Stormers face scrap for survival
14 May 2012
JON CARDINELLI says the injury situation can only worsen for the Stormers in the next three weeks and fans should brace themselves for at least one loss.
Coach Allister Coetzee’s worst fear was realised on Saturday when No 8 Nizaam Carr hobbled off the field. The log may not reflect the fact, but Carr’s knee injury has plunged the Cape franchise even deeper into crisis.
The Stormers will be without Schalk Burger and Nick Koster until the end of June, and may have to make do without Duane Vermeulen for the rest of their campaign. It was hoped that they could survive this four-game stretch without conceding further injuries, and that Jebb Sinclair would play a supporting role to the incumbent loose trio of Siya Kolisi, Rynhardt Elstadt and Carr.
But with Carr joining a lengthy list of casualties, Sinclair will be thrust into the starting line-up. It means that Coetzee will also have to promote a loose forward from the Western Province Vodacom Cup team, as apparently there are no other experienced players available.
When asked whether he would seek further help from abroad, a despondent Coetzee replied, ‘Who? Do you have any names for me?’
It was a statement that explained the recruitment of Sinclair. The Stormers had failed to acquire the services of Springbok flank Francois Louw and presumably failed to acquire other high-profile players with unbreakable club commitments.
Outside of Sinclair, a Canadian who plays his club rugby for London Irish, there aren’t many players with a gap at this point of the season.
Saracens enjoy a good relationship with the Stormers, and it was suggested after their recent exit from the Premiership semi-finals that some of those players may be available. Saracens hooker Schalk Brits did after all play loose forward for the Cape side when they were similarly afflicted last year.
But Coetzee’s response didn’t inspire any confidence of a Saracens forward flying to the Stormers’ aid. It is likely that the Stormers will have to make do with what they have until Burger and Koster return at the end of next month.
It’s a massive blow, and you’d have to say they’d do well to stay in contention for a home semi-final. They may have lost only one game to date, but because they haven’t scored four-try bonus points their position in the top six is far from secure.
They need to keep winning to stay in contention for that crucial home play-off. It’s going to be a tough ask with a depleted pack, even more so considering the demands of looming forward-oriented contests against the Waratahs, Sharks and Bulls.
It will be nothing short of amazing if they manage to win their next three matches, two of which are away from home. It will be incredible if they can come through these inevitably brutal physical clashes without losing more players to injury.
They will also hope that the Highlanders and Chiefs do them a favour by beating the Bulls and thus preventing the Pretoria side from extending its lead at the top of the South African conference.
Two defeats for the Bulls will allow the Cape team to stay in touch despite their own (and here I say probable given their depleted stocks) losses in the next three rounds.
The Stormers have a slightly easier run-in to the play-offs than the Bulls with matches against the Lions (home), Rebels (home) and Cheetahs (away) scheduled for after the June Tests. The Bulls will host the Cheetahs and Lions, but face a difficult trip to Durban.
The Stormers will be boosted by the returns of Burger and Koster for those matches, but they won’t want to leave themselves with too much to do in terms of securing a home semi-final. They need to survive the next three matches without conceding further injuries, and they also need to pick up some crucial log points.
A win against an inconsistent Waratahs side this weekend is non-negotiable, as away victories in Durban and Pretoria for a depleted Stormers side seem far less likely.
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475 Comments
14 May 2012, 05:56 am
Briesies will definately lose 2 in the next 3 (Bulls and sharks) and the tahs not a guaranteed win either. When S15 resumes, the Cheaters at home and the Rebels like they have been playing these last 2 weeks also not a given.
So, 5 possible losses looming. 3 guaranteed.
Sharks to overtake them on the log and the SA conference will be:
Bulls
Sharks
Briesies
Go Bulls!!!!!!
14 May 2012, 06:19 am
Bulls also have a minor loose forward injury crisis, with J.Potgieter & Stegman crocked. When is Dewaldt back? And would he be match sharp?
Re the Breezers…
Think that they should be taking the Tahs next week, but the two after that will be interesting.
With Bekker & Etsebeth, they should still have plenty grunt in the engine room. Elstadt also (not sure whether the handbags will have the citing commissioner all over him)?
They will however be severely tested at ground level, without a specialised fetcher.
14 May 2012, 06:28 am
@Xkreni-WP(Xkreni-WP)-1: Cheaters? Cheetahs…? Sharks have good players but tend to lose games they should win. I think they will lose 2 -4 games and have some chance of getting into the top 6. If the stormers have gotten this far with all the injuries then why can’t they get to the top of the SA conference.
Stormers have also had a tough draw and beaten almost all of the best teams in the comp – Bulls, Sharks, Reds, Highlanders and Hurricanes
Bulls still have to 2 tough games on tour but i must say they have been very impressive! I think the next three weeks before the June internationals will give a very good indication of which teams will be in the top 6.
14 May 2012, 06:51 am
Wouldn’t it be ironic if those lazy Lions down the Stormers at their Newlands fortress.
Yes after losing away to the farm boys I can see an implosion for the Storm boys.
14 May 2012, 06:56 am
@Xkreni-WP(Xkreni-WP)-1: And the idiot has spoken. 3 guaranteed losses? It is reading posts like this that that highlights the damage inbreeding can do.
14 May 2012, 07:04 am
@Pot Blou Gevaar(Pot Blou Gevaar)-2: It will be tough. The derbies in particular will be very difficult. The Stormers though, have shown great character and depth to keep on winning with all their injuries.The quality of loose forwards in the Cape is excellent, but the lack of experience is the biggest problem. The same people have been saying all season that the wheels are going to be coming off the Stormers and they have been shown up to be ignorant fools. This side has enormous character and talent. They will be in it to the end.
14 May 2012, 07:07 am
@RL(RL)-4:
14 May 2012, 07:09 am
@RL(RL)-4: Do you really think the Tickle me Elmos who got rolled by the pathetic Blues are really going to beat anyone else this season? The only implosion going on is occuring inside your cranium.
14 May 2012, 07:14 am
@Xkreni-WP(Xkreni-WP)-1:
Hahahaha..I remember similar sentiment last year when most bulls banked the game against the sharks to book their semi ……that “Guaranteed” win was not that “guaranteed” was it! We all know how you all went to the malls in the semi!!!!!
The pink trilletjies will lose two guarenteed games from now!
14 May 2012, 07:14 am
@stormer in a teacup(stormer in a teacup)-6:
Much respect to your team bro, for years known as the light five. NO LONGER…
With the exodus at Loftus, the Breezers IMO seemed the strongest Saffa team on paper, and they have largely delivered. Grunt is something which can be taught seemingly at Newlands, respect to Proudfoot.
You guys is still odds on for the play-offs IMO, hell even a finals berth. You may however need to travel to Loftus B @ Orlando Stadium
14 May 2012, 07:18 am
Very close race.
Both the Bulls and Stormers have 3 home and 3 away games left.
If both sides win this weekend and lose the following weekend, as I expect them to, against the Chiefs and Sharks respectively, then they will retain their current log positions in the SA conference, but the Bulls will have only 1 away game left to the Stormers 2.
After the Loftus clash things should settle nicely into place.
As for the Cheetahs clash – the Bulls put 50 past them in Bloem, so I am a bit more confident about the result of the return leg at Loftus than I am about the Stormers chances in Bloem, after scraping through 16-14 against the Cheetahs in Cape Town this weekend.
14 May 2012, 07:21 am
So we went from having the “X factor” last week to “facing a scrap for survival.”
Vacillate much guys?
14 May 2012, 07:26 am
Bulls will lose to Sharks, Chiefs and Highlanders. Guaranteed. Game over
14 May 2012, 07:28 am
this weekend the stormers supporters will show their jaat.
14 May 2012, 07:28 am
@Pot Blou Gevaar(Pot Blou Gevaar)-10: The Bulls, away, are definitely the biggest challenge ahead for the Stormers. The Bulls have also shown great spirit and composure and an enormous amount will ride on this game for both sides. The Sharks are also looking like they may have sorted out some of their combinations and will test both Bulls and Stormers. As the Rebels Saders game showed us this weekend, absolutely nothing is guaranteed and that you have to be in the scrap in every game.
14 May 2012, 07:31 am
Bulls can bank the Lions and Cheetahs games at Loftus – Cheetahs have never beaten the Bulls in Super Rugby history, and we put 50 past them in Bloem this year.
The Stormers can bank the Lions and Rebels games at home.
After that, anything can happen to either of the teams.
14 May 2012, 07:32 am
oh, how the world turns…
can only say i am really, really impressed with the bulls’ young team and also with frans ‘the rock scientist’ ludeke.
vasbyt stormers…
14 May 2012, 07:34 am
why dont they get luke watson to play for them?
14 May 2012, 07:35 am
Way too any people suffering from wishful thinking. The same mutts who boldly and wrongly predict a guaranteed result one week, are back the next predicting some other guaranteed fantasy, having learned absolutely nothing from their arrogance and ignorance.
14 May 2012, 07:35 am
I just love how Tacticus conveniently forgets of their two upcoming tour games. Those two games and the Sharks and Stormers games……………….3 guaranteed losses.
14 May 2012, 07:35 am
Worst case for the Stormers in my view is losses to the Tahs, Sharks, Bulls and Cheetahs.
Worst case for Bulls, losses to the Highlanders, Chiefs, Stormers and Sharks.
That leaves us back where we are now, except the Sharks will top the SA conference and the Stormers will be 3rd.
14 May 2012, 07:36 am
The whinging Yappies clearly need to sign more Canucks if they stand a chance. Otherwise, expect more unrelenting whinging.
14 May 2012, 07:37 am
Basically, the Loftus clash will be the decider.
14 May 2012, 07:38 am
@Xkreni-WP(Xkreni-WP)-1: Guaranteed?? Nothing is gauranteed!! Aks the Crusaders that!
The stormers have only lost one game the WHOLE season away from homa against the best side in superrugby ever… and yet there are people talking about the sharks and Bulls game as if they are givens… I reckon the bulls will lose their three next matches.. yes that is right… three!! Highlanders, Chiefs, and Stormers at Loftus!
As for the sharks, should they not beat the cheetahs this weekend their hopes are gone and they will not have the same interest in the comp anymore…. The stormers played for only 23 minutes after going to sleep against the cheetahs and it was still enough.. The Bulls should never have beaten the Tahs, but they will run out of luck soon…..
As Ac is saying… just keep winning and you will be alright!!
Go Stormers and the Canadian!!
14 May 2012, 07:40 am
Stormers should still be favourites to top the SA log. Should the Bulls win one more game on tour the scales will tip though.
14 May 2012, 07:41 am
said several times last week i was very worried about the cheetahs game… even when bulls fans were telling us it would be an obvious win… some even suggested we’d get the bonus points…
cheetahs always play out of their skins at newlands…
yes, i’m worried about the injuries… although i think jebb played very well in the circumstance… did a lot in the tight loose…
however, it’s not all doom and gloom… imo… stormers have been playing ugly, defense oriented, physical rugby…. (hence the injuries)… and have scraped through on many of their wins…
and it was no different this weekend… which is what worries opposition teams… stormers just seem to have that extra bloody-mindedness they never had before to do whatever it takes and lay their bodies on the line to hang on for the win… and it seems the level of the opposition doesn’t really change that…
sure we will most probably lose a game or even two more… but so will other teams…
but one thing you can bet on… the stormers will scrap and hang on and put everything into it so whoever beats us is going to have to play out of their skins too…
they all wait with trepidation…
the stormers are coming…!!
i love it…!!!
14 May 2012, 07:42 am
this is the sharp end of the tournament and depth is going to be critical.
14 May 2012, 07:42 am
Basically, if the Bulls win this weekend, then they don’t have to win in Durban. If they lose this weekend, then they have to win in Durban.
That’s what it comes down to.
14 May 2012, 07:44 am
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-23: If the Bulls lose to the highlanders and chiefs, and the stormers beat the Tahs and the Sharks.. the Loftus game would mean nothing..
The way the stormers are playing, should they lose a game somewhere, they would probably pick up a losing bonus point.. so I think should they lose three games from here on in, they will probably pick up 3 points in those games… which will be almost as good as a win….. So there is still a lot of rugby to be played…. I think beating the cheetahs after a bye coming back from overseas is enough.. they will get their act together this week and then we will see another turnaround from these JC’s rugby soustreinryers…
14 May 2012, 07:45 am
@Fern is not a stud,he is merely no19(Fern)-18: He is contracted to the Kings who have their own ambitions.
14 May 2012, 07:47 am
wow stormer and jebb was not contracted
it is only monday and you girls are already hysterical
told the people here the stormers supporters are going to show their jaat.
14 May 2012, 07:47 am
@Pee Wee(Pee Wee)-20:
Easy on gun slinger..,
Before the Bulls tour started, I felt that the Landers game will be the toughest for the Bulls as their forwards always has a good showing, with a very settled set phase.
I do however feel that the wheels is coming off slightly in Dunedin.
Dont let your dislike for the Bulls cloud your judgement guy.
I see somewhere else luck is being stated. Was it Gary Player.., “the more I practice, the luckier I get”?
You’ll note Bulls being etched in thrice on the Super Rugby trophy
14 May 2012, 07:48 am
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-28: The funny thing actualy is: Should the stormers lose to the Sharks, it would put the sharks in a position to challenge the bulls for second or even top spot in the conference.. which would make the Bulls game at the Tank that much more difficult.. .so the bulls will find them in a catch 22 when the stormers play the sharks…
14 May 2012, 07:49 am
bulls and stormers lack depth and it is going to cost them dearly
14 May 2012, 07:49 am
@PrickBoks going South(PrickBoks going South)-22:
I suppose if you didnt want to spend to much money on a rugby player for a couple of weeks,or maybe they will pay you to play you would hire a dumbassss braindead loser canadian.
14 May 2012, 07:51 am
@ufo(ufo)-26: take away Nienaber’s defence and you are basically left with the Warratahs … it is true.
14 May 2012, 07:51 am
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-21: The worst case scenario is to lose all your games. If you don’t think it possible for the Cheetahs to beat the Bulls at Loftus, recall the fact the the Blues did it and they are way worse than the Cheetahs. Nothing is guaranteed until after it is all over. How many Manchester United fans were celebrating after 90 minutes yesterday?
14 May 2012, 07:54 am
if the bulls beat the chiefs then i think they’ll win the comp.
14 May 2012, 07:54 am
@Fern is not a stud,he is merely no19(Fern)-31: Really? You think that post was hysterical, do you? This from a bloke who shaves his pubes so he can find his wanger and then proceeds to announce it on Keo.
Case Dismissed.
14 May 2012, 07:55 am
jaat is starting to show
nice
14 May 2012, 07:58 am
@RL(RL)-36: Take away anything from any team and they will be weaker. It is called logic.
14 May 2012, 08:01 am
@Fern is not a stud,he is merely no19(Fern)-31: Hysterical is not the stormers supporters, but rather all the other teams from Sa;s supporters going hysterical over a Win by the stormers albeit it be with two points… all the sudden the stormers need to keep winning to stay in the race etc etc??
fact is every other team in SA wants the stormers to fail… and that is fine… by the looks of the comp though.. .there are some teams that lost a few games and yet find themselve in the running… so I am certainly not panicking like you seem to suggest….beat the Tahs and Sharks, and we will be sitting on 53 points…. that seems about enough to get to a play off spot…. maybe not home ground though
14 May 2012, 08:01 am
Predictions just open a can of whoopas…
Why don’t we all just wait and see what happens. Many a person has been made to look rather silly with their predictions, so let’s wait and see. If we all knew what was going to happen then we wouldn’t watch rugby. The Lions could beat both Stormers and Bulls. Unlikely but possible…
14 May 2012, 08:01 am
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-11:
Underestimate The Sharks vs the Pink Bulls at your peril. The Sharks love playing the Bulls.
14 May 2012, 08:02 am
@RL(RL)-36:
what a ridiculous statement…
but not unexpected…
14 May 2012, 08:02 am
provvas
keep your posts short
no use for a long hysterical rant
as you were
14 May 2012, 08:03 am
Take nine defeats away from the Lions and they would be unbeaten.
14 May 2012, 08:03 am
GWS
These ladyboys from the cape are getting worried
you called it long ago
14 May 2012, 08:04 am
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-43:
yip, and the nice thing is that this seasons not a one or two horse race which makes it more enjoyable.
14 May 2012, 08:04 am
@Great White Shark(Predawn)-44:
Exactly! The Sharks are starting to look really dangerous which bodes well for SA rugby. Three teams in playoff would be first prize. One of them winning the icing on the cake… Let’s just hope it could be the Stormers…
14 May 2012, 08:05 am
@houston, we have a problem…(i_love_u_bakkiesbotha)-49:
For sure.
14 May 2012, 08:06 am
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-43:
indeed…
14 May 2012, 08:09 am
would be great to have 3 teams in the play-offs… would give one of them a much greater chance of winning the whole thing… cause at the end of the day darren… if the stormers don’t i’d rather the bulls or sharks do…
even if it means putting up with their fans…
14 May 2012, 08:13 am
ufo is already starting to justify a loss…
14 May 2012, 08:14 am
53 @ ufo
Unfortunately some of them would prefer either their side or any other team except the Stormers lol
14 May 2012, 08:17 am
54 @ Fern
Where? What have you had for breakfast?
14 May 2012, 08:18 am
so pee wee
i see it is called mr price kingspark after all
as you were
14 May 2012, 08:18 am
post 53
now go and teabag your bf
14 May 2012, 08:19 am
@Pee Wee(Pee Wee)-55:
of course… but this we know… hehehe
they predict losses for us every weekend… but are too dishonest to admit they are wrong and too stupid to be embarrassed…
hehehe…
and when their broken clock tells the correct time they gush how right they were…
gotta love it…
14 May 2012, 08:21 am
@ufo(ufo)-53:
yip, nice showing with three saffa teams in the top six.
will bet on the cheatahs or even the lions spoiling the party locally though.
14 May 2012, 08:23 am
@ufo(ufo)-59:
Hey Buddy! A tense few minutes of the game on Saturday but I’m glad that is over. Now we focus on the next game, not the ones after that just yet. One game at a time…
14 May 2012, 08:23 am
I hope that a few Stormer fans will be joining me at Loftus on 2 June to support our team. I know that IAAS will be there but hoping a few others take the short flight to Jhb. It is going to be a cracker…
14 May 2012, 08:24 am
@houston, we have a problem…(i_love_u_bakkiesbotha)-60:
hehehe…
neither would i… that’s what we do to each other…
we squeaked it this weekend for sure… and still have to do it again in bloem… hopefully with a few more returnee’s by that stage…
14 May 2012, 08:25 am
If we had 3 teams in the playoffs would it still be possible for an SA team to top the overall log?
14 May 2012, 08:26 am
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-61:
hey bud… sheesh yeah… cheetahs played very well… could easily have taken it…
but very happy we hung on…
as you say…
one game at a time…
doesn’t get any easier…
14 May 2012, 08:28 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-64:
good question…!
not sure…
math not my strong point…
sure some other brainier people can answer though…
14 May 2012, 08:30 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-64:
I think the Sharks will have to beat both the Stormers and the Bulls. If that happens then one of our teams might not make it to the top. Not sure though haven’t done the math.
14 May 2012, 08:36 am
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-61:
i loved the brawl though and the way eben owned one of the cheetahs players (doodpoes coenie too, if i’m not mistaken). daardie jong mannetjie is donders sterk.
14 May 2012, 08:39 am
good old fashioned full house brawls….*sigh* … i miss those.
14 May 2012, 08:41 am
@houston, we have a problem…(i_love_u_bakkiesbotha)-69: Yip. No denying rugby has gone soft. Now even tip tackles are frowned upon.
14 May 2012, 08:42 am
The Bulls need 1 win from their next 2 games to have a comfortable finish to the season.
14 May 2012, 08:42 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-64: Yes, especially if the Bulls beat the Chiefs.
14 May 2012, 08:42 am
@houston, we have a problem…(i_love_u_bakkiesbotha)-68:
yeah… was quite something… almost like an ice-hockey or baseball rumble…
thing about even is that as strong as he is physically… he is just as strong mentally… and doesn’t lose his cool in the heat of the battle… very admirable qualities…
i loved it in the highlanders game (i think…) when he was pinned in the ruck and charged by two of them when he couldn’t move to get out of the way… so he looks up and says ‘is that all you got” and gestures them to try again…
great temperament for such a young guy….
14 May 2012, 08:43 am
@ufo(ufo)-66:
I would think it’s possible..
With the conference winner gauranteed a top 3 position, any of the Bulls, Sharks and Stormers can lose against each other alternatively and still make it. Other results, specifically in NZ would assist I believe. Chiefs victory over the Saders being very important.
14 May 2012, 08:46 am
thing about EBEN…
14 May 2012, 08:48 am
@Pot Blou Gevaar(Pot Blou Gevaar)-74:
that makes a lot of sense…
that chiefs crusaders game and the bulls stormers one, as tac says, will be very big and should shape the play-offs…
14 May 2012, 08:50 am
@stormer in a teacup(stormer in a teacup)-72: Awesome. For me Id rather have 2 SA teams in the playoffs with one of them topping the overall log than have three with the Chiefs topping it.
Id rather have us play the final at Newlands than in Hamilton.
Though I prefer Loftus.
14 May 2012, 08:53 am
fancy the tahs to turn the stormers over.
the tahs have looked on the up the past couple of weeks despite their losses.
they had plenty of possession against the brumbies and bulls
14 May 2012, 08:57 am
@Brigadier Van Zyl(Brigadier Van Zyl)-78:
Given the Rebels performance against the Crusaders, maybe the Bulls are better than some people think, considering they beat this fast improving Rebels side.
Imagine the Rebels beating the Stormers at Newlands!
14 May 2012, 08:57 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-77:
for sure…
me too…
wouldn’t say no to playing the bulls in the final at loftus or in soweto…
14 May 2012, 08:59 am
@ufo(ufo)-73:
That brawl had me all nostalgic about the the old, amateur days… Guys like Hennie Bekker, Frik du Preez, et al would only appreciate the “hi, how’s your mother’s”. Thing of beauty!
Re Etsebeth – definite starter in my Bok team @ 4, with Elstadt @ 7. You need such controlled aggression, and the Poms is known for the off the ball, nigly stuff.
14 May 2012, 09:00 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-70:
yip, bring back the good old days
@ufo(ufo)-73:
yip, the guy’s a walk for the bok june and 4 nations teams, no doubt. bulls locks can take notes from him atm.
i just hope he isn’t throwing his career away by staying at wp
14 May 2012, 09:01 am
@ufo(ufo)-80:
I don’t know if those types of match ups are possible in the final anymore, in the S15 setup.
Basically, one team has to end top, and the other? The best they can do is 4th.
Meaning they would have to face team 5 in a quarterfinal and if they win, what then? They probably would have to go to play Team 1 then in the semi or something.
So a final between two teams from the same country? Not sure how that can transpire. Maybe it is possible, in some convoluted way, but then the second SA team would have to jump through all sorts of hoops to get there, I reckon.
14 May 2012, 09:08 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-25: Agreed Taahirah…but i just feel that the bulls will battle for there next 2 games in NZ against 2 good teams…
14 May 2012, 09:10 am
@ufo(ufo)-59:
Not all Sharks supporters want the Stormers to fail, but as you know you get exceptions on both sides of the divide.
Skoppie and a few others have nothing good to say about the Sharks as well.
And if i want the the Bulls and Stormers to lose games its only because it could benefit my team, not because i hate them.
At the end of the season if my team is out, i would support any other SA team who have a chance to win the compo.
So please stop the every hate the Stormers campaign allready.
14 May 2012, 09:11 am
@Pot Blou Gevaar(Pot Blou Gevaar)-81: 100%. Those 2 guys are playing like seasoned veterans at the moment. Great to see. No more “light 5″ as you said earlier.
14 May 2012, 09:11 am
@PrickBoks going South(PrickBoks going South)-22: Yawn…!
14 May 2012, 09:17 am
true, in the current format we will probably never see a final from the same country again even if the 2nd placed confrence side has more points than any other conference side.
bloody stupid ozzie kak format.
on the plus side the bulls and stormers have drilled an arsehule into all the ozzie sides they’ve played this season.
14 May 2012, 09:20 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-86:
sure, no more light 5 but still nothing to show for it.
broken 8 is a far more apt description at the minute.
Coetzee must be a worried man in the situation room.
14 May 2012, 09:24 am
@Pot Blou Gevaar(Pot Blou Gevaar)-81:
yeah me too… something very mesmerizing about those old school dust-ups…
as you say the poms are famous for it… so eben will be well tested against them… but think he should handle it okay…
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-83:
absolutely tac… which is why I said I wouldn’t say no to that…
because if the bulls do finish top the stormers will have a helluva lot of hoops to jump through to meet you guys in the final… which means we would have successfully negotiated all the convolutions…
of course i’d rather meet you guys in cape town…
@Mr Black(Mr Black)-85:
for sure mister black… we all have fans that support our teams who embarrass the rest of us… but reckon those of us who are more level headed don’t include ourselves in those categories… so apologies if you took offense… certainly did not include you in my thinking…
14 May 2012, 09:24 am
@stormer in a teacup(stormer in a teacup)-5:
Come up with something new my efiminate little buddy. Or have you been pounded in the a-hole so long and hard that your brains started leaking into your adult nappies?
14 May 2012, 09:25 am
Serious question – can anyone provide a scenario in which two SA teams could possibly meet in the final?
Let’s say one ends 2nd and one 4th.
So if 4 wins its quarterfinal against 5, then you would think that 1 plays 4 in the semis and 2 plays 3, right?
If both SA teams win their semis, would that then mean that 2 plays 4 in the final?
Or is there some Aussie gimmick that prevents such a possibility?
14 May 2012, 09:25 am
@Brigadier Van Zyl(Brigadier Van Zyl)-89: Yes but we go into each and every game knowing that we will have at least parity with the opposing teams forwards.
Which gives us a much better chance of competing consistently for each win.
14 May 2012, 09:27 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-86:
@ufo(ufo)-90:
Talking about the “light 5″, i watched a recording of the WP versus Pumas game yesterday and the lock Quinn Roux was very impressive against a huge Puma pack.Apparently he was at one time ahead of Etsebeth in the picking order but then he got injured- based on his performance on Sat I can see why he is so highly rated. Btw he is originally from Pretoria- played Craven Week for the Bulls and then went to the rugby acedamy at Stellenbosch.
Another player in the tight 5 who who impressed me was the hooker Tobias- i am not sure if he is big enoughfor super rugby but as an highly skilled all rounder he was very impressive- and he can throw the ball into a lineout- seems to have inherited some ball skills from old Errol.
14 May 2012, 09:31 am
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-92: easy Tac
QF1.) Team 3 vs Team 6
QF2.) Team 4 vs Team 5
The first placed team from the regular season will play the lowest ranked qualifier in week 1 of the play offs.
The second placed team from the regular season plays the team highest ranked qualifier in week 1 of the play offs.
SF1.) Team 1 vs lowest ranked qualifier.
SF2.) Team 2 v highest ranked qualifier.
so, using this above..
one team finshes first
team 6 beats team 3
team 5 beats team 4
1st place then plays 6th
2nd plays 5th..
but I understand it may take you a while to comprehend it, Bulls fans arent renown for their thinking…
2nd team finshes 5th
14 May 2012, 09:31 am
Well put it this way – the Stormers were never expected to beat the Sharks and the Bulls away from home anyway.
It is away games for them, after all.
And as a South African, I simply cannot support an overseas team against the Bulls.
As long as we have three SA teams in the playoffs, I am happy.
14 May 2012, 09:32 am
@poppa69(poppa69)-95:
2nd team finishes 5th should be placed under the line
“first team finishes top”
14 May 2012, 09:36 am
@Robzim(Robzim)-94:
yeah… was at the game…
he is a big mobile unit… first time i’ve seen him play… did very well…
had to think while watching that match why we don’t use rohan kitshoff for the stormers… he may not be as good as brussow… but he is good…
having said that… i think jebb did well and is certainly no show-pony… but maybe rohan on the bench…?
14 May 2012, 09:36 am
@Brigadier Van Zyl(Brigadier Van Zyl)-88:
Damn convicts managed to sell this drivel to their SANZAR counterparts.
Saddest thing is – NZ probably has superior player stocks accross the board, as well as structures and a passion for the game then their Tasman neighbours. BUT, Aus has the commercial nouse to bully NZ into accepting their stance.
In that region, Aus pulls the commercial clout. And NZ, unfortunately sleeps with the devil she knows.
14 May 2012, 09:38 am
rob…
one of the pumas broke down the one wing… quinn came racing across to make the tackle… was VERY impressed with his speed across the park…
14 May 2012, 09:39 am
@willievz(willievz)-96:
amen brother… will support whichever saffa team makes the final…
and at least one of us will…!!
14 May 2012, 09:40 am
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-71: The Bulls need to beat the Chiefs to ensure that the NZ conference leader slips down the log.
If a NZ team finishes first overall then that team will win the title.
14 May 2012, 09:40 am
@ufo(ufo)-100: Does Roux play 4 or 5?
14 May 2012, 09:43 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-103:
Howzit Buddy! Someone suggest Eben play 8 and then bring in a new lock. I’m not usually one for playing people out of position, but desperate times call for desperate measures. Is Roux good enough to adapt to Super rugby?
14 May 2012, 09:44 am
As much as it pains me to admit it, the Lions are pretty much out of the running for the title now.
14 May 2012, 09:47 am
I just feel i need to put this comment out there. Even though the Sharks have been inconsistent, but looking allot better now in the last few weeks, Heyneke Meyer’s first mistake of his Bok coaching career WILL be not to pick Lambie as his first choice Flyhalf. He will start with Morne, and thats a fact. Lambie is the Best all round 10 in the country…he is very obviously the best attacking and defensive 10 (you rarely see this guy miss a tackle). The same cant be said about Morne. Then again every ones worry is that Morne is the best goal and tactical kicker. Fair enough, no argument there. But Lambie has proved this season he can do the goal kicking job for the Boks. Here are some stats to show this. Morne up to now have had 76 attempts at goal with a strike rate of 77.63%. While Lambie, with a few less attempts, (remembering he was out for 2 to 3 weeks.) Have 53 attempts at goal at a strike rate of 81.13%. So that to me shows he is good enough to take the goal kicking duties. Why have Steyn Starting if he is not our best player at 10. Lambie is Brilliant and needs to be the first choice. Meyer is going to make a mistake before he has actually made it.(if that even makes sense).
Thats my thoughts, but i know there are many Morne Steyn fans that will completely disagree. And i am not saying lose Morne completely he will still be very valuable of the bench, with Lambie maybe shifting to 15 in the last quarter or when its needed. Well we all have our own opinions i guess.
14 May 2012, 09:47 am
@ufo(ufo)-98:
Yip Rohan impressed me as well, have no idea why they do not rate him.
Same goes for Nic Groom- he was very good imo.
The Greek also did quite well, he even seemed to have develop some appetite for tackling since I last saw him.
Nic Mallet (as commentator) was very impressed with Roux .
Hopefully they will make more use of Mallet in the commentating box – he was quite refreshing, obviously he has immense knowledgeof the game (even did some on-air “coaching”) but is also not scared to call a spade a spade.
14 May 2012, 09:48 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-103:
5…
lobberts was playing 4…
14 May 2012, 09:48 am
@>^..^< katman(katman)-105: BWAHAHAHHAHAHAHA!!
14 May 2012, 09:49 am
Poppa said yesterday your country of birth d ictates your nationality.
Skopshyte was born in Israel.
That means he is not South African
Sweet!
14 May 2012, 09:49 am
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-92: Either you or I are in for disappointment. Realistically I don’t think the Stormers and Bulls will play the final. Which is a shame.
14 May 2012, 09:50 am
heh, the bulls did well for years because of their defence, so dont count the stormers out just yet… they just need to up their attacking game a bit and they will still be a handfull.
I think this obit is a bit premature.
14 May 2012, 09:52 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-103:
@ufo(ufo)-108:
Although he started at 5 to accomodate Lobberts at 4 I think he is a natural 4. Certainly plays like an enforcer.A mobile enforcer in fact.
14 May 2012, 09:53 am
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-104:
i think he could… certainly big enough… and showed good skills too… also quite a confident in your face kinda of player… though not as much as eben…
also agree on groom… nuggety player who got the wp line moving very well i thought…
haven’t seen the tv version yet… hope they show it again…
mallet knows his stuff for sure… and has had some insightful comments to make in the studio…
14 May 2012, 09:53 am
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-106:
Spies will start as well. A shame indeed.
14 May 2012, 09:54 am
@ufo(ufo)-108: Lobberts can also cover 8.
14 May 2012, 09:54 am
@Robzim(Robzim)-113:
yeah… agree with that… looks more a natural 4 to me too…
14 May 2012, 09:55 am
@ufo(ufo)-114:
I watched the delayed broadcast and thought Groom was great. Anyone know why he is not in the Stormer mix?
14 May 2012, 09:57 am
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-115: It is…and that is my other concern about Heyneke. Do not get me wrong i feel he is a great coach and the best person for the job. But i also feel he has a bit of favouritism toward Bulls players. Spies by no means is the best number 8.
14 May 2012, 09:57 am
@>^..^< katman(katman)-105:
14 May 2012, 10:03 am
very worried about andries…
dunno if the tv showed it… but he was in serious pain for most of the game… would not be surprised if he misses the tahs game…
but have to say as well… i was VERY impressed with andries… not only was he playing in pain but he looked like the caption on the field… he was geeing the guys up… going to every player and having words and high and low fiving getting everyone’s gees up even higher… yet he still put his body on the line and put in some huge hits specially when the cheetahs were on top….
always liked him… but my respect for him grew even more… one of his best games that i’ve seen…
good to know that in the long run we have quinn too…
and you’re right again rob… does have that enforcer look to him… very good to see…
14 May 2012, 10:03 am
Is it just me or have the referees been particularly useless this year. Never mind the inconsistency from game to game but from ruck to ruck. Im really worried for my health if they continue in this manner during the test season.
They actually seem a lot better and more consistent in the Northern hemisphere games to be honest
14 May 2012, 10:05 am
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-118:
yeah bill…
a bit strange… but i guess AC reckons duvenage and schreuder are better…
i also think that many of these fringe guys playing for the VC are being kept there to try and win the thing…
so maybe after the VC we’ll see more of them getting chances…
14 May 2012, 10:05 am
57 @ Fern
We all know its called Kings Park. Move along swiftly as it seems you’re a bit delayed
14 May 2012, 10:08 am
@Fern is not a stud,he is merely no19(Fern)-110: you heard of this? this could open up a chance for mallett.
Plumtree in surprising Force link
With Richard Graham having opted to continue his coaching career in Brisbane next year (and summarily being shown the door halfway through the current campaign, as “player power” gained the scalp of yet another Western Force coach), it’s probably unsurprising that a fair few names are being bandied about as possible replacements for 2013.
According to a report in the Australian, though, current Sharks mentor John Plumtree is one of those who is being pursued, with both captain David Pockock and CEO Vern Reid apparently taking the opportunity to sound the kiwi out about a move to Perth next year. Plumtree, who is contracted to the Sharks until the end of next year, is understood to be under some pressure as the Sharks have thus far failed to deliver the expected results at Super Rugby level under his guidance.
14 May 2012, 10:09 am
@Bok fan(Bok fan)-122: I think, and only think it maybe be due to the speed at which the game is played in the Southern Hemisphere especially in super rugby. Still no excuse for the refs, the need to be more consistent and improve. But i do feel reffing a Northern game is a bit easier than a super rugby game. Just my thoughts. but you are correct in saying, overall the refs have been poor.
14 May 2012, 10:10 am
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-104: I’m not sure. I think you’d have a situation where Steenkamp plays 4 with Bekker at 5 and Etsebeth at 8, but then you may as well just play Steenkamp at 8 then. Maybe Roux at 8 if he’s as mobile as UFO is saying?
14 May 2012, 10:12 am
@Robzim(Robzim)-107:
You should have known better why the Stormers didn’t offer Rohan a contract?!
Same reason why Fran & Pieter Louw left abroad, I guess they read the broader picture
14 May 2012, 10:14 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-127:
would be interesting… he is mobile indeed…
but different being a mobile lock and being mobile enough for a number 8…
but yeah… don’t think he’d let the side down there… he really was impressive…
must stress though… first time i’ve seen him play…
14 May 2012, 10:15 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-125:
PdV is available, why don’t the Forces try him?
14 May 2012, 10:16 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-125:
I like Plum but he is under pressure.
My instinct though is that Plum, if possible, would ather stay in Durban.
So what do the Sharks higher ups think?
Who do they get instead?
If I was the Shark King I would ask Mallett but Mallett and administrators don’t mix.
Administrators don’t like being told to eff off and with Mallett he will not only do it once a week but because he is so well educated he will do it extremely eloquently
I don’t think SA admins can handle him.
It also assumes Mallett would take the job.
So wh else?
If its not a good step up from Plum we should rather keep Plum
14 May 2012, 10:19 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-125: Ok i know its not your view, thats from an article, but saying that the sharks have not lived up to expectations, may be a fair comment, but they have moved in to the top 6 and with about 7 rounds or so to go and the Sharks playing home most of those, still leaves allot of opportunity to qualify for the play offs and after a weekend of upsets like we had. a home Semi is not a impossibility. I think its rather early to suggest that they have not lived up to expectations. What is every teams expectations? To win the competition, and nothing less. No team will go in saying we aim to finish 4th or 6th or whatever. We will have to wait and see. The Sharks have been inconsistent but, may be peaking at the perfect time and with no real injury problems, the will stay a threat to the title till the end.
14 May 2012, 10:20 am
very interesting that quinn roux is one who slipped through the bull’s kraal…
never knew that…
definitely a huge plus for us…
sort of big like flippie… but way more mobile…
14 May 2012, 10:20 am
Transie I really hope Plumtree leaves,he has reached his critical mass as a coach.
14 May 2012, 10:21 am
@Fern is not a stud,he is merely no19(Fern)-34:
They have ample depth at the Referees’ Department, it has made up for the alleged lack of depth so far
The Super Rugby standards on show this season by the Aus and NZ teams is absolutely shocking, my prediction is both the Stormers and the Bulls will go all the way, my score sheets surely support that statement!
14 May 2012, 10:21 am
@>^..^< katman(katman)-105: Lions are in poll position to win the wooden spoon.
14 May 2012, 10:22 am
Mallet has to be one of the most respected coaches and if Sharks can get him, then that will be great for them and the supporters.. The guy is a pretty good commentator as well.
14 May 2012, 10:26 am
will be great if the sharks get mallet…
great for them and for sa rugby to keep him out of the clutches of other countries…
14 May 2012, 10:27 am
@Hondo(Hondo)-130: i think clear “electrocution” when speaking Eeengleesh is a prerequisite, which automatically excludes Divvy
14 May 2012, 10:27 am
@RL(RL)-136: Ja, coming into the final bend they’re perfectly positioned for that. Fck’em. Again.
14 May 2012, 10:34 am
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-126: Know what you saying, however some of those French games are played at a very high pace. Its mostly the breakdown thats become an absolute joke. 1 ruck you can go off your feet or take someone out from the side, and the next you penalised. As for the foul play, theres no excuse for the lack of consistency. Either its a red card for a tip tackle or it isnt. As for punching not getting a red????. Also the amount of stuff the linesman miss is shocking. I was at a game the other day and saw 3 forward passes and I was sitting right behind the linesman. Watching the reviews and hilights confirmed they clearly were forward. They werent very difficult to spot, so not sure what the linesmans excuse was. Just need a TMO with have a brain and most of these bad decisions can be avoided, like the one in the Sharks game on Sat
14 May 2012, 10:36 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-139:
I truly believe he won’t be out of his depth at the Super Rugby level, surely this season!
When I look at Pat Lam, Jaime Joseph or the Force coaches, PdV will do alright there provided the managements there will back him up all the way and will provide him a hatchet man to enforce discipline and compliance.
14 May 2012, 10:36 am
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-132: since 2009 the sharks have been tipped by MOST pundits (even keo) to take the title or even be the top sa team but we know they’ve been mediocre since plum took over finishing 2009 – 6th, 2010 – 9th & 2011 – 6th.
that’s how you should view “not lived up to expectations”!
14 May 2012, 10:38 am
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-106: I agree completely. Lambie is the only realistic option at 10 and is as close to the complete player as they come. Goosen is a bright prospect, but I will only look at him next season with Lambie moving to 12 to include the former’s brilliance. De Jongh at 13 and wingers who can finish and we may just have a backline to fear…
14 May 2012, 10:38 am
There are several permutations where two teams from the same conference can meet in the final.
Eg 1st and 4th or 5th. 6th beats 3rd and plays 1st. The 4th or 5th team plays 2nd in the other semi
2nd and 5th.
3rd and 5th win. 5th plays 1st and 2nd plays 3rd on the semis.
2nd and 6th. Both teams keep on winning. They will meet in the final.
14 May 2012, 10:39 am
@Fern is not a stud,he is merely no19(Fern)-134: interesting, who do u suggest should repace plum?…
“Sharks couldn’t afford Steyn” – brian van zyl in the witness on friday
14 May 2012, 10:39 am
Sorry Half a brain for the grammar dudes
14 May 2012, 10:43 am
@Couchcoach(GI POT)-144: Lambie will suddenly become a 12.
Hahaha guppies think that he is the perfect 10, but not as good as Goosen but better than any 12 around. Including Frans Steyn.
14 May 2012, 10:45 am
@ufo(ufo)-133: That is very interesting. He would of started ahead of Etzebeth this year if he wasnt injured earlier on.
14 May 2012, 10:45 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-143:
Certainly not by me, and my score sheets’ percentage implies I am some kind of an ‘expert’ too
This season however anything’s possible due the the implosion of most of the ANZAC teams, so the Sharks presumably may fancy their chances, although they don’t feature well at the SARU referees Dept.
14 May 2012, 10:46 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-143: I guess that makes sense. But maybe they looking beyond that, as he has two Currie Cup wins and a couple of other semi final and finals. But i understand that Currie Cup and Super Rugby are two completely different competitions. So my guess is, they have held on to Plum up to now due to his success in the Currie Cup. But you are right, maybe his Super Rugby expectations have not been met. But like i said. The Sharks are still in the running this season, and you never know, maybe by some miracle the Sharks can reach the Final. It will certainly be a massive surprise and in some way a great comeback from behind as they have been floating around the bottom half of the log for most of the season.
14 May 2012, 10:50 am
@Couchcoach(GI POT)-144: Im glad you agree, there are so many still wanting Steyn to be there, just because he has a reliable boot. Talking about wingers. Mvovo is a no brainer if he is left out of the starting line up, there is something wrong. But ya. Lambie is on fire and one of the form flyhalfs, not just in SA but in the whole super rugby comp.
14 May 2012, 10:54 am
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-149:
indeed…
here’s an intro to quinn from last year… from the wp site…
At the age of just 20, the DHL WP Lock is shaping up to be one of the games new enforcers. Quinn Roux tells us more about himself.
Where are you from originally?
I’m originally from Pretoria, born and bred there. I came down to the Mother City about 3 years ago. I moved down to the WP Institute and started my career from there.
When did you first start playing rugby?
I started playing in primary school (laughs) but that wasn’t serious contact. I then went to Affies, there my rugby career started and the game became serious.
How’s the physicality and aggression in Absa Currie Cup compared to other levels you have played?
It’s a lot higher, the pace is much faster and the level of intensity is greater. There are a lot of us youngsters being given opportunities at the moment. It is clearly a focus at WP. The coaches and senior players are very supportive and always there to offer us help. We all want to grab the opportunities and are hungry to achieve, the standard of play for the Absa Currie Cup isn’t easy and we all know the responsibility that comes with it.
How do you feel everytime you represent WP?
All my life I have been a WP fan, always dreamt of playing for them one day. So when I put on that jersey, I get a rush of excitement and anxiety, I know that this is the team I want to represent, this is the team that I hold dear to my heart.
You have represented WP in u19, u21 and now in Absa Currie Cup – how do you find the coaching structures as you move up?
The coaching structures are great. It is very well organised, and professionally run. I reckon we have one of the best set-up’s in the world. What is great is that at any given time of the day, all the coaches are there to assist you, they are very approachable and they help you with any and every aspect of your game. The communication lines between players and coaches are open, and that is vital. There are tough times, but like I said we have a good set-up at the HPC – that helps.
The Currie Cup team for this year is fairly young, are you guys handling the pressure?
What is important is that we as youngsters, as a group, we feeling great. We all support each other 100% both on and off the field. We have alot of senior guys around us who help us tremendously, to deal with the pressures of the game. Guys like, Tiaan, Conrad, Deon and Dewaldt – they always giving us advice and showing us the ropes, that makes it easy for us, they make us feel welcome. The vibe within our squad at the moment is awesome, we keep growing as a team and whilst I want to do well as a player, what is most important is my contribution that I can offer towards the team and its future, whilst I gain experience from all around me. What’s also awesome to see is that whilst a number of the U21 players are getting experience at senior level, that U21 team continues to achieve. That’s testament to the structures in place Province and the opportunities been granted.
Quinn has represented the following age groups for DHL WP:
Craven week (Northern Transvaal) 2008
WP institute 2009
DHL WP u19 2009 (6)
DHL u21 2010-2011 (17)
DHL WP Vodacom Cup 2011 (9)
DHL WP Absa Currie Cup (1) 2011
14 May 2012, 10:56 am
The Sharks are such slow starters to the S15 but boy when they eventually kick into gear they become a very dangerous team. I see the Sharks taking some serious scalps from this point onwards!!
14 May 2012, 10:56 am
@ufo(ufo)-153:
No wonder we let him go.
His heart just isn’t in the right place.
14 May 2012, 10:56 am
@race of tan(race of tan)-154:
The SA conference will have a tight finish. It is a 3 way race now.
14 May 2012, 10:57 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-125: Oh if ONLY!!!!!! Wellcome Mallet all is forgiven!
14 May 2012, 10:58 am
@ufo(ufo)-123: I have never really rated Schreuder – Groom is way better than Schreuder and is a better 9 as Duvenhage as well. Groom has the right attitude for a 9 as well – not afraid to take on the bigger forwards. I can’t understand that AC would keep Groom in the VC team if he is clearly a better player: maybe Groom had a scrap with coaches…..I am only guessing.@stormersboy(stormersboy)-127: The Stormers can’t play Steenkamp at 8 – I think he is much too slow. Something I don’t like about Steenkamp is that when he is calling the lineouts, once Bekker leaves the field, he hardly ever calls a ball to Etzebeth. Etzebeth is a safe bet, but whenever Steenkamp gets onto the park, his first call is to himself.
The no 8 is a dilemma – definitely not Lobberts and I am not too sure about Eben – he has just established himself as one of the best 4 locks in SA. To move him to 8 will be a bit of a waste. Having said, I read recently that Hennie Bekker “discovered” him. Hennie had to give a hand at Tygerberg High’s rugby practice – he spotted this huge schoolboy (at grade 10 or 11 at the time) on the B-field playing in the backline. He called him and enquired about his name etc. Hennie invited him to the High Performance Centre but Eben had to promise Hennie to convert to lock, which he did….and the rest is history. So maybe he can fit in at 8 as a temporary measure, in which case Roux can step up to 4.
14 May 2012, 10:58 am
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-155:
hehehe
it’s in exactly the right place…!!
14 May 2012, 10:59 am
@race of tan(race of tan)-154: Agreed. I think and i hope they are peaking at the right time. Ok, they smashed the Force, but come on, the Force aren’t really a great side. But maybe the Sharks needed a game like that to spark their season in to top gear.
14 May 2012, 11:01 am
Tacitus – Problem now is i see the Stormers are beginning to fade again as they did last year. No bonus point, no killer instinct in the backline, although they have the players!
14 May 2012, 11:02 am
The Stormers are very, very luck that Etzebeth hasn’t been cited for that full-nelson throat choke and throw he performed on Adriaan Strauss in the first half.
14 May 2012, 11:03 am
Sharkie10 – Well the Sharks do have the players to mount a last minute charge to the play offs!! Lambie is growing in leaps and bounds, what a solid young player he is!
14 May 2012, 11:03 am
@seamus(seamus)-162: Wasn’t that Elstadt?
14 May 2012, 11:03 am
with eben at 20 and quinn at 21… we have two VERY good locks for the future…
andries is 28… and suffering from a dodgy lower back…
nothing wrong with playing two ‘enforcers’ when andries is unable to play…
14 May 2012, 11:04 am
@seamus(seamus)-162:
You not confusing Etseth with Elstadt?
14 May 2012, 11:04 am
@>^..^< katman(katman)-164:
Snap
14 May 2012, 11:04 am
@seamus(seamus)-162:
@>^..^< katman(katman)-164:
wasn’t that andries strauss too…???
14 May 2012, 11:05 am
@ufo(ufo)-165:
Great young talent coming through.
14 May 2012, 11:05 am
@CharlesM(CharlesM)-158: Must of been discovered at grade 10 because in Grade 12 he was a rampaging force for a very successful Tygerberg High team that year. They claimed a few huge scalps that year.
Must of taken him two years to convert.
14 May 2012, 11:06 am
@ufo(ufo)-168: It was Andries Strauss
14 May 2012, 11:07 am
@ufo(ufo)-168: Yes indeed. This is how dodgy rumours start.
14 May 2012, 11:07 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-146: Transie its all mind games, if you remember Van Zyl said the exact same thing when John Smit was returning to SA. Sources close to the Sharks and to Steyn all say that the young man is indeed Durban bound. Although the need for all this cloack and dagger is confusing
14 May 2012, 11:08 am
@CharlesM(CharlesM)-171:
Was too. I thought he was talking about Andries but just seen he said Adrian.
14 May 2012, 11:09 am
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-170: I know they had a great team that year. Fortunately Eben has the right “background” – being an Etzebeth: good to see he has controlled aggression though. Coenie Oosthuizen tried to get under his skin but Etzebeth kept him in a tight grip without doing anything silly
14 May 2012, 11:11 am
Wat van Luke Watson?
14 May 2012, 11:12 am
Jebb will need to start at 8 this weekend with Don Armand coming onto the bench.
I hope Elstadt does not get suspended for his foul play. Yellow card adequate punishment correct?
14 May 2012, 11:14 am
DG – Not a bad idea at all to bring in Luke Watson. He plays very well at the Stormers!!
14 May 2012, 11:14 am
@CharlesM(CharlesM)-175: Yes his uncles would be so proud…..or maybe not…..they would have wanted him to bliksem a few okes like they did in the past.
14 May 2012, 11:16 am
@race of tan(race of tan)-163: He is and i was really worried when he went down on saterday, i know he was taken off in the second half, and have heard no news on the extent of his injurie, but i am sure Plum took him off for precautionary reasons more than anything else. But he is key to the Sharks success.
14 May 2012, 11:19 am
Any boffin can answer a Q from another thread?
How many yellows (on&off field) during the season before a suspension is imposed & is there a soccer style clean slate that kicks in (before the play-offs)
14 May 2012, 11:19 am
Meyer also needs to take a good look at Marcel Coetzee, this guy is going to be huge in the near future. He is already quite brilliant.
14 May 2012, 11:20 am
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-180: The Tribune confirmed that he was taken off as a precautionary measure and is expected to play this week
14 May 2012, 11:20 am
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-179:
i know you’re joking…
but his family are gonna be very proud of eben for many years to come…
and wp and bok supporters…
definitely got the X factor this young man…
14 May 2012, 11:22 am
@ufo(ufo)-168: the guy was gesuip already by then
14 May 2012, 11:24 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-185:
reckon so…
14 May 2012, 11:26 am
@viewer(viewer)-181: Should be 3 or 4 but i have no idea.
14 May 2012, 11:27 am
@ufo(ufo)-184: I have told this a long time ago on this site: way back his late uncle Skattie and his buddies used to stand at Newlands (close to the bar etc.). Coming out of the bar they often tried to pck a fight. Once this happened: Skattie asked a guy “What are you looking at”; Reply: “No, I am not looking at you”; Skattie – “so you are ignoring me..”. You just could not win (or beat him / them)
14 May 2012, 11:28 am
@CharlesM(CharlesM)-188: pick a fight
14 May 2012, 11:28 am
@viewer(viewer)-181: 2 Citing Commissioner issues an “Off-Field Yellow Card”
Instances where a Citing Commissioner observes a serious act of foul play that is close to but not quite a red card The Off-field yellow card is logged on the player’s disciplinary record in the same manner as an On-Field yellow card.
i don’t think there any “clean slates” for play-offs
14 May 2012, 11:29 am
@ufo(ufo)-184: Definitely. One of the finds of the season.
14 May 2012, 11:32 am
@CharlesM(CharlesM)-188:
yeah… i remember that story…
lots of really good stories about the etzebeths… robzim has quite a few too…
family full of character… definitely wise to be on their good side…
but also explains a lot about eben’s cool temperament…
14 May 2012, 11:33 am
@CharlesM(CharlesM)-188: Scary.
14 May 2012, 11:33 am
Thanks.
It proves the lawmakers have lost us
14 May 2012, 11:33 am
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-83:
“So a final between two teams from the same country? Not sure how that can transpire.”
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-92:
“Serious question – can anyone provide a scenario in which two SA teams could possibly meet in the final?”
The Blues lost against thr Reds in the semi last year, remember? If they’d won that match, they would’ve played against the Crusaders in the final.
So yes, it is possible for two teams from the same country to contest the final.
If, for example, the log stays the way it is right now, it means the Sharks will face the Brumbies away and the Stormers will face the Crusaders at home in the play-off round.
If both the Stormers and the Sharks win their matches, the Stormers will face the Bulls (away) and the Sharks will face the Chiefs (away).
Naturally the Sharks will have to beat the Chiefs for two SA teams to play in the final.
Of course it is very difficult thing to do for a team to win away in the play-off round and the semi-final but it is by no means impossible as was proven by the Crusaders last year.
14 May 2012, 11:38 am
Let’s just get it out there. Well done Stormers. Congrats on the win. Scrappy game, never lived up to expectations but a win is a win…
14 May 2012, 11:40 am
Any Sharks fans…
Why did Lambie go off at half time on Saturday?
Injured?
14 May 2012, 11:43 am
@Cheetahs27(Cheetahs27)-196:
hey bud…
good to hear from you…
your guys played VERY well and very nearly took it… sorry for you they didn’t… but very happy for us to have squeaked it…
good luck going forward… if you guys play like that gonna definitely win some more games…
pity about sias… he was the first player from either team out on the field practicing… really feel for him… but no doubt he’ll be back…
14 May 2012, 11:44 am
@Cheetahs27(Cheetahs27)-196: I felt robbed after the final whistle went. Let’s just hope that the boys can make amends in the return match.
14 May 2012, 11:48 am
I guess any win is better than a season whitewash.
14 May 2012, 11:48 am
@Cheetahs27(Cheetahs27)-196:
Was waiting for you buddy. Well done with your team! They were superb in the second half and if they played anywhere as near as that first half we could have had a different result. I will be cheering your boys on this weekend as I will always support my beloved streppies team but will always have a soft spot for the Cheetahs and will cheer them on against any team but my own. Thanks for showing such great sportmanship a true example to many here…
14 May 2012, 11:48 am
I dig the sharks fans.
They beat the crappy force at home infront of an empty stadium and it,s make-all-the-sharks-boks week again.
The tank will probably be at least half full next week.
On the plus side…i just wan
t to say Fu to all the mancs and spurs out there ans especially wayne rooney. Thanks.
14 May 2012, 11:49 am
@RL(RL)-199:
How can you have felt robbed. Your team was smashed by the Blues mate…
14 May 2012, 11:49 am
@WP_(WP_)-197: They suspect a little concussion, but is said to be fine
14 May 2012, 11:49 am
@nama1(nama1)-195: I can only see it happen if the Bulls finish 2nd and the Stormers 4th, which will mean a home playoff against the 5th placed team and away semi against the log leaders for the Stormers. If that team is the Chiefs and all the Stormers players are back I can see them winning that game. They have a very good record against NZ teams home and away and I do not think the Chiefs have the kicking game to counter the Stomers.
The Bulls however will not win a game in NZ if it is a semi
14 May 2012, 11:49 am
@WP_(WP_)-197: According to the Tribune, it was precautionary did not test concussed so expected to play this Saturday.
14 May 2012, 11:49 am
from rugby365…
The Stormers may have churned out another win against the Cheetahs at Newlands on Saturday, but they were by no means satisfied with the way they went about it.
After building up a commanding 16-0 lead at half-time the Cape side fell off the pace in the second half and ended up having to hold off the resurgent Cheetahs, which took the shine off and left them frustrated.
Captain Jean de Villiers said:”We selected the best team available to represent the Stormers and we won, so we are happy about that but we are definitely not happy with the way that we did it.
“I think our discipline was poor, our attack was poor, everything except the defence was poor. I think we definitely need to do a bit of soul-searching this week,” he added.
The Stormers have been incredibly consistent this season and have only lost one game, but they have not scored a single four-try bonus point and have not managed to put any team to the sword, relying on their defensive discipline to put teams under pressure.
They managed to do that in the first half against the Cheetahs and built up a healthy advantage in thr process, but they were unable to capitalise and De Villiers knows that standards will have to be raised if they want to continue winning.
“We are not happy, and if we play like this for the next three weeks then we are in for a rude awakening. Maybe it is a good way to get a wake-up and make sure that we play better for the next three weeks,” he said.
Coach Allister Coetzee was equally unsatisfied with the second-half performance but pointed out that his team remains well-positioned despite not playing their best rugby, and pledged to do some serious work ahead of the clash with the Waratahs next week.
He explained: “There are no excuses from us, not for the second-half performance. I am not defending the team, they know they were poor tonight and we will take that on the chin and move on but there is one thing that you have got to understand – this team is still winning and this team is still one point behind the conference leaders with plenty of rugby still to be played.
“We understand where we need to brush up and we are trying our best to get there, they are things that we can fix and we will certainly leave no stone unturned to fix it.
Coetzee said that his side will have to focus as they have two big derbies away to the Sharks and Bulls after the Waratahs game next week and they cannot let complacency derail their campaign.
“This is an important phase of the competition and the players understand that we can’t just go through the motions, thinking that we are right were we left off on tour. There is a difference between thinking and applying yourself,” he said.
The Stormers coach said that although his team have to improve if they want to be contenders at the end of the season, he was happy with the fact that they were able to win despite playing badly.
“We will take the four points but we are definitely not happy with the performance, but this is the nature of the competition and I would rather be sitting here than in the Crusaders changeroom today.
“These are not excuses we are making, but I accept the wins and I will take the wins over losing smartly,” he said.
Coetzee said that with Nizaam Carr ruled out with a fairly serious knee injury Canadian recruit Jebb Sinclair will start against the Waratahs, with Vodacom Cup loose forwards Nick Fenton-Wells and Don Armand in the running to make the step up to join the match-day squad.
He said: “I think that if you are a loose forward and you pick up a knee injury, then you prepare yourself for the worst. At this point in time he [Carr] has still got to go for scans, but I don’t think it will be a short-term thing.
“As you could see he [Sinclair] does play towards the ball as a No.8 which is a good sign, he is also a good ball-carrier so I think he will be the No.8 next week because we have got none.
“It is short notice so I think that we have to look at players like Nick Fenton-Wells and Don Armand for this weekend. Rohan Kitshoff is out with a shoulder injury in the Vodacom Cup game this weekend so we we will have to see.
“It is tough, we have got to make sure we field a strong side this coming weekend and cover all of the positions. We are playing against a top quality Waratahs side with a big pack and a side with a good set-piece so we have got some work to do,” he added.
By Michael de Vries, at Newlands
14 May 2012, 11:50 am
@Brigadier Van Zyl(Brigadier Van Zyl)-202:
Viva Man City Viva! Well deserved winners… may there be many more…
14 May 2012, 11:51 am
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-201: Agreed the Cheetahs play a good brand of rugby. Are they playing the Sharks this weekend at home in Bloem?
14 May 2012, 11:51 am
@nama1(nama1)-195: The difference with this format compared to a normal knock out is just that the highest ranked team always playes the lowest ranked team in the semi’s.
i.e. if 6 beats 3 then 1 will face 6 in the semi and not the winner of 4 vs 5. clear as mud!
14 May 2012, 11:51 am
@sharks_lover(sharks_lover)-204:
Maybe a two weeks rest will do him good. To return just in time for the Bulls…
Howzit mate. A good win for your boys this weekend.
14 May 2012, 11:52 am
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-209:
In Bloem mate…
14 May 2012, 11:54 am
@Sharksgirl(Sharksgirl)-206:
Oh! So he will be out the next week then!
It is going to be super tough at Bloem on Saturday. Not a game the Stormers will be looking forward to soon either.
14 May 2012, 11:54 am
Will the lions win a game again this season.
I cannot see it.
And they have the bulls last upaway who may or maynot be on a championship charge.
The lions might bow out of superrugby by taking 60 up the chuchter at loftus or bow out by keeping to form and being twats by beating the bulls for the 2nd win of the year.
Interesting
14 May 2012, 11:54 am
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-208: What a day. Best movie I have ever seen= Final Day of EPL Season 2011/2012.
Epic stuff!
14 May 2012, 11:54 am
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-203: no after the Cheetahs match the feeling was one of robbed. After the blues match I felt anally violated.
14 May 2012, 11:55 am
@ufo(ufo)-198: Hey bud
First half performance was poor. Gave away far to many pens. I was watching Sias in the warm up. Looked like he was striking the ball well. Always thought though that his first kick at goal was going to be the decider. Had he put it over then confidence would have come back. Unfortunately he hit the post. Then straight after that failed to find touch. Confidence was just shot.
Stormers dominated contact in first half and the breakdown. We got very little go forward ball. 2nd half was much better. Johnson introduction was key.
Look I know Sias was playing and kicking poorly but not going for goal when we were 16-0 down was stupid. Poor decision making. No disrespect to the Stormers but everyone knows they not going to blitz to quick tries. The have failed to score 4 try bonus points. Point being we always had a chance in 2nd half and should have kicked at goal at the end of 1st half. Going in at 16-3 could have made a huge difference.
14 May 2012, 11:55 am
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-212: Then Cheetahs can take the Sharkies.
14 May 2012, 11:57 am
Question…..how to recork a champagne bottle?
I have no idea but ask sir alex.
14 May 2012, 11:57 am
Maybe the Stormers should start asking why they have so many injuries,in the forward pack .Could it be poor conditioning??
I f you look at the condition the forwards coach Proudfoot is in this is not such a dumb question.
He looks like he swallowed Gio.
14 May 2012, 11:58 am
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-213: yep worries me lots this next game! If we manage it this Sat, I will relax just a little
14 May 2012, 11:59 am
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-215:
It was fantastic. I was so upset with them being 2-1 down so changed channels to watch the IPL cricket. When I returned I saw the score of 3-2. I thought it was a mistake. Epic for sure.
Yes the Cheetahs to win on Saturday for sure. They will soften the Sharkies for us…
14 May 2012, 12:01 pm
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-201: Thanks bud.
Yeah if we could have put in the same performance in 1st half it could have been different. Although if the Stormers replicated their 1st half performance in the 2nd half then it could have turned ugly.
Glad we made such a fight of it though. A few thought it would be a easy win for the Stormers. Hopefully we will do the Sharks in this weekend. Btw well done on there good win. They suddenly looking very good.
Now I hope the Stormers can kick on and win this thing bar game in Bloem. lol
14 May 2012, 12:01 pm
@Sharksgirl(Sharksgirl)-221:
It was my biggest nightmare last week. Never trust the Free State Boys. They are very good at upsetting the party. Then the big one the week after that. One I’m worried about as well. The Sharks at the tank not easy. Why is the stadium so empty for Super Rugby matches? It wasn’t good to see. I’m thinking of going up next week…
14 May 2012, 12:02 pm
@Cheetahs27(Cheetahs27)-217:
yeah… agree with you about the not taking that penalty… we all thought they’d show the patience and take it and continue building in the second half…
we said towards the end of the game… “had they taken those points, we’d lose this game…”
think you guys have a great chance of taking the sharks this weekend… not because i dislike the sharks… but teams who lose a close scrap often show more intensity the next week over teams that had runaway victories…
14 May 2012, 12:03 pm
@Cheetahs27(Cheetahs27)-223:
Yeah that last sentence sent my heart pumping mate. I fear that one too, more so than the Loftus trip. Don’t we play the Bulls the week after they play the Chiefs away?
14 May 2012, 12:03 pm
@RL(RL)-216: Really wanted Cheetahs to win but was not meant to be. I have not seen much complaints about the ref which I am happy about. If anything we were robbed by ourselves with that 1st half performance. We got 2 teams here that both need to put in 80 min performances…
14 May 2012, 12:05 pm
Stormers have beaten sharks 4 or 5 on the bounce, they,ll be wanting a piece of the stormers badly in a couple of weeks.
14 May 2012, 12:06 pm
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-224: if you supported the same team as HG, would you show your face on tv at the ground so everyone knows?
me neither
14 May 2012, 12:06 pm
@Brigadier Van Zyl(Brigadier Van Zyl)-219: hahahah funny!
14 May 2012, 12:07 pm
@ufo(ufo)-225: Well I hope so. We won’t be doing the Sharks any favours with regards to play offs by beating them.
Lack of patience is the problem with Cheetahs. Same as when you were down to 14 and we were 5m short. Should have kept it tight and not tried spreading it. We just got to learn from this and move on. Still plenty to play for…
14 May 2012, 12:07 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-229:
LOL
14 May 2012, 12:08 pm
Catch up later guys. Got to get some work done. lol
14 May 2012, 12:08 pm
@Brigadier Van Zyl(Brigadier Van Zyl)-228:
Most teams feel the same mate. Stormers been the top performing franchise for some time now. I guess you Bulls are feeling the same…
14 May 2012, 12:09 pm
@Cheetahs27(Cheetahs27)-233:
Cheers Buddy. Maybe will come up for return game in Bloem. Will let you know.
14 May 2012, 12:10 pm
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-226: Bulls will be there for the taking seeing that they return from a tough tour.
14 May 2012, 12:11 pm
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-235: you have some life traveling around the country going to rugby stadiums to watch games..
14 May 2012, 12:11 pm
@Cheetahs27(Cheetahs27)-227: robbed in the sense that I had placed a little wager on the Cheetahs. Oh well win some lose some.
14 May 2012, 12:12 pm
@RL(RL)-238: should have placed your money on the blues, they were specials…
14 May 2012, 12:14 pm
Strompies , got out of jail , ref should have penalised ” Die Rooikop Bok” when he put his hand on the ground , instead he said I will do it next time.
Bulls average score 34-23 < Strompies average score 23-16, so if both play play average the score at Loftus could be
Bulls 34 Strompies 23 or Strompies 23-16 Bulls.
I will go for first option , cause suddenly the mean pack were not so mean against Cheetsters
14 May 2012, 12:15 pm
@Cheetahs27(Cheetahs27)-231:
i will be backing the cheetahs for this one for sure… no one expects favours… if sharks are gonna win the title they have to beat everyone from here on out to do that…
(as do the bulls and stormers… to be sure of their places)
yeah, patience is the key… stormers were making those mistakes last year and the before that… and just losing these squeakers…
as i said earlier… there seems to be a bloody-mindedness about this stormers team that is really refreshing from a supporters perspective…
speaking of which… i have huge respect for you and how you handle yourself on this site… absolute passion for your team but unswerving dignity whether they win or lose…
impresses the heck out of me…
lot’s of us here could use you as an example of what good sportsmanship is all about…
14 May 2012, 12:15 pm
To be honest I feel a little cheated (no pun intended). I paid for my family of 4 to go to Newlands and watch that ****. Injuries are one thing but the reality is the backs are the 1st choice starters. They have 5 Boks in the back line who are totally devoid of any plan to get points on the board. This despite having numerous opportunities in the 1st half. Then the 1st time they get into a position to score in the 2nd half panic sets in and they throw a gift intercept pass. We cannot win this tournament based on this performance.
14 May 2012, 12:15 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-237: hey poops, long time no smell. Welcome back and congratulations on your teams fine victory over my Leeusers.
14 May 2012, 12:15 pm
@Cheetahs27(Cheetahs27)-233:
cheers bud…
14 May 2012, 12:18 pm
@RL(RL)-243: Thanks bud, was a cripple fight for sure, think your boys put too much into the week before against the Chiefs..
14 May 2012, 12:20 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-236: not so fast
14 May 2012, 12:21 pm
@Horings(Horings)-205: Yes, probably the best case scenario from a SA perspective for this year.
On the other hand, as long as Stormers go through to the final, I don’t really care where the Bulls end up.
@Beertjie(Beertjie)-210:
True that.
However, I was just trying to show that it was indeed possible for two SA teams to meet in the final. The route may differ from the one that I indicated.
@Brigadier Van Zyl(Brigadier Van Zyl)-214:
The Lions don’t care about Super rugby anymore. They are preparing for the CC. Watch them introduce new, young players during the rest of the season in preparation for the CC.
14 May 2012, 12:24 pm
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-224: A number of reasons Bill, the most damning is that in Durban the atmo is just tooooo laid back and people just prefer watching at home round a braai with friends, and I have watched people doing this within walking distance of the stadium! and its true with just about everything in Durbs, why we do not get any big concert coming to Durban – they cannot ever sell out any concert/show no matter who the artists are! Then a lot of the faithfull fans that are normally at the stadium come what may, and many travel from quite far, have just had enough of this team loaded with talent just not delivering so are trying to get point accross by staying away.
14 May 2012, 12:27 pm
Sharksgirl,stopping wasting your time.
These people do not understand the dynamic.
14 May 2012, 12:27 pm
Just on an earlier post from some one. How will it be be possible for two SA sides to play in the final. Let me have a crack. let say the top six ends as follows.
1.Bulls
2.Chiefs
3.Stormers
4.Brumbies
5.Crusaders
6. Sharks
Bulls and Chiefs get their respective home semis automatically
So it will be Stormers vs Sharks in Capetown and Brumbies vs Crusaders in Canberra.
Because i am a Sharks fan, for arguments sake the Sharks win and the Crusaders win, due to final log places. It should then be.
Bulls vs Sharks in Pretoria and
Chiefs vs Crusaders in Waikato
No SA final there as the log currently stands.
Lets try one more situation.
Top 6.
1. Chiefs
2. Bulls
3. Stormers
4. Brumbies
5. Sharks
6. Crusaders.
Chiefs and Bull automaticly qualify for home semis.
Then you have Stormers vs Crusaders in CPT
Brumbies vs Sharks in Canberra
Stormers win and Sharks win
Now you have Chiefs vs Sharks in Waikato and Bulls vs Stormers in Pretoria
If the sharks win their semi, it does not really matter who wins in the other, we will see an All SA final.
There you go.
But i there are so many other ways this log can still change as its going to be pretty close in the end.
14 May 2012, 12:29 pm
@ Brigadier maybe opening the champaigne bottle 19 times has made Fergie a little bored?? Congrats to City but funny how the guys blabbering about it are Liverpool(no championd league again) chelsea( have to win against Bayern to qualify) and Arsenal supporters…
14 May 2012, 12:31 pm
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-234: Nah…we’ve won this thing a couple of times… Not envying the Stripes one wee bit…
14 May 2012, 12:32 pm
Just on an earlier post from some one. How will it be be possible for two SA sides to play in the final. Let me have a crack. let say the top six ends as follows.
1.Bulls
2.Chiefs
3.Stormers
4.Brumbies
5.Crusaders
6. Sharks
Bulls and Chiefs get their respective home semis automatically
So it will be Stormers vs Sharks in Capetown and Brumbies vs Crusaders in Canberra.
Because i am a Sharks fan, for arguments sake the Sharks win and the Crusaders win, due to final log places. It should then be.
Bulls vs Sharks in Pretoria and
Chiefs vs Crusaders in Waikato
No SA final there as the log currently stands.
Lets try one more situation.
Top 6.
1. Chiefs
2. Bulls
3. Stormers
4. Brumbies
5. Sharks
6. Crusaders.
Chiefs and Bull automaticly qualify for home semis.
Then you have Stormers vs Crusaders in CPT
Brumbies vs Sharks in Canberra
Stormers win and Sharks win
Now you have Chiefs vs Sharks in Waikato and
Bulls vs Stormers in Pretoria
If the sharks wins their semi, it does not really matter who wins in the other, we will see an All SA final. There you go.
But there are so many other ways this log can still change as its going to be pretty close in the end.
14 May 2012, 12:34 pm
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-253:
you can’t have two teams from one country in the top three…
14 May 2012, 12:34 pm
to paraphrase the great Didier Drogba, Marius Jonker is a “fu(cking disgrace”!!
1 On-field Referee Referral to Citing Commissioner
Instances where a referee thinks an act of foul play has occurred but is not sure if a red card is warranted, or is unsure of the identity of a player
Where a player makes a complaint to a referee who did not see an incident
Can be in addition to a yellow card or penalty
Referred to the Citing Commissioner for review
14 May 2012, 12:36 pm
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-250: Stormers cannot finish 3rd
14 May 2012, 12:37 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-255: lol didier!
14 May 2012, 12:37 pm
@Blue Label(Blue Label)-256: If the Bulls are 2nd or 1st, as per your scenarios
14 May 2012, 12:38 pm
@Sharksgirl(Sharksgirl)-248:
Thanks SG! I just googled tickets now. Only R96.00 per person. I bought two tickets for Bulls Stormers and that was R150.00 per person. Might bring the ol girl down and watch the Stormers Sharks game…
14 May 2012, 12:39 pm
@Blue Label(Blue Label)-252:
I’m in Pta mate. Don’t I hear all about the Super Titles.
14 May 2012, 12:41 pm
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-250:
Don’t think the Stormers can end up in 3rd position if the Bulls to the log. That would be the Brumbies as Aus conference winners.
14 May 2012, 12:41 pm
@ufo(ufo)-254: ok my bad, thought so, but was not sure. Yes that might make it kind of hard then to have an all sa final
14 May 2012, 12:41 pm
@CharlesM(CharlesM)-158: Hi Charles.
Yes, I was just speculating with Bill on the 8th man dillema and he suggested Etsebeth at 8.
I’m usually reluctant to break up a good partnership, as Eben and Andries are becoming, so I’d be reluctant to do that. Steenkamp is ok, but not great, I think i’d be looking for a youngster like Roux to come through in the next year,
My concerns are more at Hooker, as Deon is a terrible lineout thrower and costs us 1st phase possession whenever he plays. Ntubeni isn’t much better either. UFO mentioned that Tobias shows promise, but I’d be looking to bolster the hooker stocks personally.
14 May 2012, 12:44 pm
@Sharksgirl(Sharksgirl)-248:
Unfortunately true. Also the food and drink at Kings Park is kaaak and expensive.
I will be at next weekend’s game though. Anyone wanting to bliksem me must come. Stormer in a teacup?
14 May 2012, 12:45 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-263:
I hear Paul O’ Connel’s team has a bye this weekend. Not too late to get him. He can fill in at lock for the Stormers after Etsebeth moves to 8.
14 May 2012, 12:47 pm
@Great White Shark(Predawn)-264:
The Stormers game? I might fly up for the game. You say I should bring my own grub then.
14 May 2012, 12:48 pm
1. chiefs
2. Bulls
3. Brumbies
4. Stormers
5. Sharks
6. Crusaders
Chiefs and Bulls, home semis
Brumbies vs Saders
Stormers vs Sharks
Sharks and Saders win
semis:
Chiefs vs Saders
Bulls vs Sharks
no all SA final there.
one more time.
1. Chiefs
2. Bulls
3. Brumbies
4. Stormers
5. Crusaders
6. Sharks
Chiefs and Bulls home semis
Brumbies vs Sharks
Stormers vs Crusaders
Sharks and Stormers win
Chiefs vs Sharks
Bulls vs Stormers
Sharks win and whoever in the other.
you have an All SA final.
is that ok?
14 May 2012, 12:48 pm
to have an all SA final
if one SA team finishes top spot (1st)
then other SA team needs to finish 4th or 5th and win their quarter against 4th or 5th, and would also need 6th place to beat 3rd… therefore 4/5th team would play team 2nd on the log in semi while team top of log would then play 6…
if SA team finished 2nd on log
then SA other team would need to finish 6th and win their quarter against 3rd, thus facing team top of log in semi.
if SA team finished 3rd on the log, other SA team needs to be in 4th/5th and to win their quarter, while SA team 3rd would also need to win their quarter against 6th, then they would play the other two conf. winners in semis..
14 May 2012, 12:49 pm
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-266:
Bring KFC and I’m your mate for life
14 May 2012, 12:49 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-263:
yeah SB… from watching on TV he looks okay… but have to say that watching him live on saturday he looked on the small side… like deon… think he will find it difficult in super rugby… sorry to say…
so would agree with you about looking for some cover at hooker…
14 May 2012, 12:50 pm
@Great White Shark(Predawn)-264: Yes forgot about the food, I normally do not eat at Stadium have samies outside before we go in and have a braai on outerfields after game
Will also be going next week, soooo looking forward to it! Just hope my son’s school cooperates and its not a compulsory attendance, so after my son’s game we can leave for the Stadium 
14 May 2012, 12:51 pm
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-265: We’re covered for locks (at the moment) but thanks for the advice.
14 May 2012, 12:51 pm
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-267: SA wont have three teams in the finals, that will be NZ…
14 May 2012, 12:52 pm
@Sharksgirl(Sharksgirl)-271:
Yeah the after game festivities are second to none. Think I’ll bring my 8 and 2 year old daughters this time..will be their first rugby game.
14 May 2012, 12:52 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-273: why you say that
14 May 2012, 12:53 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-272:
Otherwise Sergio Parisse could fly in for a few games at no.8 and fly out again before the SANZAR officials notice.
14 May 2012, 12:54 pm
@ufo(ufo)-270: I was told that Deon may end up playing at 6 for the Stormers.
Worked for Kuun at the Bulls so who knows?
14 May 2012, 12:54 pm
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-267:
yip… could work…
14 May 2012, 12:54 pm
I don’t pay for tickets,booze or food at Kings Park.
My people have elevated me.
14 May 2012, 12:55 pm
@Fern is not a stud,he is merely no19(Fern)-279:
Haibo! Box seats?
14 May 2012, 12:55 pm
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-275: because Bulls will lose their next two games, and Sharks will lose three (stormers again, Bulls and cheaters).. Bulls and Stormers to go through.. just an opinion… mind you, I am probably dead last on bru so take it from where it comes..
14 May 2012, 12:55 pm
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-276: Now him we’d take.
He can bring his lovely wife along too. I’m sure she’d love to settle in Cape Town.
14 May 2012, 12:56 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-277:
i don’t like that idea as a long-term plan… okay for filling in during a game etc…
but would rathe bring in fenton-wells or armand if that’s the case…
did you see that kitshoff is now injured too…?
14 May 2012, 12:57 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-281: Quite bold of you to say the Sharks will lose against Stormers, Bulls and Cheetahs. They will be tough games but, i do not think we will necessarily lose to all three.
14 May 2012, 12:59 pm
@Great White Shark(Predawn)-264: What makes you think I want to bliksem you?
14 May 2012, 13:00 pm
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-284 like I said, just an opinion…
14 May 2012, 13:02 pm
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-284:
The Sharks are like the French national team…unpredictable. In some ways that could work in our favour but it doesn’t do much for my blood pressure.
14 May 2012, 13:02 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-273: Which three?
14 May 2012, 13:03 pm
@sharks_lover(sharks_lover)-204: @Sharksgirl(Sharksgirl)-206: Thanks you two.
14 May 2012, 13:04 pm
@stormer in a teacup(stormer in a teacup)-288: Saders/Chiefs/Canes…
Chiefs should top the conference, Saders will bounce back and Canes forwards are starting to compete with the other teams.. landers will fall away…
14 May 2012, 13:06 pm
@ufo(ufo)-283: Oh dear.
Pity, do you know the extent/prognosis?
14 May 2012, 13:06 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-290: comp is designed for the local derbies to decide the final makeup.. though Reds are starting to come right, so maybe two teams per conference..
14 May 2012, 13:09 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-291:
no i don’t…
but talking about rohan not steven…
just in the interview with R365 i posted on the previous page AC said he is injured…
14 May 2012, 13:10 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-291:
he left the field early and we were all amazed he had been subbed… but he literally just strolled off so didn’t look injured at all…
14 May 2012, 13:10 pm
@ufo(ufo)-293: Oh Ok Rohan.
Jeez you almost gave me a heart attack there.
Although AC must look very closely at his rotation soon.
14 May 2012, 13:13 pm
@Great White Shark(Predawn)-287: Certainly …but i was longing for a performance like saterday, where they just completely smashed the opposition. I know it was the Force, but if you look at it, the Cheetahs only just managed a win against them and then the Stormers just managed a win against the Cheetahs. Taking that in to consideration the Force is not really all that bad, definitely not a Lions or Blues side. So i feel the Sharks actually did really well!
14 May 2012, 13:16 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-295:
i realized your chest may have tightened up unexpectedly on that…!!
yeah… we gotta look after this kid… most front rows mature late… not sure what long-term effects this will have on the young guy’s body…
14 May 2012, 13:20 pm
The Sharks have the personnel to compete against all remaining South African opposition. What potentially stands in their way is the belief that they can go the distance.
The Cheetahs are The Sharks bogey side but here’s hoping for a sublime performance and to ignore the jitters.
The Stormers will be a heck of a battle and I’m looking forward to seeing the forwards go to war.
The Bulls and The Sharks will be a thriller and I expect that the more composed team will just win. The Sharks ‘should’ outscore the Bulls but the penalty count will decide the match.
14 May 2012, 13:24 pm
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-296:
Agree
I thought the win was almost to comfortable for the quality off oposition.
Although two tries was from a turnover far out and would should never have been given.
Never looked like loosing, and importantly was that bonus point win. Our 4th of the season if i’m not mistaken.
14 May 2012, 13:28 pm
@Mr Black(Mr Black)-299: agreed, couldnt understand the “advantage” call to the force from lawrence that led to Mvovos first try? even Pocock questioned it..
Sharks did play well, but force conversely didnt put out a good performance imo..
14 May 2012, 13:29 pm
Interesting facts
Games won per country.
NZ – 31
SA – 28
Aus – 20
14 May 2012, 13:33 pm
@nama1(nama1)-247:
I guess Andre’ Watson’s already busy planning the next refereeing swindle to make that happened!
Not kidding
14 May 2012, 13:34 pm
Log points per country
SA – 168
NZ – 167
Aus – 139
14 May 2012, 13:35 pm
OK, maybe youv’e heard this one before but I couldn’t resist.
How do you make the biggest engine ever?
Have the Bulls score at Loftus – You’ll have at least 35000 tappets jumpig up and down……….
14 May 2012, 13:39 pm
To really put the Sharks win in perspective ,look at the Stormers win against the Force,one intercept try which Habbanna spilt over the line. They squeaked in with Kaplan reffing and all the rest penalties.
Stormers then have a week off and play the Cheetahs,who just scrapped home against the Force,Stormers win with2 points.
Sharks literally smash the force score 7 tries,maybe one was suspect,but Mvovu still had so much to do to get there.
Still you have AHoles here have te termerity to insinuate that the Stormers victory was magnificent and the Sharks win was lucky.
Going to be a few wake up calls in the next few weeks.
Remember Sharks win was without Alberts,who has now had a good rest,
Somebody is going to feel the benefits of his rejuvenation in the next few weeks
14 May 2012, 13:40 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-300:
Luckely it didn’t influence the outcome of the match. To many dodgy calls around imo.
@TooMuchRugby(TooMuchRugby)-304:
14 May 2012, 13:42 pm
@Mr Black(Mr Black)-306: yeah I agree, Sharks were always going to win that game.. think the game as a whole is just too fast for the refs these days…
14 May 2012, 13:44 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-305:
Who said the sharks win was lucky? Point me to that post so that i can join you in revolt.
Otherwise STFU!!!
14 May 2012, 13:45 pm
@Mr Black(Mr Black)-303: some more stats
NZL teams vs SAF teams 11 -7 (10 games in SA)
NZL vs AUS 8 – 5
SAF vs AUS 11 – 3
14 May 2012, 13:46 pm
Saw PdV a couple of weeks ago at a club game in Paarl. Word is he might be taking up a role at a University next year. Whether director or coaching, there’s definitely some smoke there!
14 May 2012, 13:46 pm
WP chokers
14 May 2012, 13:49 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-309:
Not too shabby.
14 May 2012, 13:50 pm
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-296: Unfortunately those arguments do not hold in rugby. For example the Bulls lost against the Blues and the Blues lost against everyone except the Bulls and Lions, while the Bulls won against everyone except the Blues and Stormers.
14 May 2012, 13:50 pm
@Great White Shark(Predawn)-312: your teams are smashing the Aussie teams… we seem to be struggling somewhat against them , but then the rebels have beaten 3 NZ teams
14 May 2012, 13:50 pm
@Great White Shark(Predawn)-274: The absolute best! My kids have come since toddlers and they simply love it!
14 May 2012, 13:52 pm
What the Stormers need now is some experience to guide the youngsters through this testing time.
I would employ a 5-2 bench split for the next 3 games with Deon Carstens providing experience on the bench,
16. Deon Fourie
17. Malherbe
18. Deon Carstens
19. De Kock Steenkamp
20. Don Armand
21. Louis Schreuder
22. Gerhard van Den Heever
Dewaldt can cover 10 in an emergency.
14 May 2012, 13:52 pm
What is more than a little annoying (and this is how the Bulls must have felt for most of the season) is how we are position 1 (Bulls) and 2 (Stormers) on the log and yet due to the whole conference system we are in fact 1 & 4.
#sucksbigtime.
14 May 2012, 13:52 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-309:
Anyway you look at these stats its clear that the Aussies is struggling a bit this year.
14 May 2012, 13:52 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-305: Perspective? You are using words you don’t understand. The Stormers played the Force away, Ina monsoon, at the end of their tour, with a swathe of injuries. They did not squeak in – they won by two converted tries. The Sharks played them at home in ideal conditions. By yourself a dictionary .
14 May 2012, 13:53 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-314:
Rebels have seriously impressed this season. From what I can make out there seems to be a very positive vibe in the team.
14 May 2012, 13:55 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-317: chiefs on same points as Stormers but better points diff.. (chiefs +77, Storms +68)
agree though, brumbies are 6 points behind the Stormers/Chiefs..
14 May 2012, 13:56 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-317: Yes, that sucks big time.
But those are them apples!!
14 May 2012, 13:56 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-305:
could you show us those temeritous posts…?
but you’re right… put it like that… sharks should go all the way… stormers should be ashamed of themselves for having the temerity to compete…
14 May 2012, 13:56 pm
I’m so confused.
14 May 2012, 13:57 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-321:
number of wins counts before points diff these days…
crazy…
but true…
14 May 2012, 13:57 pm
Rugby 365′s team of the week:
Team of the Week – Round 12:
15 – Luke Morahan (Reds):
A lot has been said about Morahan having the ‘x-factor’ and he is certainly beginning to display those skills.
Bubbling under: Julian Huxley (Rebels)
14 – Mark Gerrard (Rebels):
The old war-horse turned on the charm again at the weekend, especially those classy out-of-hand kicks.
Bubbling under: Cory Jane (Hurricanes)
13 – Conrad Smith (Hurricanes):
He again showed why he is regarded as New Zealand’s premier outside centre.
Bubbling under: Robbie Fruean (Crusaders)
12 – Sonny Bill Williams (Chiefs):
Slightly more subdued that in his debut Super Rugby season in 2011, but certainly a lot more effective. He has learnt a lot about the little nuances of the game and is not off-loading everything anymore.
Bubbling under: Jean de Villiers (Stormers)
11 – Julian Savea (Hurricanes):
This powerfully built speedster is proving to be equally as devastating at senior level as he was as a junior.
Bubbling under: Lwazi Mvovo (Sharks)
10 – Kurtley Beale (Rebels):
He may have featured most often at fullback for the Wallabies, but he showed that he is equally at home as a flyhalf. Step aside Quade Cooper!
Bubbling under: Ben Lucas (Reds)
9 – Will Genia (Reds):
The old Genia magic is back!
Bubbling under: TJ Perenara (Hurricanes)
8 – Scott Higginbotham (Reds):
He has become the Reds’ enforcer … the physical edge they lacked earlier in the season.
Bubbling under: Gareth Delve (Rebels)
7 – Liam Gill (Reds):
The tournament’s premier poacher.
Bubbling under: CJ Stander (Bulls)
6 – Luke Braid (Blues):
Along with his brother, Daniel, they made a mockery of the toothless Lions.
Bubbling under: Nick Crosswell (Highlanders)
5 – Juandre Kruger (Bulls):
Andries Bekker may have started the season as the country’s premier No.5, but he is already looking over his shoulder at a charging Bull.
Bubbling under: Hugh Pyle (Rebels)
4 – Rob Simmons (Reds):
On this form he will be hard to keep out of the Wallaby squad.
Bubbling under: Steven Sykes (Sharks)
3 – Werner Kruger (Bulls):
It is not just his match-winning try, it was his overall workrate that won him the vote.
Bubbling under: Ben May (Hurricanes)
2 – Bismarck du Plessis (Sharks):
He is making sure his claims to a Springbok starting spot can’t be ignored.
Bubbling under :Andrew Hore (Highlanders)
1 – Tendai Mtawarira (Sharks):
The Beeaaast is back!
Bubbling under: Arizona Taumalolo (Chiefs)
14 May 2012, 13:58 pm
@Mr Black(Mr Black)-318: yep, just shows how shallow their playing pool is, but will always be that way with AFL and League the priorities for young players..
@Great White Shark(Predawn)-320: yep, rebels have been improving every week it seems .. think they may lose one or two players at the end of the year though… people like Delve (who has been great for them)..
14 May 2012, 13:59 pm
@ufo(ufo)-325: both have same number of wins, Stormers have had the extra bye…
14 May 2012, 14:03 pm
@ufo(ufo)-325: yes thats crazy.
14 May 2012, 14:07 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-316: Carstens has not featured this season. I don’t think we need any extra experience in the front row. This is s time to back the youngsters to trust the leaders.
14 May 2012, 14:09 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-328:
so chiefs have had an extra game…
guess you’ll be rooting for the Tahs this weekend…
14 May 2012, 14:10 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-326:
4 Sharks out of 30 chosen
O well, i’m biased towards my team anyway.
Thought Keegan was sublime.
14 May 2012, 14:12 pm
@stormer in a teacup(stormer in a teacup)-330: He turned with the Stormers but didnt get any gametime. He is match fit now after playing in the Vodacom cup. He will provide experinence to the squad as a whole not just the front row.
14 May 2012, 14:13 pm
does anyone have any idea when heyneke is going to name his squad…?
14 May 2012, 14:14 pm
@Great White Shark(Predawn)-320: Rebels are probably the next Aussie team to win this thing. They are well funded and run by business minded people with good management skills. They have bought marquee players who would not have gone there unless they have the ambition and the means to achieve. Expect their squad to improve in quality and depth in the near future. They make the Lions and Kings franchises look like the amateur outfits they are
14 May 2012, 14:14 pm
@ufo(ufo)-331: actually, will back the cheetahs again like I did last week
Tahs I dont think will beat the Stormers at Newlands, but I am so far down the bru log its a case of having to back the under dog..
think the international series could actually hurt a few of the top teams if plaeyrs are injured during the tours.. (which are great to have back by the way, first decent decision in a long time)
14 May 2012, 14:14 pm
@Mr Black(Mr Black)-332:
you’re doing well…
only one stormer…
14 May 2012, 14:15 pm
@ufo(ufo)-331: Stormers can overtake the Chiefs this weekend if they get a bonus point or if they win by 9 or more points. Although they wont really overtake the Chiefs because the Chiefs are NZ conference leaders.
14 May 2012, 14:16 pm
@Mr Black(Mr Black)-299: Yeah, but not just bonus points for scoring tries. The fact that we have 8 bonus point from 11 games says allot, The Sharks have accumulated the most of all the teams so far. Even if half or most of them were for losing. There has only been one game where the Sharks were completely out played and did not get a losing bonus point, that was against the Hurricanes, where we lost 40 something. All the other games were lost by 7 or less. Actually indicates that the Sharks have not been that bad at all and deserves to be in the top 6 at this stage. They just need to keep winning from here on in.
14 May 2012, 14:16 pm
@ufo(ufo)-334: Saturday 2nd June 2012 21h15
14 May 2012, 14:17 pm
@Mr Black(Mr Black)-332: There were some very good performances by some Sharks players this weekend.
The ones that caught my eye were Lambie, Mvovo, Beast, and Jordaan
14 May 2012, 14:17 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-336:
yeah… i would’ve backed the cheetahs too if they were playing someone else… and will this weekend too…
yeah… agree with you… tours are great for rugby… could’ve been another midweek game but on the right track…
hopefully there are no serious injuries…
i want the stormers to beat the best…
14 May 2012, 14:18 pm
@greatest13gerber(greatest13gerber)-311: Feeling bored Oom?
14 May 2012, 14:18 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-341: Mvovo is over rated imo… has pace but not much else.. Beast is another loosie, but his scrumming still suspect..
14 May 2012, 14:19 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-340:
wow..!!
thanks…
exciting times…
14 May 2012, 14:20 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-340:
Straight after the Bulls Stormers game. I have my tickets for Loftus already…
14 May 2012, 14:20 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-338: No, we are already ahead of the chiefs due to more games won.
But actually in 4th due to the conference system.
14 May 2012, 14:20 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-321: stormers would be ahead of them as the first criterion is games won.
14 May 2012, 14:21 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-338:
although that’s possible… it’s hardly probable…
getting the bonus point that is…
of course the chiefs could just lose too…!!
14 May 2012, 14:21 pm
@ufo(ufo)-342: I think the Vrystaat have really improved, and have managed to hold on to a lot of their players, think they are on an upward curve which should continue next year as well.. they are only two wins out of the six, and still 6 rounds of the comp left.. who knows
just hope your Stormpies dont meet the Saders, they seem to have a block against them recently
14 May 2012, 14:21 pm
@ufo(ufo)-337:
So can i then say that the Sharks was 4 times better than the Stormers this past weekend?
14 May 2012, 14:22 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-347: at the moment they have both won 9 games????
14 May 2012, 14:24 pm
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-339:
I’ve said from the start that the Sharks are the big threat in our conference.
Especially given all the home games they have left.
The Bulls can lose 2 games and still stay above the Sharks – since I’m sure we’ll pick up one or two bonuspoints even in lost games.
But the Stormers are in a slightly worse position, with only a 9 point gap and a crappy points difference.
If the Stormers lose 2 and the Sharks win everything, the Stormers may well be pushed to 3rd spot in the SA conference. Especially if they continue missing out on 4 try bonuspoints – and no sign that that is changing.
14 May 2012, 14:26 pm
@stormer in a teacup(stormer in a teacup)-335:
I see the Brumbies and Rebels as the next best thing in 2013. Both camps have a positive team vibe and the effect is obvious. Management wise the Brumbies are obviously on to a good thing.
That’s the White winning ways mentality. There is another good thing that South Africa has lost to the advantage of foreigners.
14 May 2012, 14:26 pm
And if the Blues can manage a huge upset against the Saders this weekend and the sharks manages a bonus point win they can move into 5th with still a bye to come, they will actually be really close to the Stormers and just behind the the Bulls (also still has another bye i think) But from here on in the Sharks still have a realistic chance off finishing top or second at least. Taking in to consideration they still need to play both the Bulls and Stormers, taking victories there will really have them hunting down top spot. What a comeback that would be after a shaky season thus far.
14 May 2012, 14:27 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-350:
hehehe…
i hope we do meet the Crusaders…
i believe we can beat them… especially with both teams having all their best players available…
14 May 2012, 14:28 pm
@Mr Black(Mr Black)-351:
according to rugby365…
indeed you may…
14 May 2012, 14:29 pm
Whats that sound…?
14 May 2012, 14:30 pm
BOOM!!!
14 May 2012, 14:30 pm
@ufo(ufo)-356: yep, injuries hurt you when you played them in NZ, but I still think they have your measure… just..not too many of the Saders players are in good form imo..
14 May 2012, 14:30 pm
…Dynamite!
14 May 2012, 14:31 pm
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-353:
Why are you so concerned about the Stormers? Worry about the Bulls mate. I worry about my team and what happens happens. Are they such a threat to your precious Bulls? I agree with you though. I think the Sharks could well beat both the Stormers and the Bulls. I also think the Bulls could just lose both their games in NZ. But thinking isn’t what counts now does it…
14 May 2012, 14:31 pm
Black and White farken Dynamite…
14 May 2012, 14:32 pm
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-267:
See 195
14 May 2012, 14:38 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-360:
yeah…
jokes aside… they are an unbelievably consistently good team… but win or lose would like to meet them again… otherwise we’d always have ‘lucky we didn’t meet them’ tag…
good to see richie back and at his best…
but i fear for dan if his groin doesn’t come right… i don’t think he’s the biz at 12… (maybe because of his groin)… and think they should rather rest him and let him get fully fit…
i think tom taylor has been excellent…
14 May 2012, 14:39 pm
What’s that sound? POP………..POP…………..Sharkies going pop against the Cheetahs
14 May 2012, 14:42 pm
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-362:
Problem with the Sharks is they will somehow manage lo lose against the Lions, thats how their season has been.
Frustrating stuff.
14 May 2012, 14:42 pm
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-362:
Big game for the Bulls this weekend.
Just like the last one, and the one before that.
Competition is so tight.
14 May 2012, 14:42 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-360: Crusaders could learn a trick from Hurricanes
JUSTIN MARSHALL Last updated 05:00 14/05/2012
OPINION: Just before the Highlanders-Hurricanes match, I was bailed up by a passionate female Crusaders fan who told me I was being too harsh on my former team.
It’s sadly been a regular theme for me concerning them this season.
Maybe I’ve been leaning reasonably hard on the Crusaders so far this season.
This fan – and a few others – were letting me know that they were aware of it, and that my comments weren’t helping the team.
I know where those fans are coming from. And maybe I’m a hard marker as let’s face it I do care about how they go and don’t want to come across as biased. But I just told the lady the truth – that I have been stating the obvious.
The Crusaders were fumbling their way through the round robin stages, albeit still winning. Even their most loyal fans must admit they’re not their usual rhythmic selves. Why? They’ve lost their patience. They’re panicking and making far too many errors through lack of composure.
And I was saying all of that before the match against the Rebels. It was always going to come unstuck sooner rather than later – and it did in Melbourne.
I don’t take any pleasure in pointing that out. In fact, it pains me. I’m a Cantabrian. I want the team to win just as much as the lady who fronted me in Dunedin.
And the blokes running the squad are my mates. I socialise and play squash often with Darryl Gibson and Todd Blackadder and consider them good mates.
But I’ll tell you one thing – they know just as well as I do that it’s not happening right now. I firmly believe that’s why they tried to change things up by tinkering with the starting lineup and leaving the likes of Kieran Read, Andy Ellis and Israel Dagg on the bench.
It wasn’t arrogance as some people have suggested. Those guys have had a big workload. So the coaches would have been looking to revitalise a few things with their starting XV.
Unfortunately, Read and Ellis have become such vital cogs in the Crusaders machine that without them the team simply lacked composure. The good news for my lady friend and the Crusaders is that their problems are solvable.
Patience is the key. They’re in too much of a hurry to do things. They want to score within six or seven phases, instead of the Crusaders of old who, if necessary, would go 15 to 20 phases in the opposition red zone.
They’re pushing too early, trying to get there too quickly. It’s not a skill problem, it’s an execution one. Take your time and work together with equilibrium.
Ironically, the Rebels did a “Crusaders” on the Crusaders. They won the war of inches, and therefore the war of attrition. They were patient and broke down their opposition.
This year’s Crusaders model is trying to get ahead of itself. They need to rediscover their work ethic and patience.
It’s a lesson Mark Hammett is driving home at the Hurricanes where he appears to be finding fertile ears within his young squad.
Respect for the ball and doing the little things right are important for the Canes because they typically end up on the wrong end of key statistics.
It was the same against the Highlanders in a cracking game.
THE CANES lost every key stat – possession, territory, minutes with the ball, breakdowns won. But they used what ball they had with maturity. So they were always giving themselves a chance to win the war of attrition this match was always going to deliver.
And then, bang. Julian Savea busts open the match – just like the Canes of old.
Just like I felt this match would be an arm wrestle, I also suspected it would be decided by a burst of individual brilliance. The Canes had more of those individuals. They are a dangerous team, nicely building.
This was the match the Highlanders had to win to keep their season on track.
The TMO didn’t help them with a controversial decision and then a blatant foot in touch minutes later when the Canes scored.
Had the Highlanders won, they had every chance of kicking on from here. Now I fear it is a bridge too far. Sadly, Jamie Joseph’s side is now in danger of missing the top six playoffs.
14 May 2012, 14:45 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-347: We have won the same amount of games as the Chiefs unless you are counting the byes also as games won.
14 May 2012, 14:52 pm
Latest news
Please can someone tell me about a No 8 that maybe we can approach and use. I am all ears,” was Coetzee’s challenge to the assembled journalists after his team’s 16-14 Newlands win over the Cheetahs.
Some of us did offer names. Now that they have had their northern season ended, Saracens names naturally figured high on the list shouted out. Former Stormers players like Schalk Brits and France based Joe van Niekerk naturally featured, and so did former Lions No 8 Ernst Joubert. That is short term.
On a more longer term basis, looking ahead to July, Coetzee looks set to take the advice to get Pieter Louw back involved again. Louw lost his contract at the end of last year after injury prevented him from building on the momentum picked up in the early part of the 2011 campaign (he was part of the Stormers team that beat the Bulls at Loftus last March).
“I have spoken to Pieter and he is eager to play again and he was planning to return for us in the Currie Cup. He explained to me that he is busy setting himself up in business and that is why we couldn’t draw on him earlier, and he would obviously need to go on a big conditioning programme before he could play again. So he wouldn’t be an option for the next few weeks.
“But given the problems we are having at loose-forward, I think I will approach him and ask him if he is prepared to maybe be available for us during July, when we play three league matches after the June tour window. The thing about Pieter is that he has experience of playing all three positions in the back row.”
14 May 2012, 14:54 pm
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-353: Every possible permutation lies before us
14 May 2012, 14:55 pm
@Jonck(Jonck)-371: Good news. P Louw is good. Did he decide to stop playing or did WP not offer him a new contract seeing that he wanted to set up a business venture.
14 May 2012, 14:56 pm
Stormers love a scrap. Bring it on!
14 May 2012, 14:59 pm
@Jonck(Jonck)-371:
good news… and thanks for posting it…
great to get some clarity on questions many of us have asked…
thank you…
14 May 2012, 15:06 pm
@poppa69(poppa69)-352: haven’t the Chiefs lost twice already?
The Stormers only once?
14 May 2012, 15:08 pm
Higginbottom to Rebels?
14 May 2012, 15:12 pm
rebels gonna be THE aussie team… the cool aussie team…
guess they’d be the Stormers of Australia…!!
kudos to willievz for picking them over the crusaders…
14 May 2012, 15:15 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-376: Yes but the Chiefs played 11 and Stormers played 10.
14 May 2012, 15:16 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-377: for real?
14 May 2012, 15:19 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-379: Ok got it.
14 May 2012, 15:21 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-373: I don’t think the business venture played any part in the decision. At the end of last year it was said that his contract was not renewed – end of story. I think it (the loss of a contract) made him go into business. Unfortunately Pieter had a few nasty injuries and could not produce enough “good games” to ensure a renewal of his contract. It would be great if he can return though
14 May 2012, 15:22 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-381: sharp. Chiefs guaranteed 4 points this weekend.
14 May 2012, 15:23 pm
@CharlesM(CharlesM)-382: i see. thanks. Yes underrated player.
14 May 2012, 15:25 pm
353 actually the Sharks are only 5 points behind the Stormers whose points reflect 2 rest days as opposed to the Sharks1.
So One more bonus point win for the Sharks and a loss for the Stormers and we could be into ”Watch us next year ”again time for the perennial trophy bereft,
14 May 2012, 15:26 pm
This is turning out to be a watered down Super comp with all the big names not playing due to injury, so who ever wins it are really not the champs.
14 May 2012, 15:28 pm
preach it mad eye
this bunch of queens are getting way ahead of themselves
14 May 2012, 15:30 pm
wanderer if you do not have depth it is your own problem.
14 May 2012, 15:30 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-385: But the stormers have a game in hand and with the best win loss ratio in the comp you would have to back them to bag the points. Nice try. Back to the drawing board though, Wile. E. Coyote.
14 May 2012, 15:30 pm
If this if this but that but that
14 May 2012, 15:31 pm
@stormer in a teacup(stormer in a teacup)-389:
Dont waste your bandwidth
14 May 2012, 15:32 pm
I get the feeling the Stormers already regard this season as a success, regardless of what happens from here on. Even if they lose all their remaining matches, the past two months have been the best two months of their lives and they’ll treasure those memories forever.
14 May 2012, 15:32 pm
@Wanderer(Wanderer)-386: No logic to that comment whatsoever.
14 May 2012, 15:33 pm
@Wanderer(Wanderer)-386: Like the Lions are not CC Champs?
14 May 2012, 15:34 pm
@Tacitus(Deucalion)-353:
…IF the Stormers win everything, they’ll more than likely end up on top of the overall log.
…IF the Bulls lose their next five games (a real possibility), they’ll end up not making the
play-offs.
…IF the Sharks lose 4 of their next 5 matches, they’ll not make the play-offs.
…IF …IF…IF…IF
Spare us your “IF’s”
14 May 2012, 15:34 pm
@>^..^< katman(katman)-392:
hehehe
meow…!
14 May 2012, 15:34 pm
@>^..^< katman(katman)-392: lol
14 May 2012, 15:35 pm
@nama1(nama1)-395:
Yay
I already said that
14 May 2012, 15:36 pm
Stormer in a Teacup,more of your games have been at home,where recently you have been winning them by only a few points, with no bonus points.where as the Sharks at home is a normally a comfortable 5 point win.
Most of the Sharks games are at home and guess what yours are away.
14 May 2012, 15:37 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-380: apparently he is mulling it over, unless it is he new negotiating tactic in brisbane – remember genia to force (which the reds ceo announced it without genia & force knowing anything)
shrewd aussies
14 May 2012, 15:38 pm
@>^..^< katman(katman)-392: Two months of rugby success Katters. Isn’t that on every Lions fans bucket list?
14 May 2012, 15:39 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-399:
now if you could only contact Rent-a-fan to try and fill your stadium…
14 May 2012, 15:39 pm
392 That really sums up the Stormers.
14 May 2012, 15:40 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-399:
Man you are an excuse for a supporter. I am so glad you are not a Stormer. Are you a Shark Supporter by any chance? Let’s wait and see what happens. Next week you may be missing in action IF you lose. I say if as no-one actually knows what will happen in the future. You win one game and come guns blazing.
14 May 2012, 15:41 pm
@nama1(nama1)-395: he think it makes him sound like a kenner, jy weet mos “gravitas”
14 May 2012, 15:42 pm
@stormer in a teacup(stormer in a teacup)-401: I remember the autumn of ’93…
14 May 2012, 15:43 pm
I think many of us have lost focus of what sport is about. It is about beating your opponent.
That means winning either by one point or by a country mile.
I suggest we focus on the winning aspect once again as if you lost to a team by one point or by ten you lost. Winning a bonus point doesn’t detract from the fact you lost.
14 May 2012, 15:44 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-403:
thing is… when katman says it, it’s funny…
but i guess you’re at a disadvantage being comedically challenged and all….
14 May 2012, 15:46 pm
@ufo(ufo)-408:
For sure! I cannot agree more. Katman and Goonts…
14 May 2012, 15:47 pm
The Sharks fans will come when the time is right,we normally only start getting excited about now.
There are no shortage of Shark fans ,relax .
The fact that theSharks games have coincided with 4 or 5 huge school boy derbies each Saturday, pulling 5 to 6 thousand fans each has been a contributing factor to the limited attendance.
Don’t worry about us the season ticket sales are the highest ever.
We don’t do our celebrating in April like they do in the Cape.
14 May 2012, 15:48 pm
Where in soccer do you get a bonus point for scoring four or more goals? If you win by one or by ten you get the same points. No points for the losers now are there…
14 May 2012, 15:48 pm
Testosterone reaching new levels here I see!
14 May 2012, 15:49 pm
i’ve said this before, the minute the Stormers actually had a semi serious pack they started playing Bulls rugby, the same type of rugby they have been slating for years as “boring and predictable”
and suddenly they are winning more than losing. ‘attacking rugby puts bums in seats but defence wins championships” playoffs are about percentages and accuracy and discipline.
it kills me to say this but currently the stormers may have the edge on the bulls in a playoff. the only thing that may count against them is the inflexibility of their pattern.
14 May 2012, 15:49 pm
mad eye…
i was taught there are six senses vital to human survival…
sight
touch
taste
smell
hearing
and the most important of all with which you can even forego one of the others…?
is…?
a sense of humour…!!
if you’ve lost yours go down to your local crazy store and buy a replacement…
even a generic no name brand will be better than nothing…
14 May 2012, 15:50 pm
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-412:
Hey Morne! Getting to the important part of the competition now and the boys get agro…
14 May 2012, 15:50 pm
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-412:
testoblerone…?
14 May 2012, 15:51 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-410:
I think I’d also prefer to watch schoolboy rugby rather than the Sharks.
14 May 2012, 15:52 pm
@Bill Reyts(Gumboots)-409:
yeah… but don’t tell them i said that…
14 May 2012, 15:52 pm
@David(David)-417:
14 May 2012, 15:52 pm
UFO/KEO what is comedically challenged,
I understand vertically challenged,thats you.
14 May 2012, 15:52 pm
@ufo(ufo)-418:
Naa would never…
14 May 2012, 15:53 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-410: Wow that really is scraping the barrel of excuses. P.S. we have school rugby in the Cape as well.
14 May 2012, 15:56 pm
@David(David)-417: Haha!!
14 May 2012, 15:57 pm
@roobarb2(roobarb2)-413:
thing is bluebarb… us wp supporters are too dof to know the difference…
we’ve been putting bums on seats at newlands anyway… in cold and rain and with a bare trophy cabinet…
IF we win… wonder how that will change the ‘dynamic’… will we also follow the route of the ‘successful’ teams fans and stop watching…?
14 May 2012, 16:00 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-420:
hahaha…
me keo…?
okay… i take back the allegation of yo being comedically challenged…
just because there are 3 letters in our nics doesn’t mean they’re all the same…
look carefully… there are some subtle differences in the first two letters…
14 May 2012, 16:03 pm
424UFO
Yeah you do fill the stadium,especially when you play the New Zealand teams,only problem is that most of the supporters are there rooting for for the New Zealand teams you doos.
Same guys who support the AllBlacks against the Boks.
Led with your chin there my short friend,
14 May 2012, 16:06 pm
@ufo(ufo)-425: don’t worry, i’m supposedly ryan vrede to mal oor
14 May 2012, 16:11 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-426:
you got me there…
busted…
guilty…
took it on the chin…
but to be honest… you throw punches like girls throw feather boas…
just remember though…
i can BAN you if i don’t like you…!!
14 May 2012, 16:12 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-427:
hilarious…!!
14 May 2012, 16:19 pm
hehehe, UFO, thats not true, you have the prestigious Plascon Wall & All trophy!
14 May 2012, 16:23 pm
@roobarb2(roobarb2)-430:
hehehe…
how could i forget…??
14 May 2012, 16:24 pm
UFO/KEO
If you banned everyone who didn’t like you,
it would leave you and Vrede/Transformation on the site.
No you learned long ago that there was more money to be made out of the hordes of people who dislike you than the vague possibilty that any could be made out of someone liking you.
14 May 2012, 16:26 pm
mad eye
these stormer supporters are getting hysterical already esp ufo
cut her some slack
14 May 2012, 16:27 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-432:
very good point…
that’ll learn me…
i don’t suppose it would do any good to tell you you’re wrong…?
14 May 2012, 16:27 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-426: Hey doos, you don’t have to type the comment number and nick when you reply to a comment, ask your baby sitter to help you out if you can’t figure it out.
14 May 2012, 16:29 pm
okay mad eye…
have to go and have a meeting with heyneke meyer now… i advise him about player selection…
not even joffers knows that…
catch you later my tall friend…!!
14 May 2012, 16:30 pm
@435
ipad does not support that funtion
as you were
14 May 2012, 16:36 pm
@Fern is not a stud,he is merely no19(Fern)-437: is mad eye on eyepad?
14 May 2012, 16:39 pm
lame transie
14 May 2012, 16:42 pm
@mad eye(mad eye)-432:
It would leave Keo, Vrede/Transformation……………………………………………. and the Kiwi Uruwera 5.
14 May 2012, 16:47 pm
@Fern is not a stud,he is merely no19(Fern)-439: i wasn’t trying to be funny, you make the excuse that the function doesn’t work on ipad as if you know he is using one
14 May 2012, 16:51 pm
@cane(cane)-440:
And I’m Joanne
14 May 2012, 16:52 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-441:
Small wanger with lice and Mad eye
A match made in Heavens Game
14 May 2012, 16:57 pm
when the stormers lose a game it is downhill from there
14 May 2012, 16:59 pm
Stormers have a crucial 3 week period now, Tahs, Sharks and Bulls. As long as they win 1 of those and don’t suffer any more serious injuries, they will be fine. Then 3 weeks off for the England tour, where Heyneke Meyer will make the Bulls the Boks, then Schalk will come back and the back row will be fine. 3 easy gimme games to finish off and in the play offs where we will have all the momentum form and peak fitness.
14 May 2012, 17:00 pm
@HongKongSlong(HongKongSlong)-445:
Sounds like a pipe dream.
14 May 2012, 17:19 pm
Hee hee these Bulls and Sharks supporters are hilarious. Bulls will lose their next two games and then don’t have guaranteed wins against the Sharks or Cheetahs and definitely not against the Stormers. I’d be very worried as a Bulls supporter. Sharks will end third without doubt. How’s that bwahahahahahahahahahaha
14 May 2012, 17:23 pm
445 @ HongKongSlong
The Bulls have the worst run in and we have to here Tacticus and his amazing what if scenarios. I’d LOL if the Sharks overtake them
14 May 2012, 17:25 pm
@Dawn(Dawn)-446: Hahahaha! I have always been big on bold predictions. Its safe to say that the bold ones are the most entertaining ones!
14 May 2012, 17:27 pm
444 @ Fern
It was downhill for the Sharks even before the S15 started LOL
@ mad eye
Your team is k@k – piss poor – you must learn to deal with it. If you can’t get help hahahahaha
14 May 2012, 17:29 pm
@Pee Wee(Pee Wee)-448: Do you think Tac can keep a straight face while he is typing up his scenarios on here?
14 May 2012, 17:30 pm
you ladies are very confident
14 May 2012, 17:33 pm
451 @ HKS
He’s thinking up all these scenarios as he knows that the Bulls have it tough over the next couple of weeks. He’s pissing himself lol
14 May 2012, 17:41 pm
@Pee Wee(Pee Wee)-453: hahahaaha!!! He will no doubt disappear as soon as the results start to go against the Bulls. Its a shame, I will miss his scenarios…
14 May 2012, 17:43 pm
were will the stormers fans be after the pop?
14 May 2012, 17:58 pm
@Fern is not a stud,he is merely no19(Fern)-455: Looking down on all the other Saffa teams I suspect.
14 May 2012, 18:15 pm
Small wanger just doesn’t have HG’s cojones.
He’s trying and failing miserably.
HG would’ve ripped this thread to shreds ages ago.
14 May 2012, 18:24 pm
only time will tell slong
14 May 2012, 18:24 pm
@Dawn(Dawn)-457: And your predictions are what exactly?
14 May 2012, 18:55 pm
I’m not into predictions but I will say that bekker won’t see out this tournament
14 May 2012, 18:59 pm
457 @ Dawn
Never in a million years would I try to imitate Heavens Reject. That said why you sucking HG’s cojones. Something you wanna tell us?
14 May 2012, 19:02 pm
Pee wee
I was comparing fern small wanger to HG.
In terms of slagging stormers supporters HG takes the cake.
Fern’s efforts are pathetic
14 May 2012, 19:03 pm
460 @ Dawn
I’m not into predictions either but I will say that at the end of the tournament you’ll be kicking yourself for defecting to the filth.
14 May 2012, 19:07 pm
462 @ Dawn
My bad. There’s only one HG though and no one can be as pathetic lol
14 May 2012, 19:15 pm
@Pee Wee(Pee Wee)-464: No one can be as consistently wrong as Heavens Gat
Except Poppa-UpsideDown of course
14 May 2012, 19:42 pm
He may be wrong but his brokeback jibes top everything!
Pure hatred
14 May 2012, 21:42 pm
@250 S10
Dude. . .where were you when the 15 team format was introduced. The top three places at end of round robin phase feature one team from each country.
Catch up with the rest of the human race & then re-read your post
What parallel consciousness are you occupying?
14 May 2012, 23:55 pm
This “Pee Wee” chap is a bit of a co.ck, hey?
Takes himself and his team far too seriously and just comes across as a bit of suurgat rather than funny or witty.
15 May 2012, 03:07 am
@Fern is not a stud,he is merely no19(Fern)-437: How do you know he’s using an ipad? Are you the next one along in the circle jerk?
15 May 2012, 05:23 am
JC you have every Stormer fan worrying about the injury list but isn’t that what most S15 teams are having to deal with right at the moment?.In the Stormer’s favour, they have the most impressive defence stats. Points against: 158 and no other side near them. Next best are Brumbies (212 points against) and Chiefs (225 points against).
15 May 2012, 08:34 am
@out wide(out wide)-470: Stomers tries 2010=3 per game
2011=2 per game 2012 = 1.6 per game see the trend ????
15 May 2012, 08:47 am
@capebull(capebull)-471:
Sad , but true.
15 May 2012, 10:10 am
Down to their 4th captain and hiring canadian mercenary loosies,Strompies will do well to just remain in contention imo.
15 May 2012, 10:18 am
Stormers are traveling just fine.
15 May 2012, 10:27 am
@stormer in a teacup(stormer in a teacup)-474:
Lucky to win against cheetahs at home tho’,as soon as Coenie figured out how to pomp Brok Harris it all went down the toilet from there.Stormers should win against ‘tahs at Newlands but the following 2 derbies away are going to be the real litmus test.
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