Currie Cup Final: Sharks vs Western Province - Preview

It is Currie Cup final time!!!! The Sharks host Western Province at Durban and once again rain is expected in the Kwazulu Natal coastal city.

The Sharks would want to forget about last years dissapointing performance in the final against the Lions and return the coveted trophy to Kings Park. The Sharks lifted the trophy in 2010 outplaying the same opponents where Pat Lambie had a dream game.

WP would want to travel home with the awesome trophy for the first time in 11years, thats right they last lifted the trophy in 2001 when they beat Natal 29-24 at Newlands.

Sharks coach John Plumtree has given all his Springboks a go in the starting line up with the Beast and robust openside flanker Willem Alberts getting their oppertunity to shine. All eyes will be on Pat Lambie as he will try to eclipse his feat in 2010 and stake a claim for the Springboks no.10 jersey.

WP coach Allister Coetzee made one change to his team that beat the Lions with a last gasp effort in the semi final last weekend and it is a big surprise, Damian de Allende replaces Marcell Braché at 12. There has been a lot of hype during the build up week about de Allende and lets hope he produces a sublime performance.

Prediction: The Sharks should be more accustomed to the wet weather and they look the more blessed side accross the park, but WP would want to shake their "chokers" tag and will through everything, including the kitchen sink at the Sharks. I am a huge WP supporter and hoping for a huge performance and a massive upset over the Sharks. I am therefore going with my hart and tipping Province to win by 3.

Teams:

Sharks: 15 Louis Ludik, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Paul Jordaan, 12 Tim Whitehead, 11 Lwazi Mvovo, 10 Pat Lambie, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Keegan Daniel (captain), 7 Willem Alberts, 6 Marcell Coetzee, 5 Anton Bresler, 4 Steven Sykes, 3 Jannie du Plessis, 2 Craig Burden, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.

Supersubs: 16 Kyle Cooper, 17 Wiehahn Herbst, 18 Jandré Marais, 19 Jean Deysel, 20 Charl McLeod, 21 Meyer Bosman, 22 Odwa Ndungane.

Western Province: 15 Gio Aplon, 14
Gerhard van den Heever, 13 Juan de Jongh, 12 Damian de Allende, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Demetri Catrakilis, 9 Nic Groom, 8 Duane Vermeulen, 7 Don Armand, 6 Deon Fourie (c), 5 De Kock Steenkamp, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Frans Malherbe, 2 Scarra Ntubeni, 1 Steven Kitshoff.

Supersubs: 16 Deon Carstens, 17 Brok Harris, 18 Wilhelm van der Sluys, 19 Jebb Sinclair, 20 Louis Schreuder, 21 Marcel Brache, 22 Joe Pietersen.

Date: Saturday, October 27
Venue: Kings Park, Durban
Kick-off: 17.00
Expected weather: Overcast with a chance of rain, 17 C, wind of 15k/ph
Referee: Jaco Peyper
Assistant referees: Christie du Preez,
Stefan Breytenbach
TMO: Johann Meuwesen

Till next time!!!

Be blessed
Barry-Jo

Currie Cup Semi Finals - Prediction

I predict the Currie Cup semi finals.

Sharks vs Bulls

Another wet encounter awaits. Its going to be tight and hard as nails. If the Bulls dominate like the previous encounter then the Sharks are in for a long day at the office. If the Sharks stand up they might sneak it.

Prediction: Bulls by 5.

Teams:

Sharks: 15 Louis Ludik, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Paul Jordaan, 12 Tim Whitehead, 11 Lwazi Mvovo, 10 Pat Lambie, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Keegan Daniel (captain), 7 Jean Deysel, 6 Marcell Coetzee, 5 Anton Bresler, 4 JandréMarais, 3 Jannie du Plessis, 2 Kyle Cooper, 1 Dale Chadwick.

Supersubs: 16 Craig Burden, 17 Tendai Mtawarira, 18 Wiehahn Herbst, 19 Steven Sykes/Peet Marais, 20 Willem Alberts, 21 Charl McLeod, 22 Meyer Bosman.

Blue Bulls: 15 Zane Kirchner, 14 Akona Ndungane, 13 JJ Engelbrecht, 12 Francois Venter, 11 Bjorn Basson, 10 Morné Steyn, 9 Jano Vermaak, 8 Arno Botha, 7 Jacques Potgieter, 6 Dewald Potgieter (captain), 5 Juandré Kruger, 4 Flip van der Merwe, 3 Werner Kruger, 2 Willie Wepener, 1 Morné Mellett.

Supersubs: 16 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17 Frik Kirsten, 18 Wilhelm Steenkamp, 19 CJ Stander, 20 Francois Hougaard, 21 Louis Fouché, 22 Dean Greyling.

Date: Saturday, October 20
Venue: Kings Park, Durban
Kick-off: 16.30
Expected weather: It will rain on Saturday. The questions is just how much of it will fall during the game and how heavy it will be. At this stage the prediction is for light to moderate rain, with the temperature around the 17°C to 18°C mark
Referee: Mark Lawrence
Assistant referees: Jason Jaftha, Christiedu Preez
TMO: Shaun Veldsman

Province vs Lions

This is going to be another tight game. The Lions will be well rested and try to build on their consistently good season. Province look more blessed around the park, but the lions will not go down without a fight.

Prediction:

Western Province by 5-7 points.

Teams:

Golden Lions: 15 Andries Coetzee, 14 Ruan Combrinck, 13 Jaco Taute, 12 Alwyn Hollenbach, 11 Anthony Volmink, 10 Elton Jantjies, 9 Michael Bondesio, 8 Warren Whiteley, 7 Jaco Kriel, 6 Cobus Grobbelaar, 5 Franco van der Merwe, 4 Michael Rhodes, 3 Jacobie Adriaanse, 2 Callie Visagie, 1 JC Janse van Rensburg (captain).

Supersubs: 16 Bandise Maku, 17 CJ van der Linde, 18 Hendrik Roodt, 19 Derick Minnie, 20 Ross Cronje, 21 Butch James, 22 Deon Helberg.

Western Province: 15 Gio Aplon, 14
Gerhard van den Heever, 13 Juan de Jongh, 12 Marcel Brache, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Demetri Catrakilis, 9 Nic Groom, 8 Duane Vermeulen, 7 Don Armand, 6 Deon Fourie (captain), 5 De Kock Steenkamp, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Frans Malherbe, 2 Siyabonga Ntubeni, 1 Steven Kitshoff.

Supersubs: 16 Deon Carstens, 17 Brok Harris, 18 Wilhelm van der Sluys, 19 Jebb Sinclair, 20 Louis Schreuder, 21 Damian de Allende, 22 Joe Pietersen.

Date: Saturday, October 20
Venue: Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg
Kick-off: 19.00
Expected weather: Rain and
thunderstorms are predicted for Saturday evening .The high will be 24°C and it will cool down to about 19°C.
Referee: Marius Jonker
Assistant referees: Sindile Mayende,
Stefan Breytenbach
TMO: Johann Meuwesen

Till we meet again.

Be blessed
Barry-Jo

Kings Brought Down to Earth

After the EP Kings claimed the Currie Cup 1st Devision title last week against the Pumas, they travelled full of convidence to Bloemfontein to tackle the Cheetahs in the first leg of two games, hoping to gain promotion to the Premier Devision.

The Cheetahs played as if their lives depended on the result and lets be honest, it technically did. If the Cheetahs lost it would have opened a whole new can of worms regarding the Kings playing SupeRugby next year at the expense of the Lions. Ultimately the Cheetahs gave the Kings no chance as they dispatched them 53-14. Unless the Cheetahs implode spectacularly next week in the second leg and lose by 40 points without getting a bonus point, their spot in the Premier League seems to be as safe as a reinforced concrete basement in hurricane season.

The Kings placid display begged a couple of questions, if the Cheetahs handled them so easy, what is going to happen against the likes of the Crusaders, Chiefs, Hurricanes, Bulls, Sharks and Stormers just to name a couple of high class SupeRugby sides who know how to demolish strong opposition? Will SARU back their decision to let the Kings play SupeRugby pre-maturely?

After last night one thing stood out like sore thumb, the Kings will end last on the SA converence and the Lions will replace them in 2014.

I am not saying that the Kings do not have tallented rugby players to make the cut at the highest level, I am saying that they are not READY!!
They should have released a couple of young players to the five individual unions to prepare them for arguably the toughest rugby competition in the world. This should have happened 2-3 years ago, yes they have a acadamy system in place, yes they have very good coaches, but is that enough? Is Cheeky Watson going to flash his rather large checkbook to "buy" a decent team to be competitive enough not to end up with the wooden spoon?

The Kings have another shot at the Cheetahs next weekend and lets hope for their sake that they put up a better fight and show the whole of South Africa that they are indeed ready to play SupeRugby.

Till next time, be blessed.
Barry-Jo

Springboks vs All Blacks - Teams and Prediction

Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer, for the first time at the helm, named an unchanged team for their all important clash with the All Blacks at Soccer City stadium in Soweto.

All Black coach Steve Hansen called in Brodie Retallick at lock who makes a direct swop with Luke Romano. Hosea Gear takes over from Julian Savea on the left wing who will have to keep Bryan Habana in check. Savea falls out of the matchday squad alltogether.

Allthough the All Blacks secured the Rugby Championship title last week against the Pumas, it by no means mean that they will simply let the Boks walk over them. There is alot at stake at Nasrec as the All Blacks would want to extend their unbeaten run to 16 consecutive games and the Springboks would like to build on some impresive momentum picked up against the Wallabies last week end.

Prediction:

Expect an exciting, physical, running game with both teams trying to empose themselves on each other. Both teams are high in confidence and both sides will give everything for a victory. I am simply going with my hart on this one and call the Springboks by 3 points.

The teams:

Springboks: 15 Zane Kirchner, 14 Bryan Habana, 13 Jaco Taute, 12 Jean de Villiers (captain), 11 François Hougaard, 10 Johan Goosen, 9 Ruan Pienaar, 8 Duane Vermeulen, 7 Willem Alberts, 6 François Louw, 5 Andries Bekker, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Jannie du Plessis, 2 Adriaan Strauss, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.

Super subs: 16 Tiaan Liebenberg, 17 Coenie Oosthuizen, 18 Flip van der Merwe, 19 Marcell Coetzee, 20 Elton Jantjies, 21 Juan de Jongh, 22 Pat Lambie.

All Blacks: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Cory Jane, 13 Conrad Smith, 12 Ma'a Nonu, 11 Hosea Gear, 10 Daniel Carter, 9 Aaron Smith, 8 Kieran Read, 7 Richie McCaw (captain), 6 Liam Messam, 5 Samuel Whitelock , 4 Brodie Retallick, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Andrew Hore, 1 Tony Woodcock.

Super subs: 16 Keven Mealamu, 17 Ben Franks, 18 Luke Romano, 19 Adam Thomson, 20 Piri Weepu, 21 Aaron Cruden, 22 Tamati Ellison.

Date: Saturday, 6 October 2012
Kick-off: 17.00 SA Time
Venue: Soccer City, Soweto
Expected weather conditions: Mostly
cloudy with a high of 30°C, dropping to
15°C
Referee: Alain Rolland (Ireland)
Assistant referees: Romain Poite (France),
Greg Garner (England)
TMO: Shaun Veldsman (South Africa)

Springboks vs Wallabies - Prediction

I do not think this is going to be a tight game at all. I reckon the Springboks have to much fire power up front with Eben Etzebeth returning for Flip van der Merwe and partnering the very skillful Andries Bekker. Johann Goosen makes his run on debut and should get the skillful backline players on his outside going like a V8 engine. I expect an open running game filled with excitement.

The Aussies have opted to play Curtley Beale at ten to give them some attacking prowess and Berrick Barnes finds himself at fullback. I wonder if the Quade Cooper rant during the week will have an effect on the team as they look pretty thin without the services of robust loose forward, Scott Higginbotham with the latter picking up an injury on Thursday and looks unlikely to feature on the bench. A replacement hasn't been named.

Prediction: Springboks by atleast 20.

The teams:

Springboks: 15 Zane Kirchner, 14 Bryan Habana, 13 Jaco Taute, 12 Jean de Villiers (captain), 11 Francois Hougaard, 10 Johan Goosen, 9 Ruan Pienaar, 8 Duane Vermeulen, 7 Willem Alberts, 6 Francois Louw, 5 Andries Bekker, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Jannie du Plessis, 2 Adriaan Strauss, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.

Super subs: 16 Tiaan Liebenberg, 17 Pat Cilliers, 18 Flip van der Merwe, 19 Marcell Coetzee, 20 Elton Jantjies, 21 Juan de Jongh, 22 Pat Lambie.

Wallabies: 15 Berrick Barnes, 14 Dominic Shipperley, 13 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 12 Pat McCabe, 11 Digby Ioane, 10 Kurtley Beale, 9 Nick Phipps, 8 Radike Samo, 7 Michael Hooper, 6 Dave Dennis, 5 Nathan Sharpe
(captain), 4 Kane Douglas, 3 Ben Alexander, 2 Tatafu Polota Nau, 1 Benn Robinson.

Super subs: 16 Saia Fainga'a, 17 James
Slipper, 18 Rob Simmons, 19 Scott Higginbotham, 20 Liam Gill, 21 Brett Sheehan, 22 Anthony Fainga'a.

Date: Saturday, September 29
Kick-off: 17.00 SA Time
Venue: Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
Expected weather: Clear with a high of
21°C, dropping to 10°C  and no rain - a
beautiful spring day on the Highveld, great
for rugby.
Referee: Alain Rolland (Ireland)
Assistant referees: Romain Poite (France),
Greg Garner (England)
TMO: Shaun Veldsman (South Africa)

Steyn, Oosthuizen Fails Fitness Tests

Frans Steyn and Coenie Oosthuizen failed late fitness tests and will not take part in the test against Australia at Loftus Versfeld.

Jaco Taute will make his Springbok debut at outside centre and captain Jean de Villiers moves to his prefered inside centre position.

Pat Cilliers replaces Coenie Oosthuizen on the bench.

Watch out for my previews a bit later.

Till then

Barry-Jo

Springbok Team vs Australia - 29 September 2012

The Bok team to face Australia was announced with a couple of bolters. Johann Goosen gets his run-on debut replacing under fire Morné Steyn, who is left out of the match 22 all together. Jaco Taute is in brackets with Frans Steyn if the latter fails a late fitness test. Pat Lambie, unfortunately stil finds himself warming the bench. Eben Etzebeth returns and joins up with his Stormers partner Andries Bekker, who swops places with Flip van der Merwe. Juandre Kruger falls out all together.

Springbok side to face Australia:

15 Zane Kirchner, 14 Bryan Habana, 13 Jean De Villiers (c), 12 Francois Steyn/Jaco Taute, 11 Francois Hougaard,10 Johann Goosen, 9 Ruan Pienaar, 8 Duane Vermeulen, 7 Willem Alberts, 6 Francois Louw,5 Andries Bekker, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Jannie Du Plessis, 2 Adrian Strauss, 1 Beast Mtawarira.

Super Subs: 16 Tiaan Liebenberg, 17 Coenie Oosthuizen, 18 Flip Van der Merwe, 19 Marcell Coetzee, 20 Elton Jantjies, 21 Jaco Taute/Juan De Jongh, 22 Patrick Lambie

The Winning Bok Side

I recently read a very interesting article on www.rugby365.com where Jan de Koning picks his Springbok side that could beat any side in the world. You can read the full article at http://www.rugby365.com/article/49694-tweaks-that-can-make-boks-winners

I really like his team, but would make a couple of tweaks of my own. Firstly I would move captain Jean de Villiers to his prefered and devasting inside centre position as he is battling on attack at the moment. Frans Steyn will always find a place in my side, but I would move him to fullback, where I beleive he has more venom. I would play Juan de Jongh next to the captain as he gives us n bit more on attack and knowing Jean de Villiers so well on defence. Willie Le Roux finds a spot on the bench as he has impressed in SupeRugby and Currie Cup and will add a extra dimension on attack later in the game. The rest of the backline picks itself. Patrick Lambie unfortunately still finds a frustrating spot on the bench.

In the pack, I would recall Heinrich Brussouw as I believe he is the best fetcher in the world. I am not fond of the overseas based players and therefore would release Francois Louw to play for Bath in the Premiership. Eben Etzebeth replaces Flip van der Merwe who doesn't feature in the match 22.

That is my team in a nutshell and combined with Heyneke Meyer's game plan I believe we could take anyone in the world.

Please feel free to comment on both teams. I Would love to hear from you guys.

Jan de Koning's starting XV: 15 Pat Lambie, 14 Bryan Habana, 13 Jean de Villiers (captain), 12 Frans Steyn, 11 François Hougaard, 10 Johann Goosen, 9 Ruan Pienaar, 8 Duane Vermeulen, 7 Willem Alberts, 6 François Louw, 5 Juandré Kruger, 4 Flip van der Merwe, 3 Jannie du Plessis, 2 Adriaan Strauss, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Tiaan Liebenberg, 17 Coenie Oosthuizen, 18 Andries Bekker, 19 Marcell Coetzee, 20 Elton Jantjies, 21 Juan de Jongh, 22 Willie le Roux.

My Starting Lineup: 15 Francois Steyn, 14 Bryan Habana, 13 Juan de Jongh, 12 Jean de Villiers (captain), 11 Francois Hougaard, 10 Johann Goosen, 9 Ruan Pienaar, 8 Duane Vermeulen, 7 Willem Alberts, 6 Heinrich Brussouw, 5 Juandré Kruger, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Jannie du Plessis, 2 Adriaan Strauss, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Super Subs: 16 Tiaan Liebenberg, 17 Coenie Oosthuizen, 18 Andries Bekker, 19 Marcell Coetzee, 20 Morne Steyn, 21 Willie Le Roux, 22 Patrick Lambie.

Have a blessed weekend everyone!!!

Barry-Jo

All Blacks vs Springboks - Preview

As awesome as what the All Blacks are, they have always been vulnerable against a "gekweste Springbok span." Expect the Boks to come out firing to give the fans at home something to cheer about. All in all the All Blacks do look more blessed across the park, but I reckon the Boks will put up a spirited fight. The Springboks need a win to ensure the Championship stays open.

Prediction:

Once again a brave one and I am going with my hart on this one. Springboks to sneak it by 1-3 points.

The Teams

New Zealand: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Cory Jane, 13 Conrad Smith, 12 Ma'a Nonu, 11 Julian Savea, 10 Aaron Cruden, 9 Piri Weepu, 8 Kieran Read, 7 Richie McCaw (captain), 6 Liam Messam, 5 Sam Whitelock, 4 Luke Romano, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Andrew Hore, 1 Tony Woodcock.

Super Subs: 16 Keven Mealamu, 17 Charlie Faumuina, 18 Brodie Retallick, 19 Victor Vito, 20 Aaron Smith, 21 Beauden Barrett, 22 Tamati Ellison.

South Africa: 15 Zane Kirchner, 14 Bryan Habana, 13 Jean de Villiers (captain), 12 Frans Steyn, 11 François Hougaard, 10 Morné Steyn, 9 Ruan Pienaar, 8 Duane Vermeulen, 7 Willem Alberts, 6 François Louw, 5 Juandré Kruger, 4 Flip van der Merwe, 3 Jannie du Plessis, 2 Adriaan Strauss, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.

Super Subs: 16 Tiaan Liebenberg, 17 Dean Greyling, 18 Andries Bekker, 19 Marcell Coetzee, 20 Johan Goosen, 21 Juan de Jongh, 22 Pat Lambie.

Date: Saturday, September 15
Kick-off: 19.35 local time (09.35 SA time; 07.35 GMT)
Venue: Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin
Expected weather: The closed roof suggests a match undamaged by climate.
Referee: George Clancy (Ireland)
Assistant referees: Romain Poite (France) James Leckie (Australia)
TMO: Vinny Munro at New Zealand)

Wallabies vs Pumas - Preview

Expect the Argies trying to disrupt the Wallabies at the brake down and give them extra slow ball. The Aussies without the fire power of genia needs Quade Cooper to spark. I think the Pumas should own the weak Aussie pack with captain Fernandez Lobbe and impressive lock Albecete leading from the front. In all I think it is going to be an extreamely tight game, but I predict that the Pumas will fly back to their South American homes with a victory.

Prediction:

It is a brave one, but Argentina by 3-5 points.

Teams:
Australia: 15 Berrick Barnes, 14 Dominic Shipperley, 13 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 12 Pat McCabe, 11 Digby Ioane, 10 Quade Cooper, 9 Nick Phipps, 8 Radike Samo, 7 Michael Hooper, 6 Dave Dennis, 5 Nathan Sharpe (captain), 4 Kane Douglas, 3 Ben Alexander, 2 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 1 Benn Robinson

Super Subs: 16 Saia Fainga'a, 17 James Slipper, 18 Scott Higginbotham, 19 Liam Gill, 20 Brett Sheehan, 21 Anthony Fainga'a, 22 Kurtley Beale.

Argentina: 15 Lucas Gonzalez Amorosino, 14 Gonzalo Camacho, 13 Marcelo Bosch, 12 Santiago Fernandez, 11 Horacio Agulla, 10
Juan Martin Hernandez, 9 Martin Landajo, 8 Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe (captain), 7 Juan Manuel Leguizamon, 6 Julio Farias Cabello, 5 Patricio Albacete, 4 Manuel Carizza, 3 Juan Figallo, 2 Eusebio Guinazu, 1 Rodrigo Roncero.

Super Subs: 16 Agustin Creevy, 17 Juan Pablo Orlandi, 18 Leonardo Senatore, 19 Toms Leonardi, 20 Nicolas Vergallo, 21 Martin Rodriguez, 22 Juan Imhoff.

Date: Saturday, September 15
Venue: Skilled Park, Gold Coast
Kick-off: 20.00 AEST; 10.00 GMT
Expected weather: Mostly sunny. 20k/ph south easterly wind.
High of 21, low of 12
Referee: Wayne Barnes (England)
Assistant referees: Nigel Owens (Wales), Glen Jackson (New Zealand)
TMO: Matt Goddard (Australia)

Springbok Player Ratings

The Springboks failed to deliver and slumped to their first defeat under new coach Heyneke Meyer as they went down 26-19 to their Aussie counterparts. The Springboks looked composed in the first half and jogged into the change room leading 13-6. The wheels however came off after the break and couldn't pull the deficit back in the end.

I rate Springboks.

Springboks:
15. Zane Kirchner:
Was solid at the back, kicked well and chased well and was reliable on defense. One of his better games in the Bok jersey. 7/10.
14. Bryan Habana:
Was influential on attack and was all over the park. Had extreamly high work rate and capped it off with a superb try. 7/10.
13. Jean de Villiers (captain):
Had a quiet game. Solid on defense. Had limited chances on attack. Thought he should have gone for the 3 points in the end and chase the win. 5/10.
12. Francois Steyn:
Solid game. Was good on defense and attack. Kicked two monstrous penalties that kept the Boks in the game. 7/10.
11. Francois Hougaard:
Had a decent game on the wing. Chasing hard and his cover defense was good. Thought he could have looked for more work. 6/10.
10. Morné Steyn:
He was good on defense and showed some promise with ball in hand, but lost the ball in contact to often. Missed a penalty at posts which cost them in the end. 5/10.
9. Ruan Pienaar:
His service was crisp and his cover defense was good and kicked really well. He should ask more questions around the fringes. 6/10.
8. Duane Vermeulen:
Was solid in his debut. Made his tackles and caused a couple of turnovers. Could be a little bit more involved with ball in hand. 7/10.
7. Willem Alberts:
Was monstrous on defense, cleaned out well and carried the ball strongly. 7/10.
6. Marcell Coetzee:
Had a quite game to his standards. Made his tackles, hit the rucks and carried strongly. 6/10.
5. Juandré Kruger:
Marshalled the lineouts fantastically and wasn't shy in putting his body on the line. Hit the rucks very hard and I thought he was the best Bok on the field. 8/10.
4. Eben Etzebeth:
Carried well, made some big hits and cleaned out well. Was good in the lineouts. 6/10.
3. Jannie du Plessis:
Was solid in the scrums and defended and cleaned well. 6/10
2. Adriaan Strauss:
Found his jumpers with every put in and worked very hard. I don't think he was fully fit. 6/10.
1. Tendai Mtawarira:
Worked very hard at scrum time and his defense was solid. Got a silly yellow card that cost him a point. 5/10.

Replacements:
16. Tiaan Liebenberg:
On for Adriaan Strauss. Missed some lineouts and didn't have enough time to impose himself properly. 5/10.
17. Patric Cilliers:
On for Tendai Mtawarira. Battled a bit at scrum time, but was very effective in the loose. 6/10.
18.Flip van der Merwe:
On for Eben Etzebeth. Was very quiet and lost a couple of lineouts. 5/10.
19 Francois Louw:
Was a mennace at the brakedown as soon as he came on for Marcell Coetzee and didn't look out of place. 6/10.
20. Johan Goosen:
On for Morne Steyn. Was sharp on attack, looked composed and was very effective in organising the backline. Surely he should get a chance to show what he can do from the start. 7/10.
21: Patrick Lambie:
On for Zane Kirchner. Was solid at the back and although Kirchner had a solid game today should get a starting role. 6/10.
22: Lwazi Mvovo:
On for Bryan Habana. Made a crucial mistake on attack when passing for his skipper instead of holding on to the ball, but otherwise had a sollid performance. 6/10.

It was a shocking second half performance from the Boks and should up their game if they want to trounce the inform All Blacks.

Till later!!!
Barry-Jo

Vermeulen gets debut, Goosen on bench

Stormers and Western Province No 8 Duane Vermeulen will finally make his Springbok debut against Australia in Perth on Saturday, in South Africa’s third Test in The Castle Rugby Championship for 2012. Add to that, Toyota Free State Cheetahs flyhalf Johan Goosen has been selected as part of the super subs and will earn his first Springbok cap if he gets game time at Paterson’s Stadium. Adriaan Strauss has been included at hooker after coming through a a greuling series of fitness tests, but he has until Friday to fully shake off his knee injury.

Vermeulen’s inclusion at no 8 is one of five changes from the starting team that played Argentina in Mendoza on August 25. There are two positional changes, with Francois Hougaard moving from scrumhalf to left wing and Willem Alberts shifting from No 8 to flank. Apart from Vermeulen, lock Juandré Kruger gets a recall, while Ruan Pienaar will start his first Test of 2012 at scrumhalf. There are further two changes to the bench with Francois Louw and Lwazi Mvovo finding spots amongst the super subs.

“We’ve decided to put Duane straight into the starting team because he is a classic No 8, a position we’ve lacked in since Pierre Spies got injured and Ryan Kankowski moved to Japan,” said Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer at the team announcement in Perth on Wednesday. “I’ve always admired the way Duane plays rugby and he’s fitted in very well the past week. He would’ve been a Springbok years ago if it had not been for injuries and it’s great to finally see him selected. The same goes for Johan, who in my mind can become one of the great flyhalves in world rugby. I’ve been very impressed with his work ethic and attitude since he joined the squad on Thursday in Johannesburg and we will keep on managing him carefully over the next few weeks.”

Commenting on the other changes to the team, Meyer said: “Ruan brings a more tactical approach to scrumhalf, while I’ve always been impressed with Francois at wing. At lock we’ve decided to go for Juandré as he plays more to the ball. Juandré and Eben played well as a combination in the June Tests against England. And by including Francois on the bench, we have a specialist opensider, but also a versatile loose forward that brings a bit more balance to our back row mix.”

Springbok team to face Australia:

15. Zane Kirchner, 14 Bryan Habana, 13 Jean de Villiers (captain), 12 Frans Steyn, 11 Francois Hougaard, 10 Morné Steyn, 9 Ruan Pienaar, 8 Duane Vermeulen, 7 Willem Alberts, 6 Marcell Coetzee, 5 Juandre Kruger, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Jannie du Plessis, 2 Adriaan Strauss, 1 Beast Mtawarira.

Super Subs: 16 Tiaan Liebenberg, 17 Pat Cilliers, 18 Flip van der Merwe, 19 Francois Louw, 20 Johan Goosen, 21 Patrick Lambie, 22 Lwazi Mvovo

Watch out for my predictions later in the week!!!

Have super blessed day!!!

Regards
Barry-Jo

SA Rugby Legends Event: Bokke en Biltong Evening

The Bokke and Biltong evening was a steak evening hosted by Johnny Louw at the Boeretroos Theater in East London on Thursday evening, 30 August.

The guests were Springbok Legend, Ollie Le Roux and one of the best refferee's that our country has produced in Tappe Henning.

The evening kicks off full of laughter and jokes with Johnny being very humourous and entertaining with an awesome personality.

Both Ollie and Tappe speak of the highs and lows of rugby from both sides of the spectrum, but I sense the night had a deeper meening than just the fame and success that the sport gave them.

It kicks off with the mood changeing from joking and laughing to Johnny speaking openly and direct of his life, a difficult life, full of struggles and heartache. Ollie and Tappe join in and flips the whole evening around and speaks about life without direction and without a cause. They were always searching for the next big break to put them higher on the limelight ladder, where you are noticed and likeable, a life where temptations are huge as everyone has their spotlight on you. Jy is mos die main man, n Springbok en n skeidsregter wat groot games blaas, waar groot name rugbyspelers speel.

Johnny, Ollie and Tappe then speaks about the event, the event that changes your whole life. An event that shakes you so hard that you realise that your life is empty and directionless. The event opens your eyes and God starts speaking to you, ruk jouself reg en word vissers van mense. Go out and help these young sportstars who are chasing the green and gold jersey, money, fame. They urged the young people to stop chasing these above mentioned, superficial things and start chasing Jesus for He is the one who safes and He is the one who wants to shape you and guide you to better things.

This evening really connected with the inner me and I realise that God has a specific plan with my life. I might have wanted to be a proffesional rugby player, but it isn't what I want, it is all about what He wants.

After the talk we all sat down and had a really nice meal and overall it was a great event that was impeccably hosted by Mr Louw and left me in content. A big shout out to Hoërskool Grens and the SARugby Legends association for organizing such a awesome event.

Until next time, have a blessed week end and don't stop chasing Jesus!!!! ;-)

Regards
Barry

New Zealand vs Australia – Preview

Round two of the inaugural Rugby Championship kicks off with the powerful All Blacks taking on the Wallabies at Eden Park in Auckland.

The Wallabies would be desperate for an away victory after their home defeat last week to the same opposition. Their cause would have taken a huge blow after their captain David Pocock was injured in last week’s encounter, giving the young and exciting Michael Hooper a shot at glory.Quade Cooper returns to the starting line up in place of Kurtley Beale and Berrick Barnes move to outside center to give the Aussies some extra kicking options. Will Genia takes over the captaincy role.

The settled All Black side has only one injury-enforced change from last week’s run on team, with Wyatt Crockett replacing the injured Tony Woodcock.

Players to Watch:

Sonny Bill Williams with his magical off loads, Israel Dagg with his brilliant positional play and extraordinary attack, Mr. Consistent Dan Carter, Captain Incredible Richie McCaw and the impressive Kieran Read.

For Australia the explosive Digby Ioane, magical Quade Cooper if the moment isn’t too big for him, Silky Smooth Will Genia, Never Say Die Scott Higginbotham and Old Timer Nathan Sharpe.

Prediction:

Australia will give everything in their power to outmuscle the All Blacks, but I do not think they will have enough power to stop the black machine.

All Blacks to win by 15.

Date: Saturday, 25 August
Venue: Eden Park, Auckland
Kick Off: 09:35, SA Time.

SA vs Abroad

It may be for the money or lack of oppertunities, but South Africa is loosing not only young rugby players, but experienced veterens of the game at the speed of light.

Fourie du Preez is a great example of a talented, well rounded rugby player who represented his country and provincial sides with distinction. He has won everything from numerous Currie cup's, Super 14 titles, Tri-Nations and not to mention the World Cup.

Suddenly after our not so succesul 2011 World Cup campaign, he decides to take up a lucrative offer to play in Japan knowing that his career would soon come to an end.

Did his descision impact the Springbok side hugely?

YES, I believe it did!!! No one has really grabbed the oppertunity to establish himself as the best no. 9 in the country and maybe the world, because I believe du Preez was/is the best scrum half SA has ever had with Joost coming in a close second.

Nothing against Francois Hougaard, Ruan Pienaar, Dewaldt Duvenhage or whoever you prescribe to don the bok jersey, because they are awesome rugby players themselves, but lately we lack direction on attack which du Preez was central to aswell as comunication on defense.

Fourie is not the only player leaving a gaping hole for I can mention the names of Jaque Fourie, Francios Louw, Joe van Niekerk just to name a few and fringe players like Schalk Brits and Ernts Joubert. There are hundreds of young SA players plying their trade abroad because of the lack of oppertunities in this country and it is really sad.

I really hope Hougie has a huge game on Saturday against the Argies and starts to put his signature on the 9 jersey for the future.

An I truly hope SARU derives some system in keeping our talent at home!!!!

Welcome

This is my very first post and I would just like to thank everyone in advance for viewing my blog!!!

I chat about rugby, the sport everyone loves in this country. The highs and the lows, the awesome and not so awesome moments. If it has anything to do with rugby, I will have a view. My view may not be the best view and If I offend anyone, I oppologise in advance.

I will discuss a couple of topics in the next couple of days and please feel free to comment and share as you please!!!! Any advise on topics etc. Would be highly appteciated!!!