Ja, well done to the lions for making it this far with a no name squad. None of there players will ever make the bok 23 march day team, unless on rotation. They don't even come close to the top 45 as the next cab off the rank.
I was really disappointed with the Sharks but that is purely down to lack of discipline and trying to be Harlem globe trotters rather than doing their jobs. So many off loads or pure decisions. AE must be kicking himself for going back to the sharks. I also think to many black development players that are great strike runners but can't tackle, mix it up in the tight grind or just stick to the script. Yes, Siyaya looks great when he attacks but a other Libbok in the making. The best players only need one chance and it comes off and then do the rest of the boring stuff. Just look at Kolbe, he has brought back his instincts to attack everything.
Bools took some adjustments under Ackerman and losing 6 games hurt them. However, under Jake they made like 3 finals. It would be a step down if they don't and probably have the most powerful team from SA.
For me the Stormers can kick themselves as they did all the hard work at the beginning of the season, with their squad players like Jurie Mathee, winning games away from home, only for the likes of Gelant, Willemse and Sasha go stuff it up. I think these guys need a solid break of two months and then fade them in towards the business end of the season. The run from March until June is the critical part of the season and this is where Rassie is failing. Given that we are not making inroads in the championship, might as well stick with your opening team and reward them.
We are one step closer to a global season but the ABs are holding out.
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Firstly, congrats to the Mighty Stormers and also to the Bulls for making the semi finals.
I would also give credit to the Lions who made the quarters and did better than anybody would have thought at the beginning of the season.
That leaves the wee gups who again failed to live up to expectations. As to the coach give J P another season to see what he can achieve with a talented squad.
As to the captaincy I think my good friend Plumpster would agree AE doesn't cut an inspiring figure. Also whether AE needs to move to 6 is a consideration.
I think Rooitwit wishes everyday he was a Mighty Stormers supporter!
All this said the Stormers and Bulls have to travel away to face the number 1cand 2 on the log. A tough assignment.
Looking forward to seeing the Boks in action soon. Rassie's selections will be of particular interest this year. Some outstanding young talent could get a chance.