Heineken Cup Final Preview
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ASM Clermont Auvergne vs Toulon | Saturday 18 May | Aviva Stadium | 18:00
It’s an all-French affair this weekend, with Clermont Auvergne taking on Toulon in the piece de resistance of Northern Hemisphere club rugby. And more deserved finalists you could not find. Not only were both sides outstanding throughout their Heineken Cup campaigns this year, they also finished first and second in the French Top 14 this season. Clermont Auvergne and Toulon run out in Dublin as first time finalists this Saturday, one of them will join Toulouse and Brive in becoming only the third French side to secure the coveted European club title.
ASM Clermont Auvergne vs Toulon | Saturday 18 May | Aviva Stadium | 18:00
It’s an all-French affair this weekend, with Clermont Auvergne taking on Toulon in the piece de resistance of Northern Hemisphere club rugby. And more deserved finalists you could not find. Not only were both sides outstanding throughout their Heineken Cup campaigns this year, they also finished first and second in the French Top 14 this season. Clermont Auvergne and Toulon run out in Dublin as first time finalists this Saturday, one of them will join Toulouse and Brive in becoming only the third French side to secure the coveted European club title.Super Rugby Round 14 Preview
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As we head into the fourteenth week of Super Rugby action, the New Zealand sides have taken the lion’s share of the coveted top six spots. The Chiefs lie in 2nd, the Blues in 5th and the Crusaders moved into 6th spot after picking up four points from their bye last week. This leaves the severely underperforming South Africans holding only one slot between them, being their default top three spot awarded to the leader of each conference, currently held by the Bulls in 3rd. The Brumbies continue as the competition front-runners, but with both the Reds and Chiefs only a point behind, their impressive reign could be coming to an end very soon. Some tough clashes this weekend. Horrible to predict, but great to watch.
As we head into the fourteenth week of Super Rugby action, the New Zealand sides have taken the lion’s share of the coveted top six spots. The Chiefs lie in 2nd, the Blues in 5th and the Crusaders moved into 6th spot after picking up four points from their bye last week. This leaves the severely underperforming South Africans holding only one slot between them, being their default top three spot awarded to the leader of each conference, currently held by the Bulls in 3rd. The Brumbies continue as the competition front-runners, but with both the Reds and Chiefs only a point behind, their impressive reign could be coming to an end very soon. Some tough clashes this weekend. Horrible to predict, but great to watch.Super Rugby Round 13 Preview
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The Brumbies, Bulls and Crusaders all sit out of action this weekend, which means there won’t be any change at the top of the South African and Australian tables as both the Brumbies and the Bulls are two points clear at the top of their respective conferences. The Crusaders could possibly climb into the wild card spots with their guaranteed four points if either the Blues or the Cheetahs fail to secure victories. There’s still a lot of rugby to be played before we can start making predictions about playoff spots, but time is running out for the likes of the Waratahs, Stormers, Sharks and Hurricanes, who are currently fighting it out in the the middle of the log.
The Brumbies, Bulls and Crusaders all sit out of action this weekend, which means there won’t be any change at the top of the South African and Australian tables as both the Brumbies and the Bulls are two points clear at the top of their respective conferences. The Crusaders could possibly climb into the wild card spots with their guaranteed four points if either the Blues or the Cheetahs fail to secure victories. There’s still a lot of rugby to be played before we can start making predictions about playoff spots, but time is running out for the likes of the Waratahs, Stormers, Sharks and Hurricanes, who are currently fighting it out in the the middle of the log.Super Rugby Round 12 Preview
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The mid-table battle heats up as we head into the twelfth round of Super Rugby, a mere four points difference between tenth and fifth place means the laborious bonus point is going to make all the difference in the race for playoffs. The Blues are a prime example of just how influential those elusive points can be. They have won only four of their eight games to date yet find themselves comfortably occupying one of the wild card spots due to the fact that they have managed to secure a bonus point in every single one of their games this season. The Brumbies continue in pole position with forty points but their neighbours from Queensland are only trailing by three. With the Reds facing far inferior opposition this weekend, there could very well be change at the top of the log. The Chiefs have once again taken the lead of the New Zealand conference after their impressive victory at home over the Sharks in a remake of last year’s final. The Cheetahs will put their feet up for the first time this year and the four points they receive from the bye should be enough to keep them unchanged in sixth place heading into Round 13.
Super Rugby Round 11 Preview
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More upsets in Round 10 has led to a substantial reshuffle in the South African conference with the Bulls taking over at the top from the Sharks, who fall down to third. Not only do last year’s finalists drop to third in their conference, but they also drop completely out of the top six on the overall standings following their loss at home to the Cheetahs last weekend. The South African derbies will inevitably become more ruthless from here on in, as the points the Stormers gained from their much needed bye has created a position where only four points separate the top four South African teams. The Blues, also benefiting from the treasured bye, have leapfrogged the Chiefs to the top of the Kiwi conference and now occupy second place on the overall log. The Brumbies only just managed to hang onto their spot atop both the Aussie conference and the overall table after managing a 19-all draw against the resurgent Reds. Round 11 is not offering much relief when it comes to predictions but there are a few decent bets to be had if you use the handicaps.
Super Rugby Round 10 Preview
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Round 9 reminded us that there is no sure thing when it comes to Super Rugby, the mixed bag of results throwing a few of the bottom sides a lifeline and leaving the competition wide open as we hit the half-way mark. The Crusaders were undoubtedly as shocked as the rest of us when the whistle went with them trailing by two points against the Force, giving the side their second win of the 2013 campaign. The Kings continued their unfathomable form on tour by taking down the Rebels in Melbourne, while the Highlanders managed to extend their impressive losing streak when they were defeated in front of a tiring home crowd by the Brumbies. The Brumbies subsequently reclaimed their spot on top of the overall standings. The Sharks failed to capitalise on the Chiefs’ loss, which would have allowed them to move up to second spot had John Plumtree’s men managed the away victory over the injury plagued Stormers. However, that victory may just be too little too late for the Western Cape side.
Super Rugby Round 9 Preview
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The Chiefs top the table for the first time this season, sneaking past the Brumbies who still head the Australian conference but drop to second on the overall log due to the Chiefs’ superior for/against points margin. The Sharks retain their spot atop the South African conference and hold third place on the log, followed by the Reds, Hurricanes and Cheetahs, each claiming a wild card spot at the moment. With only ten points separating the top nine teams, the competition is still wide open, making every game from here on in a must-win for any team with serious intentions of getting their grubby hands on the silverware.
The Chiefs top the table for the first time this season, sneaking past the Brumbies who still head the Australian conference but drop to second on the overall log due to the Chiefs’ superior for/against points margin. The Sharks retain their spot atop the South African conference and hold third place on the log, followed by the Reds, Hurricanes and Cheetahs, each claiming a wild card spot at the moment. With only ten points separating the top nine teams, the competition is still wide open, making every game from here on in a must-win for any team with serious intentions of getting their grubby hands on the silverware.Cheetahs Bear Their Claws
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Since their 2006 inception into the competition as South Africa’s fifth franchise, the Cheetahs have ceremoniously been used as cannon fodder by the stronger unions fighting it out for the coveted Super Rugby title. The Cheetahs clearly have a very different idea for the 2013 season. Through some remarkably passionate performances on tour they managed victories over the Highlanders, Waratahs, and Force before returning home and defeating the Rebels. They followed that up with a record-breaking fifth consecutive victory in Super Rugby when they tamed coastal giants the Stormers at Free State Stadium last weekend. The Cheetahs now find themselves in unfamiliar territory, holding one of the sought after top six spots on the log. They have it all to lose, but as it stands at the moment, they pose very real threat to the silverware this year.
Since their 2006 inception into the competition as South Africa’s fifth franchise, the Cheetahs have ceremoniously been used as cannon fodder by the stronger unions fighting it out for the coveted Super Rugby title. The Cheetahs clearly have a very different idea for the 2013 season. Through some remarkably passionate performances on tour they managed victories over the Highlanders, Waratahs, and Force before returning home and defeating the Rebels. They followed that up with a record-breaking fifth consecutive victory in Super Rugby when they tamed coastal giants the Stormers at Free State Stadium last weekend. The Cheetahs now find themselves in unfamiliar territory, holding one of the sought after top six spots on the log. They have it all to lose, but as it stands at the moment, they pose very real threat to the silverware this year.Super Rugby Round 8 Preview
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As we head into Round 8, the competition in the middle and the top of the table is heating up, but the Highlanders seem to be comfortable at the bottom of the table with only the Kings posing any threat to their wooden spoon claims at the moment. The Brumbies remain at the top but by only two points, and with the Chiefs guaranteed four points from their bye, the Brumbies will have to beast the Kings if they wish to remain in pole position.
As we head into Round 8, the competition in the middle and the top of the table is heating up, but the Highlanders seem to be comfortable at the bottom of the table with only the Kings posing any threat to their wooden spoon claims at the moment. The Brumbies remain at the top but by only two points, and with the Chiefs guaranteed four points from their bye, the Brumbies will have to beast the Kings if they wish to remain in pole position.Super Rugby Round 7 Preview
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There’s plenty of exciting rugby coming your way over the long weekend with only the Sharks enjoying the pleasure of a bye over Easter. The Sharks are now leading the South African conference and the four points they receive for their weekend off means that they will remain there until Round 8. The Brumbies remain overall leaders despite their away loss to the Stormers last week but Kiwi conference leaders the Chiefs have narrowed the gap between them and Jake White’s charges to a mere two points. So, there is a possibility that the Brumbies may be knocked off of pole position for the first time this season.
There’s plenty of exciting rugby coming your way over the long weekend with only the Sharks enjoying the pleasure of a bye over Easter. The Sharks are now leading the South African conference and the four points they receive for their weekend off means that they will remain there until Round 8. The Brumbies remain overall leaders despite their away loss to the Stormers last week but Kiwi conference leaders the Chiefs have narrowed the gap between them and Jake White’s charges to a mere two points. So, there is a possibility that the Brumbies may be knocked off of pole position for the first time this season.Super Rugby Round 6 Preview
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It’s still far too early in the competition to start making predictions about who will take the title this year, but the Brumbies have put themselves in a fairly comfortable position as we head into the sixth round. Jake White’s men legitimised the spot on the top of the table that they’ve held since the opening round when they took on their first non-Australian opponents of the competition at Kings Park on Saturday in a match that separated the men from the boys. The Bulls managed to retain their position at the top of the South African conference despite the whipping they received from the Crusaders, who seem to have finally joined the party after a wobbly start that finds them in seventh spot. The Chiefs still top the Kiwi conference and have moved past the Bulls on the overall standings to second place following their 11 point victory over the Kings.
It’s still far too early in the competition to start making predictions about who will take the title this year, but the Brumbies have put themselves in a fairly comfortable position as we head into the sixth round. Jake White’s men legitimised the spot on the top of the table that they’ve held since the opening round when they took on their first non-Australian opponents of the competition at Kings Park on Saturday in a match that separated the men from the boys. The Bulls managed to retain their position at the top of the South African conference despite the whipping they received from the Crusaders, who seem to have finally joined the party after a wobbly start that finds them in seventh spot. The Chiefs still top the Kiwi conference and have moved past the Bulls on the overall standings to second place following their 11 point victory over the Kings.Wales vs England Six Nations Preview
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Wales vs England | Saturday 16 March | Millennium Stadium | 19:00
Cardiff hosts the Six Nations decider this Saturday, where Wales will attempt to retain their title by defeating Stuart Lancaster’s men by 8 points or more at the Millennium Stadium. The Welsh have made a remarkable comeback from their opening game of the Six Nations where they went down at home to Ireland in what was their eighth consecutive defeat since winning the title in 2012. Since that opening loss, Wales have defied the laws of rugby logic by securing away defeats against France, Italy and Scotland, leaving them with a home game against England to finish off their campaign.
Wales vs England | Saturday 16 March | Millennium Stadium | 19:00
Cardiff hosts the Six Nations decider this Saturday, where Wales will attempt to retain their title by defeating Stuart Lancaster’s men by 8 points or more at the Millennium Stadium. The Welsh have made a remarkable comeback from their opening game of the Six Nations where they went down at home to Ireland in what was their eighth consecutive defeat since winning the title in 2012. Since that opening loss, Wales have defied the laws of rugby logic by securing away defeats against France, Italy and Scotland, leaving them with a home game against England to finish off their campaign.Super Rugby Round 5 Preview
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Last week brought some fantastic results for South African teams, the Bulls and the Cheetahs pulling off treasured away victories over the Hurricanes and Blues respectively, while the Stormers managed to secure their first victory in this year’s competition when they took down the defending champions in Cape Town. The Brumbies retain their pole position after a telling 35-6 victory over the Waratahs, while the Bulls and the Chiefs take the 2nd and 3rd spots on the table. However the Sharks, Reds and Blues are not far behind and there is a lot to play for this weekend.
Last week brought some fantastic results for South African teams, the Bulls and the Cheetahs pulling off treasured away victories over the Hurricanes and Blues respectively, while the Stormers managed to secure their first victory in this year’s competition when they took down the defending champions in Cape Town. The Brumbies retain their pole position after a telling 35-6 victory over the Waratahs, while the Bulls and the Chiefs take the 2nd and 3rd spots on the table. However the Sharks, Reds and Blues are not far behind and there is a lot to play for this weekend.Super Rugby Round 4 Preview
Some crazy results last week mean two of the competition’s favourites find themselves in the bottom five of the log, the Crusaders and Stormers sitting at 11th and 12th place respectively. The competition is still far from over and luck will only get you a few weeks worth of glory in the Super XV before the laws of logic return to make things right on the log. With many intriguing encounters on offer, this is a tough week for a tipster, but I'll do my best to get you through it unscathed.Super Rugby Round 3 Preview
A few unexpected results last week sees competition newcomers the Kings leading the South African franchises, with the Blues and the Brumbies leading the New Zealand and Australian conferences respectively. That will all change this weekend as the Brumbies, Kings and Highlanders all sit out while the most successful franchise in Super Rugby history, the Crusaders, finally kick off their campaign when they take on the Blues in the first match of the weekend.England vs France Six Nations Preview
England vs France | Saturday 23 February | Twickenham | 19:00
As much as it pains me to say, the English are looking unstoppable in this year’s Six Nations and are setting themselves up nicely to secure the coveted Grand Slam, but they should be weary of the severely underperforming French, who are bound to find their feet again at some point. Stuart Lancaster’s men are the only unbeaten team left in the competition after managing a hard-fought (and by that I mean painfully boring, due to the conservative, defensive style of rugby both teams opted for) victory over Ireland two weeks back in Dublin, the first time they have managed that feat since 2003.
As much as it pains me to say, the English are looking unstoppable in this year’s Six Nations and are setting themselves up nicely to secure the coveted Grand Slam, but they should be weary of the severely underperforming French, who are bound to find their feet again at some point. Stuart Lancaster’s men are the only unbeaten team left in the competition after managing a hard-fought (and by that I mean painfully boring, due to the conservative, defensive style of rugby both teams opted for) victory over Ireland two weeks back in Dublin, the first time they have managed that feat since 2003.Super Rugby Round 2 Preview
After last weekend’s appetizer the main course of Super Rugby is finally served. The real contenders enter the competition this weekend to put an end to the tomfoolery that is an Australian side topping the overall log. Some great derbies to watch as well as the baptism of the Kings into Super Rugby.Brumbies vs Reds Super Rugby Preview
Brumbies vs Reds | Saturday 16 February | Canberra Stadium | 10:40
Bottle stores and butcheries across our country will be happy that the 2013 Super Rugby competition is kicking off this weekend, as the fact that none of our teams will be featuring in the first round of clashes will not deter the braai-deprived from having their first rugby chop-en-dop session of the year. There are only two matches in the first round, apparently due to the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia in June this year. A better display of rugby arrives on our screens on Saturday when the Reds travel to the capital to take on the Brumbies. These two teams topped the Australian conference last year. The Reds went on to the knockout stages where they lost to the Sharks in the playoffs. In last year’s competition they met in Brisbane, where the Reds took the victory 20-13. This weekend’s clash could see a very different result.
Bottle stores and butcheries across our country will be happy that the 2013 Super Rugby competition is kicking off this weekend, as the fact that none of our teams will be featuring in the first round of clashes will not deter the braai-deprived from having their first rugby chop-en-dop session of the year. There are only two matches in the first round, apparently due to the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia in June this year. A better display of rugby arrives on our screens on Saturday when the Reds travel to the capital to take on the Brumbies. These two teams topped the Australian conference last year. The Reds went on to the knockout stages where they lost to the Sharks in the playoffs. In last year’s competition they met in Brisbane, where the Reds took the victory 20-13. This weekend’s clash could see a very different result.Rebels vs Force Super Rugby Preview
Rebels vs Force | Friday 15 February | AAMI Park, Melbourne | 10:40
The Rebels take on the Force in Melbourne on Friday in the opening game of the Super Rugby season and it is likely to be a lacklustre display of the sport. The Rebels finished 13th and the Force 14th in last year’s competition, so this match is a great opportunity for the competition’s newcomers, the Kings, to get a look at who they will up against for the wooden spoon this year.Ireland vs England Six Nations Preview
Ireland vs England | Sunday 10 February | Aviva Stadium | 17:00
England travel to Dublin to take on the Irish this weekend, both teams coming into this game feeling good about their chances of taking this year’s Six Nations following their respective victories last weekend, along with France’s shock defeat to the Italians. Ireland are my favourites to win this year’s Six Nations crown, and if there was ever a game to gauge how close I am to the mark, this is it. Ireland had a brilliant game last weekend against Wales, taking down the defending Grand Slam Champions 30-22. The first half showcased Ireland’s brilliant attacking ability and also reminded us that Brian O’Driscoll isn’t going anywhere soon, winning man of the match in his first game back from injury. In the second half, Ireland were put under pressure, but the green sea of defence proved too strong for the Welsh, who just can’t seem to get it right at the moment.
England travel to Dublin to take on the Irish this weekend, both teams coming into this game feeling good about their chances of taking this year’s Six Nations following their respective victories last weekend, along with France’s shock defeat to the Italians. Ireland are my favourites to win this year’s Six Nations crown, and if there was ever a game to gauge how close I am to the mark, this is it. Ireland had a brilliant game last weekend against Wales, taking down the defending Grand Slam Champions 30-22. The first half showcased Ireland’s brilliant attacking ability and also reminded us that Brian O’Driscoll isn’t going anywhere soon, winning man of the match in his first game back from injury. In the second half, Ireland were put under pressure, but the green sea of defence proved too strong for the Welsh, who just can’t seem to get it right at the moment.France vs Wales Six Nations Preview
France vs Wales | Saturday 09 February | Stade de France | 19:00
The Red Dragons travel to Paris this weekend to take on Les Bleus, both sides desperate for a win to remain in even the slightest contention for this year’s Six Nations title. France suffered a humiliating defeat to regular wooden spoon recipients Italy in Rome last Sunday so will be going out this Saturday to prove that that was a once-off and not a true reflection of their current form. This is the second consecutive Six Nations defeat France have suffered to Italy in Rome, and Italy managed to push the All Blacks and the Wallabies close in the Autumn International series at the end of last year. Maybe Italy just aren’t given the respect they deserve. Scotland should be wary when they meet the Italians this weekend.
The Red Dragons travel to Paris this weekend to take on Les Bleus, both sides desperate for a win to remain in even the slightest contention for this year’s Six Nations title. France suffered a humiliating defeat to regular wooden spoon recipients Italy in Rome last Sunday so will be going out this Saturday to prove that that was a once-off and not a true reflection of their current form. This is the second consecutive Six Nations defeat France have suffered to Italy in Rome, and Italy managed to push the All Blacks and the Wallabies close in the Autumn International series at the end of last year. Maybe Italy just aren’t given the respect they deserve. Scotland should be wary when they meet the Italians this weekend.Super Rugby Round 3 Preview
A few unexpected results last week sees competition newcomers the Kings leading the South African franchises, with the Blues and the Brumbies leading the New Zealand and Australian conferences respectively. That will all change this weekend as the Brumbies, Kings and Highlanders all sit out while the most successful franchise in Super Rugby history, the Crusaders, finally kick off their campaign when they take on the Blues in the first match of the weekend.England vs Scotland - Six Nations Preview
England vs Scotland | Saturday 02 February | Twickenham | 18:00
England’s surprise victory over the All Blacks at Twickenham last year is being lauded as the precursor to England’s imminent Six Nations glory in 2013. I agree that a victory over the All Blacks is one of the greatest confidence boosters available in Rugby Union today, but I don’t agree that the Red Roses’ victory over the All Blacks is the best thing that could have happened to them leading up to this competition. The reason being that England has a habit, and this is across all sporting codes, of counting their trophies before they’re engraved, often leading to public expectation of unrealistic success, followed by widespread mourning when they fail to live up to their ‘true’ potential. They will do well to remember that they were in the same position last year as Scotland are now, with a new stand-in coach and make-shift team, and they managed to secure second place.
Wales vs Ireland - Six Nations Preview
Wales vs Ireland | Saturday 02 February | Millennium Stadium | 15:30
The fact that Wales, who have not managed a single victory in the last ten months, will kick off their campaign defending their RBS Six Nations crown this weekend, when they go up against Ireland in Cardiff, shows just how much can change over a 12 month period in the world of Rugby Union. A year ago we watched a mesmerizing display of Welsh domination in the European competition as Wales secured the Six Nations title in the most conclusive style possible, by achieving the coveted Grand Slam. A crippling loss of form following their Grand Slam victory over France last March sent them tumbling down the IRB rankings to 9th spot after racking up seven consecutive defeats. Oh, how the mighty have fallen.
The fact that Wales, who have not managed a single victory in the last ten months, will kick off their campaign defending their RBS Six Nations crown this weekend, when they go up against Ireland in Cardiff, shows just how much can change over a 12 month period in the world of Rugby Union. A year ago we watched a mesmerizing display of Welsh domination in the European competition as Wales secured the Six Nations title in the most conclusive style possible, by achieving the coveted Grand Slam. A crippling loss of form following their Grand Slam victory over France last March sent them tumbling down the IRB rankings to 9th spot after racking up seven consecutive defeats. Oh, how the mighty have fallen.Heineken Cup Weekend Previews
Going into the last round of Heineken Cup clashes this weekend, four teams have already secured their spots in the quarters. This means there are still four spots open and when it comes to this stage of the competition the gloves come off, so ready yourselves for some tightly contested European battles. Pools 3-6 have already been decided, Harlequins, Clermont Auvergne, Ulster and Toulon are the sides that have managed to guarantee their positions with a game in hand. So I focused my efforts this week on the make-or-break games of the 2013 Heineken Cup.Heineken Cup Weekend Previews
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Boxing Clever - Springbok Rugby Fights
Heineken Cup Weekend Previews
Introduction by editor Maverick White
Last week our esteemed rugby tipster Quinten Letcher began to shake. It's not that he doesn't watch rugby from the Northern Hemisphere, he just prefers to punt on things a little closer to home. He's all about home ground advantage. Unfortunately, the Southern Hemisphere rugby season ground to what would be considered a timely halt by the well-worn brutes of the lengthy Super Rugby campaign, and Quinten was left seeking reprieve. He's found it in the Heineken Cup, and in the same manner as last week, here are his tips.
Last week our esteemed rugby tipster Quinten Letcher began to shake. It's not that he doesn't watch rugby from the Northern Hemisphere, he just prefers to punt on things a little closer to home. He's all about home ground advantage. Unfortunately, the Southern Hemisphere rugby season ground to what would be considered a timely halt by the well-worn brutes of the lengthy Super Rugby campaign, and Quinten was left seeking reprieve. He's found it in the Heineken Cup, and in the same manner as last week, here are his tips.Heineken Cup Weekend Previews
With all the Southern Hemisphere rugby out the way until next year, it's time to look North for our rugby fix, and things are heating up in the Heineken Cup. In this preview you'll find three exciting games for this weekend. There are many opportunities to make some money on the Heineken Cup and the rugby can become addictive. Here are my suggested games for this weekend.England vs New Zealand Preview
England v New Zealand | Saturday 01 December | Twickenham | 16:30
England have the daunting task of taking on the runaway train of rugby union this Saturday, when they meet the All Blacks, who have not lost a Northern Hemisphere Autumn international in the last decade. England has only managed a win over Fiji in their recent international clashes, followed by two narrow defeats at the hands of the Aussies and the Springboks, but they have showed some moments of brilliance and some think they still have a shot at causing the biggest upset of the year. They have arguably the tightest defence of the European teams at the moment; Mexicans have an easier time getting into America than the Springboks had crossing their try line last week. Hopefully this will help them stay in the game a bit longer than New Zealand’s recent victims have been able to.
England have the daunting task of taking on the runaway train of rugby union this Saturday, when they meet the All Blacks, who have not lost a Northern Hemisphere Autumn international in the last decade. England has only managed a win over Fiji in their recent international clashes, followed by two narrow defeats at the hands of the Aussies and the Springboks, but they have showed some moments of brilliance and some think they still have a shot at causing the biggest upset of the year. They have arguably the tightest defence of the European teams at the moment; Mexicans have an easier time getting into America than the Springboks had crossing their try line last week. Hopefully this will help them stay in the game a bit longer than New Zealand’s recent victims have been able to.Wales vs New Zealand Preview
Wales v New Zealand | Saturday 24 October | Millennium Stadium, Cardiff | 19:15
The All Blacks head to Millennium Stadium to take on the Welsh in Cardiff this weekend, and despite recent performances of both teams this game promises to be tightly contested. The Welsh have not had the best run of late, having lost to Argentina 26-12 and Samoa 26-19 in the last two weeks, but they will undoubtedly step up their game when they take on the world champions. The Grand Slam champions have suffered with injuries of late, the list now extended to nine players after the brutal encounter with Samoa last weekend, but they do have some depth in positions and will hopefully offer decent resistance to the unstoppable All Black side this Saturday.
The All Blacks head to Millennium Stadium to take on the Welsh in Cardiff this weekend, and despite recent performances of both teams this game promises to be tightly contested. The Welsh have not had the best run of late, having lost to Argentina 26-12 and Samoa 26-19 in the last two weeks, but they will undoubtedly step up their game when they take on the world champions. The Grand Slam champions have suffered with injuries of late, the list now extended to nine players after the brutal encounter with Samoa last weekend, but they do have some depth in positions and will hopefully offer decent resistance to the unstoppable All Black side this Saturday.England vs South Africa Preview
England v South Africa | Saturday 24 November | Twickenham | 16:30
The Springboks finish up their Northern Hemisphere tour this weekend at Twickenham, when they take on a freshly humbled English team looking to bounce back from 20-14 defeat at the hands of the Aussies. The Red Roses gave away a half time lead of 14-11 against the Wallabies as Berrick Barnes added nine unanswered points in the second half. Poor decision-making saw the English team turn down three kickable penalties that could very well have changed the outcome of the match.
The Springboks finish up their Northern Hemisphere tour this weekend at Twickenham, when they take on a freshly humbled English team looking to bounce back from 20-14 defeat at the hands of the Aussies. The Red Roses gave away a half time lead of 14-11 against the Wallabies as Berrick Barnes added nine unanswered points in the second half. Poor decision-making saw the English team turn down three kickable penalties that could very well have changed the outcome of the match.Scotland vs South Africa Preview
Scotland v South Africa | Saturday 17 November | Murrayfield | 16:30
Murrayfield will be the battleground this weekend when the wounded Scots take on the Springboks, as the second round of Northern v Southern Hemisphere clashes get under way. Scotland took a 22-51 hammering last Sunday at the hands of the All Blacks, a team the Scots have not managed to beat in 107 years. But it was not all bad news for Scotland. They will find some consolation in the fact that they are the only side this year that has been able to run in three tries against the All Blacks and might just fancy themselves scoring a few more against the Springboks, whose defence at times shows bigger gaps than Madonna’s smile.
Murrayfield will be the battleground this weekend when the wounded Scots take on the Springboks, as the second round of Northern v Southern Hemisphere clashes get under way. Scotland took a 22-51 hammering last Sunday at the hands of the All Blacks, a team the Scots have not managed to beat in 107 years. But it was not all bad news for Scotland. They will find some consolation in the fact that they are the only side this year that has been able to run in three tries against the All Blacks and might just fancy themselves scoring a few more against the Springboks, whose defence at times shows bigger gaps than Madonna’s smile.England vs Australia Preview
England v Australia | Saturday 17 November | Twickenham | 16:30
The Wallabies take on the English at Twickenham this Saturday for their biennial Cook Cup rugby clash, and with the English coming off a convincing 54-12 victory against Fiji last Saturday they are placed as clear favourites. Stuart Lancaster’s men managed to cross the line seven times last week in an exciting display for English rugby fans, but hopefully this will not lead to delusions of grandeur for the English as they will have a much tougher time when they meet the Australians.
The Wallabies take on the English at Twickenham this Saturday for their biennial Cook Cup rugby clash, and with the English coming off a convincing 54-12 victory against Fiji last Saturday they are placed as clear favourites. Stuart Lancaster’s men managed to cross the line seven times last week in an exciting display for English rugby fans, but hopefully this will not lead to delusions of grandeur for the English as they will have a much tougher time when they meet the Australians.Ireland vs South Africa Preview
Ireland vs South Africa | Saturday 10 November | Dublin | 19:30
The Springboks kick off their Northern Hemisphere tour this Saturday when they take on Ireland at Aviva stadium in Dublin. This will be the 21st test match played between these two nations, the Springboks having won 15, the Irish four, and one game ending in a draw. They last met at the same stadium two years ago in what was Ireland’s first test match at the venue, which saw the South Africans winning 23-21. Heyneke Meyer will be looking to secure victories in all three Northern Hemisphere clashes to improve his win record and silence his naysayers, while Ireland will be doing everything in their power to prevent themselves dropping any further down the IRB rankings. A plummet out of the top eight would see them in a much tougher qualifying pool for the next World Cup.
The Springboks kick off their Northern Hemisphere tour this Saturday when they take on Ireland at Aviva stadium in Dublin. This will be the 21st test match played between these two nations, the Springboks having won 15, the Irish four, and one game ending in a draw. They last met at the same stadium two years ago in what was Ireland’s first test match at the venue, which saw the South Africans winning 23-21. Heyneke Meyer will be looking to secure victories in all three Northern Hemisphere clashes to improve his win record and silence his naysayers, while Ireland will be doing everything in their power to prevent themselves dropping any further down the IRB rankings. A plummet out of the top eight would see them in a much tougher qualifying pool for the next World Cup.Sharks vs Bulls - Currie Cup Semi Final Preview
Sharks v Bulls | Saturday 20 October | King's Park | 16:00
King’s Park will host the first semi-final clash this weekend, as the Bulls take on the Sharks in a game that is likely to be played with the intensity of a final. The Blue Bulls have managed to slingshot themselves from the relegation danger zone at the bottom of the log all the way up to a semi-final spot, allowing them a very real chance at the silverware. It’s difficult to judge just how much of a threat this Springbok-laden Blue Bulls team will be to the competition favourites, as last weekend’s game between the Bulls and the Lions saw a team so determined to avoid the possibility of relegation that they threw every Springbok they could find into their match 22 to take on a mediocre Lions team that had opted to rest many key players after securing themselves a home semi a week before. The Bulls may feel confident but will have to do something no other team has managed to do this year, and something they themselves haven’t pulled off since 2006, and that is beat the Sharks in a Currie Cup match in Durban.
King’s Park will host the first semi-final clash this weekend, as the Bulls take on the Sharks in a game that is likely to be played with the intensity of a final. The Blue Bulls have managed to slingshot themselves from the relegation danger zone at the bottom of the log all the way up to a semi-final spot, allowing them a very real chance at the silverware. It’s difficult to judge just how much of a threat this Springbok-laden Blue Bulls team will be to the competition favourites, as last weekend’s game between the Bulls and the Lions saw a team so determined to avoid the possibility of relegation that they threw every Springbok they could find into their match 22 to take on a mediocre Lions team that had opted to rest many key players after securing themselves a home semi a week before. The Bulls may feel confident but will have to do something no other team has managed to do this year, and something they themselves haven’t pulled off since 2006, and that is beat the Sharks in a Currie Cup match in Durban.Lions vs Western Province - Currie Cup Semi Final Preview
Lions vs Western Province | Saturday 20 October | Coca-Cola Park | 18:45
The Golden Lions take on Western Province at Coca-Cola Park in the second semi-final of the Currie Cup this weekend, and the contrasting decisions of the two respective coaches regarding the playing or resting of their Springboks last weekend may play a big role in the outcome of this match. Allister Coetzee decided to load up his Western Province team that, last week, sent the Cheetahs into the promotion-relegation match that will take place this Friday. Johan Ackerman on the other hand, decided to rest many of his key players in their match against the Blue Bulls knowing that his team had already ensured themselves a home semi, regardless of the outcome of the game. Western Province have now lost three key players to injury, while the Lions will be taking a gamble with what may be rusty player combinations in a must-win match for both sides.
The Golden Lions take on Western Province at Coca-Cola Park in the second semi-final of the Currie Cup this weekend, and the contrasting decisions of the two respective coaches regarding the playing or resting of their Springboks last weekend may play a big role in the outcome of this match. Allister Coetzee decided to load up his Western Province team that, last week, sent the Cheetahs into the promotion-relegation match that will take place this Friday. Johan Ackerman on the other hand, decided to rest many of his key players in their match against the Blue Bulls knowing that his team had already ensured themselves a home semi, regardless of the outcome of the game. Western Province have now lost three key players to injury, while the Lions will be taking a gamble with what may be rusty player combinations in a must-win match for both sides.Lions vs Bulls Preview
Lions vs Bulls | Saturday 13 October | Coca-Coca Park | 19:10
Coca-Cola Park will host the Bulls when they take on the Golden Lions this Saturday, as the 2012 Currie Cup starts to wrap up. The Bulls find themselves in dire straits, losing this Saturday will not only cost them a shot at a semi-final position, but will see them facing the possibility of relegation. The Lions have already secured themselves a home semi-final, and unless Griquas manage to upset the Sharks on Friday, the outcome of Saturday’s clash will be of no importance to the Lions as they will not change position on the log whether they win, lose or draw. If Griquas do manage an upset, then the Lions will suddenly have the opportunity to snatch the top spot from the Sharks and possibly welcome a second successive home Currie Cup final.
Coca-Cola Park will host the Bulls when they take on the Golden Lions this Saturday, as the 2012 Currie Cup starts to wrap up. The Bulls find themselves in dire straits, losing this Saturday will not only cost them a shot at a semi-final position, but will see them facing the possibility of relegation. The Lions have already secured themselves a home semi-final, and unless Griquas manage to upset the Sharks on Friday, the outcome of Saturday’s clash will be of no importance to the Lions as they will not change position on the log whether they win, lose or draw. If Griquas do manage an upset, then the Lions will suddenly have the opportunity to snatch the top spot from the Sharks and possibly welcome a second successive home Currie Cup final.Sharks vs Griquas Preview
Sharks v Griquas | Friday 12 October | King's Park | 19:10
Griquas travel to Durban this week to take on the top-of-the table Sharks at King’s Park in the last round of clashes before the knock-out rounds start. The Sharks have already ensured themselves a home semi, but a win this Saturday will guarantee that they won’t be travelling away for the final if they make it through. Griquas, currently in fourth place, will come out with guns blazing to stay inside of the top four to secure a semi-final position of their own, and also avoid the possibility of dropping to sixth place which would see them heading into a promotion-relegation game.
Griquas travel to Durban this week to take on the top-of-the table Sharks at King’s Park in the last round of clashes before the knock-out rounds start. The Sharks have already ensured themselves a home semi, but a win this Saturday will guarantee that they won’t be travelling away for the final if they make it through. Griquas, currently in fourth place, will come out with guns blazing to stay inside of the top four to secure a semi-final position of their own, and also avoid the possibility of dropping to sixth place which would see them heading into a promotion-relegation game.Argentina vs Australia Rugby Championship Preview
Argentina vs Australia | Sunday 7 October | Rosario | 01:00
Rosario will host the last match of the 2012 Rugby Championship between the Wallabies and the Pumas, and both teams will be looking for a win to help forget the hidings they both received last weekend. The Puma’s, who are yet to win a game in the competition, were hammered 54-15 by the All Blacks, who managed to dot down seven times in their most convincing display of the Rugby Championship. The Aussies were outplayed by the Springboks in Johannesburg 31-8 as the Springboks went across the line five times. This game is bound to be a close one as both teams are fighting for something worth a lot more than the title, pride.
Rosario will host the last match of the 2012 Rugby Championship between the Wallabies and the Pumas, and both teams will be looking for a win to help forget the hidings they both received last weekend. The Puma’s, who are yet to win a game in the competition, were hammered 54-15 by the All Blacks, who managed to dot down seven times in their most convincing display of the Rugby Championship. The Aussies were outplayed by the Springboks in Johannesburg 31-8 as the Springboks went across the line five times. This game is bound to be a close one as both teams are fighting for something worth a lot more than the title, pride.South Africa vs New Zealand Rugby Championship Preview
South Africa vs New Zealand | Saturday 6 October | Soweto | 16:00
90 000 fans are expected to fill up FNB Stadium, as the All Blacks head into Soweto this weekend to take on the Springboks in the last round of the inaugural Rugby Championship. Even though the All Blacks secured the title last weekend when they hammered a tired Pumas outfit 54-15 in La Plata, there will still be plenty of interest in the outcome of this game. South African rugby fans will be watching to see if Heyneke Meyer and his team have finally found their feet and Kiwi fans will be watching to see if their mighty All Blacks can finish the first Rugby Championship with an unbeaten record,
90 000 fans are expected to fill up FNB Stadium, as the All Blacks head into Soweto this weekend to take on the Springboks in the last round of the inaugural Rugby Championship. Even though the All Blacks secured the title last weekend when they hammered a tired Pumas outfit 54-15 in La Plata, there will still be plenty of interest in the outcome of this game. South African rugby fans will be watching to see if Heyneke Meyer and his team have finally found their feet and Kiwi fans will be watching to see if their mighty All Blacks can finish the first Rugby Championship with an unbeaten record,State of the Rugby Nation Address
As we find ourselves heading towards the end of yet another Southern Hemisphere rugby season, there seems to be little certainty regarding the state of our rugby nation. We find ourselves with a walkie-talkie enthusiast as national coach, an exceptionally gifted politician disguised as the head of the Southern Kings rugby franchise, and the incumbent Currie Cup Premier Division champions being tossed out of next year’s Super 15 to make way for a team that is currently playing in the first division.South Africa vs Australia Rugby Championship Preview
South Africa vs Australia | Saturday 21 September | Loftus Versveld | 17:00
The Springboks take on the Wallabies at Heneyke Meyer’s home ground, Loftus Versfeld, this weekend as we go into the last two rounds of the inaugural Castle Rugby Championship. The Springboks have dropped to third place on the log with seven points, one behind the Aussies, but with the All Blacks running on as they have, it seems as if the remainder of the competition will entail the bottom three teams fighting it out for second place. The Springboks will take comfort in the knowledge that they have only lost to the Wallabies up in the Highveld once in the last fifty years, and have never lost to them at Loftus Versfeld.
The Springboks take on the Wallabies at Heneyke Meyer’s home ground, Loftus Versfeld, this weekend as we go into the last two rounds of the inaugural Castle Rugby Championship. The Springboks have dropped to third place on the log with seven points, one behind the Aussies, but with the All Blacks running on as they have, it seems as if the remainder of the competition will entail the bottom three teams fighting it out for second place. The Springboks will take comfort in the knowledge that they have only lost to the Wallabies up in the Highveld once in the last fifty years, and have never lost to them at Loftus Versfeld.Argentina vs New Zealand Rugby Championship Preview
Argentina vs New Zealand | Sunday 30 September | Rosario | 01:10
La Plata will host the brutal clash between the Pumas and the All Blacks and with the hosts having improved week after week in the competition so far, the World Champions will have their work cut out for them if they plan on extending their unbeaten record in the competition. The Pumas are sitting at the bottom of the log but this does not truly reflect the standard of rugby this passionate team has been displaying. They were unlucky to draw against the Springboks and lose against the Aussies, and if their fortunes had been slightly better they would be sitting in second place at the moment. This is their opportunity to impress at home against the big boys of Rugby Union, and hopefully ensure the scoreboard reflects the game played on the field for once.
La Plata will host the brutal clash between the Pumas and the All Blacks and with the hosts having improved week after week in the competition so far, the World Champions will have their work cut out for them if they plan on extending their unbeaten record in the competition. The Pumas are sitting at the bottom of the log but this does not truly reflect the standard of rugby this passionate team has been displaying. They were unlucky to draw against the Springboks and lose against the Aussies, and if their fortunes had been slightly better they would be sitting in second place at the moment. This is their opportunity to impress at home against the big boys of Rugby Union, and hopefully ensure the scoreboard reflects the game played on the field for once.Bulls vs Cheetahs Currie Cup Preview
Bulls vs Cheetahs | Saturday 22 September | Loftus Versveld | 17:05
Pretoria will play host to this bottom of the log clash on Saturday, as the out of form Bulls try to fight their way back from an unusual position, stone last on the table. The Cheetahs will too be looking to climb the log as time starts running out in the competition, and for either of these teams to have a remote chance of making the semi-finals, they will have to win every game from here on in. The prospect of making the playoffs will not be the only thought motivating these two teams ahead of this weekend’s clash, but also the realisation that relegation is not too far off if they continue their weak form, both teams coming into this game with three consecutive losses. The Southern Kings will be knocking on the door and neither of these teams will want to be home to answer when the time comes for the promotion-relegation match. This week’s clash will be all about survival.
Pretoria will play host to this bottom of the log clash on Saturday, as the out of form Bulls try to fight their way back from an unusual position, stone last on the table. The Cheetahs will too be looking to climb the log as time starts running out in the competition, and for either of these teams to have a remote chance of making the semi-finals, they will have to win every game from here on in. The prospect of making the playoffs will not be the only thought motivating these two teams ahead of this weekend’s clash, but also the realisation that relegation is not too far off if they continue their weak form, both teams coming into this game with three consecutive losses. The Southern Kings will be knocking on the door and neither of these teams will want to be home to answer when the time comes for the promotion-relegation match. This week’s clash will be all about survival.Lions vs Sharks Currie Cup Preview
Lions vs Sharks | Saturday 22 September | Coca-Cola Park | 19:00
The Currie Cup spices up this week as a break in the Castle Rugby Championship sees five Springboks become available for their provincial franchises. The Sharks travel up to Johannesburg to take on the Golden Lions at Coca-Cola Park in a top of the log clash, and will be trying to forget that they have been unable to defeat the Lions in Johannesburg in their last three attempts, including their painful 42-16 loss in last year’s final. Both teams managed victories last weekend, the Sharks trumping Western Province 43-27 at a waterlogged King's Park , while the Lions defeated the Cheetahs 38-23 in Bloemfontein. This game is important for both sides as a win will increase their chances a home semi-final, as the competition nears the end with only three rounds of matches left after this weekend.
The Currie Cup spices up this week as a break in the Castle Rugby Championship sees five Springboks become available for their provincial franchises. The Sharks travel up to Johannesburg to take on the Golden Lions at Coca-Cola Park in a top of the log clash, and will be trying to forget that they have been unable to defeat the Lions in Johannesburg in their last three attempts, including their painful 42-16 loss in last year’s final. Both teams managed victories last weekend, the Sharks trumping Western Province 43-27 at a waterlogged King's Park , while the Lions defeated the Cheetahs 38-23 in Bloemfontein. This game is important for both sides as a win will increase their chances a home semi-final, as the competition nears the end with only three rounds of matches left after this weekend.The Curious Case of Heyneke Meyer
Being the Springbok head coach is not an easy job. The South African rugby loving public are a hostile bunch and pull no punches when things are going awry. Fans and sports journalists alike are often too quick to criticize and point fingers. There are times when one cannot help but feel for the man in charge, after all it is not he who fumbles the ball on line in a frenzy of white line fever, kicks it out on the full or any other number of common rugby errors. However, the Curious Case of Heyneke Meyer is not one of those times.New Zealand vs South Africa - Rugby Championship Preview
New Zealand vs South Africa | 15 September | Dunedin | 09:35
The Castle Championship takes us to Dunedin this weekend for a clash between two of the most respected and feared rugby nations in the world, and it promises to be a humdinger of a game. It will be the first time either of these teams run out at the Forsyth Barr Stadium, built for the 2011 Rugby World Cup. It has been a cold, wet week in Dunedin so the enclosed stadium will prove helpful in ensuring a dry game, hopefully leading to a quick, high quality style of rugby on display for the 29 000 strong crowd, who will set a new attendance record for a rugby game played there.
The Castle Championship takes us to Dunedin this weekend for a clash between two of the most respected and feared rugby nations in the world, and it promises to be a humdinger of a game. It will be the first time either of these teams run out at the Forsyth Barr Stadium, built for the 2011 Rugby World Cup. It has been a cold, wet week in Dunedin so the enclosed stadium will prove helpful in ensuring a dry game, hopefully leading to a quick, high quality style of rugby on display for the 29 000 strong crowd, who will set a new attendance record for a rugby game played there.Australia vs Argentina - Rugby Championship Preview
Australia v Argentina | 15 September | Skilled Park, Gold Coast | 11:45
This week’s clash between the Pumas and the Wallabies takes place at Skilled Park on the Australian Gold Coast in the first test match ever played at the popular holiday destination. The Pumas have been holding their own against the big boys of rugby union in the first ever Rugby Championship and seem to be improving week after week. They managed to produce a 16-all draw against a mediocre Springbok team in Mendoza three weeks back, and went on to trouble the All Blacks in Wellington. They are still sitting at the bottom of the table but will be looking to get their first win over an Australian team plagued by injuries. The Australians find themselves 3rd on the log, managing to muster up a win over the bruised and battered Springboks in Perth last week, a game which saw the Aussies adding even more names to their list of injured players.
This week’s clash between the Pumas and the Wallabies takes place at Skilled Park on the Australian Gold Coast in the first test match ever played at the popular holiday destination. The Pumas have been holding their own against the big boys of rugby union in the first ever Rugby Championship and seem to be improving week after week. They managed to produce a 16-all draw against a mediocre Springbok team in Mendoza three weeks back, and went on to trouble the All Blacks in Wellington. They are still sitting at the bottom of the table but will be looking to get their first win over an Australian team plagued by injuries. The Australians find themselves 3rd on the log, managing to muster up a win over the bruised and battered Springboks in Perth last week, a game which saw the Aussies adding even more names to their list of injured players.Australia vs South Africa - Rugby Championship Preview
Australia vs South Africa | 08 September | Perth | 11:45
The Springboks take on the Wallabies at Paterson's Stadium in Perth this weekend and what a battle it promises to be! The Australians find themselves bottom of the log, having lost their first two games against New Zealand, the last outing being the first time in 50 years that they have failed to score a single point against their Australasian counterparts. This weekend’s showdown will be the perfect opportunity to show that they have not forgotten how to put points on the board, while the Springboks, having won one and drawn one against the 8th ranked team in the world, will be looking to prove their worth in the competition.
New Zealand vs Argentina - Rugby Championship Preview
New Zealand vs Argentina | 08 September | Wellington | 09:35
This week sees the Pumas heading into Wellington’s Westpak Stadium, and considering this is the only time this year the capital will host their mighty All Blacks, one can expect a sold-out stadium of hungry Kiwi fans, waiting to snack on nothing else but a delicious home victory. The All Blacks are in great form at the moment, sitting at the top of the log being the only unbeaten team left in the tournament. However, they would be silly to write off the competition newcomers completely. The last time these two teams met was in the 2011 Rugby World Cup quarter-final, where New Zealand found themselves with a slightly uncomfortable 12 – 7 lead at half time. The All Blacks managed to pull together in the second half to finish strong , as they so invariably do, with the sound of the whistle going to the scoreboard showing 33-10.
This week sees the Pumas heading into Wellington’s Westpak Stadium, and considering this is the only time this year the capital will host their mighty All Blacks, one can expect a sold-out stadium of hungry Kiwi fans, waiting to snack on nothing else but a delicious home victory. The All Blacks are in great form at the moment, sitting at the top of the log being the only unbeaten team left in the tournament. However, they would be silly to write off the competition newcomers completely. The last time these two teams met was in the 2011 Rugby World Cup quarter-final, where New Zealand found themselves with a slightly uncomfortable 12 – 7 lead at half time. The All Blacks managed to pull together in the second half to finish strong , as they so invariably do, with the sound of the whistle going to the scoreboard showing 33-10.South Africa vs Argentina - Rugby Championship Preview
South Africa vs Argentina | 18 August | Newlands, Cape Town | 17:00
Saturday’s historical clash at Newlands between Los Pumas and the Springboks marks a seismic shift in the perception of rugby in the Southern Hemisphere, certainly going a long way to broadening the entrenched systems of Rugby Union. Argentina’s inclusion, while extending an already saturated rugby campaign, should provide a much needed shake up of the Southern Hemisphere’s premier international competition. Ever since their heroic 3rd place finish at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, calls for Sanzar to incorporate Argentinean rugby into more competitive international fixtures have resounded throughout the corridors of international rugby. Now it is time for the enigmatic South Americans to potentially realize their considerable promise against the Springboks, in their first match of the inaugural Rugby Championship.
Saturday’s historical clash at Newlands between Los Pumas and the Springboks marks a seismic shift in the perception of rugby in the Southern Hemisphere, certainly going a long way to broadening the entrenched systems of Rugby Union. Argentina’s inclusion, while extending an already saturated rugby campaign, should provide a much needed shake up of the Southern Hemisphere’s premier international competition. Ever since their heroic 3rd place finish at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, calls for Sanzar to incorporate Argentinean rugby into more competitive international fixtures have resounded throughout the corridors of international rugby. Now it is time for the enigmatic South Americans to potentially realize their considerable promise against the Springboks, in their first match of the inaugural Rugby Championship.Australia vs New Zealand - Rugby Championship Preview
Australia vs New Zealand | 18 August | ANZ Stadium, Sydney | 12:05
This weekend’s encounter between the Wallabies and the All Blacks at the ANZ Stadium in Sydney sees a Bledisloe Cup encounter that pits the indomitable All Blacks against a team struggling with consistency. The last time the Wallabies actually won the Bledisloe Cup outright was in 2001, and only the most partisan Australian supporter can possibly envisage that the pattern will change in this year’s Rugby Championship.
Super Rugby Semi-Final 2: Stormers vs Sharks Preview
Stormers vs Sharks | 28 July | Newlands, Cape Town | 17:05
Trying to cast a sporting analogy that could characterize the semi-final encounter between the Stormers and the Sharks, one is drawn to the great tennis rivalry of Borg and McEnroe. The cool and icily efficient Borg is embodied in the organized yet mechanical Stormers, while the Sharks seem to spark with the enthusiasm and unpredictability of the American. This clash of styles has been reflected in two very close encounters this season. That old adage of rugby, “the battle has to be won up front”, seems to always have particular resonance in the context of a South African derby and this weekends clash should be no different.
Trying to cast a sporting analogy that could characterize the semi-final encounter between the Stormers and the Sharks, one is drawn to the great tennis rivalry of Borg and McEnroe. The cool and icily efficient Borg is embodied in the organized yet mechanical Stormers, while the Sharks seem to spark with the enthusiasm and unpredictability of the American. This clash of styles has been reflected in two very close encounters this season. That old adage of rugby, “the battle has to be won up front”, seems to always have particular resonance in the context of a South African derby and this weekends clash should be no different.Super Rugby Semi Final 1: Chiefs vs Crusaders Preview
Friday sees the dynamic Chiefs look to usurp the most devastating force in Super Rugby history, the Crusaders. The Chiefs beat the Crusaders in Napier before losing somewhat controversially in Hamilton a few weeks back. However, it is playoff rugby time and the boys from Canterbury are the perennial masters of taking that thing called log play and rendering it obsolete; just ask the Stormers after what was a comprehensive semi-final defeat at Newlands last year.Super 15 Final Round Preview
The fight for the play-offs reaches a climatic crescendo this weekend as we enter the final round of the league stages of the Southern Hemisphere’s premier rugby competition. Screw the Rugby Championship, there are few better things than a Super Rugby knock-out match, provided of course that your team of choice has made it to the latter stages (sorry for the Lions supporters). The battle at the top is all but settled, but it is the skirmish for the wildcard berths that will have supporters from across the oceans fixated on their television screens. With so many different permutations, it will be key to keep an eye on results in order to get the best out of your betting. Pushing that aside though, let me have a go at predicting a couple results and making a couple buffalo’s, or leopards for those high rollers.Super Rugby Round 16 Preview
Where were we? Oh yes now I remember, we were just nearing the climax when the phone rang. Talk about ruining the mood. Leaving us in the lurch the Southern Hemisphere’s best rugby layers answered the call to arms of their respective nations. It was a welcome break from the slog of Super Rugby, don’t get me wrong, but now I’m ready to finally slay this behemoth and be done with it. The next few weeks are bound to throw out a couple “knockout” fixtures as the contenders get whittled down and the conference leaders are decided. A number of teams are still in playoff contention, although lose this weekend and their slim chances could fall by the wayside. Enough about the permutations let us get stuck into the rugby already.SANZAR: Rugby's Commodity Traders
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