This weekend, the Kings face yet another steep hurdle, playing the Brumbies in Canberra. Jake White has already indicated that he will not select an “underweight” side, knowing how physical the Kings are. But then White has always had a penchant for bigger players, has he not? Let’s hope that guard in front of his mouth dozes off sometime between now and the weekend. The Kings can do with one of his motivational criticisms.
After last week’s drubbing of the Stormers, I feel a bit like the lightie who was beaten up by a bully, and called on his big brother to klap the guy on his behalf. The Sharks have got all the makings of beating a below par Crusaders side, provided they pitch up in the right frame of mind. Their last showing was outstanding, and the bye gave them plenty of time to prepare for what remains one of the biggest challenges in Super 15. The fact that two New Zealand coaches face each other makes for an entertaining side-show as we watch the cameras pan on them.
There is seldom a good time for a local derby, and from a Stormers perspective, this one could not have come at a worse time. The Cheetahs are on a high, following four successive wins, while the Stormers will be very sore at being thoroughly outplayed last weekend. There is no doubt that the visiting side have worked very hard at addressing their lineout problems, as well as a counter for Pickpocket Brüssow. I have one bit of encouragement for them.
The Cheetahs equalled their record of four wins against the Highlanders, Waratahs, Force and Rebels. It was great to win against them and, on top of that, three of the victories were overseas. What the Stormers need to think, to paraphrase Boy Louw, is “…looks at the log.” None of those teams look like playoff contenders.
The Bulls will be only too grateful for a bye this weekend. The list of injuries to key players is reason for concern, but a two week break can do wonders. The bye, coming at the end of their overseas trek is equally welcome, giving them the chance to recover from the travails of travel. The Cheetahs must not be relishing the prospect of facing a wounded Bulls side at Loftus, the following week.
I will be away for two weeks, but will no doubt stay in touch via the internet. Ek sien baie uit na julle kommentaar en bydraes terwyl ek weg is.
Mooi loop, ou Grote!
