Gritty Stormers to finish top
9 Jul 2012
MARK KEOHANE, in his weekly Business Day column, writes the Stormers have shown remarkable resilience to be in such a position of strength with one week of the regular season remaining.
The Stormers did not lack for ambition in Bloemfontein against the Cheetahs. They did bloody well to win the game and the atrocious weather was always going to limit the potential of four-try bonus points. The Stormers were composed in their approach because they knew they had to win first before thinking of the additional bonus points.
They are one league point from finishing top of the table. League leaders the Chiefs, away from home in their final outing, have the tougher assignment this weekend.
The Stormers play the Rebels at Newlands and it is in this match that they will score the four tries needed to get the additional league point. I am taking it as a given that they won’t lose to Australia’s newest franchise, a squad that plays with great ticker but which, in only their second season of existence, still has too many journeymen to challenge the better teams on the road.
The Rebels have the greatest prospects of the Australian teams to become a dominant force. There is much interest in Melbourne, excellent financial backing and already the two biggest backline names in Australian rugby, James O’Connor and Kurtley Beale, were signed as soon as they came off contract last season. Most players are at the end of their contracts at season’s end, so expect more big-name players to be among the Rebels’ challenge in the next two years.
For now, they represent the most favourable prospect for the Stormers, whose achievement to sustain a winning momentum cannot be overstated.
Other teams that have suffered equally severe disruption have taken a few on-field beatings, dropped points regularly and used the lack of consistency in performance as mitigation for their failure to make the play-offs.
The Stormers, as a unit, have shown remarkable resilience to be in such a position of strength with one week of the regular season remaining.
I have been critical of their lack of attack, which is not to be confused with any lack of ambition to score tries. There is certainly effort every week, but the Stormers for the past three seasons have played to a predetermined style that is defensive-orientated.
It was the view of the management and senior players that defence would be more effective in their play-off hopes than all-out attack.
With a week to go, they are justified in their approach. I don’t particularly favour the mindset that lacks a balance in defence and attack, and there are many among the most loyal Stormers support base that will argue there is little joy in watching the Stormers.
Again, the Stormers will point to the league position, a home semi-final with the potential to still host a final, and ask for some perspective.
They would also be justified in thinking they are damned if they do and damned if they don’t. I do recall the Kobus van der Merwe school of Stormers who favoured all-out attack and got pumped in every second home game and took 75 points against the Bulls at Loftus.
The side has not evolved their play on attack, but they have certainly consolidated their standing as the best defensive unit in the competition, regardless of whether they play home or away. The players have also shown dedication to the jersey, the franchise and the supporters in their absolute commitment to defend their line and maintain their discipline every week. They have done it with an inexperienced front row, without Andries Bekker for half the tournament, and without their frontline four loose-forwards including the incomparable Schalk Burger.
Those who have been highly critical of the Stormers this season — and I have been very vocal — have to also ask themselves: is the aim of the squad to make the semi-finals and create an opportunity to win the tournament, or to be a mid-table finish playing flamboyant rugby, but rugby that comes with risk and a style that may actually suit weaker opponents?
The Stormers took a business decision in their strategy and have achieved the necessary results. This needs to be recognised because it unfortunately is not a sport but a business in which home play-off matches and trophies determine the success of the season financially.
The romance that the Stormers have always played expansive rugby is also nonsense. They’ve won nothing for the last decade and the rugby was damn awful at times.
The most balanced South African side, in approach, has been the Bulls. But they, like the Crusaders, have also been among the most inconsistent.
I was surprised at the defeat against the Sharks, but it was more a case of the Sharks winning it than the Bulls losing. The Sharks were brilliant and the Lions, thank goodness, were brave and got the reward of a rare win.
164 Comments
9 Jul 2012, 10:27 am
Only Dragons, no bull
9 Jul 2012, 10:34 am
So the cynics would say the Stormers would only win the Super Rugby Trophy once in a Blue Moon…?
So how significant is it that August 2012 just happens to be a Blue Moon month…??
So… according to the cynics… not only are all the refs on our side… not only is our second place log position the result of a great conspiracy… not only have we cheated and fouled our way to that position… not only have we lucked our way all through the season…
but now the planets too seem to be aligned in our favor…??
a wiser man than me once said…
“when the universe speaks…
listen…!!”
9 Jul 2012, 10:35 am
The Stormers have topped the SA conference, and with some daylight to spare it seems, in spite of their inability to collect any win bonus points.
Played 15 and won 13. A fantastic record, and one worthy of praise, considering that the next Sa team has only won 9 games. A possible 14 from 16.
Now the some of the Sharkies (because it’s pretty much them) here that have been putting the Stormers down the whole season in spite of their own woeful performances are still hoping and praying for our demise.
You guys ought to be ashamed of yourselves,
Congratulations I would have thought are in order.
You aren’t congratulating us or me, we didn’t play the matches, just like the Bulls supporters here didn’t win 3 titles.
It’s the team that deserves the plaudits, and you guys should be big enough to see that.
Or am I way overestimating you?
9 Jul 2012, 10:37 am
Yes, I agree that the Stormers have been good this year. Their defense is as good as we have ever seen from any team, and they seem to be a happy bunch playing for one another, but, the ball is not round, and any team can go down 14-0 in the first 10 to15 minutes with a unlucky bounce and a unfair call – if they manage to survive that, and come from behind to win it, I will be a believer.
9 Jul 2012, 10:38 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-3:
said on other thread…
excellent post…!!
9 Jul 2012, 10:40 am
kiss of death from keo
9 Jul 2012, 10:41 am
Here’s an interesting exercise as posted on Rugby 365.
Try to put the best team together from the SA players playing overseas.
No players currently playing for SA (like Pienaar) or any players playing for a different country (like Barret and Botha) are eligible.
This is the team they came up with: Can you do better?
15 Brent Russell (Clermont Auvergne – France):
The former Springbok pocket rocket has been in Europe for some time now, having initially made the move to Saracens – the other home to South African rugby players. He is still a regular in the Clermont matchday 23.
14 Tonderai Chavhanga (Newport Dragons – Wales):
The Zimbabwean-born speedster made the move to Wales in September 2011, after gaining four Springbok caps between 2005 and 2008. He played 18 matches for the Dragons in his debut season, scoring seven tries.
13 Jaque Fourie (Kobe Kobelco Steelers – Japan):
The 2007 World Cup winner made a big-money, headline-grabbing move to Japan after the 2011 World Cup – a move which reportedly would net him in excess of R20-million over two years. He has since made himself unavailable for international selection, turning down an overture from new Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer.
12 Doppies la Grange (Benetton Treviso – Italy):
Perhaps La Grange saw something coming when he announced his intentions to set sail for Italy back in May already. He has been a stalwart for the Lions since 2003, culminating in the leading role he played in their Currie Cup triumph last year.
11 Danie Poolman (Connacht – Ireland):
Poolman announced just a week ago that he would be throwing in his lot with Connacht… and Ireland in a bid for international honours in the lighter green of the Emerald Isle. He was playing ahead of JJ Engelbrecht – now a Springbok squad member – in the Stormers team in 2011.
10 Peter Grant (Kobe Kobelco Steelers – Japan):
Grant still divides his team between South Africa (Super Rugby) and Japan, but he does not play Currie Cup rugby for Western Province. Some feel that he is unlucky not be part of the Bok set-up at present, hence his decision to split his ‘hours’ between Japan and Cape Town.
9 Fourie du Preez (Suntory Goliath – Japan):
Du Preez was everyone’s favourite to be named as Springbok captain this year, until he turned down the opportunity in a face-to-face meeting with his long-time Bulls mentor, Meyer. He just edges out Neil de Kock (Saracens – England) and Michael Claassens (Bath – England) in our selection.
8 Joe van Niekerk (Toulon – France):
The Toulon skipper recently signed a new two-year deal, before leading his team to the 2011/12 Top 14 Final where they went down to Toulouse. He is a crucial part of the Toulon unit. Ernst Joubert (Saracens – England) and Jacques Cronje (Racing Metro – France) have also been in superb form for their respective clubs since moving to Europe, with the former able to qualify for England.
7 Francois Louw (Bath – England):
The undoubted heartbeat of the Bath team, Louw became an instant hit at The Rec after signing a deal after the 2011 Super Rugby season. You have to think that he still has a few Test caps left in him – having just turned 27.
6 CJ Stander (Munster – Ireland):
South African rugby could still regret losing the Bulls tyro, who turned 22 just a few short months ago. He looks set to turn out for Ireland at the 2015 World Cup. Pedrie Wannenburg was huge for Ulster this past season, but has just made the move to Castres in France, whilst Cheetahs powerhouse Ashley Johnson will be moving to London Wasps after the Super Rugby season.
5 Johann Muller (Ulster – Ireland):
The double World Cup representative skippered Ulster to the 2012 Heineken Cup Final and continues to be a key man for the Belfast-based team. At 32, he has at least two seasons of top-level rugby left in him, making him two years older than new Agen signing Ross Skeate.
4 Quinn Roux (Leinster – Ireland):
The strapping WP and Stormers second row seems intent on returning to Cape Town after a season abroad, but 12 months at Europe’s finest club could sway him to stay in Dublin a bit longer. Yes, he will wear our No.4 jersey ahead of seasoned Bok pros Bakkies Botha (Toulon – France) and Danie Rossouw (Suntory Goliath – Japan).
3 WP Nel (Edinburgh – Scotland):
The Cheetahs anchor will leave a huge gap in Bloemfontein when he links up with Edinburgh after the Super Rugby season. BJ Botha (Munster – Ireland) and Eugène van Staden (Biarritz – France) are not bad back-ups in an always-crucial position.
2 Schalk Brits (Saracens – England):
Brits just edges out John Smit (Saracens – England) and Richardt Strauss (Leinster – Ireland) here; given the impact that he has made at Saracens and the numerous awards he has picked up. Strauss, of course, looks set to qualify for Ireland on residency grounds.
1 Gurthro Steenkamp (Toulouse – France):
The former Bulls stalwart had an injury-hit first season with rugby’s Galácticos, but he still ended with a Top 14 winners’ medal – beating Van Niekerk’s Toulon team in the final. Former Lions powerhouse Heinke van der Merwe (Leinster) and ex-Free Stater Wian du Preez (Munster) continue to add grunt to Ireland’s best teams
9 Jul 2012, 10:42 am
@ufo(ufo)-5: Ja but I thought it was worth a repeat. It’s not like certain themes don’t get bashed to death on this site anyway….
9 Jul 2012, 10:47 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-7: Good post , good team
9 Jul 2012, 10:53 am
of course we don’t have the best players…
the sharks and bulls definitely have the best players… no one will argue the point…
but we do indeed have the best TEAM… these guys play for the team and for each other… whichever youngsters they have to call up… they still play for the jersey and the guy next to them…
what sets this stormers team apart from the other team in south africa… and quite possibly in NZ and Aus too… is the SPIRIT of the team…
there is a sheer dogged bloody-mindedness about this team… an indomitable resolute determination to win… an absolute refusal to lose… that everyone underestimates…
win or lose the title… the stormers are the TEAM of the year… they are a living embodiment of all the old cliches that a TEAM of ordinary players will triumph over a 15 stars playing for themselves on any given day…
they have been put down by all and sundry all season… other teams scrape through and it is acceptable to say an ugly win is still a win… no matter what the stormers do it will never be enough for many other south africans…
even IF we won the Super Trophy these bitter south africans would still tell us it means nothing and would find some reason, some excuse to demean and belittle the stormers… that’s just how these people roll…
sure we have punched above our weight… sure we are not the flashest team in the comp… sure we don’t have the super star ego players… sure many predict our downfall every weekend…
but all of those critics have forgotten one vital thing… rugby… winning… and defense… is all about attitude…
and fault the stormers for anything and everything you can dig up…
but no one can fault the SPIRIT, CAMARADERIE and GEES in Stormers Class of 2012…
the TEAM has made many of us long-standing (notice i don’t say long suffering) supporters very proud…
now it would be great if they can go all the way… but even if they don’t they won’t lose our support or interest…
Go Stormers…!!
9 Jul 2012, 10:55 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-8:
Ed Zachery…!!
9 Jul 2012, 10:55 am
@ufo(ufo)-10: Amen brutha!
9 Jul 2012, 10:57 am
@ufo(ufo)-10:
Air punch all the way, bruvva!
9 Jul 2012, 10:58 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-3: Can we wait untill the competition is over before handing out congratulations? Or do you believe the team has already reached their goals for the season and that topping the SA conference is good enough?
As you have said, its the team that plays the game, not the supporters, and looking at you its a good thing, cause once the cork shoots out the bottle, the champagne goes flat.
9 Jul 2012, 11:02 am
I dont think it will happen… Stormers had a chance against the Cheetahs and blew it… Chiefs are going to wack the Canes because Chiefs are now very angry after that loss to the Saders…
9 Jul 2012, 11:04 am
Hahah yes air pucnhes and high fives all round.
9 Jul 2012, 11:04 am
Love the Braveheart speak !
9 Jul 2012, 11:08 am
@coma(coma)-14: You’ve just proved my point.
I guess in your case I was expecting too much.
9 Jul 2012, 11:08 am
Hoping it will be a Stormers / Saders final …. will really test the Stormers BMT
9 Jul 2012, 11:10 am
I say we take one game at a time… Win against the Rebels first… Hopefully get a home semi-final and take it from there…
9 Jul 2012, 11:11 am
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-20:
Too true.
Lots of rugby still to come.
9 Jul 2012, 11:12 am
@stew(stew)-19:
have said several times before that i would also love a Stormers/Crusaders final in Cape Town…
9 Jul 2012, 11:12 am
@ufo(ufo)-22:
I would not
9 Jul 2012, 11:13 am
Well done to the Stormers have had a bloody good season all round, Captain Sam gives the team a cutlass salute. I hope you guys can win it for SA. Well done to the bulls fantastic season with a very young forward pack but still lots of work to be done. FH is not a scrumhalf, please guys you are killing this kids career!!!!.
To my Cheetahs, ai tog manne, well best season so far but could have been so much better!!!
and finally to RF…………………..”YOU ARE THE MAN” count em up seven wimbledon titles!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
9 Jul 2012, 11:13 am
@ufo(ufo)-22:
That is one that scares me! Would prefer the Chiefs or even better the Brumbies or Bulls…
9 Jul 2012, 11:13 am
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-20:
absolutely…
said the same on the other thread this morning…
feet on the ground… one step at a time…
but nothing wrong with highlighting the GEES in our team is there…?
9 Jul 2012, 11:17 am
@WP Till I Die(WP-Forever)-23:
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-25:
hehehe…
would be a great opportunity to lay many old ghosts to rest…
we did not do too badly against them in their backyard… would love to meet them in ours…
9 Jul 2012, 11:17 am
Where is Whitney this morning? Missing a few of my Blue buddies today…
9 Jul 2012, 11:18 am
@ufo(ufo)-27:
9 Jul 2012, 11:19 am
@Captain Sam Vimes(Captain Sam Vimes)-24:
I would say “Give that man a Bells…!”
But as it’s Capt’n Sam… will have to say…
“Give that man a Myer’s…!”
9 Jul 2012, 11:22 am
@ufo(ufo)-30: heheheheh, hey Bud the bells will do just fine, Captain Sam been a loyal supporter of Bells all of his life, Captain Sam was once called a savage and a hooligan by a girlfriends dad for not knowing/liking a single malt!!!!!
9 Jul 2012, 11:23 am
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-29:
remember you learn more from a defeat than a victory… and i believe our performances this year have proved we have indeed learnt from those defeats…
thing is… it will always be an excuse for the haters should we not meet the crusaders in the finals…
so win or lose i’d love that scenario…
if we win… awesome…
if the crusaders win… then we obviously didn’t deserve to win no matter who the opponents…
9 Jul 2012, 11:24 am
@ufo(ufo)-32:
Oh OK!
9 Jul 2012, 11:25 am
@Captain Sam Vimes(Captain Sam Vimes)-31:
definitely one of the most sporting gentlemanly pirates on keo…
a Bells it is..!!
9 Jul 2012, 11:26 am
I think HM is sitting with one helluva predicament now! How can he continue to select 14 Bulls players in his team? He might have to increase the Shark numbers now…
9 Jul 2012, 11:26 am
work calls…
great day to you all…!!
cheers
9 Jul 2012, 11:32 am
@ufo(ufo)-34: Cheers ufo and thanks much appreciated on Captain Sams day off!! Hope your team goes all the way mate………..if anyone looks at this objectively, will have acknowledge that the Stormers been fantastic this year and yeah its been all about the team and not the individual.
9 Jul 2012, 11:33 am
@ufo(ufo)-32: Would be a great game both mentally and physically … But to win away from home in a Super rugby is a mammoth task , the odds are so stacked against you … But it does happen !
9 Jul 2012, 11:35 am
@ufo(ufo)-32: oh jedi master – all you guys have learnt from that defeat was a) still cant beat the Saders b) still cant beat the saders
9 Jul 2012, 11:38 am
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-35:
Nah, he’ll just give the Bulls a list of Stormers players to sign.
9 Jul 2012, 11:38 am
The Stormers wont win it this year, regardless of whether they finish 1st or 2nd on the log. This is perfectly suited to the Saders who love coming to Cape Town and winning.
The Saders play the Bulls at home which they will win comfortably. If the Stormers finish 2nd, the Saders will tavel to Cape Town for the semi which they will win only to lose to the Chiefs in the final. (Reasons: travel, effort required to beat the Stormers in Cape Town, Chiefs have the easier semi vs the Sharks or the Brumbies)
If the Stormers finish first, the Saders will beat the Chiefs in the semi and then travel to Cape Town to win the final. (Reason: No quarter- and limited semi-final travel, they know how to beat the Chiefs and the Stormers away from home and the Stormers dont really believe that they can beat the Saders)
9 Jul 2012, 11:44 am
@seamus(seamus)-41:
Tac is that you? Predictions… very dangerous on this site… Hey Transie?
9 Jul 2012, 11:45 am
@David(David)-40:
Spot on!!!
9 Jul 2012, 11:52 am
@ufo(ufo)-27: WPTID is incensed by the thought of the CapeCrusaders who would come out in droves to spoil his afternoon
9 Jul 2012, 11:58 am
Whose
P oepol
To
Insert
D ick
And the rest of the stormers supporters are very emotional today.
This is gonna end in tears girls.
9 Jul 2012, 12:02 pm
@Fern is not a stud,he is merely no19(Fern)-45:
Classy.
9 Jul 2012, 12:06 pm
One should also be reminded that the Stormers have scored some of the most spectacular tries in the competition. More than once movements started in their own 22 and even behind their own posts, developed into doublefigure phases and ended as brilliant scores. At times in weather not conducive at all for such play.
9 Jul 2012, 12:10 pm
Congrats on winning the conference trophy Stormers.
So what now for my Sharks?
We can end 5th or 6th, but ending 6th will suit us better so that we can play the Brumbies (who we’ve beaten this year) away.
Should we win that game what would be the best cenario for us furher in the competition to win it?
If the chiefs top the log we would play them next, and if the Stormers top the log we would play them in the semi.
The problem with playing the Stormers in a semi is that we would most likely then have to go back to NZ for the final. That traveling would make it impossible.
Rather play the Chiefs in the semi and come back to SA for final or stay in NZ for final against Crusaders.
So it would be either:
1) AUS / NZ / SA (Chiefs top log)
2) Aus / NZ / NZ (Chiefs top log)
3) Aus / SA / NZ (Stormers top log)
So from a Shark point of view we would like the Chiefs to top the log as it would be the easier way taking travel in consideration to win the competition.
Now please stormer supporters, this is not hate towards you, but common sense only.
9 Jul 2012, 12:14 pm
@Mr Black(Mr Black)-48:
If we beat the Cheetahs, which is not a definite at the moment.
9 Jul 2012, 12:18 pm
@THE MAULER(THE MAULER)-15: Wow!!, “Chiefs are angry after the loss”, how old are you?, 10yrs or 15yrs, the Bulls must be spitting mad after losing 4 out the last 5, little good did it do them
9 Jul 2012, 12:25 pm
@XhosaKid(XhosaKid)-50:
9 Jul 2012, 12:26 pm
@WP Till I Die(WP-Forever)-46: It’s the Bluff trash syndrome this…
The lower you are in the pecking order, the more important it becomes to have someone beneath you……
9 Jul 2012, 12:26 pm
Congrats on winning the conference trophy Stormers.
So what now for my Sharks?
We can end 5th or 6th, but ending 6th will suit us better so that we can play the Brumbies (who we’ve beaten this year) away.
Should we win that game what would be the best cenario for us furher in the competition to win it?
If the chiefs top the log we would play them next, and if the Stormers top the log we would play them in the semi.
The problem with playing the Stormers in a semi is that we would most likely then have to go back to NZ for the final. That traveling would make it impossible.
Rather play the Chiefs in the semi and come back to SA for final or stay in NZ for final against Crusaders.
So it would be either:
1) AUS / NZ / SA (Chiefs top log)
2) Aus / NZ / NZ (Chiefs top log)
3) Aus / SA / NZ (Stormers top log)
So from a Shark point of view we would like the Chiefs to top the log as it would be the easier way taking travel in consideration to win the competition.
Now please stormer supporters, this is not hate towards you, but common sense only.
9 Jul 2012, 12:27 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-44: Boet, can you please find more of Tacitus k@k predictions, I love how daft he might be looking right now
9 Jul 2012, 12:29 pm
Heavens Game is still waiting for the bubble to go POP…
9 Jul 2012, 12:33 pm
Xhosa kid how old are you??? My point being after losing to the Crusaders the Chiefs will take out on the Canes… Simple really but someone with your IQ wont understand will you… Now be a good boy and Go play hide and go !
9 Jul 2012, 12:34 pm
Go play hide and go fckyourself!! Is what i meant!
9 Jul 2012, 12:40 pm
A couple of big games this weekend.
Huge.
Funnily enough, of late I am battling to give a single ounce of f*&k about this years competition.
June internationals have extinguished whatever last bit of excitement I still carried for this extended form of Super Rugby.
Bring back the Super 12 please.
4 of the best franchises from each country.
That is all.
9 Jul 2012, 12:41 pm
@Mr Black(Mr Black)-53: @THE MAULER(THE MAULER)-57: the jerkyl and mr hyde sharks are rightly the toast of the town once again amongs their fans, how long will it be before they fluff it like they did against the canes and lions?
the BIG question is, WHO ARE THE SHARKS, the team that matches the bulls and dominates them or the bunch of over-inflated egos that lack commitment & consistency who lost @ Ellis Park?
9 Jul 2012, 12:41 pm
The Stormers coaching staff and players need to be congratulated.
The were awesome this season.
For me watching huge tackles is more fun than easy tries.
I can watch Etzebeth and Kolosi drive people back in the tackle all day.
Loving it!!!
9 Jul 2012, 12:42 pm
Stormers you better win the competition this year – no more lack of BMT PLEASE!!!
9 Jul 2012, 12:42 pm
@seamus(seamus)-41:
I agree, the Stormers simply do not have the firepower to beat teams like the Chiefs, Saders or Reds in a semi final. The worst thing that can happen to them is to finish 1st on the log – leaving them to play an away semi at Newlands against the Saders.
If they finish second they get an easy Brumby team in the semi then a possible away final to the Chiefs, which they will lose or an away final at Newlands in front of 20000 CapeCrusaders which they will also lose.
So the best business decision is to finish second and pray that they do not run into the Saders.
9 Jul 2012, 12:43 pm
@ufo(ufo)-2:
Need a like button
9 Jul 2012, 12:43 pm
@WP Till I Die(WP-Forever)-55: Havent seen him here for a while… must be that 1 out of 5 games won stat that irks him…
As for the idiots on here that cannot even fathom how the log works:
No1 plays the lowest ranked team in the Semi.. so if Chiefs end 1 they will either face the Sharks should they beat the brumbies… or the Saders or the bulls should the Brumbies beat the sharks… this is taken should the log stay the way it is now..
So the Stormers will either face the Brumbies or the Bulls or Saders should the brumbies lose…
Congrats to my Stormers.. go all the way and rubb it in these Stormers haters faces!!!
Storm saam!!
9 Jul 2012, 12:43 pm
Transie as a Sharks supporter I ask the dame question… The talent in the team they should be doing better but they not… Beat teams they shoudnt and lose against teams they should beat comfortably… Its perplexing…
9 Jul 2012, 12:43 pm
@John Galt(John Galt)-58: I fully agree with you.
9 Jul 2012, 12:44 pm
Dame= same
9 Jul 2012, 12:44 pm
@Mr Black(Mr Black)-53: what happens if the Reds get 5 points and the Sharks four and tie ?
9 Jul 2012, 12:45 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-3:
Well said, damb brings back memories of Varsity, all those damn arrogant Sharkies
Back then they used to beat us at Newlands regularly
I’m glad things have changed.
I’m far from a provincialist, i believe in SA i don;t care to much for the provinces, but praise is due when praise is due.
This Stormers team has heart and that deserves praise for both coaching staff and players
9 Jul 2012, 12:46 pm
Stew the Reds go through…
9 Jul 2012, 12:47 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-59:
What schools comprise the Border Bulldogs craven week side?
Is it Dale, Queens etc? Who else?
9 Jul 2012, 12:47 pm
@RL(RL)-62: You really think the stormers will just toll over and die for the Saders in a semi like last year? remeber the bulls lost two semis before going through to the final in 2007….
The stormers would have learnt from last year.. and this year it seems they know how to win.. even the close games
9 Jul 2012, 12:48 pm
@RL(RL)-62: What are the chances of us seeing a return of Schalk, Vermeulen and Carr?
I guess the ‘firepower’ you are talking about is our lack of a decent back line. Yet- JDJ and JDV with Aplon and Habs on the wings and JP at 15 is not a bad team at all.
9 Jul 2012, 12:49 pm
It goes like this:
Log points, wins, points difference and I think then yellow cards or something?
9 Jul 2012, 12:49 pm
@THE MAULER(THE MAULER)-56: Ironic, talking about IQ’s, you reckon a team losing a home game means they are pumped up for a win on their the next away game?. Then of course when logic fails, insult, Really stupid, mate really daft. Keep it up.
9 Jul 2012, 12:50 pm
@bangkok-bok(bangkok-bok)-73:
I STILL think we should rather have Juan de Jongh at 12 and Jean at 13.
Alas.
9 Jul 2012, 12:50 pm
@Provvas(Provvas)-64:
9 Jul 2012, 12:51 pm
@THE MAULER(THE MAULER)-70: shot
9 Jul 2012, 12:52 pm
My prediction for the logg:
1. Chiefs
2. Stormers
3. Brumbies
4. Saders
5. Bulls
6. Sharks
Brumbies and Saders to win prelim games making it:
Semi Chiefs versus Saders and Stormers vs Brumbies
This will give us a Stormers vs Saders final at newlands!!
9 Jul 2012, 12:52 pm
@RL(RL)-62: At least we have the options.
9 Jul 2012, 12:53 pm
@Provvas(Provvas)-72: They dont need to roll over , we will scrum them into the ground until they die – forward domination just like we did to the Cheifs – coming to get ya boys
9 Jul 2012, 12:54 pm
Yeah sure… So I insulted you first? And yes losing a home game should pump you up for the next one… Its sport not tidlywinks!! You think when Lennox Lewis lost to Rahman he just said oh well… No he trained hard and took it out on him in the next fight and beat him silly!! But hey whatever floats your boat…
9 Jul 2012, 12:54 pm
@Provvas(Provvas)-79:
I think the Bulls and Sharks are both fighting for position number 6 mate! I doubt any of them want to play the Saders away… Both should fancy their chances against the Brumbies though…
9 Jul 2012, 12:56 pm
@Provvas(Provvas)-79: Could be a Saders v Sharks final in Christchurch – that would be excellent
9 Jul 2012, 12:56 pm
@stew(stew)-81: The stormers scrumm will be the least of our problems! By then I reckon Schalk will be back, Etzebeth will be fit, and also Duane Vermeulen.. That is a different pack all together!!
The saders would have playeda tough game against the Bulls and the Chiefs in consecutive weeks.. and then will need to traqvel to Newlands for the final… i like those odds!!
9 Jul 2012, 12:57 pm
@John Galt(John Galt)-71: Selborne, Grens, Sterling, Cambridge, Dale, DF Malan, Queens, Hangklip
9 Jul 2012, 12:58 pm
Could/should/would/… Let’s play one game at a time. We tend to get too excited at times. Firt win the League game then the semi and then let the talking begin…
The only person who talks should/would/could it Tac! Look what always happens to his predictions!!!
9 Jul 2012, 13:00 pm
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-83: The problem is: Should the reds rack up 5 points they will have to win by 5 points themselves.. So it will be very hard for them to “engineer” the 6th spot by not scoring enough against their weak oppo this weekend.
@stew(stew)-84: The sharks will need to beat the Brumbies and the Chiefs in two consecutive weeks… with their inconsistancy this year you reckon they can? Away from home? Without the boot of Frans Steyn? I believe not
9 Jul 2012, 13:00 pm
@THE MAULER(THE MAULER)-82: I just think my 10yr old nephew would think like that not a grown up, the Lions must be really, really, really pumped up this year after taking so many loses. So you reckon they should lose more so that they can be more pumped up for their next game. baffling brains stuff.
9 Jul 2012, 13:01 pm
@XhosaKid(XhosaKid)-86:
Thanks.
9 Jul 2012, 13:02 pm
@bangkok-bok(bangkok-bok)-73: they have a pretty potent backline and you would expect them to be a try scoring threat but they are not. No team that AC has ever coached could score tries, why is that? or is Duvenage the mediocre one dragging the backline down.
9 Jul 2012, 13:02 pm
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-87: Yip.. you are right..
Sharks could still lose to their Hoodoo team cheetahs…
And the Canes might Upset the Chiefs… and the lions might go out in their last Superrugby game ever and win..
9 Jul 2012, 13:03 pm
No only baffling your Brains… If the Chiefs beat the Crusaders they would only have needed a win to top the log… Now that they lost and knowing the Stormers have a chance of overtaking them they need to win with a bonus to ensure top spot… Simple logic that even your 10 year old nephew will understand… Im sure you can ask him to explain… Ok sweet pea?
9 Jul 2012, 13:05 pm
@John Galt(John Galt)-71: dale, queens, selborne, hudson park, stirling, cambrigde, hangklip, tarkastad just on top of my head will have to check
9 Jul 2012, 13:06 pm
@Provvas(Provvas)-88:
The Bulls could struggle against the Lions too! Their bubble has burst. I think HM has given each player a false belief that they are Bok team material. Most here predicted it though. Don’t get me wrong. The Bulls have a culture of winning but when you start losing so much the morale goes for a bang… I hope they make it but they have just been hyped up too much…
9 Jul 2012, 13:07 pm
@Provvas(Provvas)-92:
I think the Bulls are going to struggle on Saturday. The Bulls forwards are weak according to Tac and I think the Lions will listen to him and go out and slay the Dragons
9 Jul 2012, 13:10 pm
@WP Till I Die(WP-Forever)-76:
So do I.
Certainly on offense.
I will keep banging this drum, and have articulated my rationale for this on many occasions.
9 Jul 2012, 13:11 pm
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-95: Yes i found myself on Friday watching the game wondering how so many “boks” can be so Shi.t!? Spies is a passenger in the boks team.
Meisiekind should never again be a bok. Crusty has nothing as a 15 when everyone impedes in the air after a uppie is kicked. Basson meas as much as pantoffel when he gets no ball.
Hougaard sucks behind a retrieving pack like any other scrummie. Morne steyn is NOT the future of Bok rugby.. as for that Potgieter gifted a bok jersey.. shamefull!!
9 Jul 2012, 13:14 pm
@Mr Black(Mr Black)-48:
clear, considered points… good post…
that’s how rational supporters do it… no problem with punting your own team and no need to trash the others…
9 Jul 2012, 13:21 pm
@Provvas(Provvas)-79:
i like…!!
i like a lot…!!
9 Jul 2012, 13:26 pm
@WP Till I Die(WP-Forever)-76: so do I
9 Jul 2012, 13:26 pm
@Provvas(Provvas)-98:
It was payback time for loyalty! But if he wants loyalty he should buy a dog I guess.
I can’t see many Bulls making the team unless … (I’m missing something)
Its called pie in the face time…
9 Jul 2012, 13:29 pm
@Provvas(Provvas)-88: Wouldnt it be Brumbies then the Stormers ? That could be possible for the Sharks
9 Jul 2012, 13:40 pm
The Stormers can improve their attacking a lot, without sacrificing their defence, by just doing the basics. RUN on to the ball, pass in front of the player, not to the player. Every single Stormers player receives the ball standing still, even Grant at 10? Since coming back from the Boks, I see JdV at least runs when he receives a pass. I don’t know whether its coaching or the scrummie’s fault, but this is schoolboy stuff.
5m out from the tryline, the forwards receive the ball with no momentum and defenders charging at him. You can’t score tries like that.
9 Jul 2012, 13:44 pm
@halfgk(halfgk)-104: Exactly, its not the tactics its the basic skills they are getting wrong. We have butchered more tries than we have scored this season by either bad passing or simply not passing the ball.
9 Jul 2012, 13:47 pm
@halfgk(halfgk)-104: Yes!!!
RUN onto the ball.
That includes Grant, otherwise the offense will be ineffective regardless of whether the centers will run onto the ball or not.
9 Jul 2012, 13:51 pm
@halfgk(halfgk)-104: Yes they like to pass behind the player! That irritates me. Alistair needs to up the skills of the guys.
9 Jul 2012, 13:52 pm
We know about Schalk’s situation but what happened to Duane Vermeulen’s return.
We need him back this week-end on the bench to be ready to start in the semi.
Get him some cortisone ffs.
We don’t have a eight man going into the play-offs. Kolisi played one game at 8 but has played at 6 all season so it will be crazy to through him in the deep end in a farkin massive “do or die” game.
9 Jul 2012, 13:53 pm
@stew(stew)-103: Nope! if The sharks end 6th, they will face the top team in every play off game..
9 Jul 2012, 13:54 pm
@halfgk(halfgk)-104:
@SteveWarren(SteveWarren)-105:
@willievz(willievz)-106:
always good to see guys who obviously know their rugby and can articulate it rationally…
top posts…
and must add my agreement there too…
a player from the bok team that played the cavaliers told me they used to say “if you can’t read the number of the player with the ball you’re too close” and that ensured they would always be running onto the ball at speed instead of trying to turn back and juggle and maybe collect it and lose all momentum…
9 Jul 2012, 13:57 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-107: Is Fleck not the backline coach?
9 Jul 2012, 14:00 pm
I would like to see 6 Kolisi 7 Elstadt and 8 Vermeulen in Semifinal. Vermeulen needs game time though… Will Burger even be ready to play?
9 Jul 2012, 14:01 pm
@ufo(ufo)-110: Exactly.
The only flyhalves in this country who look comfortable running onto the ball on first phase and drawing in defenders are Lambie and Jantjies, but both need to upskill their passing accuracy.
This is where distribution differs from passing. All players can pass a ball, but distribution is a different, more holistic concept as it involves both the passer and the receiver. The decisionmaking of the receiver (eg running lines) is just as crucial as that of the passer.
You can add support runner to the mix too, to talk about the trilogy of distribution – passer, receiver and supporter(s).
9 Jul 2012, 14:05 pm
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-112:
good looking backrow…
if only…
don’t think schalk will or should play… i’m one of his biggest fans but there’s just no way he will be 100% ready… they said in a running session last week he still felt pain… now this guy can take pain… so if it’s too much for him to run… it’s still a long way from being playable…
think best we can hope for is duane to get back…
or try kolisi, elstadt and etzebeth at 8…
9 Jul 2012, 14:06 pm
Stormers may finish top, nevermind, I’d gladly see Crusaders playing them at Newlands and crush them.
9 Jul 2012, 14:06 pm
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-112:
Hi Bill. This I feel is a major concern going into the knock-outs. We will end up with either Armand or that fellow that started against the Lions (I forget his name)
Other alternative is to have a Fourie, Elstadt, Kolisi combo, which will be risky going into a big game.
9 Jul 2012, 14:08 pm
@ufo(ufo)-114: I am a huge fan as well.
But his availability may just result in a type of resource curse.
His unavailability will make it easier for Allister and co.
Agree on Vermeulen, very vital player in the Stormers’ gameplan in terms of go forward ball and excellent defensive lines. I was one of his staunchest critics in the past as I believed he was far too upright in the carry and lifting his knees too high, but he has worked hard at that and is now close to the finished article.
9 Jul 2012, 14:09 pm
@ufo(ufo)-114:
Any news on Vermeulen? We definitely need his grunt in playoffs… ‘
@Jeraldjay(Jeraldjay)-116:
Howzit mate! It is a concern. Fourie is not a bad option at 6 but as UFO says maybe Etsebeth. I’m not a fan of playing anyone out of position, but if not option then it looks a good one. He is a good carrier of the ball, but I fear his understanding with 9…
9 Jul 2012, 14:10 pm
@halfgk(halfgk)-104: and please can ANDRIES BEKKER fokkof from the backline!
9 Jul 2012, 14:11 pm
Any news on Carr?
9 Jul 2012, 14:11 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-119:
Hey! HM likes them big in the backline, he is making a statement!
9 Jul 2012, 14:12 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-119:
Easier said than done.
Most forwards will end up in an offensive line somewhere during phase play.
However, I do agree that those forwards need to determine their role (carrier, receiver, supporter, dummy) and adjust their lines accordingly.
9 Jul 2012, 14:14 pm
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-118:
AC will never take that risk and play Etzebeth at 8. Not in a big game.
9 Jul 2012, 14:15 pm
@Jeraldjay(Jeraldjay)-123:
I wouldn’t either, thus the importance of getting Vermeulen up and running…
I would consider Fourie at 6, but it is a risk indeed…
9 Jul 2012, 14:16 pm
@willievz(willievz)-113:
yeah bud… you’re right on the money there… passing is pretty much a one-man one-sided operation that most players can or should be able to do…
distribution involves the passer passing the ball not so much to the next player but to the spot from where it can be best utilized by the receiver AND for the receiver to be running such lines and timing his run to arrive at the same spot at the same time as the ball at full pace… and all players understanding that…
and that to me is one of the most beautiful aspects of this game and why i love watching it… that’s what the french sides of the 80s and early 90s were so excellent at… and made guys like michael dup so special…
only problem is that all players need to be on the same page… which seldom seems to be the case these days…
9 Jul 2012, 14:22 pm
@willievz(willievz)-117:
willie… if it was up to me…
i would announce now that schalk will not play in the super comp again this year… and get it out of the way, out of everyones minds and put the focus on who can play…
and let schalk take his time to get fit… i’m sure the length of the layoff has increased due to him being pushed (or pushing himself) too soon and re-injuring it all over again…
we and the boks still need him for a few years… give him time to get right…
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-118:
haven’t heard anything definite on any of them…
last time i did it sounded more positive for duane… not at all positive for schalk and always was that nizaam would not be back for super rugby at all…
9 Jul 2012, 14:24 pm
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-124:
@Jeraldjay(Jeraldjay)-123:
agree… but worth a shot against the rebels…
i would not play deon at flank for a big game… he gives away too much grunt in the scrum in support of the props… and we will always struggle at scrum time with him there… maybe in the last 20 or so we could get away with it…
but would not start him for a play-off game… it’s asking to be put on the back foot from the set pieces…
9 Jul 2012, 14:24 pm
Vermeulen started training this week. In two weeks time he might be ready for the semi. Atleast to have him on the bench.
Jebb Sinclair might also be available for the semi. If WP get special dispensation for him to play.
9 Jul 2012, 14:24 pm
Rugby 365′s team of the week:
Team of the Week – Round 17:
15 – Charles Piutau (Blues):
This elusive runner is now beginning to reproduce the form that made him such a menace to opposition teams for New Zealand Sevens and Under-20 teams last year.
Bubbling under: Ben Smith (Highlanders)
14 – JP Pietersen (Sharks):
He seems so much more at home on the wing than when he was shifted to midfield earlier in the season.
Bubbling under: Dom Shipperley (Reds)
13 – Tim Whitehead (Sharks):
He may well have benefitted from the experience of having season Springbok Frans Steyn on his inside, but it was his most commanding performance of the season.
Bubbling under: Waylon Murray (Lions)
12 – Francois Steyn (Sharks):
The big Bok is back! Yes, he is indeed a special star and now a far more mature player to boot. And we forgave him the one or two shockers (like kicking the ball into the back of his own teammate).
Bubbling under: Ma’a Nonu (Blues)
11 – Napolioni Nalaga (Western Force):
Having watched him at the weekend it is not surprising that this utility back often appears on the flank as well for Fiji. He is going to be missed by the Stormers when he heads to Clermont at the end of the season.
Bubbling under: Hosea Gear (Highlanders)
10 – Dan Carter (Crusaders):
He is still the master and the rest are just pretenders.
Bubbling under: Peter Grant (Stormers)
9 – Andy Ellis (Crusaders);
It caused some considerable debate. However, we went for Ellis on a majority vote. He is beginning to regain his best form, which will no doubt please the All Black selectors.
Bubbling under: Tawera Kerr-Barlow (Chiefs)
8 – Ryan Kankowski (Sharks):
Some pundits feel he may well have produced the best game of his career. It may be stretching it a bit, but he was indeed impressive.
Bubbling under: Kieran Read (Crusaders)
7 – Marcell Coetzee (Sharks):
He showed exactly why he is so highly rated by Bok coach Heyneke Meyer – fast, strong and a real livewire.
Bubbling under: Richie McCaw (Crusaders)
6 – Derrick Minnie (Lions):
He was still penalised at times, but managed to make some adjustments in the game and was a real menace … the Lions’ most influential player in a rare win.
Bubbling under: Heinrich Brüssow (Cheetahs)
5 – Kane Douglas (Waratahs):
Not many may know this, but he comes from a Rugby League background, having played his junior rugby with the Yamba Buccaneers. Is he Australia’s version of Brad Thorn?
Bubbling under: Andries Bekker (Stormers)
4 – Luke Romano (Crusaders):
He showed why he was drafted in to make his Test debut against Ireland – he is the future of the All Black second row.
Bubbling under: Cadeyrn Neville (Rebels)
3 – Ben Tameifuna (Chiefs):
This young man is going to have a huge future in the game if he continues with the form he has produced this year.
Bubbling under: WP Nel (Cheetahs)
2 – Bismarck du Plessis (Sharks):
Master poacher and the Sharks’ muscle. He literally bullied the Bulls.
Bubbling under: Stephen Moore (Brumbies)
1 – Sona Taumalolo (Chiefs):
It was a sight to behold when he outpaced All Black captain Richie McCaw, but that was not the only reason we selected him.
Bubbling under: Tendai Mtawarira (Sharks)
9 Jul 2012, 14:26 pm
Well done Stormers on the Conference Trophy – now prove me completely wrong and win the title…
9 Jul 2012, 14:27 pm
@ufo(ufo)-127:
I think AC has tried to give Liebenberg a break before the play-offs…
I have never had confidence in Fouries lineout throwing and think he is also light at 2… A good impact player though…
9 Jul 2012, 14:27 pm
@ufo(ufo)-125: Its because they dont do it often in a pressure situation (match time). Based on the conditions the Stormers should of kept it close against the cheetahs and let the ball move through the hands. Thus keeping the whole team invovled and warm during the game. The kick chase isolates 80% of the team at a time.
9 Jul 2012, 14:27 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-128:
Fantastic news indeed…
9 Jul 2012, 14:28 pm
I was impressed with Andies Bekker on Saturday. His looking much better than earlier in the season when he was tentative in the contact situation. Our line-out ball is also much more secure.
The Ginger looked a bit flustered on Saturday in the scrum but the Cheetahs front row will always be a force to be reckoned with.
9 Jul 2012, 14:29 pm
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-131: Yes agreed.
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-130: Is there really a trophy? Will we get it this weekend?
9 Jul 2012, 14:29 pm
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-130:
hehehe…
i hope they do too…
9 Jul 2012, 14:31 pm
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-130:
Howzit bud! Now wouldn’t that be a nice – prove me wrong… I could live with that too!!!
9 Jul 2012, 14:32 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-129:
yip… all the sharks in that team… and bubbling under… are fully deserved…
best game sharks have played this season and quite possibly for a few years…
if they play like that for the next 4 weeks they will be very hard to stop…
and yes… i mean just what that implies…
9 Jul 2012, 14:32 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-135:
Indeed there is! Google conference trophy…
9 Jul 2012, 14:33 pm
@Jeraldjay(Jeraldjay)-134: Yes he is starting to dominate the tackle point again. Needs to offload now and then.
9 Jul 2012, 14:36 pm
@ufo(ufo)-127:
Yes, the scrums struggled a bit on Saturday and Fourie would make matter worse.
Damn. We really need a “fully fit” Duane back.
9 Jul 2012, 14:37 pm
@PissAnt(PissAnt)-130:
I’ve said this all season – I don’t think they’ve got the gameplan to go all the way and lift the trophy.
But their defense might – just might – pull them through. This Stormers team shows a belief and a touch of class under pressure that I have not seen from Stormers teams in the past.
Unless they need to travel across the Indian for the final.
9 Jul 2012, 14:38 pm
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-131:
yeah… looked like that to me too… and resting brok…
you see what both of them contribute when they’re not there…
funny how we still see comments of AC playing the guys into the ground where he has been quite good about that in the last few rounds… rotating more than the bulls or sharks… i think…
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-132:
spot on… that’s the way they should’ve done it…
but think the plan (barring weather) was to go for the bonus point… and they still tried that… started putting penalties into touch instead of tailing the points in the beginning of the second half trying to go for it… but then we could see them make a decision with 20 or so to go… to just ensure they got the win…
which was not easy… the cheetahs were very very good and heinrich brussow was excellent…
still think he should have got MoM…
9 Jul 2012, 14:39 pm
@willievz(willievz)-122: boet, the guy is ALWAYS in the backline stuffing up the works!
9 Jul 2012, 14:41 pm
@willievz(willievz)-142: Facing the Chiefs wont be too much of a problem. This Stormers team has happy memories of Hamilton.
9 Jul 2012, 14:43 pm
@Jeraldjay(Jeraldjay)-134:
yes.. andries is looking better in the last two games… a LOT more physical and mobile… good to see… he is a really skillful guy… long may he stay fit…
don’t think steven felt as ‘secure’ with deon and frans alongside him as he does with tiaan and brok…
9 Jul 2012, 14:44 pm
@ufo(ufo)-143: Yes you are probably right. Who got it? oh yes Grant! Arrrggghhhh that also irked me. Besides the try assist. He was one of the worst Stormers on the field.
Yes brussouw was immense.
Although he showed Heyneke Meyer that he should get selected he also proved a point of Heyneke’s. Jebb ran right over him in the beginning but he had a great tackle on a rampaging Elstadt.
9 Jul 2012, 14:45 pm
@ufo(ufo)-143:
Yes I think he has done a pretty good job with the rotation process… Injuries assisted the cause as well…
Remember the naysayers stating that the Stormers were out on their feet and going to fold? Well they have done pretty well considering all the injuries… Kept on winning with whichever team they put on the field. You have to give credit when due…
9 Jul 2012, 14:49 pm
@ufo(ufo)-146: Yes definitely! Brok and Tiaan to return this week please!
9 Jul 2012, 14:51 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-145:
We haven’t won the semi yet.
Our fellow Bulls, Sharks, Cheetahs and Lions bloggers are waiting to pounce.
Deep down they would love to see us lose that semi at Newlands.
One game at a time.
9 Jul 2012, 14:52 pm
@Sasuke(Sasuke)-147:
hehehe…
sheesh… we were getting frustrated with his kicking the ball right back to the open arms of the cheetahs nearly every time… very little variation… never tried a good solid grubber which would have been very hard to handle in the conditions…
it’s always easy to focus on a player one mistake or bad moment… all players can get run over at one or other time… as long as those mistake don’t convert into regular points against the team… i’d rather focus on the number of good things they do…
@Gumboots(Gumboots)-148:
yeah bill… but he did really REST our boks when they came back… (except for jean who asked to play)… unlike the bulls boks who FL brought straight back en masse into the starting team…
9 Jul 2012, 14:54 pm
@ufo(ufo)-151:
FL –
9 Jul 2012, 15:02 pm
@Jeraldjay(Jeraldjay)-150: Yes sorry you are right man. One game at a time.
9 Jul 2012, 16:50 pm
Stormersboy @ 3.
Well done Stormers and good luck in play offs.
Also good luck to my team(Sharks)
Lots of good Stormer supporter comments re Sharks performance vs Bulls.
9 Jul 2012, 17:21 pm
@THE MAULER(THE MAULER)-82:
By your logic no team will ever lose two games in a row. What happens when both teams have lost their previous home games? Who wins in that scenario according to your theory of pumped-up-ness?
9 Jul 2012, 17:44 pm
STUBR it obviously doesnt count for all teams but a top team like the Chiefs will definitly want to correct their “wrongs”… As in the Sharks losing to the Lions required them to win with a bonus and low and behold they ripped into the Bulls…
9 Jul 2012, 17:48 pm
I think a very relevant point has been completely overlooked in lauding the Stormers for their conference title. The conference system has done the Stormers a huge favour in that they have faced neither of the top sides from Australia or NZ in the form of the Brumbies and the Chiefs. Had this been the case I doubt their record would look as good.
I’m not taking anything away from them but the fact that they have not played the top 2 sides in the competition does not bode well for them. They do not have the game to beat teams but merely live with them and kick points when they force penalties.
It will be another dissapointing end to the Stormers campaign in the Semis. I think both the Sharks and the Bulls would stand a far better chance of progressing from the same position. I really hope they prove me wrong as a second year with no SA side in the final would be very dissapointing.
9 Jul 2012, 17:50 pm
Pity Keohane went and put the bloody mockers on Stormers with his goddamn prediction.. I wish he’d just focus on his beloved Bulls 100% and leave our Stormers results to work their own magic out for themselves.. we certainly don’t need Keohane to come and declare his undying support at this late stage of proceedings and go and screw the cat in the process.
9 Jul 2012, 19:53 pm
@tigereaver(tigereaver)-157:
I am also sorry that the Stormers did not meet the brumbies as they are not even remotely in the Stormer’s class as a team. The 2 teams might still meet in the one semi final at newlands in 3 weeks time and then you will see what I mean.
Why do you say the Bulls would stand a better chance of progressing from the same position?- it makes no sense as the Stormers have already beaten them twice this season including at loftus (with a much weakened team).
9 Jul 2012, 20:13 pm
Can you re-call the article on this site (I think Keo wrote it) where The Stormers were slammed as being a k@k side that would not progress in the S15?? Now we won the SA conference – where is the retraction\apology???
9 Jul 2012, 22:20 pm
Tiger posted the same post on the rugby365 forum ….and deservedly got humiliated by some of the bloggers on there.
10 Jul 2012, 05:21 am
@tigereaver(tigereaver)-157: The Stormers are one of the top two sides in the comp. we can’t play against ourselves. If you think we don’t have what it takes to beat sides look at the table. No other side has won as many games as us. None. Back to the drawing board Tiger.
10 Jul 2012, 12:36 pm
@tigereaver(tigereaver)-157: Your argument would hold weight if the Stormers lost againt the Sharks or Bulls, as it stands the only loss to another SA franchise was against the Sharks in Durban (5 points). The only other loss was against the Crusaders (7 points).
Also if any other SA team beat the Chiefs that would make sense (not including the Brumbies who are benefitting from the conference system.)
If the Bulls and Sharks were better teams week in week out they would have the higher position on the log.
10 Jul 2012, 21:47 pm
Tigereaver @157
I think its defiantly the opposite there old chap !!!! The Brumbies and the Chiefs are the lucky ones for not playing the Stormers and when we meet one of them in the play offs. They going to be manhandle by the Stormers . Just u wait and see !!!
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