Cheetahs need to break defensive trends
3 May 2012
GARETH DUNCAN says the Cheetahs will endure another disappointing season because of their weak defence.
It’s well-known that the Cheetahs are the people’s favourite Super Rugby team in the Republic, mainly because of their expansive approach. Their ability to score tries and counter-attack from all parts of the field makes their game plan the most attractive in the country – some would even suggest in the competition.
By looking at their records, it’s hard to argue against that statement. Last season, they scored the most tries in the South African conference and the fourth most in Super Rugby (44). In 2012 so far, they have crossed the chalk on 22 occasions in their nine fixtures.
However, they have failed to turn this effective attack into general success. The Cheetahs’ team goals each year is to qualify for the play-offs, but their highest tournament finish is 10th (this was achieved in 2006). In 2011, they finished 11th, and they are currently in the same position in this year’s standings after only claiming three wins.
This is because of their poor defensive showings, which has become a disappointing trend. While the Cheetahs scored 44 tries last season, they conceded 49. They have also leaked 26 this year (four more than the tally they have scored).
The Cheetahs’ defensive concerns were evident in their last two defeats against the Chiefs and Highlanders in Bloemfontein. These could’ve easily been two victories for the home side, but letting in three tries in the final quarters of each match cost them. The Chiefs were 25-20 behind on the scoreboard shortly after the break but won 39-33, while the Highlanders recorded an unlikely comeback win when they broke down a 30-9 second-half deficit and triumphed 36-33.
At the higher levels of rugby, a superior defence is crucial. This is why the Stormers are on top of the South African conference, despite failing to record a four-try bonus point this year. The Cape franchise have achieved regular success after establishing an effective defensive system.
Right now, the Cheetahs don’t have a similar structure in place. Head coach Naka Drotske revealed earlier in the week that individual errors cost them against the Highlanders as certain players didn’t stick to the plan. This highlights a lack of a tried and tested system.
Until these defensive issues are rectified, the Cheetahs’ hopes of qualifying for the Super Rugby play-offs will always be wishful thinking. Expect another finish in the bottom half of the log for the men from Bloem this season.
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9 Comments
3 May 2012, 12:42 pm
Cheetah bashing, hey Gareth?
3 May 2012, 12:55 pm
@Atlas(Atlas)-1: Cheetahs bashing? You don’t think it’s a fair comment?
3 May 2012, 13:14 pm
More than a fair comment, nothing to do with bashing the Cheetahs. The Cheetahs could be close to a top 6 place provided they defended with a fraction of the commitement and organization of the Stormers. Its so dam frustrtaing watching a team with so much talent and potential leak tries the way they do. Missing tackles in never acceptable, no matter what your playing philosophy might be. Its time us Saffas stop making excuses for our local teams pathetic defenses (Lions &Cheethas).
3 May 2012, 13:37 pm
the most entertaining SA side and deserve be in better position on the table.
3 May 2012, 14:10 pm
It’s always the case with open rugby teams like the Cheetahs and the Canes, just look at that game. Open fast rugby results in a spectacle of awe inspiring tries, but it leaves the other side of the ball (defense) to desired.
3 May 2012, 16:40 pm
This article is spot on. Agree on every point. Lack of defensive system is the best comment here. I had to question some of the players commitment on defence this past weekend.
3 May 2012, 18:53 pm
@4 BS – love their attacking flair, but they ‘deserve’ jack! That’s like me saying the Sharks ‘deserve’ to have won against the Chiefs etc. they weren’t clinical enough – end of! The whole entitlement mentality grates – attack brilliantly and defend half-decently and the Cheetahs will deserve their spot!
4 May 2012, 03:52 am
if you attack more you open up much more to counter attack. the ruck reffing isnt helping this cause they can work against a side like the cheetahs who need quick recycle ball and are not great on defence. i think it was the hurricanes were they were hit hard from turnovers. defensive systems are very easyt to set up much more than attacking structures so just get a better defensive coach in the mix. i think thats why we are better at defending than attacking at national level. but personnel play a part too. just like the move from barry to jean upset our attacking game under jake (had to be done cause barry was finished) poor defenders are poor defenders simple as that. goosen and robert ebersohn are the two worst defenders in that backline but robert has improved alot from last year.
4 May 2012, 04:13 am
Nienaber finishing his contract either this year or the next ? Would be interesting cheetahs offering a contract. Great attack and defence the mouth waters. But also applying the structures 80 min a game is needed. The highlanders game broke my heart.
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