hurricanes), 1 Benn Robinson (Waratahs).
Form XV Week Seven: 15 Mils Muliaina (Chiefs), 14 Clyde Rathbone (Brumbies), 13 Ben Tune (Reds), 12 Scott Staniforth (Western Force), 11 Lote Tuqiri (Waratahs), 10 James Hilgendorf (Western Force), 9 Sam Cordingley (Reds), 8 Rodney So'oialo (Hurricanes), 7 Chris Masoe (Hurricanes), 6 Hale T-Pole (Highlanders), 5 Nathan Sharpe (Western Force), 4 Bakkies Botha (Bulls), 3 Clark Dermody (Highlanders), 2 Adam Freier (Waratahs), 1 Os du Randt (Cheetahs).
Bubbling Under Week Seven: 15 Cameron Shepherd (Western Force), 14 Lome Fa'atau (Hurricanes), 13 Stirling Mortlock (Brumbies), 12 Julian Huxley (Reds), 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu (Chiefs), 10 Tony Brown (Sharks), 9 Chris Whitaker (Waratahs), 8 Ryno van der Merwe (Cheetahs), 7 Marty Holah (Chiefs), 6 Jerry Collins (Hurricanes), 5 Victor Matfield (Bulls), 4 Mark Chisholm (Brumbies), 3 Al Baxter (Waratahs), 2 Anton Oliver (Highlanders), 1 Nick White (Highlanders).
Form XV Week Eight: 15 Leon MacDonald (Crusaders), 14 Rico Gear (Crusaders), 13 Mils Muliaina (Chiefs), 12 Rua Tipoki (Blues), 11 Digby Ioane (Western Force), 10 Dan Carter (Crusaders), 9 Andrew Ellis (Crusaders), 8 Rodney So'oialo (Hurricanes), 7 Richard McCaw (Crusaders), 6 Luke Watson (Stormers), 5 Jason Eaton (Hurricanes), 4 Bakkies Botha (Bulls), 3 BJ Botha (Sharks), 2 Corey Flynn (Crusaders), 1 Benn Robinson (Waratahs).
Bubbling Under Week Eight: 15 Drew Mitchell (Reds), 14 Sosene Anesi (Chiefs), 13 Seilala Mapusua (Highlanders), 12 Jean de Villiers (Stormers), 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu (Chiefs), 10 Tony Brown (Sharks), 9 Jamie Nutbrown (Chiefs), 8 AJ Venter (Sharks), 7 Chris Masoe (Hurricanes), 6 Jerry Collins (Hurricanes), 5 Dan Vickerman (Waratahs), 4 Johan Ackermann (Sharks), 3 Campbell Johnstone (Crusaders), 2 Schalk Brits (Stormers), 1 Os du Randt (Cheetahs).
Form XV Week Nine: 15 Mils Muliaina (Chiefs), 14 Viliame Waqaseduadua (Blues), 13 Stirling Mortlock (Brumbies), 12 Rua Tipoki (Blues), 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu (Chiefs), 10 Stephen Larkham (Brumbies), 9 George Gregan (Brumbies), 8 Pedrie Wannenburg (Bulls), 7 Marty Holah (Chiefs), 6 Troy Flavell (Blues), 5 Mark Chisholm (Brumbies), 4 Chris Jack (Crusaders), 3 Carl Hayman (Highlanders), 2 Corey Flynn (Crusaders), 1 Os du Randt (Cheetahs).
Bubbling Under Week Nine: 15 Leon MacDonald (Crusaders), 14 Giscard Pieters (Cheetahs), 13 Jaque Fourie (Cats), 12 Matt Giteau (Brumbies), 11 Mark Gerrard (Brumbies), 10 Dan Carter (Crusaders), 9 Andrew Ellis (Crusaders), 8 John Roe (Reds), 7 George Smith (Brumbies), 6 Reuben Thorne (Crusaders), 5 Barend Pieterse (Cheetahs), 4 Bakkies Botha (Bulls), 3 John Afoa (Blues), 2 Jeremy Paul (Brumbies), 1 Simms Davison (Chiefs).
Form XV Week 10: 15 Isaia Toeava (Hurricanes), 14 Peter Hynes (Reds), 13 Morgan Turinui (Waratahs), 12 Julian Huxley (Reds), 11 Lote Tuqiri (Waratahs), 10 Luke McAlister (Blues), 9 Piri Weepu (Hurricanes), 8 John Roe (Reds), 7 George Smith (Brumbies), 6 Reuben Thorne (Crusaders), 5 Daniel Vickerman (Waratahs), 4 Mark Connors (Reds), 3 Carl Hayman (Highlanders), 2 Tone Kopelani (Crusaders), 1 Benn Robinson (Waratahs).
Bubbling Under Week 10: 15 Peter Hewat (Waratahs), 14 Lome Fa'atau (Hurricanes), 13 Stirling Mortlock (Brumbies), 12 Matt Giteau (Brumbies), 11 Scott Hamilton (Crusaders), 10 Dan Carter (Crusaders), 9 Chris Whitaker (Waratahs), 8 Mose Tuiali'i (Crusaders), 7 Phil Waugh (Waratahs), 6 Troy Flavell (Blues), 5 Brad Mika (Crusaders), 4 Alex Kanaar (Waratahs), 3 Rodney Blake (Reds), 2 Adam Freier (Waratahs), 1 Os du Randt (Cheetahs).
Form XV Week 11: 15 Jaco van der Westhuyzen (Bulls), 14 Clyde Rathbone (Brumbies), 13 Stirling Mortlock (Brumbies), 12 Scott Staniforth (Western Force), 11 Mark Gerrard (Brumbies), 10 Tony Brown (Sharks), 9 Ruan Pienaar (Sharks), 8 Pedrie Wannenburg (Bulls), 7 George Smith (Brumbies), 6 Jerry Collins (Hurricanes), 5 Nathan Sharpe (Western Force), 4 Johan Ackermann (Sharks), 3 BJ Botha (Sharks), 2 Tiaan Liebenberg (Cheetahs), 1 Simms Davison (Chiefs).
Bubbling Under Week 11: 15 Cameron Shepherd (Western Force), 14 Bryan Habana (Bulls), 13 Adrian Jacobs (Sharks), 12 Andries Strauss (Sharks), 11 Digby Ioane (Western Force), 10 Berrick Barnes (Reds), 9 George Gregan (Brumbies), 8 Rodney So'oialo (Hurricanes), 7 Daniel Braid (Blues), 6 David Pusey (Western Force), 5 Jason Eaton (Hurricanes), 4 Bakkies Botha (Bulls), 3 Angus Scott (Western Force), 2 Corey Flynn (Crusaders), 1 Dean Carstens (Sharks).
Form XV Week 12: 15 Peter Hewat (Waratahs), 14 Rico Gear (Crusaders), 13 Stirling Mortlock (Brumbies), 12 Scott Staniforth (Western Force), 11 Jean de Villiers (Stormers), 10 Luke McAlister (Blues), 9 George Gregan (Brumbies), 8 Joe van Niekerk (Stormers), 7 Schalk Burger (Stormers), 6 Jerry Collins (Hurricanes), 5 Dan Vickerman (Waratahs), 4 Bakkies Botha (Bulls), 3 Carl Hayman (Highlanders), 2 Adam Freier (Waratahs), 1 Tony Woodcock (Blues).
Bubbling Under Week 12: 15 Joe Pietersen (Stormers), 14 Clyde Rathbone (Brumbies), 13 Ronnie Cooke (Cheetahs), 12 De Wet Barry (Stormers), 11 Mark Gerrard (Brumbies), 10 Gene Fairbanks (Brumbies), 9 Neil de Kock (Stormers), 8 Pedrie Wannenburg (Bulls), 7 George Smith (Brumbies), 6 Liam Messam (Chiefs), 5 Andries Bekker (Stormers), 4 Ross Skeate (Stormers), 3 Jannie du Plessis (Cheetahs), 2 Andrew Hore (Hurricanes), 1 Benn Robinson (Waratahs).
Form XV Week 13: 15 Mils Muliaina (Chiefs), 14 Doug Howlett (Blues), 13 Jaque Fourie (Cats), 12 Aaron Mauger (Crusaders), 11 Lote Tuqiri (Waratahs), 10 Dan Carter (Crusaders), 9 Ruan Pienaar (Sharks), 8 More Tuiali'i (Crusaders), 7 Tanerau Latimer (Crusaders), 6 Luke Watson (Stormers), 5 Nathan Sharpe (Western Force), 4 Johan Ackermann (Sharks), 3 John Afoa (Blues), 2 Corey Flynn (Crusaders), 1 Simms Davison (Chiefs).
Bubbling Under Week 13: 15 Percy Montgomery (Sharks), 14 Anthony Tahana (Chiefs), 13 Stirling Mortlock (Brumbies), 12 Scott Staniforth (Western Force), 11 Brent Russell (Sharks), 10 Callum Bruce (Highlanders), 9 Jano Vermaak (Cats), 8 AJ Venter (Sharks), 7 Jacques Botes (Sharks), 6 Jerry Collins (Hurricanes), 5 Sean Hohneck (Chiefs), 4 Chris Jack (Crusaders), 3 Carl Hayman (Highlanders), 2 Delarey du Preez (Cats), 1 Wyatt Crockett (Crusaders).
Form XV Week 14: 15 Leon MacDonald (Crusaders), 14 Bryan Habana (Bulls), 13 Ma'a Nonu (Hurricanes), 12 Aaron Mauger (Crusaders), 11 Brent Russell (Sharks), 10 Dan Carter (Crusaders), 9 Byron Kelleher (Chiefs), 8 Rodney So'oialo (Hurricanes), 7 Jacques Botes (Sharks), 6 Jerry Collins (Hurricanes), 5 Victor Matfield (Bulls), 4 Chris Jack (Crusaders), 3 John Afoa (Blues), 2 Andrew Hore (Hurricanes), 1 Wyatt Crockett (Crusaders).
Bubbling Under Week 14: 15 Jaco van der Westhuyzen (Bulls), 14 Anthony Tahana (Chiefs), 13 Ben Tune (Reds), 12 Wynand Olivier (Bulls), 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu (Chiefs), 10 Morné Steyn (Bulls), 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pedrie Wannenburg (Bulls), 7 David Croft (Reds), 6 Richie McCaw, 5 Johann Muller (Sharks), 4 Luke Andrews (Hurricanes), 3 Greg Somerville (Crusaders), 2 John Smit (Sharks), 1 John Schwalger (Hurricanes).
Form XV semi-finals: 15 Leon MacDonald (Crusaders), 14 Bryan Habana (Bulls), 13 Ma'a Nonu (Hurricanes), 12 Tana Umaga (Hurricanes), 11 Lote Tuqiri (Waratahs), 10 Dan Carter (Crusaders), 9 Andrew Ellis (Crusaders), 8 Rodney So'oialo (Hurricanes), 7 Richie McCaw (Crusaders), 6 Jerry Collins (Hurricanes), 5 Victor Matfield (Bulls), 4 Paul Tito (Hurricanes), 3 Neemia Tialata (Hurricanes), 2 Andrew Hore (Hurricanes), 1 Wyatt Crockett (Crusaders).
Bubbling Under semi-finals: 15 Isaia Toeava (Hurricanes), 14 Rico Gear (Crusaders), 13 Casey Laulala (Crusaders), 12 Aaron Mauger (Crusaders), 11 Shannon Paku (Hurricanes), 10 David Holwell (Hurricanes), 9 Piri Weepu (Crusaders), 8 Stephen Hoiles (Waratahs), 7 Chris Masoe (Hurricanes), 6 Johnny Leo'o (Crusaders), 5 Jason Eaton (Hurricanes), 4 Chris Jack (Crusaders), 3 Greg Somerville (Crusaders), 2 Corey Flynn (Crusaders), 1 John Schwalger (Hurricanes).

[Shifty]

I see that the Blues thrashed the Reds in last nights pre-season opener, 38 - 9.

Any predictions on tomorrows game, Western Force vs Crusaders?
Crusaders definitely won't be fielding McCaw or Carter. Whether that will have any significant impact on the game remains to be seen. It's only pre-season but I think I'll go with the Crusaders on this one.

The Hurricanes should beat the Chiefs tomorrow.

[biffon]

wonder if its televised?

[Shifty]

I wonder..:smiley24:

I can't find any TV listings for the games anywhere. :smiley6:

[biffon]

nothing in aus damn! where is it .. here in perth or in kiwiland

[Shifty]

nothing in aus damn! where is it .. here in perth or in kiwiland

Crusaders vs WF is being played at Melbourne Park.
Hurricanes vs Chiefs in NZ.

[Blazzo]

I pity the crusaders, Mr T syle!

[biffon]

ya boet i hear you! :D

[zambezilover]

crusaders are taking it to the max

[Spanner]

Much as I'd love to see my Bulls take it:smiley19: , I don't think they will and I don't think the Crusaders will either. :naughty:

Warathes :smiley32:

[Steve]

The Sharks will graze all!

[Shifty]

Be interesting to see what happens in the Crusaders/Waratahs game tomorrow. The Waratahs will be fielding 7 - 8 Wallabies tomorrow. That should work in their favour.

Even so, the Crusaders are very capable of pulling off a victory.

[Shayne]

Who were the Brumbies playing pre season and how much did they win by?

[Shifty]

Who were the Brumbies playing pre season and how much did they win by?

Don't know if they've had any pre-season games up until now but they play against The Hurricanes on Friday night.

[biffon]

Brumbies played Tahs and Tahs gave them cARROTS!! I cant remember the score but it was substantial!!

[biffon]

http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,21120542-5002381,00.html

Super 14

Force gives Samoans thumping

January 25, 2007
WESTERN Force has completed preparations for its second Super 14 season with a 59-10 thrashing of Manu Samoa in Perth.
In stifling 30-plus degree conditions, Force completed its trial match campaign in emphatic style and now faces the Highlanders at home next Friday night to kick off the 2007 Super season proper.
The Force's 33-3 half-time lead already surpassed what the Reds could manage all game last week in beating the Samoans 31-3.
It took Force almost 10 minutes to open the scoring, but after its first try, four more followed for the half.
Haig Sare crossed for the first try and David Pusey for the second just five minutes later, after Manu Samoa captain Ulia Ulia was sent to the sin-bin for a trip.
Richard Brown crossed for the next try 25-minutes in, on the end of a perfect pass from Junior Pelesasa.
Just before the break Cameron Shepherd crossed, adding to his four of five conversions for the half.
The Samoans got on the board thanks to a long-range penalty by Doug Sanft for the last play of the half.
Australia players Matt Giteau and Nathan Sharpe played the first half as outlined by Wallabies coach John Connolly, getting through unscathed. The pair, particularly Giteau, showed pleasing signs, but still have work to do for next week.
It was a scoreless first 13-minutes to the second half, before Digby Ioane crossed after a well-run play from the scrum.
Two-minutes later Cross was over for his second try of the evening. Sare then crossed twice in a matter of minutes, giving himself three tries and taking the Force's lead to 59-3.

WESTERN FORCE 59 (H Sare 3, R Cross 2, D Pusey, R Brown, C Shepherd, D Ioane tries; Shepherd 7 conv)
MANU SAMOA 10 (U Ulia try; L Lui 1 conv; Doug Sanft pen)
Referee: James Leckie.
Crowd: 9051 at Members Equity Stadium.

[Shifty]

Some pre-season S14 results played Thursday/Friday.

Waratahs beat Crusaders 17 - 12.

Hurricanes drew with the Brumbies 28 - 28.

[biffon]

Reds beat Highlanders 17-15

if these results are anything to go by i think this season is going to be a closer race than in any other year!!!

[Shifty]

Reckon we need a new thread for this years Super 14. So as long as there aren't any objections, this is it. :smiley20:

[biffon]

SQUADS for round one of the 2007 Super14 competition
Friday
Blues v Crusaders, at Eden Park, Auckland (5.35pm AEDT)
Blues: George Pisi; Doug Howlett, Isaia Toeava, Sam Tuitupou, Anthony Tuitavake; Isa Nacewa, David Gibson; Jerome Kaino, Daniel Braid, Angus Macdonald; Troy Flavell (captain), Greg Rawlinson, John Afoa, Derren Witcombe, Saimone Taumoepeau. Replacements: Chris Heard, Nick White, Anthony Boric, Justin Collins, Steve Devine, Luke McAlister, Rudi Wulf.
Crusaders: Brent Ward; Rico Gear, Caleb Ralph, Casey Laulala, Scott Hamilton; Stephen Brett, Andy Ellis; Mose Tuiali' i, Johnny Leo' o, Kieran Read; Kevin O'Neill, Ross Filipo; Campbell Johnstone, Corey Flynn (captain), Ben Franks. Replacements: Ti'i Paulo, Wyatt Crockett, Jake Paringatai, Peter Nixon, 0 Kevin Senio, Tusi Pisi, Rua Tipoki.
Referee: Paul Honiss (NZ).
TV: Live and exclusive Fox Sports 1; broadcast commences 5.30pm (AEDT).

Western Force v Highlanders, at Subiaco Oval, Perth (9.05pm AEDT)
Western Force: Drew Mitchell; Scott Staniforth, Ryan Cross, Matt Giteau, Cameron Shepherd; James Hilgendorf, Matt Henjak; Scott Fava, Richard Brown, David Pusey; Nathan Sharpe (captain), Rudi Vedelago; Troy Takiari, Brendan Cannon, Gareth Hardy. Replacements: Tai McIsaac, Angus Scott, Luke Doherty, David Pocock, Chris O'Young, Junior Pelesasa, Haig Sare.
Highlanders: Craig Clare; Lucky Mulipola, Matthew Saunders, Jason Kawau, Viliama Waqaseduadua; Callum Bruce, Jimmy Cowan; Craig Newby, Josh Blackie (captain), Hoani MacDonald; James Ryan, Kane Thompson; Clarke Dermody, Jason Macdonald, Chris King. Replacements: David Hall, Jamie Mackintosh, Ezra Taylor, Alando Soakai, Toby Morland, Charlie Hore, Greg Zampach.
Referee: J.C. Fortuin (SA).
TV: Live and exclusive Fox Sports 1; broadcast commences 8.30pm (AEDT).

Saturday
Lions v New South Wales, at Ellis Park, Johannesburg (4.10am AEDT) Lions: Earl Rose; Louis Ludik, Jaque Fourie, Doppies la Grange, Jan Hendrik Boshoff; Andre Pretorius (captain), Enrico Januarie; Willem Schalk Alberts, Ernst Joubert, Cobus Grobbelaar; Anton van Zyl, Cobus Grobler, Kenny McKenzie, Willie Wepener, Heinke van der Merwe. Replacements: Ashton Constant, Brian Vuyisile Mujati, Gordon Gilfillan, Franco van der Merwe, Jano Vermaak, Louis Strydom, Jaco van Schalkwyk.
Waratahs: Sam Norton-Knight; Peter Hewat, Morgan Turinui, Ben Jacobs, Lote Tuqiri; Daniel Halangahu, Josh Valentine; Wycliff Palu, Phil Waugh (captain), Rocky Elsom; Ben Hand, William Caldwell; Alastair Baxter, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Benn Robinson. Replacements: Adam Freier, Aaron Broughton-Rouse, Dean Mumm, Tim Davidson, Brett Sheehan, Kurtley Beale, Sam Harris.
Referee: Chris Pollock (NZ).
TV: Live and exclusive Fox Sports 1; broadcast commences 1am (AEDT).

Chiefs v Brumbies, at Waikato Stadium, Hamilton (5.35pm AEDT)
Chiefs: Dwayne Sweeney; Sosene Anesi, Niva Ta'auso, Tane Tu'ipulotu, Anthony Tahana; Stephen Donald, Jamie Nutbrown; Liam Messam, Marty Holah, Steven Bates; Kristian Ormsby, Jono Gibbes (captain), Nathan White, Tom Willis, Simms Davison. Replacements: Aled de Malmanche, Ben Castle, Toby Lynn, Tanerau Latimer, Brendon Leonard, Tasesa Lavea, Lelia Masaga.
Brumbies: Adam Ashley-Cooper; Clyde Rathbone, Stirling Mortlock (captain), Gene Fairbanks, Mark Gerrard; Julian Huxley, George Gregan; Stephen Hoiles, George Smith, Julian Salvi; Mark Chisholm, Alistair Campbell; Guy Shepherdson, Jeremy Paul, Nic Henderson. Replacements: Saia Faingaa, Salesi Ma`afu, Adam Wallace-Harrison, Jone Tawake, Richard Stanford, Tim Wright, Matt Carraro.
Referee: Mark Lawrence (SA).
TV: Live and exclusive Fox Sports 3; broadcast commences 5.30pm (AEDT).

Queensland v Hurricanes, at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane (8.40pm AEDT)
Reds: Clinton Schifcofske; Henari Veratau, Ben Tune, Andrew Brown, Peter Hynes; Berrick Barnes, Nic Berry; John Roe (captain), David Croft, Mitch Chapman; Hugh McMeniman, James Horwill; Rodney Blake, Sean Hardman, Greg Holmes. Replacements: Stephen Moore, Ben Coutts, Ed O'Donoghue, A.J. Gilbert/Tom McVerry, Will Genia, Charlie Fetoai, Brando Va'alu.
Hurricanes: Cory Jane; Hosea Gear, Conrad Smith (captain), Ma'a Nonu, David Smith; Jimmy Gopperth Chris Smylie; Thomas Waldrom, Nili Latu, Luke Andrews; Bernie Upton, Paul Tito; Neemia Tialata, Tone Kopelani, John Schwalger. Replacements: Mahonri Schwalger, Tim Fairbrother, Bradley Mika, Serge Lilo, Alby Mathewson, Tamati Ellison, Tana Umaga.
Referee: Jonathan Kaplan (SA).
TV: Live and exclusive Fox Sports 3; broadcast commences 7.30pm (AEDT).

Sunday
Sharks v Bulls, at Shark Park, Durban (2am AEDT)
Sharks: TBA.
Bulls: Johan Roets; Akona Ndungane, J.P. Nel, Wynand Olivier, Bryan Habana; Derick Hougaard, Fourie du Preez; Anton Leonard, Wikus van Heerden, Pedrie Wannenburg; Victor Matfield, (captain), Danie Rossouw; Danie Thiart, Gary Botha, Wessel Roux. Replacements: Derick Kn, Jaco Engels, Francois van Schouwenburg, Hilton Lobberts, Nicholas Eyre, Morn Steyn, Marius Delport.
Referee: Lyndon Bray (NZ).
TV: Live and exclusive Fox Sports 1; broadcast commences 2.00am (AEDT).

Cheetahs v Stormers, at Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein (4.10am)
Cheetahs: TBA.
Stormers: TBA.
Referee: Craig Joubert (SA).
TV: Live and exclusive Fox Sports 1; broadcast commences 4.00am (AEDT).

[Poison]

Has everyone got their picks in now for Virtual Super 14??

[Shayne]

http://www.planet-rugby.com/Images/Thumbs/c84/Blues_100.jpg

The Blues have become the New Zealand version of the Stormers over the past three years, with all the names and no results.

Their squad hasn't changed too much since the 2006 season, the most noteworthy addition being U21 winger James Somerset, who scored 12 tries in 10 matches at the World Championships last year.

Five of their first seven games are at home this year, so that should see them in good stead over the first half of the competition, and they'll be hoping to shake off the "bad travelers" tag they earned through some poor performances away from Eden park last year.

The Blues represent the three provincial unions in the top portion of New Zealand 's North Island : the Auckland, North Harbour and Northland unions.

Strengths: They always have an abundance of talent and when they get going they play a really exciting, all-action brand of rugby.

Weakness: Their inability to always live up to their pre-season promises. The absence of a number of their All Blacks could also count against them in the first half of the season. A lack of discipline also cost them dearly at stages last year.

Noteworthy signings: David Holwell (from the Hurricanes), Sam Tuitupou (from the Chiefs).

Noteworthy losses: They will be without All Blacks Keven Mealamu, Ali Williams, Tony Woodcock (North Harbour) and Joe Rokocoko for the first eight weeks of the tournament.

Coach: David Nucifora. The former Brumbies coach, kicked out after winning the tournament with the Canberra side in 2004, was the Blues' technical advisor in 2005. In 2006 he replaced Peter Sloane, who stepped down at the end of the 2005 season after four years in charge. Nucifora, 43, was head coach for the ACT Brumbies from 2002-2004 and guided them to the Super 12 title in 2004.

Captain: Troy Flavell. He was appointed captain because Keven Mealamu, who lead the side last year, is one of the conditioning All Blacks who won't be available for the first eight weeks of the competition. However, Flavell's reputation as one of the bad boys - as his past suspensions and numerous yellow and reds cards can attest to - is the one major question hanging over his ability to lead the team to success. Discipline is always a key and the question remain, can Flavell avoid getting involved in off-the-ball stuff.

Player to watch: Jerome Kaino burst onto the scene in 2004 and was man of the match on debut for the All Blacks against the Barbarians that year. However, injuries had slowed down his progress and he missed the entire 2006 Super 14 season through injury. If he stays fit Kaino's explosiveness and athleticism could make him a key member of the Blues pack.

2006 Position: 8th
Best finish: Super 12 champions in 1996, 1997, 2003
Worst finish: 11th (2000)
Home Venues: Eden Park, Auckland (Capacity: 50,000), North Harbour Stadium, Albany (Capacity: 25,000)

2007 Prediction: They'll be disappointing again, especially without some key All Blacks. 10th

Blues squad: John Afoa, Ben Atiga, Sam Biddles, Anthony Boric, Daniel Braid, Justin Collins, Steve Devine, Troy Flavell, David Gibson, Chris Heard, David Holwell, Doug Howlett, Jerome Kaino, Luke McAlister, Angus MacDonald, Keven Mealamu, Isakeli Nacewa, George Pisi, Greg Rawlinson, Joe Rokocoko, James Somerset, Saimone Taumoepeau, Isaia Toeava, Onosai Tololima-Auva'a, Anthony Tuitavake, Sam Tuitupou, Nick White, Ali Williams, Nick Williams, Derren Witcombe, Tony Woodcock, Rudi Wulf.

Schedule:

2 February: v Crusaders, home
10 February: v Brumbies, away
17 February: v Hurricanes, away
24 February: v Reds, home
2 March: v Highlanders, home
10 March: v Lions, home
17 March BYE
23 March: v Waratahs, home
31 March: v Chiefs, away
6 April: v Cheetahs, home
14 April: v Sharks, home
21 April: v Stormers, away
27 April: v Bulls, away
5 May: v Western Force, away

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http://www.planet-rugby.com/Images/Thumbs/c84/Brumbies_100.jpg

The Brumbies' backline again looks like its strength for this season, but like the Australian side over the past two years has battled to adapt to new faces and new combinations.

The gaping hole left by Matt Giteau's transfer to the Western Force is apparently going to be filled by Mark Gerrard, who will play at inside centre for the first time in his Super career.

With this in mind it's obvious that the old hands - a rested George Gregan and the brilliant Stephan Larkham - will be called on once again not just to bring experience to the table, but also the form required to make the Wallaby squad in a Ruby World Cup year.

They'll be brilliant in Canberra, but may well struggle away from home.

Strengths: Without doubt their ability to recycle the ball and retain possession. Also their patience, their ability to stay calm when for 10 phases it appears that they have not gained an inch of ground.

Weakness: They still do have a tendency to be poor travellers. The age of some key players could also come back to haunt them and they may feel the absence of Giteau's creativity..

Noteworthy signings: Stephen Hoiles (from the Waratahs), Julian Huxley (from the Reds)

Noteworthy losses: Matt Giteau (to the Western Force)

Coach: Laurie Fisher. After taking over from David Nucifora in 2005, Fisher saw his team slump from first place (under Nucifora) to fifth and failing to make the play-offs the following year. Last year they went even one lower and dropped to sixth place in the standings. He will be hoping for more consistency from the players and fewer injuries to key players.

Captain: Stirling Mortlock will be hoping for a better 2007 season after his team struggled for consistency last year. His leadership is crucial to their cause.

Player(s) to watch: No doubt their hopes will rest on the half-back combination of George Gregan and Stephen Larkham, while Stirling Mortlock is another vital cog in their machinery.

2006 Position: 6th
Best finish: Super 12 winners in 2004 and 2001
Worst finish: 10th 1998
Home Venue: Canberra Stadium, Canberra, (capacity: 27,000)

2007 Prediction: They will be competitive, but will again struggle to make the play-offs. 7th

Brumbies squad: Adam Ashley-Cooper, Luke Burgess, Alister Campbell, Mark Chisolm, Anthony Faingaa, Saia Faingaa, Gene Fairbanks, Mark Gerrard, George Gregan, Daniel Heenan, Nic Henderson, Stephen Hoiles, Julian Huxley, Stephen Larkham, Salesi Ma'afu, Stirling Mortlock (captain), David Palavi, Jeremy Paul, Patrick Phibbs, Peter Playford, Clyde Rathbone, Julian Salvi, Guy Shepherdson, George Smith, Richard Stanford, Jone Tawake, Adam Wallace-Harrison.


Schedule:

3 February: v Chiefs, away
10 February: v Blues, home
17 , February: v Reds, away
23 February: v Hurricanes, away
3 March: v Bulls, home
9 March: v Stormers, home
17 March: v Cheetahs, away
24 March: v Sharks, away
31 March: v Lions, away
8 April: v Waratahs, home
13/14 April: BYE
20 April: v Force, home
28 April: v Crusaders, home
5 May: v Highlanders, away

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http://www.planet-rugby.com/Images/Thumbs/c84/Bulls_100.jpg

Not too much changes in terms of a game plan up in Pretoria, and their supporters will undoubtedly be very quick to remind us that they've managed two semi-final berths in the past two years.

So can we expect anything new? Perhaps, with new backline coach Todd Louden working on the players ball skills, we may in fact see at least four passes from JP Nel in this years competition, but we shall not hold our collective breaths.

Jokes aside, they will be strong contenders for a home semi-final, and with a dominant pack and the creative ability of Wynand Olivier at inside centre may stand a chance of going one step further this year.

The Bulls have also made some interesting off-season signings, with former captain Anton Leonard coming out of retirement and former Lions captain Wikus van Heerden also joining up with the Pretoria outfit.

Strengths: An awesome pack of forwards, one that can really dominate and destroy opponents. Some great game-breakers and heaps of patience. They often take the game away from the opposition only in the last 10 or 15 minutes. At home they are almost unbeatable.

Weakness: Some would say they are one-dimensional and easily to counter. They also tend to be poor travellers.

Noteworthy signings: Anton Leonard (out of retirement), Jaco van der Westhuyzen (from Japan), Wayne Julies (from the Lions), Wikus Van Heerden (from the Lions)

Noteworthy losses: Jacques Cronjé (to the Lions)

Coach: Heyneke Meyer is one of those enthusiastic coaches that you just know will do well. The amount of energy he projects must infect his team. And he has a proven track record as well.

Captain: Victor Matfield impressed in his first year as captain (in 2006), after taking over from stalwart Anton Leonard. Having been rested from the Springboks' year-end tour this charismatic character will be full of energy.

Player(s) to watch: Victor Matfield is rated as one of the premier locks in the world, so much so that most people make him an automatic choice in their World XV. The return of Anton Leonard and the signing of Wikus van Heerden will ensure they have plenty of experience.

2006 Position: 4th (beaten semi-finalists)
Best finish: 3rd - 1996 (as the Blue Bulls) and 2005 as the Bulls
Worst finish: 12th (2002, 2001, 1999)
Home Venue: Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria (Capacity 50,000)

2007 Prediction: They are serious challengers for the play-offs again. With a bit of luck they can go all the way. Top 4

Bulls squad: Heini Adams, Gary Botha, Marius Delport, Tim Dlulane, Fourie du Preez, Jaco Engels, Adriaan Fondse, Bryan Habana, Derick Hougaard, Wayne Julies, Anton Leonard, Hilton Lobberts, John Mametsa, Victor Matfield, Akona Ndungane, JP Nel, Wynand Olivier, Chiliboy Ralepelle, Johan Roets, Danie Rossouw, Wessel Roux, Pierre Spies, Gurthrö Steenkamp, Wilhelm Steenkamp, Morné Steyn, Danie Thiart, Wikus van Heerden, Francois van Schouwenburg, Pedrie Wannenburg, Frikkie Welsh. Also Stefan Basson (Springbok Sevens) and Danwel Demas (injured)

Schedule:
3 February: v Sharks, away
10 February: v Cheetahs, home
16 February: v Western Force, home
24 February: v Chiefs, home
3 March: v Brumbies, away
10 March: v Waratahs, away
17 March: v Crusaders, away
24 March: v Highlanders, away
31 March: v Hurricanes, away
6/7/8 April: BYE
14 April: v Stormers, home
21 April: v Lions, away
27 April: v Blues, home
5 May: v Reds, home

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http://www.planet-rugby.com/Images/Thumbs/c84/Cheetahs_100.jpg

All that can be predicted of the Cheetahs season is that they will be unpredictable. With the ever inventive Rassie Erasmus at the helm one can be assured that this sides planning will be meticulous, and they could perhaps be the surprise package of the competition.

Their backline has become far more settled, and with the likes of Ronnie Cook and Marius Joubert vying for places in the starting line-up you begin to realise the amount of depth and quality that is beginning to build up and surface in the Free State.

Rassie Erasmus assures us that he will not change his approach from the Currie Cup, so expect to see some exciting performances from a tightly knit unit.

South Africa's newest franchise would hope to not only be competitive, as they were in their debut year in 2006, but this time they will hope to finish in the top half of the standings.

But for them to do that, they will have to turn some of those nears losses from last year - such as their thrilling 33-32 loss to the Chiefs in Hamilton - into victories.

What does count in their favour is that their first seven games are on South African soil, six of those being home games, before they have a bye and then hit the road. The perfect draw.

Strengths: The organisational and analytical skills of coach Rassie Erasmus is what has made this team such a success over the last few years. They have a solid set of forwards and this year some real depth among the backline.

Weakness: The fact that most of the decision making is being done off the field, means there is very little room for the players to use their own initiative. It is a bit joke in South Africa, but flashing lights and colour-coded cards have become a feature of their game, as coach Rassie Erasmus sends out signals to the players.

Noteworthy signings: Marius Joubert (from the Stormers), Herkie Kruger (in the region last year, but new to the squad), Ashley Johnson (SA Under-21), Jonathan Mokuena (Leopards), Adriaan Strauss (Bulls).

Noteworthy losses: Gaffie du Toit (Toulouse)

Coach: Rassie Erasmus achieved the unthinkable, winning the Currie Cup in his first full year as a coach and then sharing it the next year just to prove it was not a fluke. He showed last year that he could make the step up from Currie Cup to the Super 14. It will be interesting to see what he comes up with this year.

Captain: Juan Smith is one of most highly rated loose forwards in South Africa, if not the world. He has made steady progress over the last few years as a player. Now he must show the same maturity as a team leader.

Player(s) to watch: They have so many players with star qualities, but if we have to pick one back it must be centre Ronnie Cooke, who made huge strides last year in his first year of Super rugby. And among the forwards it must be Kabamba Floors, one of the most electrifying loose forwards in South Africa. He would be keen to show his Springbok call-up for the Boks' year-end tour was not a one-off.

2006 Position: 10th
Best finish: 10th (2006 - debut year)
Worst finish: 10th (2006 - debut year)
Home Venue: Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein (capacity 40,000)

2007 Prediction: They will again be one of the better South African teams and depending on how they do on the road, could even be a play-off prospects. 8th

Cheetahs squad: Meyer Bosman, Philip Burger, Michael Claassens, Ronnie Cooke, Wian du Preez, Jannie du Plessis, Rory Duncan, Willem de Waal, Kabamba Floors, Bevin Fortuin, Eddie Fredericks, Alwyn Hollenbach, Marius Joubert, Herkie Kruger, Ollie le Roux, Tiger Mangweni, Jonathan Mokuena, Falie Oelschig, Barend Pieterse, Gavin Passens, Adriaan Strauss, Richardt Strauss, Hendro Scholtz, Juan Smith, CJ van der Linde, Corniel van Zyl, Darren Nell, Rayno van der Merwe, Zane Kirchner, Rayno Benjamin.
* Os du Randt (injured), Barry Goodes (injured).

Schedule:

3 February: v Stormers, home
10 February: v Bulls, away
17 February: v Waratahs, home
24 February: v Crusaders, home
2 March: v Chiefs, home
10 March: v Sharks, home
17 March: v Brumbies, home
23/24 March: BYE
30 March: v Highlanders, away
7 April: v Blues, away
13 April: v Hurricanes, away
21 April: v Reds, away
27 April: v Western Force, away
5 May: v Lions, away

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http://www.planet-rugby.com/Images/Thumbs/c84/Chiefs_100.jpg

Of all the New Zealand teams, the Chiefs are the ones who have not really made it. The North Islanders are almost the step-children of the posher outfits.

In the past they have had moments and they have had intentness. They just lacked the pressure points that make for greatness.

But the Air New Zealand Cup champions, who are always a tough side to beat, showed their are ready to shake off that tag ... of also-rans.

Their defensive stats last year ranked in the top three of the Super 14, but it is their offensive game that let them down. This should change with the inclusion of Richard Kahui at outside centre, a player who fits the Conrad Smith mould.

For those of you who watched the play in the Air New Zealand Cup last year, he was unstoppable. The Chiefs look the New Zealand team in the best position without their All Blacks, and so will be strong contenders for a semi-final berth.

Expect them to be outstanding and very competitive at home in Hamilton. But there is the chance that they could lose focus and composure on the road.

Strengths: They give every impression of playing with strength and intent as epitomised by Jono Gibbes and Byron Kelleher. They now appear to have more force on attack.

Weakness: Perhaps their poor track record on the road. the lack of a sharp edge of speed of foot and hands, perhaps the lack of the spirit of adventure - just perhaps these are the inhibiting factors that become weaknesses.

Noteworthy signings: Aled de Malmanche (new from the Air NZ Cup side), Richard Kahui (Highlanders), Roy Kinikinilau (Highlanders), Tanerau Latimer (Crusaders), Tasesa Lavea (on draft), Keith Robinson (back from injury), Dwayne Sweeney (new from the Air NZ Cup side), Tane Tu'ipulotu (on draft).

Noteworthy losses: Loki Crichton (Newcastle Falcons), David Hill (Bristol), Deacon Manu (Llanelli Scarlets), Mark Ranby (Japan), Sam Tuitupou (Blues).They will also be without All Blacks Byron Kelleher, Malili Muliaina and Sitiveni Sivivatu for the first eight weeks of the tournament.

Coach: Ian Foster, a foundation Chief, took the side to a historic first ever semi-final appearance during his first season as boss in 2004, but hasn't been able to work the same magic since. He will be hoping to build on the success of Waikato in the Air New Zealand Cup.

Captain: Just a glance at Jono Gibbes tells a story of hard concentration and determination. He is one of those players who does not have quite enough of any one attribute but uses all that he has with utter loyalty and effort. Men rally to him.

Player(s) to watch: In the absence of their All Blacks the steel in the team will come from Jono Gibbes, while Richard Kahui would like to prove he was worth the top dollar they paid for him.

2006 Position: 7th
Best finish: 4th in Super 12 in 2004
Worst finish: 11th in Super 12 in 1996
Home Venue: Waikato Stadium, Hamilton (Capacity 26,350)

2007 Prediction: They will come close this year, but they will most likely fall short ... just. 5th

Chiefs squad: Jono Gibbes (captain), Sosene Anesi, Steven Bates, Ben Castle, Simms Davison, Aled de Malmanche, Stephen Donald, Marty Holah, Richard Kahui, Byron Kelleher, Roy Kinikinilau, Tanerau Latimer, Sione Lauaki, Tasesa Lavea, Brendon Leonard, Toby Lynn, Lelia Masaga, Liam Messam, Malili Muliaina, Jamie Nutbrown, Kristian Ormsby, Keith Robinson, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Dwayne Sweeney, Niva Tau'auso, Anthony Tahana, Tane Tu'ipulotu, Craig West, Nathan White, Murray Williams, Tom Willis.

Schedule:

3 February: v Brumbies, home
9 February: v Hurricanes, home
17 February: v Stormers, away
25 February: v Bulls, away
3 March: v Cheetahs, away
9/10 March: BYE
16 March: v Lions, home
24 March: v Reds, away
31 March: v Blues, home
7 April: v Highlanders, away
14 April: v Western Force, home
21 April: v Sharks, home
27 April: v Waratahs, away
4 May: v Crusaders, away

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http://www.planet-rugby.com/Images/Thumbs/c84/Crusaders_100.jpg

The talk around the Christchurch camp is that this side is going to struggle without their star All Blacks - captain Richie McCaw, Daniel Carter, Chris Jack, Leon MacDonald, Aaron Mauger, Greg Somerville and Reuben Thorne.

On the surface of it, and judging by the holes those names leave in their absence, the talk may well be true.

No doubt it's going to be a near thing for the Crusaders. The core of the side is out for seven weeks, and the make of the squad consists of twelve rookies, so expect a few tight games, a few wins in South Africa, and then this dominant team to crack it on from week eight for a semi-final spot.

You just have to look at their structures to know they can overcome the obstacles.

They dominated the Super 12, winning it five times - as much as all the other teams together. Then they added the inaugural Super 14 title to that. Clearly they are a team of pedigree players, right out of the top drawer.

There is something about them that shouts 'champions' every year. No matter how poor they look in the early stages, you just know they will recover sooner rather than later and put together a series of performances that gets them into the play-offs.

And once there, the play-offs, they seem to suddenly grow bigger in stature. Those mere mortal become super humans as they sweep all before them.

The Crusaders have the recipe right and you can't argue with six titles in 11 years.

Strengths: Great structures and a game plan that ensures the opposition always pays for mistakes. But most of all they will be captained - in the absence of Richie McCaw for the first seven weeks - by Corey Flynn. In this squad - even in the absence of the conditioning All Blacks - there are eight players with international Test experience. They are Flynn himself, scrum-halves Andrew Ellis and Kevin Senio, prop Campbell Johnstone, number eight Mose Tuiali'i, centre Casey Laulala, as well as wings Rico Gear and Caleb Ralph.

Weakness: Not many but maybe they will struggle to fill all the gaps if there are injuries during the first half of the season when the All Blacks are absent.

Noteworthy signings: Rua Tipoki (from the Blues), Brent Ward (via the draft), Tusi Pisi (via the draft), Jake Paringatai (via the draft), Ben May (Tasman Makos).

Noteworthy losses: The biggest loss is All Black prop Greg Somerville, who has been ruled out for the season with an injury. And then there's the players in the All Black conditioning programme: Regular Crusaders skipper Richard McCaw, Reuben Thorne, Daniel Carter, Aaron Mauger, Leon MacDonald and Chris Jack.

Coach: The coach is Robbie Deans - a great player and a great coach, a thoughtful man who can get a team to play thrilling rugby. He has the art of combining organisation and freedom of expression.

Captain: Corey Flynn will captain the Crusaders for the first seven rounds, until the conditioning All Blacks come on stream. No doubt Flynn will be out to remind the national selectors of his talents ahead of the World Cup. Richie McCaw, one of the great players of modern rugby, then returns. He is brave and a relentless fetcher, which means that he is a committed team man and will lead from the front. He is, as he deserves to be, a hero and an inspiration to many around the world.

Player(s) to watch: In the absence of their top All Blacks it will fall on the other senior players to guide the youngsters through troubled waters - the likes of Corey Flynn, Andrew Ellis, Ross Filipo, Rico Gear, Scott Hamilton, Campbell Johnstone, Casey Laulala, Johnny Leo'o and Caleb Ralph.

2006 Position: Champions
Best finish: Winners - 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006
Worst finish: 12th in Super 12 in 1996
Home Venue: Jade Stadium, Christchurch (capacity 36,500)

2007 Prediction: Yes, they may struggle at first, but bet your bottom dollar they will finish among the top four. And then they'll have their best players back. The winners - yet again

Crusaders squad: Richard McCaw (captain), Corey Flynn (captain for the first sevens weeks), Tim Bateman, Stephen Brett, Daniel Carter, Wyatt Crockett, Andrew Ellis, Ross Filipo, Ben Franks, Rico Gear, Scott Hamilton, Chris Jack, Campbell Johnstone, Casey Laulala, Johnny Leo'o, Leon MacDonald, Aaron Mauger, Ben May, Peter Nixon, Kevin O'Neill, Jake Paringatai, Ti'i Paulo, Michael Paterson, Tusi Pisi, Jonathan Poff, Caleb Ralph, Kieran Read, Isaac Ross, Kevin Senio, Greg Somerville, Reuben Thorne, Rua Tipoki, Mose Tuiali'i, Brent Ward, Paul Williams.

Schedule:

2 February: v Blues, away
10 February: v Reds, home
18 February: v Lions, away
25 February: v Cheetahs, away
4 March: v Sharks, away
9/10 March: BYE
17 March: v Bulls, home
24 March: v Stormers, home
31 March: v Waratahs, away
7 April: v Western Force, home
14 April: v Highlanders, away
20 April: v Hurricanes, home
28 April: v Brumbies, away
4 May: v Chiefs, home

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http://www.planet-rugby.com/Images/Thumbs/c84/Highlanders_100.jpg

If Nick Evans can stay injury free he will hold the key to the 2007 season for the Highlanders. An outstanding fly-half with what can only be described as explosive pace and a well educated right boot, he will lead the side's charge at improving on the mid-table mediocrity of their past four years.

The Highlanders have very few big name players, and are clearly looking to build a young squad, this idea personified in young full-back Craig Clare, who much like Geo Aplon of the Stormers enjoyed a wonderful domestic competition, but will be tested severely in this grueling competition.

For our money they don't have enough fire power to make it into the top half of the table.

But stranger things have happened.

Strengths: Their location is one of their few strengths. It's a long way to travel to the bottom of New Zealand, both Dunedin and Invercargill, where life can be cold. Loyalty is one of their strengths if Anton Oliver is anything to go by.

Weakness: No real depth in this side and coach Greg Cooper is busy rebuilding the team. They will also be without two of the rocks of their very solid front row - captain Anton Oliver and prop Carl Hayman - who are both on the All Black condition programme for the first seven weeks. It may be rough year.

Noteworthy signings: Vili Waqaseduadua (North Harbour), Lucky Mulipola (Tasman).

Noteworthy losses: Carl Hayman (Otago) and Anton Oliver (Otago) is on an All Black conditioning programme for the first seven weeks. Andrew Blowers (no contract), Ben Blair (to Cardiff), Neil Brew (to Bristol), Vilimoni Delasau (to Clermont Ferrand), Roy Kinikinilau (to Chiefs), Seilala Mapusua (to London Irish), Chris Smylie (to Hurricanes). Tom Donnelly and Tim Boys are unavailable due to injury.

Coach: Greg Cooper is settled in as coach and obviously respected. He is a proper coach and loyal to his area. He played for Otago for years, then worked his way up from Otago's assistant coach to the coach and from the Highlanders' assistant coach to the coach, now going into his fourth year along with Phil Young as his assistant, and Young, too, has paid his dues to coaching over a decade.

Captain: Josh Blackie. Blackie, who has been one of the outstanding openside flanks in New Zealand for the past five years, takes over the captaincy in the absence of Anton Oliver. Blackie has played for the Junior All Blacks, New Zealand Colts and for the New Zealand sevens team. He made his debut for the Highlanders in 2001.

Player(s) to watch: He might be yet to win an All Black cap but Blackie has managed something precious few others have achieved, by relegating Richard McCaw to the bench. Blackie led the way from the openside flank, with McCaw as his understudy, during the 2000 International Under-21 programme where a New Zealand side dotted with future All Blacks annihilated South Africa 71-5 in the Final. Blackie considered his playing options last season but opted to remain in the south. The Highlanders are sure glad the Junior All Black flanker stayed. Then there is young Jamie Mackintosh, who will no doubt use his 130 kilogram to ensure that he is taken seriously as one of the pillars of the Highlanders scrum.

2006 Position: 9th
Best finish: Beaten finalists in 1999
Worst finish: 12th in Super 12 in 1997
Home Venue: Carisbrook, Dunedin (capacity 29,000), Rugby Park, Invercargill (capacity 17,000) and Queenstown (capacity 12,000)

2007 Prediction: They will struggle and will probably again be New Zealand's worst team. 12th

Squad: Aaron Bancroft, Josh Blackie, Callum Bruce, Keith Cameron, Craig Clare, Jimmy Cowan, Clarke Dermody, Nick Evans, David Hall, Carl Hayman, Charlie Hore, Glen Horton, Jason Kawau, Chris King, Filipo Levi, Jason Macdonald, Hoani MacDonald, Jamie Mackintosh, Toby Morland, Lucky Mulipola, Craig Newby, Anton Oliver, James Ryan, Matt Saunders, Alando Soakai, Ezra Taylor, Kane Thompson, Hale T-Pole, Viliame Waqaseduadua, Greg Zampach.

Schedule:
3 February: v Western Force, away
11 February: v Lions, away
18 February: v Sharks, away
24 February: v Stormers, home
2 March: v Blues, away
9 March: v Reds, home
16/17/18 March BYE
24 March: v Bulls, home
30 March: v Cheetahs, home
7 April: v Chiefs, home
14 April: v Crusaders, home
21 April: v Waratahs, away
27 April: v Hurricanes, away
5 May: v Brumbies, home

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With Jerry Collins, Jason Eaton, Andrew Hore, Chris Masoe and Rodney So'oialo all resting (on All Black conditioning duty), the Hurricanes find themselves without five key forwards for half of the tournament.

The 'Canes game plan is based around their mobile pack and dynamic ball carrying lose forwards, and as such they could find themselves battling to secure decent ball for the likes of Gopperth, Umaga, Nonu and Fa'atau.

These are undoubtedly wonderful players, but we believe they'll find themselves cut off from the source that allows them to display their brilliance - for the first seven weeks at least.

If they can survive the first half of the tournament without too many losses, they will be in great shape, but their pre-season form suggests they will struggle.

Strengths: Well, their strengths are their mobile pack and dynamic ball carrying lose forwards, and those will not be available for half of the tournament. They will have to fall back on the true grit that marked many of their games last year - as the Hurricanes developed the art of holding their nerve to close out the tight ones.

Weakness: Inconsistency! That and ill-discipline have been the besetting sins of the Hurricanes and the great hindrance to their greatness. The problem of inconsistency may be the inability of the tight forwards to impose - and they still do not look imposing.

Noteworthy signings: Chris Smylie (Otago), Blair Stewart (Southland), David Smith (Auckland, Brad Mika (Auckland) and Hayden Triggs (Manawatu)

Noteworthy losses: David Holwell (to the Blues), Joe McDonnell (to Newcastle Falcons), Isaia Toeava (to the Blues), Tane Tu'ipulotu (to the Chiefs)

Coach: Colin Cooper is a career coach, specialising in forward play. He migrated from Taranaki to Canterbury in 2001 in the place of Steve Hansen and then moved to the Hurricanes in 2003.

Captain: With Rodney So'oialo not available it was expected that Tana Umaga would get the job, but Conrad Smith and Paul Tito took charge of the pre-season games.

Player(s) to watch: Former All Black skipper Tana Umaga might not be the Hurricanes' regular on-field captain anymore, but his influence within camp 'Canes remains immense - and will be even more so during the first phase of this year's hostilities while the Hurricanes press on without their six conditioning All Blacks.

2006 Position: 2nd, beaten finalists
Best finish: 2nd (beaten finalists) in 2006; 3rd in Super 12 in 1997 and 2003
Worst finish: 11th in Super 12 in 2004
Home Venue: Westpac Stadium, Wellington (capacity 34,500)

2007 Prediction: They are likely to struggle in the early stages and may loose too much ground to make up. 6th

Hurricanes squad: Luke Andrews, Jerry Collins, Jason Eaton, Tamati Ellison, Lome Fa'atau, Tim Fairbrother, Hosea Gear, Jimmy Gopperth, Hayden Hopgood, Andrew Hore, Cory Jane, Tone Kopelani, Nili Latu, Serge Lilo, Chris Masoe, Alby Matthewson, Bradley Mika, Ma'a Nonu, Shannon Paku, Tony Penn, John Schwalger, Maharoni Schwalger, Conrad Smith, David Smith, Chris Smylie, Rodney So'oialo, Blair Stewart, Neemia Tialata, Paul Tito, Hayden Triggs, Bernie Upton, Tana Umaga, Thomas Waldrom, Piri Weepu.

Schedule:

3 February: v Reds, away
9 February: v Chiefs, away
17 February: v Blues, home
23 February: v Brumbies, home
3 March: v Stormers, home
9 March: v Western Force, away
17 March: v Sharks, away
24 March: v Lions, away
31 March: v Bulls, home
6/7/8 April: BYE
13 April: v Cheetahs, home
20 April: v Crusaders, away
27 April: v Highlanders, home
5 May: v Waratahs, home

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In Ricky January, newly appointed captain André Pretorius and Jaque Fourie lie the Cats only hope. With this in mind the depth of their squad must be called into question, and particularly their depth in key positions.

If the injury prone Pretorius is as unlucky as he has been in the past, there is very little quality back up at fly-half.

The loss of Wikus Van Heerden is an immeasurable one, and judging by his performance for the Bulls in pre-season matches, letting Van Heerden go could come back to haunt the Lions.

Although they are a highly motivated team, the Super 14 is unfortunately not a competition that can be won on passion or by a handful of talented individuals.

On the contrary such qualities may not even be enough to save the Lions from yet another bottom of the table finish.

Strengths: Team spirit, a real passion for the game and a good coach. They also have some great individuals and a stadium that is very intimidating for visiting teams.

Weakness: No real depth in their squad and injuries could be a major problem. Their tight forwards also look suspect. What worked in the Currie Cup may not work in the Super 14.

Noteworthy signings: Jacques Cronjé (from the Bulls), Thobela Mdaka (Griffons), Louis Strydom (Falcons), Solly Tyibilika (Sharks)

Noteworthy losses: Conrad Jantjes (to the Stormers), Grant Esterhuizen (Clermont Auvergne), Wayne Julies (the Bulls), Russell Winter (Newcastle Falcons), Wikus van Heerden (to the Bulls), Willem Stolz (Agen), Jannes Labuschagne (retired), Trevor Hall (Biarritz), Lucas van Biljon (retired)

Coach: Eugene Eloff, replacing Frans Ludeke as the Cats/Lions coach, was enormously successful with South Africa's Under-19 side and it seemed he has installed that same passion within the Lions squad. They came back from five losses in their first six games to narrowly lose out on a place in the Currie Cup play-offs, with a run of eight consecutive wins. But can they carry that passion and form into the Super 14?

Captain: André Pretorius is without doubt one of South Africa's most gifted and talented rugby players, but his list of recent and past injuries will ensure that their's always a question mark over his ability to last the pace. The other question is his ability to lead. It has not been tested at top level.

Player(s) to watch: Having lost a host of senior players it is likely the burden will fall on a handful of players - Jacques Cronjé, Jaque Fourie, Ricky Januarie, André Pretorius and Jaco Pretorius - to carry the young guns through.

2006 Position: 13th
Best finish: 3rd in 2001
Worst finish: 13 in the 2006 S14; 12th in the S12 (1998, 2003, 2004)
Home Venue: Ellis Park, Johannesburg (capacity 62,000)

2007 Prediction: They look paper thin in experience at this level and may well be South Africa's worst team again. 14th

Lions squad: Willem Alberts, Jannie Boshoff, Ashton Constant, Jacques Cronjé, Jaque Fourie, Gordon Gilfillan, Cobus Grobbelaar, Cobus Grobler, Enrico Januarie, Ernst Joubert, Doppies la Grange, Colin Lloyd, Louis Ludik, Kenny McKenzie, Brian Mujati, André Pretorius, Jaco Pretorius, Ethienne Reynecke, Earl Rose, Lawrence Sephaka, Bertus Smit, Louis Strydom, Solly Tyibilika, Franco van der Merwe, Heinke van der Merwe, Jaco van Schalkwyk, Anton van Zyl, Jano Vermaak, Willie Wepener, Ashwin Willemse

Schedule:

2 February: v Waratahs, home
10 February: v Highlanders, home
17 February: v Crusaders, home
24 February: v Western Force, away
3 March: v Reds, away
10 March: v Blues, away
16 March: v Chiefs, away
24 March: v Hurricanes, home
31 March: v Brumbies, home
7 April: v Stormers, away
13/14 April: BYE
21 April: v Bulls, home
28 April: v Sharks, away
5 May: v Cheetahs, home

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The Reds are a team in trouble - at least that's how it seems. Back in the days of Super 10 they were a force and after that always a team to be reckoned with, one always capable of an upset, a gutsy team.

But they now appeared to be a side that's going to struggle throughout the competition.

Even with the arrival of Eddie Jones as head coach, they simply don't have the depth to succeed in this year's Super 14 competition.

Ben Tune is the most injury prone player in Australia and can hardly be considered a youngster these days, Berrick Barnes has not lived up to the promise of his Rugby League career, Rodney Blake was slaughtered on the international scene, and their stalwart and outstanding player Chris Latham is now out injured.

Its not looking pretty for the side that finished twelfth last year and we expect them to go one worse.

Strengths: You can look to new coach Eddie Jones as a positive and you can look to the passion that the Reds are famous for. Some will even add new Rugby League convert Clinton Schifcofske to this list. But overall not too much to enthuse about.

Weakness: No real depth in the squad and they've lost their key play-maker in Chris Latham. We've seen to little of Schifcofske to make a call on him as a Rugby Union player just yet, but overall it appears the squad lacks that something special that will set it apart.

Noteworthy signings: Clinton Schifcofske (from Rugby League, Raiders), Ben Coutts (from Sale Sharks), Charlie Fetoai (from League, Broncos), Ryan Nicholas (from Japan, Suntory), Ed O'Donoghue (from Worcester), Ben Coutts (from Sale Sharks), AJ Gilbert (from NSW)

Noteworthy losses: Tim Atkinson (no contract), Mark Connors (retired), Elton Flatley (retired), Julian Huxley (Brumbies), Steve Kefu (Castres), Chris Latham (out injured), Drew Mitchell (Western Force)

Coach: Eddie Jones comes with a huge rugby coaching pedigree - following his success with the Brumbies. But his reputation took a knock during his last year with the Wallabies, in 2005. The former Brumbies mentor succeeded Jeff Miller in the Reds' role at the conclusion of the inaugural Super 14, with many looking at Jones to provide a quick fix to the Reds' ills. But they may need to be very patient, as Jones is unlikely to be able to incorporate the same style in Brisbane, for one needs George Gregan and Stephen Larkham to play that game.

Captain: The skipper remains unchanged in John Roe. Roe was appointed as captain of the Reds in April 2005, and quickly stamped his leadership style on the team. That earned him second and third terms as captain. He is one of the Reds' most reliable and effective players, who is equally at home at number eight or blindside flanker.

Player(s) to watch: No doubt the entire state of Queensland is hoping that Rugby League recruit Clinton Schifcofske will provide the spark that will be missing, through Chris Latham's injury enforced absence. But, like with Jones, they may be expecting too much. Hugh McMeniman has been compared with the legendary John Eales, but he too has a long way to go yet. Ryan Nicholas will need to bring some stability to the midfield.

2006 Position: 12th
Best finish: 1st and semi-final in Super 12 in 1996 and 1999
Worst finish: 12th in Super 14 in 2006; 10th in Super 12 in 2004 and 2005
Home Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane (capacity 52,500)

2007 Prediction: It can only get worse for the Reds. 13th

Reds squad: Geoff Abram, Ole Avei, Berrick Barnes, Nic Berry, Rodney Blake, Andrew Brown, Caleb Brown, Mitchell Chapman, Quade Cooper, Sam Cordingley, Ben Coutts, David Croft, Charlie Fetoai, AJ Gilbert, Sean Hardman, Greg Holmes, James Horwill, Peter Hynes, Lloyd Johansson, Anthony Mathison, Hugh McMeniman, Tom McVerry, Stephen Moore, Ben Mowen, Ryan Nicholas, Peter Niumata, Ed O'Donoghue, John Roe, Clinton Schifcofske, Cameron Treloar, Ben Tune, Henari Veratau.

Schedule:

3 February: v Hurricanes, home
9 February: v Crusaders, away
17 February: v Brumbies, home
24 February: v Blues, away
3 March: v Lions, home
9 March: v Highlanders, away
16 March: v Western Force, away
24 March: v Chiefs, home
30/13 March: BYE
7 April: v Sharks, home
14 April: v Waratahs, away
21 April: v Cheetahs, home
28 April: v Stormers, away
5 May: V Bulls, away

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The Sharks were South Africa's most successful team in the Super 12, reaching the play-offs four times and twice reaching the Final. But they never won the ultimate prize.

But they then went through a slump and several coaching changes - one in mid-season in 2005 - and they failed to reproduce the form that made them such a pleasure to watch in the early years of the Super 12.

However, in 2006, the inaugural Super 14, they came within a single point (on points differential) to beat the Bulls in the race for play-off places. The pleasure of watching them had returned.

A lot of people, particularly from the KwaZulu-Natal region, were quick to remind us just how wrong we got the Super 14 prediction last year.

The Sharks have been thoroughly impressive under Dick Muir, and it must be said that they are indeed one of the more fancied teams in this year's competition. Traditionally the best of the South African travelers, and now ("finally!" we hear every Sharks supporter cry) have been blessed with undoubtedly the best playing schedule of the competition, with a seven-home-six-away draw.

What will be most interesting is to see how a certain Mr Skinstad performs after a couple of years in London playing at centre for First Division club Richmond. Bringing Bob back was an ingenious move by the Sharks marketing team, as whether you love him or hate him, you want to see him play.

What will also be very interesting is to see how the youngsters who lit up the Currie Cup - and in Francois Steyn's case the end of year Springbok Tour - perform in their debut season for the Durban-based franchise.

Strengths: Some brilliant individuals and some hardy forwards. They are truly an exciting blend of youth and experience. And Durban seems to have become an ally again.

Weakness: It's hard to find any, but if last year was anything to go by - tactical naiveness in crunch games. Some of the youngsters let golden opportunities slip by through wrong options, simply because of a lack of experience.

Noteworthy signings: Bobby Skinstad (Richmond), Rory Kockott (Lions), Kees Lensing (Leeds, he played Currie Cup rugby but not Super 14 last year)

Noteworthy losses: Daniel Farani (no contract), Brent Russell (to the Stormers), Tony Brown (back to Japan), Craig Davidson (injured), Nico Breedt (to Toulon), Braam Immelman (to Montauban), Solly Tyibilika (Lions)

Coach: Dick Muir first cut his teeth at club level in South Africa, before taking over midway through the 2005 Super 12. He then had a roller-coaster ride in the Currie Cup and last year he got his first full bite at the Super 14 cherry. It tasted nice (he almost had the whole cake) and now he is back for more.

Captain: John Smit is the designated captain, even though he may be rested in the odd game. As Springbok captain he needs no introduction - well respected by his pears, even though he still has his doubters in the media.

Player(s) to watch: There is no doubt that when Bobby Skinstad eventually takes to the field (he kept a low profile during the pre-season build-up) everybody would want to see if he still has what it takes. But senior players like Johan Ackermann, Jacques Botes, BJ Botha, Warren Britz, Deon Carstens, Kees Lensing, Johann Muller, John Smit, Albert van den Berg, AJ Venter, Gcobani Bobo, Adrian Jacobs, Butch James, Henno Mentz and Percy Montgomery will all have crucial roles to play. They must guide the youngsters through troubled time ... of which there will be some.

2006 Position: 5th
Best finish: Runners-up in 1996 and 2001
Worst finish: 12th in 2000 and 2005
Home Venue: ABSA Stadium, Durban (capacity 52,000)

2006 Prediction: We expect many good things from the Sharks and some exciting rugby ... even a play-off spot. Top 4.

Sharks squad: Johan Ackermann, Skipper Badenhorst, Jacques Botes, BJ Botha, Warren Britz, Deon Carstens, Keegan Daniel, Bismarck du Plessis, Ryan Kankowski, Kees Lensing, Tendai Mtawarira, Johann Muller, Dewald Senekal, Bobby Skinstad, John Smit, Steven Sykes, Albert van den Berg and AJ Venter, Bradley Barritt, Gcobani Bobo, Craig Burden, Adrian Jacobs, Butch James, Rory Kockott, Scott Mathie, Henno Mentz, Cedric Mkhize, Percy Montgomery, Waylon Murray, Odwa Ndungane, Dusty Noble, Sandile Nxumalo, Ruan Pienaar, JP Pietersen, Grant Rees, Francois Steyn and Andries Strauss.

Schedule:

3 February: v Bulls, home
9 February : v Waratahs, home
17 February: v Highlanders, home
23/24 February: BYE
3 March: v Crusaders, home
10 March: v Cheetahs, away
17 March: v Hurricanes, home
24 March: v Brumbies, home
30 March: v Western Force, away
7 April: v Reds, away
14 April: v Blues, away
21 April: v Chiefs, away
28 April: v Lions, home
5 May: v Stormers, away

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The Stormers have often been disappointing. Even in their best year, 1999, they were disappointing when they got gold fever and thought making money more important than playing and ended losing a home semi-final. Last year much was expected of them and they drove disappointed fans away, even from Newlands where support is usually solid.

Even when it looked as if they must win, they managed to disappoint, somehow failing to win five successive home matches at the start of the tournament.

Then suddenly they looked like the side people had expected them to be by coming back from Down Under and beating the Crusaders 28-17 at Newlands.

Then again they have smart new outfits in Western Province's blue and white. Maybe that will bring a change of fortune and they will start clearing those final hurdles.

The 2006 Super 14 ended, as had Super tournaments before that, with lots of ifs. If they could have played the way they played against the Crusaders against the Waratahs, Brumbies, Hurricanes, Cheetah and so on, what a difference it would have made.

Strengths: Some excellent attacking players in Gio Aplon, Brent Russell, Jean de Villiers and Breyton Paulse. They have great counterattacking potential. They have loose forwards with the potential to break patterns but then Joe van Niekerk, who has been absent enough to be forgotten, will have to be less of the phantom than he has become. But then there is young Robbie Diack to step up - another Doug Hopwood? - and François Louw, a surprise omission, waiting in the wings.

Weaknesses: Front row. If JD Moller and improving Brok Harris are not there, they will battle. You would have thought that a team which could leave out François van der Merwe must have good locks and in a way they are - good chaps, but not the sort of men who dominate matches. The strengths of those attacking backs could also contain some elements of weakness, for none of them has a telling boot, either for poles or to clear the lines. That may be an argument for the inclusion of Naas Olivier, which is not a grievous problem for he has had some great moments.

Noteworthy signings: Conrad Jantjes (from the Lions), Brent Russell (from the Sharks), JP Joubert (from Griquas), Tiaan Liebenberg (from the Cheetahs)

Noteworthy losses: Sireli Naqelevuki (suspended for substance abuse), Neil de Kock (to Saracens), Paul Delport (seriously ill), Werner Greeff (retired), Marius Joubert (to the Cheetahs).

Coach: If Kobus van der Merwe can make happen or allow to happen the turnaround that happened after the Super 14 when suddenly Western Province became exciting, then the Stormers could just give great enjoyment.

Captain: Luke Watson. This is another "if". If Watson can exercise the same charismatic charm that he exercised over the young players of Western Province, again and enthuse the older players, the likes of Schalk Burger, if he can play as judiciously as he did up to the Currie Cup semi-final and not overplay his hand, the Stormers could have a leader of rare quality.

Players to watch: Those counter-attacking backs above all - Gio Aplon, Brent Russell and Breyton Paulse - none of them big goons, all of them skilled speedsters. You will see and watch and be astounded at Schalk Burger who is back in town.

2006 Position: 11th
Best finish: 2nd in 1999
Worst finish: 11th in 1996 and 2006. (That was worse in 1996 when there were only 12 teams. Mind you, not making it at all in 1997 may be the worst of all.)
Home venue: Newlands (capacity 50 000)

2007 Prediction: They came 11th with a favourable draw. What can one expect with this year's uncomfortable draw which includes two trips to New Zealand. 12th

Stormers squad: Eddie Andrews, Gio Aplon, De Wet Barry, Andries Bekker, Selborne Boome, Gerrie Britz, Schalk Brits, Schalk Burger, Bolla Conradie, Jean de Villiers, Dylan Des Fountain, Robbie Diack, Huia Edmonds, Schalk Ferreira, Peter Grant, Brok Harris, Conrad Jantjes, JP Joubert, Tiaan Liebenberg, Justin Melck, JD Moller, Naas Olivier, Breyton Paulse, Joe Pietersen, Brent Russell, Ross Skeate, Egon Seconds, Corné Uys, Joe van Niekerk, Luke Watson.

Schedule:

3 February: v Cheetahs, away
9 February: v Western Force, home
16 February: v Chiefs, home
24 February: v Highlanders, away
3 March: v Hurricanes, away
9 March: v Brumbies, away
17 March: v Waratahs, away
24 March: v Crusaders, away
7 April: v Lions, home
14 April: v Bulls, away
21 April: v Blues , home
28 April: v Reds, home
5 May: v Sharks , home

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At the end of last year's competition the Sydney-based side must have thought that 2007 would surely be the year they would go all the way - not just make the play-offs or the Final, but actually win the tournament.

They now face a season without their two top try scorers from last year, Wendell Sailor and Mat Rogers, and without their captain and stalwart Chris Whitaker.

Those are three massive names to have lost, and would have undoubtedly rocked Ewan McKenzie's plans of Super 14 glory.

The Waratahs should not lose heart, however, as they still have a young and dynamic side, and in Under-21 star Daniel Halangahu, Wallaby Morgan Turinui, as well as Stephan Larkham look alike and play-alike Sam Norton-Knight, they have a core of players perfectly suited to the attacking nature of Super Rugby.

Their pack also has the makings of a mobile, yet solid unit, and should serve their talented backline well.

Strengths: Organised, determined, professional. They have quality players all over the park and should be able to plug any whole that have or will appear.

Weakness: The scrum could be a weakness if the New Zealand and South African teams decide to take advantage of a proven Australian problem, though not one without a solution. And the injury-enforced absence of star Wallaby lock Daniel Vickerman may also leave a hole they could struggle to fill.

Noteworthy signings: Kurtley Beale (from schoolboy rugby), Ben Hand (injury replacement for Dan Vickerman), Sam Harris (from Wests Tigers Rugby League club), Josh Valentine (from the Reds).

Noteworthy losses: Shaun Berne (to Bath), Stephen Hoiles (to the Brumbies), Leroy Houston (quit professional rugby), Mat Rogers (to Gold Coast Titans, League), Wendell Sailor (drug related suspension), Daniel Vickerman (out injured), Chris Whitaker (to Leinster)

Coach: It seemed that the whole of Australia wanted Ewen McKenzie to coach the Wallabies in the wake of the 2005 disappointments but he decided to stick with the Waratahs, which must have earned the big, thoughtful ex-prop lots of warm feelings from his players. Clearly he is a great coach in progress.

Captain: Phil Waugh. He takes over from Chris Whitaker, who joined the growing queue of Souther Hemisphere players earning a pension in the Northern Hemisphere. Waugh is a well respected player worldwide and even though he is highly rated as a leader in Australia, he will be tested in the Super 14 cauldron.

Player(s) to watch: In the absence of Mat Rogers and Wendell Sailor, the creative backline spotlight may well fall on Sam Norton-Knight, a Stephen Larkham look-alike, who could become a trump card in his own lanky right. And will Peter Hewat be as much fun as he has been in recent seasons?

2006 Position: 3rd
Best finish: 2nd - losing finalists in 2005
Worst finish: 9th in Super 12 in 1997 and 2000.
Home Venue: Aussie Stadium (previously Sydney Football Stadium) (capacity 42,000)

2006 Prediction: They have enough class to be in the play-offs again and could be a good bet for overall honours. Prediction: Top 4

Waratahs squad: Alastair Baxter, Kurtley Beale, Aaron Broughton-Rouse, Will Caldwell, Tom Carter, Tim Davidson, Matt Dunning, Rocky Elsom, Adam Freier, Daniel Halangahu, Ben Hand, Sam Harris, Peter Hewat, Josh Holmes, Ben Jacobs, Alex Kanaar, David Lyons, Alfi Mafi, Al Manning, Dean Mumm, Sam Norton-Knight, Wycliff Palu, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Beau Robinson, Benn Robinson, Brett Sheehan, Chris Siale, Jeremy Tilse, Lote Tuqiri, Morgan Turinui, Lachlan Turner, Josh Valentine, Daniel Vickerman, Phil Waugh.

Schedule:

2 February: v Lions, away
9 February: v Sharks, away
17 February: v Cheetahs, away
23/24 February: BYE
2 March: v Western Force, home
10 March: v Bulls, home
17 March: v Stormers, home
23 March: v Blues, away
31 March: v Crusaders, home
8 April: v Brumbies, away
14 April: v Reds, home
21 April: v Highlanders, home
27 April: v Chiefs, home
5 May: v Hurricanes, away

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The honeymoon may be over. Last season was certainly honeymoon time for the Western Force. There they were a brand new franchise in a newish rugby area, cut off by the width of a continent from their compatriots, a team with huge community support as the people of home and surrounds rallied to the cause determined, in a competitively Australian way, to make their island of rugby a treasure island.

So people supported them. They were clearly no threat to the other Super 14 sides, but had an appealing, fresh-faced look about them.

Then, too, they kept on making history. When Scott Daruda kicked a penalty goal, it was an historic first. When Scott Fava scored a try, it was an historic first. When the Western Force beat the Cheetahs, it was an historic first. Each historic first was greeted with smiling approval, a feat after all. Patting the good underdog.

That may have worn off this year. But there may be compensation in the strong squad assembled. They are largely an expat group with few locals but even that seems to work to their appeal.

There are rugby entities pilloried for having imported players. In the case of Western Force it has been seen as virtue, adding to their appeal. When they drew in Matt Giteau, Drew Mitchell and Ryan Cross there was applause and admiration. But there was also a bit of disquiet. After all 2006's wooden spoonists may be a bit more than a bit of a nuisance. The wooden spoon may just become a weapon.

Strengths: They have a wonderful support base. If the novelty has not worn off and they can encourage that cheerful blue-clad army to return they can add force to the Force, supporters worth playing for. They are not just voices crying in the stands. They are also people who put their hands into their pockets. They must have great business support to be able to afford some of their signings. They have the wonderful skills of Matt Giteau, the finishing power of Drew Mitchell and the potential of rugby-league hardened Ryan Cross who comes back to the union game. That trio did not come cheap. Giteau, at AUS$4.5 million, is the highest paid footballer of any code in Australia's sporting history. Last year they scored tries. They also have good goal-kickers in Giteau, Cameron Shepherd and Brock James, who has been kicking so well in France.

Weakness: Lack of depth and a winning culture. If Australia has a scrumming problem in the East imagine what it's like in the West.

Noteworthy signings: Drew Mitchell (from the Reds), Matt Giteau (from the Brumbies), Ryan Cross (from Rugby League, Sydney Roosters), Troy Takiari (from the Waratahs).

Noteworthy losses: John Welborn (retired), David Te Moana (Manawatu)

Coach: John Mitchell, the big New Zealander, has had fingers in lots of big pies, including England as an assistant and the All Blacks as a vilified flop. He certainly can coach and his livelihood depends on coaching.

Captain: Stirling Nathan Sharpe, one of Australia's top and most charismatic tight forwards. Has he ever given less than his unemotional best?

Players to watch: You will see and watch Matt Giteau and Drew Mitchell and you will be interested to see how Ryan Cross manages his swap. And you may want to keep an eye on Luke Doherty.

2006 Position: 14th
Best finish: 14th (2006, debut year)
Worst finish: (2006, debut year)
Home venue: Subiaco Oval, home (capacity: 43 500)

2007 Prediction: They will be slightly better, but not yet good enough. 11th

Western Force squad: Pekahou Cowan, David Fitter, Gareth Hardy, Angus Scott, AJ Whalley, Brendan Cannon, Luke Holmes, Tai McIsaac, David Pusey, Nathan Sharpe, Rudi Vedelago, Matt Giteau, John Welborn, Patrick O'Connor, Richard Brown, Tim Davidson, Luke Doherty, Scott Fava, Matt Hodgson, Matt Windle, Vitori Buatava, Matt Henjak, Chris O'Young, Scott Daruda, Brock James, Lachlan MacKay, Josh Graham, Digby Ioane, Zander Peden, Junior Pelesasa, Scott Staniforth, Cameron Shepherd, Brett Stapleton, Haig Sare, James Hilgendorf, Tajhon Mailata

Schedule:

2 February: v Highlanders, home
9 February: v Stormers, away
16 February: v Bulls, away
24 February: v Lions, home
2 March: v Waratahs, away
9 March: v Hurricanes, home
16 March: v Queensland Reds home
30 March: v Sharks, home
7 April: v Crusaders, away
14 April: v Chiefs, away
20 April: v Brumbies, away
27 April: v Cheetahs, home
4 May: v Blues, home

[Bianca]

Woo - go Sharks!!!

[Poison]

Nice info there Shayne..

[biffon]

Force were their usual error ridden selves! force of habit guess!
Giteau showed his class as did Staniforth, Shepard and even Hilgendorf but the side was let down consistently by Mitchell and i dare say he'll be benched next week.
probably gonna see Shepard back at 15 and Digby Ione back on the wing.... i hope!

Good to see the Tah's get a win in Joburg and the Blues win against the Saders!
The saders/blues game was really exciting to watch, did any if you kiwi's get to watch the game live?

[spuff]

Jeez - the Force were woeful... Glad I didn't stay up to finish that game, just watched the replay. After the 'Saders/Blues game the Perth game was awefull to watch. Mind you playing in nearly 40deg can't be much fun!

[spuff]

http://www.stuff.co.nz/3949498a10.html

[Shifty]

Grrrrrrrr! :icon8: Absolute shocker from The Hurricanes.

Losing to the Reds, of all teams :smiley5:.

I know we're down five players due to AB commitments but I really hoped for a better performance. Glad it's still early days..

Sigh.

[Shayne]

Good to see the Brumbies thump the Chiefs. Next week, we destroy the Blues.

[biffon]

ooh shayne i wouldnt call it a thumping... but they won which is better than my "woeful" western force..

on to Cape Town!

Wagons Ho!!!!!

[biffon]

http://www.stuff.co.nz/3949498a10.html

WTF are you drinking.... spuff me lad?

[Aboriginal]

Reds won a game?! Oh my word can Eddie Jones actually coach? Damn stormers! The force looking good.

[Moses]

Glad to see the Mighty Tahs have ticked off one away game... next week the Sharks are going down!

[spuff]

WTF are you drinking.... spuff me lad?

Sorry, uhmm wrong cut and paste.... Just as well I didn't paste the links to other pages I was looking at...

I didn't mean your Force were "Woeful", even though I did say this, I guess I was disappointed in the game. I am sure with JM and his new recruits, that won't happen again.

As for the brumbies beating the blues... Shayne haven't you learnt by now?

[biffon]

Spuff - i was as cut up by the state of that game as you were, probably more, my wife didnt get any for three days!!
I just hope Mitchells faith in Mitchell will pay off angainst the stormers this week...
Im looking forward to seeing how Junior Pelesasa plays at inside centre, ive heard he is a hard man to stop once he gets up steam....

[spuff]

Good to see the Brumbies thump the Chiefs. Next week, we destroy the Blues.



muhhahahaa - that's three in a row now isn't it?? :) :)

Check Jeremy Paul's "hollywood" for a "swinging arm" penalty. He should play for queens park rangers...

[Shayne]

Didnt get to watch any super 14 this weekend so i take it the brumbies lost.. Worse yet i didnt my picks in :(

[biffon]

doos!!!

ya boet brumbies lost again....
so did the stormers, Highlanders and Waratahs,... all favored to win.
gonna be a closer season this year for sure!!


glad i bet on the underdogs this week!

[Shifty]

Results for this weekend.

Chiefs 32 Hurricanes 39 :smiley20:

Stormers 3 Western Force 22

Sharks 22 Waratahs 9


Crusaders 33 Reds 22


Brumbies 15 Blues 17

Bulls 24 Cheetahs 20


Lions 11 Highlanders 6

[Aboriginal]

Damn stormers!!!! Don't know why I bother. hah ha the ACT snatch defeat from the jaws of victory and was'nt georgie's handling terrible! ( I know it was raining but he is a scrummie!)

[biffon]

Another big weekend of rugby to look forward to.... i might have to catch the force game on sunday though cause ive got a work function on saturday. you never know i might stay up for it....

big games to look forward to:
Brumbies v Reds,
Canes v Blues,
Force v Bulls

have

[Shifty]

Yeah, really looking forward to this weekend. Some very good games to look forward to. I really hope that the Canes thump the Blues this weekend.

[Shifty]

Woohoo! :party:


Excuse the size of the picture, I've tried to remove it and replace with a much smaller version but I can't for
some reason. Sigh..

[Shifty]

An excellent, match winning performance from Percy Montgomery this weekend.

He did well to score all the points for the Sharks and win the match in the bargain.

[Shayne]

Glad the Hurricanes beat the Blues. Cant stand them.

Brumbies won a shocker against the reds. 6-3.

[Shifty]

Glad the Hurricanes beat the Blues. Cant stand them.

Brumbies won a shocker against the reds. 6-3.


I agree, I thought that the Brumbies/Reds match was pretty ugly and frustrating to watch.

But having said that, the Brumbies got the result they needed in the end.

I really don't rate the Reds that highly but whether they win or lose, they are making everyone they play against look quite ordinary. :smiley5: As humiliating as it was getting beaten by them in the first game of the season I think that they probably did us a favour by giving us a much needed scare.

The Brumbies/Hurricanes match in Wellington this week should be very interesting. :smiley20:

[Shayne]

And whats with the Force beating the Bulls at home???? I saw the first half and i thought they were going to take it by 50 points! Force must of had a blinder of a second half.

[Bianca]

And again I say - yay - go Sharks! And Percy is looking F I T!!!!!

[biffon]

Force are ON FIRE!!!!!!!!!!!!! the Bulls were looking ominous and the force did well not to let even more points in in the first half... but then the big bulls pack ran out of puff and their zippy backline just didnt have the skill to defend against a rampaging force backline... in the end it came down to some pretty arrogant decisions by Matfield that cost the Bulls the game...
they had three easy penalties in the last 5 mins and decided to try win the game by booting for the corner and the force pushed them back every time!!
AWESOME Defence!!!

GO FORCE!!! tied in third place with the Brumbies, Blues & Canes. :smiley20: :smiley32: :smiley32:

No surprises with the Stormers launguishing at the bottom even with a win over the Chiefs. :smiley36:

[Shifty]

5 hours, 11 minutes until the Hurricanes vs Brumbies game.

The afternoon is really dragging. If I wasn't so excited, I'd be bored out of my mind.........

Go Hurricanes!!!!!!!!!!

[Poison]

It will be a cracker game..

Brumbies vs Hurricanes..

Come on the Brumbies!!!

[Shifty]

Not going to be easy for either team tonight I reckon.

[biffon]

aaah shit i was going to watch it but forgot im taking the wifee and little man to movies

[biffon]

wtf??????

talk about duplicate posting

hehe
thanks for deleting them shayne

[Patson]

Whats the bets all newzealand teams winnin this weekend....:smiley20:

[Patson]

common rep the future teller.... hahaha

[biffon]

pfffft~~~

[Patson]

haha mornin biff... look at the bright side the all blacks are not back yet so there is still hope for the other teams ... :smiley36:

[Shifty]

One of the better sights in Wellington this last weekend. :icon10:

[biffon]

theres only one aussie team i support and thats the force...
as for national sides i have to stick to my roots go the Boks!
arch enemies of the AB's

I see the Pumas might be getting a foot in the door of tri nations... that could prove interesting!

[Shayne]

Lets be honest. The Hurricanes were DAMN lucky to beat the Brumbies. They danced like little girls when they scored the try and the final whistled was blown.

[Poison]

That was crap.. when the Hurricanes won..

[biffon]

Lets be honest. The Hurricanes were DAMN lucky to beat the Brumbies. They danced like little girls when they scored the try and the final whistled was blown.


i agree, pretty tough being beaten like that, pretty similar to the force/lions match - Force were rue'ing their chances lost. as did the Brumbies, but it was great to see the brumbies back in form though, they had some great running rugby with superb ball retention, hurricanes defence just held firm. :smiley20:

[Shifty]

Lets be honest. The Hurricanes were DAMN lucky to beat the Brumbies. They danced like little girls when they scored the try and the final whistled was blown.

Not sure that I entirely agree.

Compared to their performance in the first half, the Hurricanes were the better team in the second . They were constantly on the attack and always looked like they might score at any moment.

Having said that, both teams fluffed up golden opportunities to score and made some very stupid mistakes.

It's a very bitter pill to swallow when a team loses, especially when it's in the very last minute of the game. But the simple fact of the matter is that the Brumbies were under a lot of pressure in the last fifteen minutes of the match and had no real opportunities to mount a solid counter-attack. Under the circumstances, the only other option was to prevent the Hurricanes from scoring.

Bottom line, they failed. Whether it happened five minutes or five seconds before full time is purely academic. The end result remains the same.

However, it's still early days and the Brumbies are by no means down and out. This is turning out to be a very interesting Super 14 season.

My predictions? Come quarter final time, it'll be the Sharks, the Blues, the Hurricanes and if they get back on form, then definitely the Crusaders.

[Shifty]

That was crap.. when the Hurricanes won..

lol

Don't lie Poison. We all know that you're a closet Hurricanes fan. :smiley2:


Denial is more than just a river that flows through Egypt...:icon10:

[biffon]

was i watching the same game????

[Shayne]

I was just being a sore loser. Hats off to the Hurricanes.

[Shifty]

Ja, I know what you mean Shayne.

That’s the problem with rugby. The highs are so sweet, but the lows can be quite devastating.

Going back to the Brumbies, I had no idea that George Gregan’s mother is from Zimbabwe.

I wonder who will replace Gregan once he retires. He really is one of the best in his position.

[Shayne]

Everyone always asks me why i support the Brumbies. I just lie and say i went to school with George. That shuts them up.

[zambezilover]

Hey shifty whats youre virtual rugby name? This has definitely been the best Super 14 i have seen. Over half of the games won have all been real nailbiters.

I think final 4 will be Cannes, Sharks, Lions, & Blues

Cant wait to see what happens between the Sharks & Saders this weekend.

[Shayne]

I'll need to see a doctor for Prozac if the Blues do well this year and actually make the semi's and worse still... the finals.

I hope its..... Hurricanes, Brumbies (believe it biatches), Crusaders and dark horses Lions (and why not?)

[biffon]

I reckon Bulls will struggle against the top teams this year so i think shaynes on the money, you might see a surprise in the Lions, they are looking sharp

If the force can put a few more solid performances together we might see them in the top six which will be oh so sweet!!!
I dare say i hope they beat the Tahs this weekend..sorry Moses!! :D :D

[Shifty]

Hey shifty whats youre virtual rugby name? This has definitely been the best Super 14 i have seen. Over half of the games won have all been real nailbiters.

I think final 4 will be Cannes, Sharks, Lions, & Blues

Cant wait to see what happens between the Sharks & Saders this weekend.

Howzit Zambeez

Ja this is turning out to be a quite an exciting S14. Sadly I missed out on the virtual rugby. Think I was too late.:smiley6:

I think you're right, the Sharks/Crusaders game is going to be one of the most exciting and from my perspective possibly the most important. If only because it should give an idea as to where both teams are at. And if the Crusaders do lose this one it could be the beginning of the end for them.

You could be right about the Lions making the semi-finals. They are getting the results and as Shayne says, "Why not?". After last years poor performance, they've turned things right around this year. Amazing what can happen with a change of name. :smiley2:

Personally I only hope the Canes can keep the momentum going until the big boys get back. Some of our wins lately have been too close for comfort. As far as I'm concerned, our missing team members can't come back soon enough.

I agree with rotation policy to a certain extent but not at the expense of the S14.

[biffon]

I think you'll be surprised how little impact the big boys will have, well at least for the first two games they will play.. Match fitness is every bit as important as physical fitness.. if your wondering what im talking about... just think how badly some of the teams played in their first two rounds this year.. some of them only coming right now. Its all about getting into "the zone"

Im willing to bet that the all-blacks will have little impact on the final outcome of the super14 log, at least for the prelims. they will be important if a kiwi team gets into the finals though!

[Shifty]

I think you'll be surprised how little impact the big boys will have, well at least for the first two games they will play.. Match fitness is every bit as important as physical fitness.. if your wondering what im talking about... just think how badly some of the teams played in their first two rounds this year.. some of them only coming right now. Its all about getting into "the zone"

Im willing to bet that the all-blacks will have little impact on the final outcome of the super14 log, at least for the prelims. they will be important if a kiwi team gets into the finals though!

Ja Biffon, that is very true. You've hit the nail on the head.

As loyal as I am in my support of the Hurricanes, as the team stands at this moment, I honestly don't think that are good enough to make it through to the quarter finals unless some of the regulars come back.

The problem for me, is that they will rejoin the S14 squad just in time to play a much improved Force, followed by the Sharks the next week, which gives them very little time to settle in. I only hope that they turn out to be a help and not a hindrance.

Things just don't get easier. :motz:

Oh well.. :shot:

[Shayne]

Zambezilover and myself have corporate box tickets this Friday to one of the most boring games ever. Blues vs Highlanders. Zzzzzzzz. At least there will be free booze.

[Shifty]

Good game to win if you're a Blues fan. But yeah, boring as hell if you're not.

How'd you wangle those?

Our company sometimes raffle a pair of them if someone cancels.
But most of the time you've got no chance..

[biffon]

damn dude any s14 game live is better than nothing!!! stop complaining! and think of those poor zimbos still having to watch it all on dstv!

[Shayne]

Our traders are always getting free tickets and dont always want to go. First come first served i guess. I'll be cheering for the Highlanders in between swigs thats for sure.

[biffon]

haha good job!!
i dare say i think the blues will take it away though!

[Poison]

Zambezilover and myself have corporate box tickets this Friday to one of the most boring games ever. Blues vs Highlanders. Zzzzzzzz. At least there will be free booze.


Hey what about a ticket for me..:smiley2: :whistling:

[Shayne]

Sorry dude. There were only five tickets and have been given out already.

[Poison]

No worries..

[biffon]

hahaha buy your own!!! or even better use the money on a box of beer and watch it from your wide screeM at home!!

[Poison]

Yes good alternative..:smiley20:

[biffon]

Big games this arvo!!!
blues highlanders & force tahs!

this season is one of those where results could go either way... very few games can be prejudged.. cept when the chiefs or stormers are playing! :D

[biffon]

Blues overran the Highlanders in an exciting game and Force held the Tahs to a draw...
it wasnt pretty but 1 point is better than none!

[Shifty]

Damn, what a weekend.

Shocking results from both the Hurricanes and the Brumbies. Two draws as well. About the only predictable result was the Sharks win and that was only by the skin of their teeth.

Going to lose an absolute fortune this week. Sigh.

[Shayne]

A shocking weekend of note. First time ever the Bulls have beaten the Brumbies (and they deserved to lose), Hurricanes caught a hiding and Force were strong in their draw.


Apologetic Tuqiri gets three days

An apologetic Lote Tuqiri has been forgiven by his teammates for his extraordinary act of abuse of Sam Norton-Knight, but the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) is fast losing patience with the dual international.

It was reported in the Australian media that the ARU will offer Tuqiri a non-negotiable contract this week, with an ultimatum to sign within three days or have it withdrawn.

This follows just a day after Norton-Knight said he was "shocked" at being shoved and verbally abused by Tuqiri - following the blunder (by Norton-Knight) during the Waratahs' 16-all draw against the Western Force on Fr8iday.

Norton-Knight earned the ire of Tuqiri after taking a quick tap in the dying seconds of the game on Friday night, denying Peter Hewat a penalty goal attempt which could have broken the deadlock.



http://www.rugby365.com/story/0,18881,10691_1957108,00.html

[Bianca]

woo hoo - go Sharks! How exciting was the last few minutes of that game?!?!?

[Poison]

What a weekend of rugby.. Some crazy results..

My picks went totally out the window this time..

But they have been crap all season anyway..:smiley5: :smiley5: :smiley36:

[biffon]

i got the last couple right at least... knew the reds were going to lose and knew the sharks were going to win... the rest were a tad unpredictable none more than the Stormers giving it to the canes!!

Stormers played a great style of rugby, glad the force played them already as they really looked dangerous this week!

[biffon]

A shocking weekend of note. First time ever the Bulls have beaten the Brumbies (and they deserved to lose), Hurricanes caught a hiding and Force were strong in their draw.



http://www.rugby365.com/story/0,18881,10691_1957108,00.html


yeah and tuquiri was AGGRO!!! with his team , i dare say he'll be moving to NRL soon after that match. Sad to see but i have to be honest if someone doesnt really love the game and is playing for just the money then let him go!

[biffon]

http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,21340624-5002381,00.html

Sharpe edge returns to Force

March 07, 2007
WESTERN Force will have skipper Nathan Sharpe back to take on the Hurricanes on Friday after his recovery from a back injury.
Sharpe was today named in the Force squad that will once again attempt to break its victory duck at home after he withdrew late from last week's draw with the Waratahs.
Despite injury worries over Scott Staniforth, Force's vice-captain has been named in the starting side, with coach John Mitchell tinkering only with his pack.
Moving into the run-on side for the first time this season are hooker Tai McIsaac and openside flanker David Pocock.
McIsaac swaps his spot on the bench with Brendan Cannon, a move the Force said was in line with a squad rotation policy, while David Pusey will start at lock for Rudi Vedelago.

Pocock, who made his Super 14 debut aged 18 in the last game of last season, has been promoted because of his strong impact off the bench this year, according to Mitchell.

[biffon]

WESTERN FORCE: Drew Mitchell; Scott Staniforth, Ryan Cross, Junior Pelesasa, Cameron Shepherd; Matt Giteau, Matt Henjak; Scott Fava, David Pocock, Richard Brown; Nathan Sharpe (captain), David Pusey; Troy Takiari, Tai McIsaac, Gareth Hardy. Replacements: Brendan Cannon, Angus Scott, Rudi Vedelago, Matt Hodgson, Chris O'Young, James Hilgendorf, Digby Ioane

[Aboriginal]

I think you'll be surprised how little impact the big boys will have, well at least for the first two games they will play.. Match fitness is every bit as important as physical fitness.. if your wondering what im talking about... just think how badly some of the teams played in their first two rounds this year.. some of them only coming right now. Its all about getting into "the zone"

Im willing to bet that the all-blacks will have little impact on the final outcome of the super14 log, at least for the prelims. they will be important if a kiwi team gets into the finals though!

I agree. The NZ teams will be out of the super14 before they know it despite a late injection from the AB's. I know it's not Super 14 but....I fully support the logic behind what Connolly said along the lnes of . "The all blacks will choke again in the WC. Too much thought and not enough action" match fitness is all that counts!

[Aboriginal]

WESTERN FORCE: Drew Mitchell; Scott Staniforth, Ryan Cross, Junior Pelesasa, Cameron Shepherd; Matt Giteau, Matt Henjak; Scott Fava, David Pocock, Richard Brown; Nathan Sharpe (captain), David Pusey; Troy Takiari, Tai McIsaac, Gareth Hardy. Replacements: Brendan Cannon, Angus Scott, Rudi Vedelago, Matt Hodgson, Chris O'Young, James Hilgendorf, Digby Ioane

Love Ryan cross and matt giteau as always. Have'nt seen young Zimbo Pocock yet. Cameron shepard I'm afraid biffo is still a total wanker and just as rubbish at potting the posts with the boot!

[Shifty]

I agree. The NZ teams will be out of the super14 before they know it despite a late injection from the AB's.

Ja, it is looking a bit like that.

But there again, I think it all hinges on how the next two weeks turn out. Based on the last couple of matches I wouldn't rule the Crusaders out just yet. And there again the Hurricanes do have a fairly reasonable chance of winning tonight, so who knows..

But as you and biffon have already said, it's all comes down to match fitness.

[zambezilover]

i think its gonna be a close one between the Lions & Blues tonight, go the lions

[biffon]

yeah i want the lions to win but i think their brief run of away wins is about to come crashing down cause the blues are looking shit hot!

[Aboriginal]

I reckon the blues will spank the lions. Go the stormers!
This could make things interesting next year
http://www.rugbyheaven.smh.com.au/articles/2007/03/08/1173166862192.html

P.S Shayne I think Gregans mother is Zambian

[biffon]

yeah hes a zambian poacher - thats why he makes such a good Scrumhalf! :D

[Shifty]

A well deserved and hard fought victory for WF. They played their hearts out. Good for them. :smiley20: The Hurricanes continue to disappoint and slide further down the table. The lack of key players is really starting to show as the competition gets tougher.

Good wins for the Brumbies and the Highlanders too.

[biffon]

Go the Good Sheperd!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

thats all i have to say about that!

actually no

MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU! :D :D

[Shayne]

Had corporate seats for the Lions Blues game. an exciting game at times but the result was forgeone in the first hew minutes.

Well done to the force! Wow. What a result. Brumbies were excellant for a change.

Off the subject of rugby. I was given free tickets to the Warriors first game of the season today in the NRL today. Bands are playing beforehand, cheerleader thing and then the main game. Goooo the warriors. Talk about a action packed sporting weekend.

[Shayne]

Ooo corporate box seats to Blues - Waratahs. SAAAWEET! This time from Vodafone.

I would just like to say to say thank you to Vodafone, Jim the packet packer at New World, my two dead gold fish Rod and Jim and to my mom. Big ups to you.

[Poison]

Nice.. Thanks for the invite..:smiley2:

[Shifty]

Off the subject of rugby. I was given free tickets to the Warriors first game of the season today in the NRL today. Bands are playing beforehand, cheerleader thing and then the main game. Goooo the warriors. Talk about a action packed sporting weekend.


Yeah, the Warriors have started their season with a bang. Looks like they could have a good year.

[Shifty]

On current performance, it's starting to look like the Crusaders are going to make it to the finals. I really dislike them as a team but they really set the benchmark.

[biffon]

Yeah, the Warriors have started their season with a bang. Looks like they could have a good year.

Titans have done well too by winning their inaugural game.
i was impressed with their little half-back he is as slimy as an eel!


Shifty youre right, Crusaders are looking dangerous!

my final 4 =Blues, Sharks, Crusaders, force

contenders = Lions, Brumbies, Bulls

outside chance = Stormers, Canes, Highlanders, Cheetahs

no hope =Tahs, Reds, Chiefs :D

[Shayne]

The force are on fire! Cant believe they beat the Sharks :(

[biffon]

bring on the Saders!!!! i tell you now they arent looking so invincible after their terrible defensive effort this weekend - they were lucky to win even though they scored 6 tries, if it wasnt for the last conversion by the Tahs that was flogged they would have lost that match!

And how strong are the brumbies starting to look??? a win against the Sharks and now the Lions in Joburg!! respect!

starting to look like another 2 NZ & 2 Aussie semi-finals.. but its early days yet and any of the top 8 teams could get in there!

[Shifty]

I reckon the Crusaders were just having a bad day at the office.

As well as WF are playing at the moment, I will be very suprised if the Crusaders lose this weekend.

Still, an upset wouldn't be a bad thing. Crusaders have ruled the roost for far too long.:naughty:


If The Sharks keep their composure, they should have an easy run against the Reds this coming weekend. Which should put them back into the top four.

[Patson]

common the blues.... its gonna be interestin to see who ends up in finals...

[biffon]

The Sharks had better buck up cause the way the Brumbies are playing I think they will have a better chance of getting into the top 4 than the boys from durban

Force MAY drop out of the top 4 this weekend but next weekend against the Chiefs i think they will give them carrots!

[Shayne]

Blues have no chance of losing this weekend against the Chiefs (damnit).

Would love WF to cream the crusaders by 50 points, deal out 5 severe concussions, break 3 or 4 legs and help some teeth go missing. Crusaders suck arse unless they're playing the Blues.

[Edmonsta]

So is it too early in the relationship for me to butt in here and start waving my Sharks flag? :smiley17:

[Shayne]

Go ahead. Breakdown of supporter names and teams

WF - Biffon, Blazzo, Mashona
Brumbies - Shayne, Poison, Tiger, Greenballs, Adam
Sharks - Edmonsta, Raevyon
Hurricanes - Zambezilover, Shifty
Stormers - Aboriginal
Blues - Patson, Spuff
Waratahs - Moses (ha ha, he hasnt shown his face here in a while!)

Who have i forgotten?

[biffon]

i think Raevyon also supports Sharks but i could be wrong.
Mashona is a Force supporter

I hope Blazzo is a Force Supporter as he does live in Perth!!

[Shifty]

So is it too early in the relationship for me to butt in here and start waving my Sharks flag? :smiley17:


It would be rude not to. :box: :icon10:

Btw depending on how many points you have, you can place bets on the Super 14 using the vBookie link above. I stand to be corrected on this but I think that you can place your bets on Thursday/Friday. Is that right Shayne?

[Edmonsta]

Go ahead. Breakdown of supporter names and teams

WF - Biffon, Blazzo, Mashona
Brumbies - Shayne, Poison, Tiger, Greenballs, Adam
Sharks - Edmonsta, Raevyon
Hurricanes - Zambezilover, Shifty
Stormers - Aboriginal
Blues - Patson
Waratahs - Moses (ha ha, he hasnt shown his face here in a while!)

Who have i forgotten?

Thanks for the lowdown, Shayne! :smiley20:

Looks like I'm the only Sharks supporter here... :smiley17:

So when do you reckon Shifty will realise he's supporting the wrong team?

Interesting comp so far - it's still anybodys. Sharks will have to sort their shit out if we want to make a home semi. Probably most scared of the Blues.

Glad to see there aren't any Crusaders fans here. :naughty:

[biffon]

bets are up already Shifty!!! ;)

[Shifty]

Thanks Biff.

At least I'm guaranteed not to lose any money on the Hurricanes this week. :icon10:

[Shayne]

Ha ha!! Thats a first Shifty.

[biffon]

haha yeah dude that last bet of yours was an F up!!

[spuff]

You forgot me on the supporters list Shayne, I am sure you don't have to ask which team...

[biffon]

blues? :D

[Shayne]

Sorry, forgot to add Spuff ... Spuff is a big Blues supporter (he loves their tight shirts).

Go figure. I get free Blues tickets all season and i cant stand watching them :( Dont get me wrong. They are talented, strong and deserve to be number one at this stage but it doenst mean i have to like them at all.

[Shifty]

haha yeah dude that last bet of yours was an F up!!


Jeez, you're not wrong. Some nights I still wake up screaming.


Sorry, forgot to add Spuff ... Spuff is a big Blues supporter (he loves their tight shirts).

Go figure. I get free Blues tickets all season and i cant stand watching them :( Dont get me wrong. They are talented, strong and deserve to be number one at this stage but it doenst mean i have to like them at all.

There must be some sucker (sorry, I meant Blues fan) that you could sell them to, especially since the semis are coming up soon.

I can't help wondering just how good the Blues really are.

They looked quite powerful in last years Air New Zealand cup as they beat everyone they came up against. Come semi-final time though, they were absolutely thrashed. It wasn't just an off day, they were completely humiliated.
I actually couldn't believe it was the same team playing.

But barring the Sharks and WF games they should have a fairly easy run to the semis.

On paper they look good but come semi-final time can they actually deliver?

I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

[Edmonsta]

Jeez, you're not wrong. Some nights I still wake up screaming.




There must be some sucker (sorry, I meant Blues fan) that you could sell them to, especially since the semis are coming up soon.

I can't help wondering just how good the Blues really are.

They looked quite powerful in last years Air New Zealand cup as they beat everyone they came up against. Come semi-final time though, they were absolutely thrashed. It wasn't just an off day, they were completely humiliated.
I actually couldn't believe it was the same team playing.

But barring the Sharks and WF games they should have a fairly easy run to the semis.

On paper they look good but come semi-final time can they actually deliver?

I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

I must admit, I haven’t watched much of the Blues to date. This past game against the Chiefs was one of the first games I’ve watched. They just don’t seem to have the polish that a team such as the Cheatsaders has.

Looking at their history over the past couple of years, they seem to be the team that has all the star players and looks good on paper, but when it really matters, can’t perform ala -Stormers.

[biffon]

Yeah i have watched a couple of their more recent games and they are looking a lot more polished. it will be a tough call to not bet on them as finalists.

The force have a tough few games ahead, strange that all their toughest matches are at the tail end of the season.................... conspiracy anyone?

[Shayne]

Better at the end of the season than at the beginning. Moral, confidence, moves are maxed therefore i think they have more chance of winning them now than at the start.

[Edmonsta]

The force have a tough few games ahead, strange that all their toughest matches are at the tail end of the season.................... conspiracy anyone?

Nah, I reckon the big wheel she turns. Some years you get a crap draw, some years you get a good one.

[Blazzo]

I hope Blazzo is a Force Supporter as he does live in Perth!!

Dude. The force is strong in this one... Go the force!
All the other teams suck balls

[biffon]

aaah good to hear that melad! geez we have a tough run in the next few weeks

Crusaders, blues, brumbies, Chiefs, Cheetahs... at least we still have 2 home games!

[Shayne]

Dude. The force is strong in this one... Go the force!
I wanna suck their balls

Thats just sick. This is a family forum Blazzo.

[spuff]

Sorry, forgot to add Spuff ... Spuff is a big Blues supporter (he loves their tight shirts).

Go figure. I get free Blues tickets all season and i cant stand watching them :( Dont get me wrong. They are talented, strong and deserve to be number one at this stage but it doenst mean i have to like them at all.

I don't "hate" or "dislike" any rugby team, pro or not. I enjoy watching any team play, although I do prefer to support the team from my home town/area, as I can relate to them better. I also like to watch teams that play an exciting brand of rugby, with loads of talent and good value for my tickets...

[Shayne]

So you're saying you're a closet Brumbies supporter then.

[biffon]

Shayne brumbies are gonna get hammered this weekend!!!! :D

[Shayne]

No worse than the WF, gaylord. :D

[spuff]

If the brumbies learnt to play entertaining rugby, and stopped dropping the ball so much, I might...

[Shifty]

The force have a tough few games ahead, strange that all their toughest matches are at the tail end of the season.................... conspiracy anyone?

Well I'm no expert on such matters but honestly, I think that we should open an X-File without delay.

This sounds like a job for Mulder & Scully. ;)

[Blazzo]

So I'm out of the closet since i'm a Brumbies supporter then.
Good for you doughboy!

[Shifty]

As expected, an easy win for the Blues.

One more win will guarantee them a place in the semis. Don't think the Sharks will gill them such an easy time next week.

[Patson]

guys may i say im watchin this rugby league and why dont they just play touch rugby i know there is alot of cash there but seriously thats not rugby,,,,,

[Raevoyn]

I know, it's gay-lord rugby! Shayne, is it up your .... street?

[Shifty]

Latest results.

Crusaders 53 - Western Force 0

Highlanders 34 - Chiefs 38


Crusaders on blistering form tonight. Semi-final position beckons..

[Patson]

common blues all the way

[Blazzo]

Eish! No joke. One rugby lesson for the WF. Thanks for coming

[Shifty]

Eish! No joke. One rugby lesson for the WF. Thanks for coming

Jeez, you're not wrong Blazzo.

I really hope the Crusaders don't win the final, but with them playing this well, it's starting to look more and more likely. :smiley5:

And well deserved too.


F:smiley35:k. F:smiley35:k. F:smiley35:k.

[biffon]

Force never got thier hands on the ball and without ball you cant score... it was a lesson in rugby for sure!!
utterly humiliating for the force - and the Sharks made a dramatic improvement from last week to to show every team has few off games...

Stormers out muscled the Cheetahs too.. lets see how the Aussie derby goes tonight, im tipping the brumbies to win by less than 12.
--------

[TiGeR]

Force never got thier hands on the ball and without ball you cant score... it was a lesson in rugby for sure!!
utterly humiliating for the force - and the Sharks made a dramatic improvement from last week to to show every team has few off games...

Stormers out muscled the Cheetahs too.. lets see how the Aussie derby goes tonight, im tipping the brumbies to win by less than 12.
--------

Hullo m8s!... i'm BACK! Well, just for a few days between GRAFTING my tush off with the SA S14 squads (well, when they are here anyway!... couldnt get away from work for more than 2 days at a time so for the moment i am local but maybe next yr i'll have a fulltime job/ contract with SA rugby so hold thumbs!) Anyway...

Biff, check the stats again... Force actually had parity with 'saders in the posession stakes- difference was in the error count & gain line efficiency... pretty much the same with the Brumbies 'Tahs- 'Tahs had more ball, Brumbies just FAR more efficient with it. Nice to see the Stormers guys actually doing what we've been practising (against the Lions not the Cheetahs - Cheetahs were busy getting a spanking in Auckland!) & the Sharks making a comeback after 2 shockers!... I like the current top four for the semis & call a Blues Vs 'Saders final... AGAIN!

[Raevoyn]

Welcome back Tiger! And the Sharks have one again, showing why they are the best from South Africa!

[TiGeR]

Ja, last yr was a rebuilding for the Sharks- the pieces of their puzzle are starting to fall into place nicely- they have the right coaches & system, the youngsters are starting to perform, have a bit of experience & MOST importantly, self belief... the Lions are in the same place as the Sharks were 2 yrs ago so watch this space! The Bulls...well, they will always compete with their big forwards but they are 20 yrs behind... the Cheetahs have been a tad unlucky & also been found out in terms of a lack of depth...tthe Stormers have been disappointing because they have the potential, it just hasnt worked for them for a number of reasons...REALLY interesting stuff!

The stuff we're doing on the periphery with the guys in terms of tactics, skills & conditioning just means we can compete on an equal footing with the Aus & NZ sides in S14 but really is a build up to RWC...thereafter its talent & decision making that will be the difference on the park & ultimately in making the finals in both S14 & RWC... i can hardly wait!

[biffon]

great to see you back Munya weve missed your insightful comments!