Outwit.... Outplay..... These words have probably never been used before to describe the performance of a South African super 14 franchise against New Zealand opposition away from home...But, that's exactly what happened last Saturday in the Blues vs Sharks match at North Harbour Stadium in Albany.
In the week before the game, Blues players were quoted saying their aim would be to make things as tough as possible for Ruan Pienaar. To prevent the exciting youngster from getting quick ball to his outside backs. Just a pity that on the night the Sharks had to go do exactly that to Steve Devine...
David Nuke 'em-fora can point the finger to Stuart "Yes, I'm a-Dick"inson and dodgy Sharks tactics for his side's shock loss, but the fact of the matter is just that his team were never allowed an oportunity to get going in the match. The Sharks defence was solid, the kicking clever - how about THAT drop kick- and the pressure outstanding. Okay, they didn't quite sustain it for the full 80 minutes, but by the time the Blues scored their first try, the damage was already done.
Nuke'em-fora also complained about Sammy Torpedo's yellow card, and only saw Johan Ackerman throwing the first punch.. Just a pity he failed to mention Nacewa's attempted elbow on Monty in the first half...
I've heard people say the Sharks have shown their hand, and will be shown up by the Chiefs this Saturday in Hamilton. It might still prove to be the case, but the Sharks have proved against (the rubbish) Reds they can score tries out wide. The Chiefs on the other hand smashed the Force last weekend, but also conceded 36 points in the process. Their defence is shaky, and dare I mention the name of Tasesa Lavea as a possible weakness? (This one will probably come back to bite me, but hey......)
It's not rocket science, but if the Sharks manage to win this one, they're a step closer to securing that home semi final. And, if the Chiefs get the win, they keep the semi final dream alive. Not bad for a team who only won 4 of their 10 games so far!!
Lastly, I guess I should say "congrats" to the Bulls for their performance at Loftus last weekend... (arrrrrrrr....) For those Stormers supporters who've been complaining about our teams' inconsitancy so far this season, don't worry: I'm sure we'll be consistant this weekend! It'll be our first consecutive defeat in the competition this season.....
Big Pik's picks for the weekend:
Crusaders
Brumbies
Cheetahs
Sharks
Highlanders
Lions (sorry, I just can't back them Bulls....)
Blues
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