SA latest – Rookie spearheads Stormers
26 Jan 2011
Keo.co.za brings you news from South Africa’s Super Rugby franchises.
Van Aswegen spearheads Stormers – Allister Coetzee has picked Gary van Aswegen at flyhalf for the Stormers’ pre-season match against the Lions.
Coetzee is yet to settle on a flyhalf to play understudy to Peter Grant in the Super Rugby competition. Van Aswegen and Elgar Watts have not played in the Stormers’ systems before, and that’s why they are preferred ahead of Lionel Cronje in this fixture. Coetzee said that Cronje is likely to battle the Sharks in the next match.
On the injury front, the bad news is that lock Anton van Zyl has dislocated his shoulder and is out for four to six weeks. He will be touch and go for the start of the competition proper.
Others who will miss the Tri-Series but are hopeful for the first official game are Jaque Fourie (foot injury) and Francois Louw (hamstring). Fourie has begun running at training, and the Stormers medical staff are monitoring Louw’s injury.
Dewald Duvenage (hamstring injury) may come into the picture for the final warm-up against Boland. CJ van der Linde has a leg injury and should he not recover before Thursday, Steven Kitschoff will start against the Lions with Wicus Blaauw joining the bench.
Stormers – 15 Conrad Jantjes, 14 Gio Aplon, 13 Juan de Jongh, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Gary van Aswegen, 9 Ricky Januarie, 8 Duane Vermeulen, 7 Rynhardt Elstadt, 6 Schalk Burger (c), 5 Andries Bekker, 4 De Kock Steenkamp, 3 Brok Harris, 2 Tiaan Liebenberg, 1 CJ van der Linde.
Subs: Siyabonga Ntubeni, Steven Kitschoff, Frans Malherbe, Wimpie van der Walt, Quinn Roux, Pieter Louw, Siya Kolisi, Nic Groom, Elgar Watts, Johann Sadie, Tim Whitehead, JJ Engelbrecht, Danie Poolman.
Bulls bucks face Kings – The Bulls have named a young side to face the EP Kings in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.
Derick Kuün captains a side that includes a string of fringe players. Akona Ndungane makes a comeback after nearly two years sidelined with leg fractures.
Bulls – Jaco van der Westhuyzen, Akona Ndungane, Stephan Dippenaar, Stefan Watermeyer, Sampie Mastriet, Francois Brummer, Ruan Snyman, Gerrit-Jan van Velze, CJ Stander, Derick Kuün (c), Juandré Kruger, Fudge Mabeta, Werner Kruger, Henry Bantjes, Dean Greyling.
Subs: Hans van Dyk, Frik Kirsten, Cornell Hess, Tendayi Chikukwa, Okkie Kruger, Dustin Jinka, Louis Fouché, Bradley Moolman, Courtnall Skosan.
Bulls pair stuck in limbo – Chiliboy Ralepelle and Bjorn Basson will miss the Bulls’ first warm-up game against the EP Kings. The Saru judicial committee that heard their cases on Tuesday has reserved judgment, and the pair remain unavailable.
Ralepelle and Basson, who were last year suspended following positive tests for a banned stimulant, will continue to train in isolation until the verdict is announced.
Brussow to miss start of Super Rugby – Springbok flank Heinrich Brussow will only be back for the fourth round of the new competition. Brussow missed the entire 2010 Test season, and after a second operation to his injured knee, he is still rehabilitating.
The Cheetahs are also waiting on Andries Strauss, who is struggling with a groin injury and will miss the Cheetahs’ warm-up matches on Friday.
The former Sharks centre has been training on his own for the past two weeks, and the coaches don’t want to risk him at this stage. Strauss and fullback Hennie Daniller (calf) will only be available for the practice match against the EP Kings on 4 February.
Prop WP Nel is also battling a hamstring injury and may even miss the Kings clash as well as the Bloemfontein warm-ups.
The Cheetahs’ A team will face Shimlas in a contact session on Friday morning, before meeting the B team in a 20-minute game. The B team will also play a training game against the Griffons.
Lions name Tri-Series squad – John Mitchell has named a 36-man squad for the pre-season games against the Stormers and Sharks. Elton Jantjies and Doppies la Grange have been included despite earlier reports that they will not feature due to their lack of conditioning.
Lions – Jacobie Adriaanse, Martin Bezuidenhout, Michael Bondesio, Jannie Boshoff, David Bulbring, Kevin Buys, Tonderai Chavhanga, Patrick Cilliers, Rory Kockott, David de Villiers, George Earle, Joubert Engelbrecht, Cobus Grobbelaar, JC Janse van Rensburg, Elton Jantjies, James Kamana, Michael Killian, Doppies la Grange, Bandise Maku, Lionel Mapoe, Edgar Marutlulle, Derick Minnie, Waylon Murray, Andre Pretorius, Michael Rhodes, Joshua Strauss, Wayne Swart, Jaco Taute, Franco van der Merwe, Wikus van Heerden, Deon van Rensburg, Dries van Schalkwyk, Jano Vermaak, Warren Whiteley, Ross Geldenhuys and Burton Francis.
Duncan to lead Kings – Rory Duncan will captain the EP Kings in Saturday’s game against the Bulls.
Regular skipper Mzwandile Stick is still unavailable due to a knee injury, and so vice-captain Duncan will make the step up. Tiger Mangweni will take Stick’s place at fullback.
EP Kings – 15 Tiger Mangweni, 14 Norman Nelson, 13 Siyanda Grey, 12 Matthew Tayler-Smith, 11 Paul Perez, 10 Monty Dumond, 9 Jacques Coetzee, 8 Darron Nell, 7 Mpho Mbiyozo, 6 Devin Oosthuizen, 5 Barend Pieterse, 4 Rory Duncan (c), 3 Andre Schlecter, 2 Hannes Franklin, 1 Jaco Engels.
Subs: 16 Jaco Fourie, 17 Ronnie Uys, 18 Ross Kennedy, 19 Lungelo Payi, 20 Marlon Lewis, 21 Shane Gates, 22 SP Marais, 23 Riaan Vermeulen, 24 Frank Herne
167 Comments
26 Jan 2011, 09:22 am
See what happens when he leaves The Sharks. His game falls to pieces and he gets crocked.
26 Jan 2011, 09:24 am
Lack of depth dragons
26 Jan 2011, 09:34 am
Bad news for Brussow fans too, he will only be back on the field in the 4th round of the S15.
26 Jan 2011, 09:40 am
@pissant: I hope that he is strong and doesn’t relapse. He is too good to lose.
26 Jan 2011, 10:01 am
24 people so far…
Come join my Super Rugby prediction game on SuperBru! It’s free and loads of fun. Just click here:
http://www.superbru.com/superrugby/pool.asp?p=147708
Pool name: Keo League
Pool code: pairmink
26 Jan 2011, 10:05 am
The Bulls have some nice depth at lock and loose forward.
The team for this weekend’s King’s game as Gerrit Jan van Velze and CJ Stander and Derick Kuun as the loose trio, and Juandre Kruger and Flip vd Merwe (pending fitness test) as the lock pairing.
That is a formiddable group of forwards in their own right, but they can all be replaced by:
Pierre Spies
Dewald Potgieter
Deon Stegman
Victor Matfield
Bakkies Botha
with Danie Rossouw still hanging around as a replacement, to top it all off.
Certainly, from 4-8, and at 9 as well, the Bulls will have significant quality in depth.
26 Jan 2011, 10:10 am
Wave yo hands in the air
Shake it like you just don’t care
Do the limbo
Da de da de da da
26 Jan 2011, 10:15 am
The verdict is only delayed because the tirbunal is too lazy to get a move on writing the report on their decision.
Probably going to take them a week to find just the right words to make themselves sound intelligent, all the while pretending that they know what they’re talking about.
All they needed to release was a one page document stating their decision, the reason for the decision and that the matter was now closed.
From what I can see no one is going to challenge the outcome, even if they let the guys of scott free, so no need to write a long legal justification.
Just finish up this unnecessary matter and get back to your day jobs, guys.
26 Jan 2011, 10:15 am
Sharks new jersey unveiled.
26 Jan 2011, 10:17 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-9:
Before even looking at it let me venture a prediction that it is bound to look better than the Kings jersey.
26 Jan 2011, 10:17 am
@Tacitus(Tacitus)-10:
Haha, was my first comment on it!!!
http://images.supersport.co.za/Sharks_2011_Super_Rugby_Jerseys2.jpg
26 Jan 2011, 10:21 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-11: John Smit is looking lean (if not mean) in that photo. I don’t particularly like the new Sharks jeresy.
The Kings jersey, why I quite like it. Don’t know why it’s getting so much stick. It’s very Chief-esque.
26 Jan 2011, 10:21 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-11:
John looks quite fit.
26 Jan 2011, 10:22 am
@wooden spoon(wooden spoon)-12: @WP Till I Die(WP-Forever)-13:
Did not even pay much attention to John, but he does look lean…
26 Jan 2011, 10:24 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-9: Plod look lean
26 Jan 2011, 10:27 am
@Tacitus(Tacitus)-10: jealosy makes you nasty, our strip looks phly man!
26 Jan 2011, 10:28 am
I mean look how chubby his face looks in this pic taken last year…
http://www.breakingnews.ie/sport/smit-to-miss-springboks-tour-474690.html
26 Jan 2011, 10:28 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-15:
The cap is back.
26 Jan 2011, 10:32 am
On the jersey itself, looks a bit cheap to me.
26 Jan 2011, 10:33 am
Photoshop
26 Jan 2011, 10:36 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-18: can’t wait to see him run out for the Tjarkies, GO PLOD!!!
26 Jan 2011, 10:37 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-19: it’s mr price, DUH
26 Jan 2011, 10:45 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-22:
I was waiting for that…
26 Jan 2011, 10:47 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-23: well u got it… Maxed vs Puma? no comparison!
26 Jan 2011, 10:48 am
Maevis adores Monsieur Pricee.
She also adores Barney.
Today is a twofer.
26 Jan 2011, 11:03 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-11: 11
John looks like he has lost at least 10kg in that pic. Looking great. Someone on sw said they saw him when Sharks were up in Rustenburg training. Said he looked lean and fit. My neighbour also saw him a few weeks back and said John is looking great.
26 Jan 2011, 11:06 am
@Puma(Puma)-26: don’t know how u can tell how much he’s lost from a pic, but yeah the Plod looks lean…
26 Jan 2011, 11:13 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-27: Transie,
Not sure how much weight he has lost, but it looks plenty. Remember Plum had said John had lost 8kg a few weeks back, so going on that and it must be at least 10kg now. Cause he is way, way thinner than last year.
Captain is back…..
26 Jan 2011, 11:15 am
Heinrich only fit for the 4th round. This sounds like he’s really struggling with his rehab. This is the actual big news, as many are counting on him for a big showing this year to lead us out of the fetching wilderness….
26 Jan 2011, 11:19 am
Richie McCaw: Gawd sent me to earth to show people how to play rugby…
Fourie du Preez: I sent nobody!
26 Jan 2011, 11:20 am
sharks strip made by reebok
26 Jan 2011, 11:26 am
@Tegejo(Tegejo)-30: Tac won’t like that!
26 Jan 2011, 11:27 am
@charo(charo)-31: still Puma vs Reebok, no comparison!
26 Jan 2011, 11:35 am
well with plod shedding so much fat he certainly dont look like he will cut it at loosehead anymore…and after his neck op he cant go near tighthead….
so its cappy vs bissy
aura vs real world class…
lets wait and see
26 Jan 2011, 11:35 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-19: it looks better than that fugly WP blue white jersey slapped with that red and yellow yucky DHL logo.
26 Jan 2011, 11:37 am
i like the sharks jersey…..has anyone got a link to the kings and stormers jerseys>??
26 Jan 2011, 11:38 am
@RedLion is waiting …(RL)-35:
26 Jan 2011, 11:39 am
@grant10(grant10)-36:
Kings, check News24 archives.
Stormers, not officially released yet.
@RedLion is waiting …(RL)-35:
Says the guy who will buy a yellow and blue Ayoba supporters jersey…
26 Jan 2011, 11:41 am
@grant10(grant10)-34:
You said it Grantie.
No more talk of him as an international loose or tight head.
Now it’s hooker all the way. And if he isn’t the best hooker, well, then we have a bit of a problem, don’t we?
Personally, I think Bismark is the best hooker SA has had since readmission. He is probably the first hooker who is a geniune contender for being the no.1 in his position in the world.
None of the guys before him came close to that level.
It’s like leaving Bakkies Botha out of the team because Johan Muller is a great captain or something along those lines.
Everytime you make that selection, it becomes more difficult to justify. And more difficult to keep a straight face while trying to convince the public that your case has merit.
26 Jan 2011, 11:42 am
@Great White Shark(Predawn)-1: You do know Strauss is an old Cheetahs player, right? I assume you’re talking about him.
@pokkel(pokkel)-2: Hmmm. weird. I read in the article above ‘A team’ and ‘B team’… despite the injuries. Are you sure there’s a ‘lack of depth’?
26 Jan 2011, 11:45 am
@Tacitus(Tacitus)-39: @grant10(grant10)-34: Plum said Plod will play in ALL 3 frontrow positions and is the ONLY player in the world to do it!
26 Jan 2011, 11:46 am
Bulls team for Kings match:
Jaco van der Westhuyzen, Akona Ndungane, Stephan Dippenaar, Stefan Watermeyer, Sampie Mastriet, Francois Brummer, Ruan Snyman, Gerrit-Jan van Velze, CJ Stander, Derick Kuün (c), Juandré Kruger, Fudge Mabeta, Werner Kruger, Henry Bantjes, Dean Greyling.
Replacements: Hans van Dyk, Frik Kirsten, Cornell Hess, Tendayi Chikukwa, Okkie Kruger, Dustin Jinka, Louis Fouché, Bradley Moolman, Courtnall Skosan.
26 Jan 2011, 11:52 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-42:
Gonna be a tight match, I reckon.
Bulls team not playing on Saturday:
Zane Kirchner
Bjorn Basson
Gerhard vd Heever
Jaco Pretorius
Wynand Olivier
Morne Steyn
Fourie du Preez
Pierre Spies
Dewald Potgieter
Deon Stegman
Victor Matfield
Bakkies Botha
Bees Roux (the only position where the first choice player is playing)
Gary Botha
Gurthro Steenkamp
Bench players that would also make the starting 15 for Saturay:
Chilliboy Rallapele
Flip vd Merwe
Danie Rossouw
Francois Hougaard
Nice outing for the B team. Worth the 50 bucks I spent on a ticket.
26 Jan 2011, 11:53 am
@Tacitus(Tacitus)-43:
Never heard of some of those names…
26 Jan 2011, 11:54 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-44:
U21 and Vodacom Cup players, mostly.
26 Jan 2011, 11:57 am
@Tacitus(Tacitus)-43: Tac you still up for drinks after the match
26 Jan 2011, 11:57 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-44:
The most important performances will be those of Francois Brummer and the two centres, as those are the areas we are the shortest of depth. Particularly Brummer. We really need him to step up, as Morne Steyn will HAVE to rest 3 or 4 games during this long tournament.
26 Jan 2011, 11:58 am
Lions squad for Tri-Series:
1. Jacobie Adriaanse
2. Martin Bezuidenhout
3. Michael Bondesio
4. Jannie Boshoff
5. David Bulbring
6. Kevin Buys
7. Tonderai Chavhanga
8. Patrick Cilliers
9. Rory Kockott
10. David de Villiers
11. George Earle
12. Joubert Engelbrecht
13. Cobus Grobbelaar
14. JC Janse van Rensburg
15. Elton Jantjies
16. James Kamana
17. Michael Killian
18. Doppies la Grange
19. Bandise Maku
20. Lionel Mapoe
21. Edgar Marutlulle
22. Derick Minnie
23. Waylon Murray
24. Andre Pretorius
25. Michael Rhodes
26. Joshua Strauss
27. Wayne Swart
28. Jaco Taute
29. Franco van der Merwe
30. Wikus van Heerden
31. Deon van Rensburg
32. Dries van Schalkwyk
33. Jano Vermaak
34. Warren Whiteley
35. Ross Geldenhuys
36. Burton Francis
26 Jan 2011, 11:58 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-42: i see stephan “mullet rat” dippenaar is still in the mix, man that boy is kak!
26 Jan 2011, 11:58 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-46:
I never said I was in the first place. All you need to know is that somewhere in that sea of people on Saturday, will be the man sometimes known as Tacitus.
26 Jan 2011, 11:59 am
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-42: since that match is televised I would really like to see what the hype around Brummer is all about.
26 Jan 2011, 11:59 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-49:
Dippenaar has been a disappointment during the last 2 seasons, yes.
26 Jan 2011, 12:00 pm
@Tacitus(Tacitus)-50: Wearing a Bulls jersey no doubt hey Tac?
26 Jan 2011, 12:00 pm
@RedLion is waiting …(RL)-51:
There’s no hype. He is a good Vodacom Cup player, and an average Currie Cup player.
He needs to take a step up to become a regular Super Rugby player. If Steyn goes down its gonna be sink or swim time for him.
Brummer seems to have the talent, but his mind goes AWOL at times. Some days he is hot on form, other days he misses kicks in front of the posts.
26 Jan 2011, 12:05 pm
@RedLion is waiting …(RL)-51: i don’t know about Brummer hey, he’s a bit of a ‘loskop and he got displaced by l.cronje & sias ebersohn in the U20s…will check for him too!
26 Jan 2011, 12:06 pm
@Tacitus(Tacitus)-50: get off it man, you don’t booze is that it?
26 Jan 2011, 12:08 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-56:
It would be like Clark Kent having a drink with Lex Luthor.
Once his identity is compromised Superman may as well retire!
26 Jan 2011, 12:08 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-56: Tac prefers his drinks homogeonously…..
26 Jan 2011, 12:09 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-58:
Not true. I like many different brands of beer.
26 Jan 2011, 12:14 pm
@Tacitus(Tacitus)-54: so if Steyn cries off injured it is first Jaco v then Brummer? eish.
26 Jan 2011, 12:16 pm
@RedLion is waiting …(RL)-60:
I would think it depends on how Brummer performs this year. Jaco vd Westhuizen will probably be an emergency cover at flyhalf if Brummer proves to be out of his depth.
26 Jan 2011, 12:17 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-58: i’ve got lots of afrikaner mates i can call them up, Piet, Jaco, Ryno, Wimpie and more
26 Jan 2011, 12:24 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-62: You sound like Trevor Noah…
26 Jan 2011, 12:24 pm
@Bouts(Bouts)-40:
Yebo. He is committing career suicide by going back.
26 Jan 2011, 12:31 pm
@Tacitus(Tacitus)-59: variety is the spice of life as you say…
@Transformation(Transformation)-62: yeah, some of my best friends are black..
26 Jan 2011, 12:33 pm
Good to hear the issue of conditioning this season has been addressed:
http://www.sarugby.co.za/newsarticle.aspx?newsid=394217&leagueid&fixturescatid&resultscatid&vidcatid&piccat&statscatid&statsteam&newscat
26 Jan 2011, 12:38 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-65:
Like Chris Rock says: “All of my black friends have alot of white friends. And all of my white friends have one black friend”.
26 Jan 2011, 12:40 pm
@Yetirat(Yetirat)-66: yeah we posted this earliet this morning, good news. I’m sure Keo will wake up later this afternoon and mention it. Then again, maybe not.
26 Jan 2011, 12:44 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-68:
Oh right, bit late on the take this morning. Reassuring to hear they all came to an agreement amongst them though.
Yeah keo.co.za is definitely becoming less and less of a one-stop-shop for rugby news each month that goes by. They’re not even cutting and pasting in good time anymore.
26 Jan 2011, 13:11 pm
It seems like there’s life after Morne Steyn. – Bulls website
It is claimed that Louis Fouché has the biggest boot in the country, with rumours that the former Leopards u.21 player has kicked penalties in excess of 60 metres already. But for the former Rustenburg High School pupil, who just turned 21, life as a professional player at the Vodacom Bulls, is much more than slotting massive penalty kicks.
He spoke to http://www.thebulls.co.za during pre-season training at Loftus.
“I was quite pleased after the training camp in George and is enjoying the hard work now that we are back at Loftus as well,” the bulky Fouché admitted.
“It is my first time in the senior ranks, so I had no idea what to expect. But things are so professional here at the Bulls that I slotted in without any problems. I did burn away my ‘baby fat’ in the last couple of months and pre-season is quite tough, but I am enjoying it a lot,” the former Pukke Rugby Institute student said.
As a kicker, he was quite keen to work with Bulls kicking ace, Vlok Cilliers, and Fouché admits that he was not disappointed by the opportunity.
“Vlok has a very calm way in approaching things and that helps a lot. I have enjoyed working with him thus far. Obviously I have set some goals for myself this season – no player should be without goals – so it is nice to know you have someone like Vlok to guide you along the way,” Fouché said.
Bio:
Names: Louis Daniel Van Zyl
Surname: Fouché
Height: 1.86
Weight: 92
DOB: 4 January 1990
Place of Birth: Pretoria
Marital Status: Single
Favorite Film: Van Wilder
Favorite Food: Lasagne
Secondary School: Rustenburg High
Squads:
Vodacom Bulls 2011
Leopards u.21 2009/10
Leopards u.18 Craven Week 2008
Leopards u.18 Academy Week 2007
Points: 189 (4 t, 32 c, 31 p, 4dg)
26 Jan 2011, 13:35 pm
Stormers starting to take shape. As soon as Jacque Fourie returns they’ll actually look very good on paper.
Even the front row looking better with CJ there. Except for Brock Harris of course.
He almost single handedly lost the CC final by having the ball ripped away from him a few times and repeatedly getting caught way behind the advantage line. Very average.
26 Jan 2011, 13:44 pm
@Yetirat(Yetirat)-66: Nice post man!
@John Galt(John Galt)-71: Ja Brok didnt have his best season, but he is capable of better, so hopefully he finds some form this season. Where is Blaauw?
But I agree – the team is already looking great! STORMERS!
26 Jan 2011, 13:45 pm
@John Galt(John Galt)-71: He must stay out of the backline. That’s where all the problems start for Brock.
26 Jan 2011, 14:02 pm
@RedLion is waiting …(RL)-60:
I would not sleep at night if my team’s flyhalf was Jaco vd Westhuysen. Morne better keep it together, for the sake of the Bulls.
26 Jan 2011, 14:18 pm
The 2010 Sport24 Awards winners were:
Performance of the Year:
Patrick Lambie – 20.43%
Hashim Amla – 15.12%
Louis Oosthuizen – 13.19%
Hashim Amla – 12.76%
Mark Boucher – 9.86%
Siphiwe Tshabalala – 8.59%
Lee-Anne Pace – 6.77%
AB de Villiers – 6.23%
Francois Hougaard – 3.01%
Ernst van Dyk – 2.54%
Ernie Els – 0.87%
Davy Jacobs – 0.63%
Plonker of the Year:
Peter de Villiers – 27.53%
Peter de Villiers – 15.25%
Jonty Rhodes – 9.93%
Benni McCarthy – 7.75%
Bakkies Botha – 7.66%
The Rose Brothers – 6.72%
SABC – 6.71%
Andries Bekker – 5.23%
Jacques Kallis – 3.89%
Sharks Crowd – 3.67%
SAFA – 3.47%
SABC – 2.19%
26 Jan 2011, 14:21 pm
Bulls team looks good for the future…get rid of kuun, put jaco and akona out to pasture and prospective side
really impressed by cj stander
26 Jan 2011, 14:23 pm
@John Galt(John Galt)-75: plonker of the year Sharks Crowd – 3.67%
men lie, women lie, numbers don’t
26 Jan 2011, 14:34 pm
Good team for the Stormers, just need a decent attacking fullback now or shift Aplon to the back and replace him at wing.
26 Jan 2011, 14:37 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-77:
Must have been the Stormers team that voted that one in.
26 Jan 2011, 14:39 pm
@John Galt(John Galt)-79:
How did Bekker find himself on that list?
26 Jan 2011, 14:40 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-77:
Sorry the Province team from last years CC.
26 Jan 2011, 14:41 pm
@Yetirat(Yetirat)-80:
I think his infidelity with a Varsity student got him a nomination.
26 Jan 2011, 14:47 pm
I don’t get the Jaques Kallis vote. Crashed his car and? Don’t tell me none of you guys ever crashed a R2m car through your neighbour’s gate at 3am in the morning while pissed…..
26 Jan 2011, 14:47 pm
@John Galt(John Galt)-82:
jeepers.
nookie with a fresher AND an award nomination!
where is the downside?
26 Jan 2011, 14:57 pm
@Yetirat(Yetirat)-80: Jaaaa – those pictures of him smooching that varsity chick in the park. They were sent to You magazine or something. Ai Foeitog
26 Jan 2011, 14:57 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-83: More like crashing a R3000 car into your neighbour’s R2m gate!
26 Jan 2011, 14:58 pm
@gunther(gunther)-84: Just his wife. But some wouldn’t nescessarily consider that a “downside”..
26 Jan 2011, 14:59 pm
@gunther(gunther)-84: LOL – ery true. I spose only downside is when you are recently engaged/married and she finds out.
Also when your dad (an ex-Bok legend) KAKS you out in public about it.
Eish
26 Jan 2011, 15:05 pm
@BringItHomeBoks(bokfan1)-88:
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-87:
collateral damgage.
no broken eggs, no omelette.
26 Jan 2011, 15:05 pm
@BringItHomeBoks(bokfan1)-88: my dad would have to take a chill pill, not in public mate!
26 Jan 2011, 15:11 pm
@gunther(gunther)-89:
cept the eggs seemsed to end on his face..
Anyway….
26 Jan 2011, 15:13 pm
Back to the thread update: Nice to see Gary Van Aswegen given a run against the Lions. I think I’ll have to go and give that one a watch at CT Stadium. Tickets R40. Bargain.
26 Jan 2011, 15:15 pm
SARPA escalates fight for unpaid Eagles
2011-01-26 13:30:10
The South African Rugby Players Union has escalated the fight for the players in the South Western Districts Union, many of whom are still owed salaries from last year.
The current turmoil at the SWD Rugby Football Union continues, as a number of issues pertaining to the contracting of players remain unresolved and SARPA has now raised the matter with the national controlling body- the South African Rugby Union.
“We have been in communication with SWDRFU and we have not been able to resolve the outstanding issues,” said Adrian Coetzee, SARPA Membership Liaison Adviser for the South and Eastern Cape.
The main issues that remain unresolved are:
* The non-disclosure of SWDRFU of their financial position/situation which is required to provide proof that they are in a financial position to honour their contractual obligations to the players.
* The enforcement of an agreement between SARPA and SWDRFU confirming that SWDRFU will honour the contracts of the 2010 contracted players until end of October 2011.
* The non-payment of medical aid and injury insurance premiums.
“It is of grave concern for SARPA that these issues remain unresolved and despite certain undertakings that were given to us those undertakings have not been honoured,”Coetzee said.
“A number of players are agreeable to accept lower contracts but then they need to find additional employment to supplement their much lower contracts. SARPA has proposed that SWDRFU arrange their training sessions in such a manner to allow players to also work during the day but train in the mornings and evenings. This has not been implemented as discussed and agreed,” Coetzee added.
A number of senior players that were pivotal to the success of the SWD Eagles in 2010 have been excluded from the contracted squad despite an agreement confirming that these players will be contracted until end of October 2011.
This include players like Bevan Fortuin, Shaun Raubenheimer, Jacques Engelbrecht, Henry Grimes, Sinethemba Zweni, Bobby Joubert, Wiekus Harmse and Jandré Blom.
“This matter was discussed at the SARPA Executive Committee and they are giving their full support to the players of SWDRFU in their endeavour to resolve these outstanding issues. This include [SARPA] Executive Committee members like the Chairman Victor Matfield and the President Bismarck Du Plessis,” said Coetzee.
“SARPA will take this matter up with SARU as they are the overall custodian of rugby and call on them to assist and settle these outstanding player issues and disputes and jointly find ways of ensuring that professional rugby be allowed to continue in this region and at levels attained by the group of players that did so well in 2010,” concluded Coetzee.
26 Jan 2011, 15:16 pm
Breaking news:
Bok Emblem to be changed (Again!)
http://blogs.sport24.co.za/uysh/bok-emblem-to-be-changed-again
26 Jan 2011, 15:23 pm
@Emile07(Emile07)-94: It’s got my vote!
26 Jan 2011, 15:31 pm
@John Galt(John Galt)-82: @BringItHomeBoks(bokfan1)-85:
Ah yes, it’s amazing how quickly we forget these things. I’d heard he was a pratt, just couldn’t remember what it was that got him on the list.
26 Jan 2011, 15:33 pm
@Emile07(Emile07)-94: don’t care if the emblem is placed on the bum, it the team is winning qha!
26 Jan 2011, 15:46 pm
The EP Kings squad looks like the retirement village for the Bulls/Cheetahs of a couple years back
26 Jan 2011, 16:13 pm
@Yetirat(Yetirat)-96: Ag I wouldnt say he is a “prat”. It was a very stupid thing to do, but we forget the okes are still laaities themselves, and we dont know the pressure or other worries he had in his life.
How many of us were studious and faithful and committed when we were like 21/22/23 years old?
If the older “wiser” people like politicians (snort!) and evangelists in America and so on get bust cheating, what chance does a dof-rugby-playing-hulk have?
Im sure he learnt his lesson
26 Jan 2011, 16:14 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-97: Amen Transie! Dont care the colour of the kit or the emblem or the players or if the emblem is there or not. The boys must just win and play good rugby and enjoy themselves.
26 Jan 2011, 16:14 pm
Nadal out of the Aussie open I see. Blamed an injury. Which is normal for him when he loses…
26 Jan 2011, 16:21 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-101:
Nah he went in slightly injured this time.
Probably wouldnt have played in this tournament but he had the opportunity to win a non calender Grand Slam so took the risk.
Was heavily bandaged before he stepped onto the court.
26 Jan 2011, 16:23 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-101:
Unnecessarily cynical considering Rafa was heavily strapped when he entered the court and needed medical assistance after the 3rd game of the opening set. He’s the most humble honourable player on the circuit.
Atleast he doesnt accuse his victor of cheating, which is normal when……
26 Jan 2011, 16:24 pm
Good luck to the Bloem Gem in his recuperation, hopefully he is fully fit in time for the RWC.
26 Jan 2011, 16:33 pm
@Black Panther(Black Panther)-103: I see what you did there!
Like after 1995 when the AB team was food poisoned!
26 Jan 2011, 16:35 pm
@Bagel(Bagel)-105: i wouldn’t go there if i were you Bagel
how are you doing chap, studies good?
26 Jan 2011, 16:36 pm
@Bagel(Bagel)-105:
I dont recall the Abs accusing the Boks of cheating, maybe thats your conscience talking ?
But Krusty did after Eden Park and Wellington last season, didnt he. And the Springbok Captain used those very words against his opposite in 2007, of course.
Silly of me to single out certain matches tho I know, why should they get mentioned over others ?
26 Jan 2011, 16:39 pm
Federer backs Boks at RWC
2011-01-26 13:11Email | Print
Melbourne – Roger Federer will be closely following this year’s Rugby World Cup – just don’t ask him to support the All Blacks.
The Swiss tennis great, now at the Australian Open halfway towards his 17th Grand Slam, On Tuesday revealed he is a keen rugby fan – but backs the Springboks.
He was aware of the tournament set to kick off in October, but told the NZ Herald website he would not be backing the men in black.
“(I’ll support) the Swiss,” he joked. “I think they are starting to get into it a bit.”
Indeed Switzerland, who have about 2 000 registered players, have made progress in recent years but are still ranked 63rd in the world.
“(No) I’ll probably support the South Africans,” admitted Federer, “because my mum is from South Africa. So I always support them.”
Though rugby is irrelevant to most Swiss, the 29-year-old immediately recalled the 2007 World Cup and how he had enjoyed watching the Springboks triumph in France.
26 Jan 2011, 16:41 pm
Ah, yes, the liberal slander of opposition as “cheats”. There was Cab at it again yesterday, labelling Fitzy as ” a HUGE humungous great big cheat……where do u think cheater mccaw learnt his stuff from.”.
No player unscathed in SA.
To which I posed a question:-
Tell me Cab, has any player in the history of SA Rugby EVER ‘cheated’ ?
My understanding is that if a player gives away a penalty, then in your definition he is “a cheat”.
My guess, then, is that very few players – if any – have ever reached provincial let alone Test level that isnt “a cheat”.
In which case, why single out 1 player over the next ?”.
Answers on the back of an envelope.
26 Jan 2011, 16:43 pm
@Tacitus(Tacitus)-108:
of course he will back the boks.
his mom is from the east rand.
we are claiming him.
26 Jan 2011, 16:45 pm
@John Galt(John Galt)-102: @Black Panther(Black Panther)-103: OK he gets a pass on this one. I agree he’s a great player, one of the greatest with 9 grand slams (more than most) and more to come, injury allowing.
I’ve just seen this before I think.
But anyway, it’s a pity he doesn’t get the opportunity to play Federer again. That rivalry’s one of the all time great sporting rivallries IMO.
26 Jan 2011, 16:46 pm
@BringItHomeBoks(bokfan1)-99:
Yeah no the bit about him being a pratt was from someone else actually. Sounds like he may take himself a little too seriously off the rugby field. But that was only a random comment I picked up somewhere so can’t really say for sure.
26 Jan 2011, 16:47 pm
@Black Panther(Black Panther)-107: Could of sworn there were some accusations but I was very young back then. I must agree with you on Peter, I don’t think many would disagree his a bit of a whinger. That said I was shocked at how much you guys got away with but that’s not their fault that’s just playing the ref.
@Transformation(Transformation)-106: Hey Transie,
heading into 3rd year on the 14th, got a big year ahead of me.
Congrats to you guys at the Kings for a improvements looking forward to the Bulls match, it should be a cracker.
When is Luke coming back or is he already there?
26 Jan 2011, 16:48 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-111:
The Fed is the best player Ive ever seen live, and Ive seen all of the best ones since the 70′s. Such elegance, such skill.
Unfortunately he started to believe his own hype a few years back, the gold-embroidered ’15′ jacket/suit at SW19 a couple of seasons ago confirmed this. Hideous.
26 Jan 2011, 16:51 pm
@Bagel(Bagel)-113:
Always remember, its only the ABs/others get away with things. The Boks are so damn unlucky, they get caught for every single offense they commit.
26 Jan 2011, 17:00 pm
@Black Panther(Black Panther)-114: I personally think he’s one of the best ever.
26 Jan 2011, 17:01 pm
@Bagel(Bagel)-113: good to hear about your studies mate, keep at it.
well, the Kings are not there yet but any improvement is better than what we had before, so we’re very appreciative. luke is only coming back after he aviva premiership is done and thus his bath contract.
26 Jan 2011, 17:21 pm
@Yetirat(Yetirat)-112: Ooooh I see, sorry, my bad. I can imagine most of the guys think they are hot **** off the field. You have to have a lot of “self belief” (ego) to be a pro sportsman! Although rugby players do seem to still be among the most humble in the modern era.
26 Jan 2011, 17:23 pm
@Black Panther(Black Panther)-115: Finally! You are starting to see the light!
Not really “others” (apart from some obvious examples, like Ireland in 2004) its mostly just the ABs that cheat against EVERYONE, not just the Boks.
26 Jan 2011, 17:25 pm
Federer has said he’ll support the boks in the WC. Legend!
SuperSport have made a big fuss over Cronje not being in this squad, they seem to think it means he won’t take part in the tri-series at all, I reckon they’re talking ****.
26 Jan 2011, 17:31 pm
@BringItHomeBoks(bokfan1)-119:
As long as you believe that, you are atleast being consistent. Or, atleast, no less consistent than all the other Victims here.
BaXXies !
26 Jan 2011, 17:44 pm
@Black Panther(Black Panther)-114:
Fed has such skinny arms compared say to Nadal, almost like the current Fitzy as compared to the 1995 Fitzy (“he looks so small” noted a SA rugby writer last year after standing next to the scoundrel).
I am not sure he is better than Sampras when both at their peaks, none of his fault, but Fed never faced the likes of Agassi, Rafter, Courier, Edberg, Becker, Lendl to mention few.
Nadal has been Fed’s only competition since 2007, however, there is a case to argue that Nadal got away with a LOT until a French magazine blew the whistle in 2008.
26 Jan 2011, 17:53 pm
@Hondo(Hondo)-122:
Federer never had to face Wayne Ferreira in his prime.
26 Jan 2011, 18:04 pm
@Hondo(Hondo)-122:
Both John McEnroe and Sampras have stated that Federer is by far the best ever. I reckon they should know a bit.
26 Jan 2011, 18:11 pm
@Robzim(Robzim)-124: Rob,
Agree with you. Think Roger is the best of them all. If some of the greatest think so, reckon they know better than us.
26 Jan 2011, 18:12 pm
@gunther(gunther)-123:
Lol, Wayne was not too shabby, he has a 6-7 career record against Sampras – He nearly always did well against “serve and volly” players but against players with the patience and baseline skills such as Federer or Nadal he would have had no chance imo.
26 Jan 2011, 18:12 pm
Great to read that Roger will support the Boks during the WC.
Read that on Sport24.
26 Jan 2011, 18:15 pm
@Puma(Puma)-125:
Hi Puma, how are you- quietly confident about the Sharks’ chances this year I guess?
I am looking forward to see the warmup against the Stormers next week- wonder which one of John or Bissy will start at no 2?
26 Jan 2011, 18:19 pm
@Robzim(Robzim)-128:
bissie.
barney off the bench.
26 Jan 2011, 18:24 pm
@gunther(gunther)-129: not so sure about that opinion Gunta. There’s a lot of respect for both players from the coaches. I think you are going to find a ‘mix n match’ situation developing is my opinion. And I think they’d be right in that line of thinking. And hi Rob. You well?
26 Jan 2011, 18:24 pm
@Robzim(Robzim)-128: Feel more confident this year than I did last. Mostly cause we have a fh this year. Have to wait and see. Plenty good teams out there Rob. In our conference any team could top it. That is the way it goes with the saffa sides. Wont take any team for granted.
I also don’t like this new format at all. Think it is flawed, that some won’t play top teams. Can’t see this format working for long.
Not sure who will start for Sharks, but they will both get to play. Think all the players will get a chance. Gonna see plenty rotation in these warm up games. I for one never take these games serious. They are mostly used to get us ready for S15.
26 Jan 2011, 18:25 pm
@TASSIES(TASSIES)-130: 130
Howzit Tassies, how you doing? Have not seen you about here for sometime now.
26 Jan 2011, 18:27 pm
@gunther(gunther)-129:
Probably yes, Plumtree might be a bit nervous to expose John against a motivated and fired up Liebenberg
26 Jan 2011, 18:28 pm
@Puma(Puma)-127: hey Pumes howzit boet. Ja, that ‘blood is thicker than water’ adage strikes a note here.
26 Jan 2011, 18:29 pm
@TASSIES(TASSIES)-130:
Hi Tassies, I am well, thanks, and you? Is the longboard still gathering dust in the garage or have you hit a few spots lately?
26 Jan 2011, 18:31 pm
@TASSIES(TASSIES)-134: 134
Yeah, was good to read it on Sports24. Then went to read it in the NZ Herald.
Think his mother is from Benoni, if I remember correct. Pleased he is supporting the Boks..lol.
26 Jan 2011, 18:33 pm
Cheers Rob and Tassies, out of here now. Catch up if not busy tomorrow.
26 Jan 2011, 18:34 pm
@Robzim(Robzim)-133:
I believe Liebenberg is still having physio to remove his head from his poepper as a result of their last meeting.
I’m sure he will be fired up.
He might not survive another encounter.
26 Jan 2011, 18:38 pm
@Puma(Puma)-132: some of us have to work for a living mate. I know you’re semi-retired or similarly zoned. We’re pumping and I’m an aging pump-master trying to justify an expensive visit to Kiwi in spring sans the handbreak(who has always found rugga a tad less interesting than other pursuits).
26 Jan 2011, 18:39 pm
@Puma(Puma)-131:
I will reserve judgement on the new format but think it might count against teams like the Stormers and Sharks who traditionally toured better than the inland teams.
I see the Shark start their campaign against their old Nemesis from Bloem – will be tough- its never good to meet the Cheetahs early in a competition as they are usually less dangerous later on when injuries start take a toll and their lack of depth counts against them.
26 Jan 2011, 18:45 pm
@Robzim(Robzim)-135: Howzit Rob.
The southeaster kills it for me. I don’t do cold water any more so stick to the Corner. But am heading up the E coast shortly as far as Sodwana, so it’ll tag along for sure. Past few months have been busy for me but we should catch up at Boundary Road sometime.
26 Jan 2011, 18:46 pm
@gunther(gunther)-138:
They claim John has lost 10 kg’s- he will therefore hopefully be a bit “lighter” in the scrums too so Liebenberg will back his changes of not having to go for the humiliation at the hands of a physio again
26 Jan 2011, 18:47 pm
@gunther(gunther)-138: he’ll survive Mr G. Put money. Don’t think his poepall saw as much of his head as you proclaim. Taking nothing away from Biz.
26 Jan 2011, 18:50 pm
@TASSIES(TASSIES)-141:
You must enjoy – I am also struggling lately with a bad shoulder so I paddle like a tortoise- we must certainly do a game or two (and some refreshments) this season.
Got to run- catch up soon, cheers.
26 Jan 2011, 18:50 pm
@gunther(gunther)-123: just seen this. Had to chuckle.
26 Jan 2011, 18:52 pm
@Robzim(Robzim)-140: you’re on the money about that one Rob.
26 Jan 2011, 18:53 pm
cheers guys. Outta here. Need some shuteye.
26 Jan 2011, 20:52 pm
Decent look about the Stormers side. Will be looking out for van Aswegen – I think we all are. Haven’t seen a hell of a lot of him.
But I really rate that JJ Engelbecht on the wing – hope he gets 30 minutes or so, or even a start against the Sharks.
Yes, and nice to see Roger Federer supporting the Boks.
Champions back Champions.
26 Jan 2011, 21:04 pm
I guess you guys must need the validation a tennis player gives your rugby side…
its nice to know there is support out there for the 3rd ranked team in world rugby…
26 Jan 2011, 21:08 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-149:
But the rankings will change after the WC.
They did last time – it’s a knockout remember.
This tennis oke knows a good side when he sees one.
26 Jan 2011, 21:11 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-149:
Pops, what do you think of the Blues chances this year? Particularly heading the NZ conference.
Saders still the team to beat, I reckon. They’ve been recruiting like crazy.
26 Jan 2011, 21:18 pm
@I am a stormer(I am a stormer)-150: isnt that how you guys got to number 1 last time?
double points for beating teams ranked no higher then 5th… talk about winning the lottery
the slide afterwards was just as quick too I beleieve
and of course this tennis oke knows a good side when he sees one, I mean. I always consult the Swiss when I need assistance in rugby matters
26 Jan 2011, 21:20 pm
@I am a stormer(I am a stormer)-151: I think the blues wont be much different from last year to be honest, they have the capability to beat any team, but consistency will be the issue again… Went to school with Pat Lam, just dont think hes a good enough coach to get them to lift their game from last season..
so another what if season for me…
26 Jan 2011, 21:30 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-152:
He’s got a Seffrican mommy – that’s why he’s getting behind the Boks.
@poppa69(poppa69)-153:
Good luck to the Blues. Both our teams have tough conferences to endure.
When I took one of my few trips to Newlands in 2009, the home side lost – against the Blues.
And same again in 2010, this time the Brumbies got the better of the Stormers courtesy of an intercept try. Thank you, Brok.
Going to stay away from Newlands this year.
Going to be one hell of a tournie.
26 Jan 2011, 22:32 pm
@Robzim(Robzim)-124:
It’s whom you faced, not what you said
Federer was uncontested from 2002 to 2007, Hewitt (1 Major) and Roddick (1 Major) were the main rivals, when Nadal emerged, the glut of Federer’s Majors dwindled.
@gunther(gunther)-123:
It’s like comparing the 1995 RWC Boks to that of 2007 RWC winners: The 1995 Boks won against Aussies, The Frogs and the ABs, the 2007 won against the Poms twice and against the Argies.
26 Jan 2011, 22:48 pm
@Robzim(Robzim)-126:
Sampress was an above average baseliner when was forced to, watch his duels with Agassi in 1994 & 1995 US Opens
And he could be beaten in his own game at his prime as Rafter showed in 1997/8
Nadal managed to beat Federer since after Wimbledon 2007 to 2010 on a regular basis, Nadal though had a checkered history then but he has lost his huge biceps since.
26 Jan 2011, 23:03 pm
@Hondo(Hondo)-155: If you look at the major winner during this period, apart from Federer, the following people won slams:
Thomas Johannson
Albert Costa
Lleyton Hewitt
Pete Sampras (remember him?)
Andre Agassi (also him?)
Juan Carlos Ferrero
Andy Roddick
Gaston Gaudio
Marat Safin
Novak Djokovic
Nadal (5)
Federer (12)
Far more won between 2002 and 2008 when 10 other players won than than the top 2 won than say, 2005 – 2010 when only 3 other players won other than the top 2.
So really, the period you refer to has a much wider variety than since. Federer won his forst slam in 2003. Nadal in 2005. So yes, Nadal is on the rise and Fed is less dominant but after winning 16 slams you’d think that was likely.
If you look at 2009 – 2010 Nadal has 4, Fed has 3.
2007 – 2008 Fed 4, Rafa 3.
It’s really just the French that Rafa has dominated, as Roger has done Wimbledon.
I don’t see anything to really support your statement personally.
Both great players Roger has been there done that, Rafa has 7 slams to go before equalling Roger. He may yet, but that remains to be seen.
It’s like the Tiger vs Nicklaus debate. Jack’s score is already posted, 18 to Tiger’s 14. Time will tell..
26 Jan 2011, 23:09 pm
@Hondo(Hondo)-155:
Federer was uncontested between those years because it was his prime years. It makes no sense to argue that exceptional sportsmen like him, Woods, Kelly Slater (surfing), Valentino Rossi , Lance Armstrong (stage road cycling)only dominated because they had no opposition, professional sport is far too competetive for that- they totally dominated because they were on another level.
Nadal is also exceptional and if he can stay injury free might even become the greatest ever in the eyes of experts like MacEnroe and Sampras.
The fact that Nadal got the better of Federer on most occasions does not mean he is a better player- its overall results in tournaments that count.
An example in this regard is Wayne Ferreira who has won 6 times out of 13 in direct encounters against Sampras but overall cannot even be mentioned in the same breath as Pete.
26 Jan 2011, 23:09 pm
Interesting stat on the Tiger vs jack debate, and one that for me says quite a lot:
Major wins (Jack v Tiger): 18 – 14
2nd Place in a Major: 19-5
Top 3 in a major: 46-3
Jack wins hands down, and even if Tiger ends up getting past the 18 wins mark, he’ll never come close to the other two stats. He just doesn’t have what it takes IMO.
26 Jan 2011, 23:30 pm
Only one f’ckup in this team and that is the idiocy at captain
Burger would hardly make my team let alone be the dubious ridiculous captain he is, sooner he gets out the system better for WP Stormers, urger is no captain h’e one huge noose around the Stormers neck, get him out before he chokes the entire team to death.
27 Jan 2011, 00:33 am
@skopiskoobidoo(ilanjo)-160:
Thank F uk for the fact you do NOT select the team. It would battle to beat it’s way out of a paper bag never mind anything else.
Stick to the funny baby talk, you good at it!
27 Jan 2011, 04:23 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-157:
Argumnt is simple, who were those guys that Federer excelled against to win Majors?
Thomas Johannson??
Albert Costa??
Lleyton Hewitt (won a single major in 2001)
Pete Sampras (retired in 2002 after the US Open)
(Andre Agassi (was on the down hill in 2002 onward)
Juan Carlos Ferrero ??
Andy Roddick (won 1 major in 2003)
Gaston Gaudio ??
Marat Safin a violent drunk
Novak Djokovic (won a single major in 2008)
Nadal won all his 4 Major’s encounters against Federer since he lost at the Wimbledon final in 2007 and in 5 sets, not bad for a clay court specialist.
But you are entitled for your opinion
27 Jan 2011, 04:39 am
@Robzim(Robzim)-158:
To push the point home:
Between 1979 and 1985, McEnroe competed against the likes of:
Borg
Connors
Lendl
Becker
Gerulitis (spell)
Guillermo Villas
Stephan Edberg
Mats Wilander
He won 4 US Opens and 3 Wimbledon.
I don’t even know who are those guys who won few Majors since 2002, they certainly left no impression, they are irrelevant in tennis terms except they made Federr career easier.
Federer has not been a match for Nadal since July 2007, regardless what the trash talk specialist McEnro says in the best interests of commercialism, remember, he gets paid for his hassle
27 Jan 2011, 05:09 am
@Hondo(Hondo)-163:
How many of the names you mention have won a grand slam of titles?
It is one thing to reach the finals of a major, another to actually win it and in the process you play whoever they put in front of you. To win so many majors and be dominant for o long you have to be great.
27 Jan 2011, 08:29 am
@Slartibartfast(Slartibartfast)-164:
All of them won AT LEAST 3 Major titles
27 Jan 2011, 08:45 am
@Hondo(Hondo)-165:
On clay, grass, hardcourt…rebound ace? Also in slightly different eras. Edberg for instance, only shined once Borg and later Lendl dissapeared.
27 Jan 2011, 08:49 am
just can’t see any side winning the S15 with a rookie at 10.
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