August 2019 – Rugby, Only Rugby !

The Rugby Wrap : Weekend Review (Friday, 30th, August, 2019 – Saturday, 31st, August, 2019)

Clayton Blommetjies congratulates Junior Pokomela on his first try for the Free State Cheetahs

This weekend was going to be another entertaining weekend. In the Northern Hemisphere, there were the last World Cup warm-up games before all the nations begin their campaign.

The leagues in France were back with some ProD2 and Top14 fixtures. Meanwhile, in the Southern Hemisphere, there were the respective provincial competitions providing some games.

In South Africa, it was the Currie Cup semi-finals. In New Zealand, it still was the regular season in the Mitre 10 Cup. So, there were opportunities for all the provinces to perform well and qualify.

* Biarritz vs. Vannes : ProD2 (Aguilera, Biarritz, France)

The home side did not start well as Kevin Bly got the try for Vannes. Biarritz replied with a penalty from Willie du Plessis. Guy Millar for Biarritz and Nika Neparidze for Vannes were binned at scrum time.

Willie du Plessis kicked a penalty while Christopher Hilsenbeck missed one for Vannes. Though, Kevin Bly had a brace for Vannes but Dan Tuohy was yellow-carded. Romain Ruffenach scored from a maul.

Jules Le Bail landed a kick for Vannes. Alexandre Nicoue collected Willie du Plessis’ cross-field kick and touched down. Willie du Plessis converted to get the 1-point lead. Biarritz snatched the win (FT : 18-17).

* France vs. Italy : Test Match (Stade de France, Paris, France)

The French team had a brillant start with Yoann Huget concluding a build-up. However, Louis Picamoles was binned and Mattia Bellini got a try for Italy. Rabah Slimani was also binned for France.

France had a counter-attack. Mattia Bellini was also yellow-carded for foul play as France were awarded a penalty try. Camille Chat scored later from a big maul. In the second-half, Antoine Dupont got a stunning try.

Arthur Iturria touched down. Jake Polledri scored for Italy. Wencenslas Lauret carried over the line. Mattia Bellini got a brace as France got the win with one last try from Thomas Ramos (FT : 47-19).

* Northland vs. Hawke’s Bay : Mitre 10 Cup (Northland Events Centre, Whangarei, New Zealand)

The home side got the first try with Temo Mayanavanua. Hawke’s Bay replied with a maul try from Ash Dixon. Northland got a second try with Jack Straker from close range. Hawke’s Bay came back.

Neria Fomai had some try. Caleb Makene scored before Neria Fomai got a brace. It was all square when Jaycob Matiu got the try for Northland. Isileli Tu’ungafasi was binned and Caleb Makene got his brace.

Jack Debreczeni kicked two penalties for Northland. Neria Fomai got a Hat-Trick and Folau Fakatava scored from close range. Isaia Walker-Leawere was binned but Hawke’s Bay got the away win (FT : 28-43).

* Waikato vs. Auckland : Mitre 10 Cup (FMG Stadium, Hamilton, New Zealand)

The home side started well as a few offloads led to Oliver Norris’ try. Auckland kicked a penalty with D’Angelo Leuila. On the re-start, from a set-piece play, Declan O’Donnell touched down for Waikato.

Waikato lacked discipline though and James Tucker was yellow-carded. Caleb Clarke had the try for Auckland. In the second-half, Fletcher Smith kicked two consecutive penalties for the home side.

Auckland got a try from Leni Apisai and Daniel Kirkpatrick kicked a penalty. Fletcher Smith missed a penalty while Auckland had an opportunity to win. Waikato snatched the draw (FT : 20-20).

* Lions vs. Griquas : Currie Cup (Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa)

The Golden Lions shifted the ball wide and winger Madosh Tambwe touched down. The Griquas missed a penalty with George Whitehead but had the ball again and Chris Smit touched down on the corner.

The Golden Lions were on the attack again and Stean Pienaar scored a stunning try. George Whitehead kicked two penalties while Hacjivah Dayimani showed his power with a great try.

George Whitehead and Shaun Reynolds both kicked two penalties for the Griquas and the Golden Lions, respectively. The Golden Lions scored a maul try with Marnus Schoeman. They won it (FT : 34-19).

* Bayonne vs. Clermont : Top14 (Jean Dauger, Bayonne, France)

The home side started with a try from Martin Lamothe. Jake McIntyre kicked a penalty for Clermont but Peyro Muscarditz had another try for Bayonne. Jake McIntyre kicked three penalties.

Romain Barthelemy had a penalty for Bayonne. George Moala scored for Clermont. The home side scored with Romain Barthelemy. Guillaume Rouet was binned as Apisai Naqalevu touched down.

Brandon Fajardo landed a kick for Bayonne. Charlie Cassang touched down from a scrum for Clermont. Jake McIntyre kicked a penalty and so did Brandon Fajardo. Clermont held their lines and won (FT : 30-34).

* Cheetahs vs. Sharks : Currie Cup (Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, South Africa)

The Sharks got an early try with Curwin Bosch. Tian Schoeman kicked a penalty for the Cheetahs and Junior Pokomela touched down. Sanele Nohamba replied and Curwin Bosch landed a kick.

Lwazi Mvovo also scored. In the second-half, Curwin Bosch added another kick. The Cheetahs hit back with a try from William Small-Smith. Ruan Pienaar and Joseph Dweba got stunning scores.

It was all square when Curwin Bosch had a brace. Though, Junior Pokomela also got his brace. The Cheetahs played outstandingly as Ox Nche and Jasper Wiese both touched down. They won (FT : 51-30).

* Georgia vs. Scotland : Test Match (Dinamo Arena, Tbilisi, Georgia)

The Scotland players had a brillant start. Greg Laidlaw kicked two consecutive penalties. Ben Toolis carried over the line while Rory Hutchinson touched down out wide.

Georgia kicked a penalty with Soso Mathiashvili. Greg Laidlaw landed another kick. In the second-half, Rory Hutchinson got a brace. Karlen Asieshvili got a good try for Georgia.

Though, Scotland still played. Finn Russell made a grubber kick. D’Arcy Graham collected it for the try and Scott Cummings also scored from close range. That was good win for Scotland (FT : 10-44).

Conclusion

This weekend was a pretty good one. First of all, in the ProD2, Biarritz made a come-back at home to snatch it. In the Top14, Clermont got the away win. Besides, there were big Test wins for France and Scotland.

About the provincial competitions, it was great as well. In the Mitre 10 Cup, Hawke’s Bay played very well and got the away win. Waikato earned a deserved home draw. In the Currie Cup, it was outstanding.

The Golden Lions and the Free State Cheetahs picked up home wins. Next weekend, there will be the last World Cup warm-up games, the French leagues and the Currie Cup Final in Bloemfontein.

The Currie Cup Review : Year 2019 – Semi-Finals

The Free State Cheetahs talented back-rower Junior Pokomela got a brace against the Sharks

The Currie Cup for the Year 2019 was going to be decided. The play-offs were going to take place with, first, the semi-finals. Obviously, only four provinces had qualified from a great regular season.

The Golden Lions were hosting the Griquas who got some impressive wins through the campaign. Meanwhile, in Bloemfontein, the Free State Cheetahs were hosting the Sharks in the other game.

It was disappointment for the Western Province and the Blue Bulls who did not qualify despite their potential. The Pumas were going to play a promotion-relegation match to remain in the league.

Currie Cup – Semi-Finals – Review

* Game XXII : Lions vs. Griquas (Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa)

The Golden Lions shifted the ball wide and winger Madosh Tambwe touched down. The Griquas missed a penalty with George Whitehead but had the ball again and Chris Smit touched down on the corner.

The Golden Lions were on the attack again and Stean Pienaar scored a stunning try. George Whitehead kicked two penalties while Hacjivah Dayimani showed his power with a great try.

George Whitehead and Shaun Reynolds both kicked two penalties for the Griquas and the Golden Lions, respectively. The Golden Lions scored a maul try with Marnus Schoeman. They won it (FT : 34-19).

* Game XXIII : Cheetahs vs. Sharks (Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, South Africa)

The Sharks got an early try with Curwin Bosch. Tian Schoeman kicked a penalty for the Cheetahs and Junior Pokomela touched down. Sanele Nohamba replied and Curwin Bosch landed a kick.

Lwazi Mvovo also scored. In the second-half, Curwin Bosch added another kick. The Cheetahs hit back with a try from William Small-Smith. Ruan Pienaar and Joseph Dweba got stunning scores.

It was all square when Curwin Bosch had a brace. Though, Junior Pokomela also got his brace. The Cheetahs played outstandingly as Ox Nche and Jasper Wiese both touched down. They won (FT : 51-30).

Talking Points :

The Golden Lions booked their ticket for the Currie Cup Final following the home win against the Griquas. It was not easy but they managed to do enough to get that place in the upcoming Final.

Meanwhile, the Free State Cheetahs won against the Sharks in an outstanding performance. That means that they will get the home advantage in Bloemfontein for the Final.

Conclusion

The Golden Lions and the Free State Cheetahs will contest the Currie Cup for the year 2019. Both provinces played a really great brand of rugby during their respective home semi-finals that they won.

The Golden Lions and the Free State Cheetahs did not have easy fixtures but still managed to find a way to win. These two provinces have been very consistent since the beginning of the campaign.

The Free State Cheetahs will have the home advantage for the Final. It will take place in Bloemfontein. No doubt that the Free State Cheetahs will not lack motivation given the whole context, there.

Max.

The Rugby Wrap : Weekend Review (Thursday, 22nd, August, 2019 – Sunday, 25th, August, 2019)

The Free State Cheetahs centre William Small-Smith scored a superb try in Bloemfontein

This weekend was going to be absolutely outstanding. First of all, in the Northern Hemisphere, the nations were still preparing for the World Cup with a few warm-up games which were key.

Meanwhile, in the Southern Hemisphere. The provincial competitions were going on. In South Africa, it was the last Round in the Currie Cup. There also was some Mitre 10 Cup in New Zealand.

Finally, in France, the two main leagues in the country were back. Due to the length of the season, the ProD2 and the Top14, respectively the second division and the first division, were taking place.

* Perpignan vs. Beziers : ProD2 (Aimée Giral, Perpignan, France)

The home side kicked a penalty with Jonathan Bousquet. Beziers had Maxime Veau sent off. Jonathan Bousquet kicked a penalty but Beziers later tied the game up with two penalties from Adrien Latorre.

Though, Perpignan scored a coast-to-coast try with Shahn Eru and centre Afupisa Taumoepeau had a try but Damien Chouly was yellow-carded. Nevertheless, Adrien Latorre missed the penalty.

Beziers came back with a try from Jefferey Williams. Jonathan Bousquet kicked a penalty but Perpignan had another player binned with Berend Botha. Perpignan still managed to win (FT : 23-13).

* Auckland vs. Bay Of Plenty : Mitre 10 Cup (Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand)

The Auckland team did not catch the kick-off and Mitch Karpik scored for Bay Of Plenty. Auckland shifted the ball wide and Salesi Rayasi had a stunning try. He even got a brace on the same right corner.

Auckland had a third try with Rieko Ioane having an interception. Meanwhile, Dalton Papali’i made a few turnovers. In the second-half, Chase Tiatia was binned for Bay Of Plenty for a tackle in the air.

However, Dan Hollinshead kicked a penalty for Bay Of Plenty. Auckland had Hoskins Sotutu binned for many infringements as Dan Hollinshead kicked a penalty. Auckland held their lines for the win (FT : 19-13).

* Counties Manukau vs. Waikato : Mitre 10 Cup (Navigation Homes Stadium, Pukekohe, New Zealand)

The Waikato province made a good start with Declan O’Donnell chasing a kick for the try. Counties Manukau came back with Kalione Hala. Though, Waikato attacked and Baylin Sullivan concluded the build-up.

Thanks to good pressure, Waikato scored a third try with winger Newton Tudreu. In the second-half, Hamilton Burr had another one for Waikato and Fletcher Smith added a penalty. Counties Manukau hit back.

First, Sam Henwood scored from a maul. Later on, Riley Hohepa picked up a loose ball to score and Donald Maka also scored from a maul. Waikato managed to hold their lines to pick up an away win (FT : 26-31).

* Scotland vs. France : Test Match (Murrayfield, Edinburgh, Scotland)

The Scotland team were under pressure as Damian Penaud intercepted and got the try for France. Scotland hit back with a penalty from Greg Laidlaw. However, the French winger Damian Penaud had a brace.

Scotland needed a strong reaction and Sean Maitland scored out wide before Half-Time. In the second-half, Scotland unleashed a huge build-up and it was concluded by the centre Chris Harris.

The two nations were showing some huge physicality. Scotland was not comfortable on the attacking front while France made many handling mistakes. Scotland secured the win (FT: 17-14).

* Griquas vs. Lions : Currie Cup (Griqua Park, Kimberley, South Africa)

The Lions attacked well and winger Stean Pienaar touched down. Fullback Tyrone Greene scored following a good move while Madosh Tambwe was also on the scoreboard. The Griquas came back.

Gideon van der Merwe scored from a maul. In the second-half, Wilmar Arnoldi carried over the line. The Lions replied with a stunning brace from the winger Stean Pienaar on the left of the field.

The Griquas had the lead back with another brace. Gideon van der Merwe had the score. Though, Shaun Reynolds kicked a penalty for the Lions who finally clinched a bonus point away win (FT : 26-27).

* England vs. Ireland : Test Match (Twickenham, London, England)

The home side started with a penalty from Owen Farrell. Ireland attacked from a scrum and it led to Jordan Larmour’s try. England came back with Joe Cokanasiga and Elliot Daly getting out wide tries.

Powerful centre Manu Tuilagi also carried over the line. In the second-half, Maro Itoje got a try in the midfield. George Kruis touched down from close range. Tom Curry also concluded a great build-up.

England still attacked. Joe Cokanasiga got his brace. Bundee Aki scored a late try for Ireland. Luke Cowan-Dickie scored for England as George Kruis was binned. England comfortably won (FT : 57-15).

* Cheetahs vs. Western Province : Currie Cup (Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, South Africa)

The Western Province winger SP Marais kicked four consecutive penalties. They added a try with prop Wilco Louw. The Free State Cheetahs worked a good move and Williams Small-Smith touched down.

The Western Province added a try with Dillyn Leyds. Joseph Dweba touched down for the home side. Scarra Ntubeni scored for the Western Province. The Free State Cheetahs unleashed a massive comeback.

Tian Schoeman touched down and so did Darren Adonis out wide. Ox Nche carried over the line and Jasper Wiese scored from close range. The Free State Cheetahs held their lines to clinch a massive win (FT : 38-33).

* Taranaki vs. Northland : Mitre 10 Cup (Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth, New Zealand)

The Northland side got the first try with prop Ross Wright. Taranaki played their attacking game and Sean Wainui touched down. Te Toira Tahuriorangi concluded a counter-attacking build-up for the try.

In the second-half, Jackon Ormond got a brace in a few minutes. Tupou Vaa’i carried over the line while Daniel Waite finished a build-up. Sean Wainui got a brace and Jackson Ormond grabbed a Hat-Trick.

Taranaki got another score with Jayson Potroz after a great passing line. Northland scored late tries with Renata Roberts-Tenana and Coree Te Whata-Colley. Taranaki got the big win (FT : 52-19).

* Southland vs. North Harbour : Mitre 10 Cup (Rugby Park, Invercargill, New Zealand)

The Southland Stags began well with Marty McKenzie creating and finishing a try. North Harbour got their game going and James Little touched down from a good set-piece play.

In the second-half, North Harbour built a few phases and Asaeli Tikoirotuma scored. Later on, scrum-half Bryn Hall scored a coast-to-coast try. Southland hit back with a try from Scott Eade.

North Harbour kept the composure and Harrison Groundwater concluded another great counter-attack. Matt Duffie sealed the win for North Harbour with one last try after collecting a chip-kick (FT : 12-33).

* Clermont vs. La Rochelle : Top14 (Marcel Michelin, Clermont, France)

It was a tough start for La Rochelle with Tawera Kerr-Barlow yellow-carded. Clermont kicked a penalty with Jake McIntyre. They unleashed their attacking game and Peter Betham got a great try.

Stade Rochelais came back with a good try from Pierre Aguillon. Brock James kicked a penalty. Jake McIntyre kicked a penalty and Peter Betham got a brace. Sua Puafisi was sent off for Stade Rochelais.

It was a high tackle. Marc Palmier kicked a penalty and missed his second attempt. Isaia Toeava was binned for a high tackle but Judicael Cancoriet sealed the win for Clermont with one last try (FT : 28-10).

Conclusion

This weekend has been astonishing. In the ProD2, Perpignan started well and so did Clermont in Top14. In the Mitre 10 Cup, Auckland won while Waikato got some confidence back as well.

Taranaki delivered and so did North Harbour. About the World Cup warm-up games, Scotland made amends while England had a huge win. Moreover, in the Currie Cup, the last Round was outstanding.

The Golden Lions clinched an away win while the Free State Cheetahs snatched a massive win. Next weekend, all these competitions will go on and so will the World Cup warm-up games.

Max.

The Currie Cup Review : Year 2019 – Round 7

The Free State Cheetahs snatched a massive home win to go top of the Currie Cup 2019 table

That was the Round 7 and the last Round of the Currie Cup for the year 2019. It was almost impossible to know what was going to happen. It was going to be a fantastic finish in that provincial competition.

The Pumas had the bye weekend and were going to play a promotion-relegation game. All the other provinces could still have the opportunity to make the play-offs thanks to a win in the Round.

The Griquas were already qualified. They were hosting the Golden Lions who needed a win. It was the same for the Free State Cheetahs hosting the Western Province and the Blue Bulls hosting the Sharks.

Currie Cup – Round 7 – Review

* Game XIX : Griquas vs. Lions (Griqua Park, Kimberley, South Africa)

The Lions attacked well and winger Stean Pienaar touched down. Fullback Tyrone Greene scored following a good move while Madosh Tambwe was also on the scoreboard. The Griquas came back.

Gideon van der Merwe scored from a maul. In the second-half, Wilmar Arnoldi carried over the line. The Lions replied with a stunning brace from the winger Stean Pienaar on the left of the field.

The Griquas had the lead back with another brace. Gideon van der Merwe had the score. Though, Shaun Reynolds kicked a penalty for the Lions who finally clinched a bonus point away win (FT : 26-27).

* Game XX : Cheetahs vs. Western Province (Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, South Africa)

The Western Province winger SP Marais kicked four consecutive penalties. They added a try with prop Wilco Louw. The Free State Cheetahs worked a good move and Williams Small-Smith touched down.

The Western Province added a try with Dillyn Leyds. Joseph Dweba touched down for the home side. Scarra Ntubeni scored for the Western Province. The Free State Cheetahs unleashed a massive comeback.

* Game XXI : Bulls vs. Sharks (Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria, South Africa)

The Sharks kicked a penalty with Sanele Nohamba. The Bulls replied with a try from Johnny Kotze. Sanele Nohamba landed a kick. Lizo Gqoboka got a try for the Bulls. Thomas du Toit replied for Sharks.

Manie Libbok touched down for the Bulls. Jacques Vermeulen scored for the Sharks and Johnny Kotze was sent off. André Esterhuizen had the try for the Sharks and so did Jeremy Ward and Kobus van Wyk.

Cornal Hendricks and Ruan Steenkamp touched down for the Bulls after some good attacks. Ruan Smith had a try for the Sharks. Tim Agaba got a consolation try for the Bulls (FT : 40-48).

Talking Points :

Following the last Round, the Pumas will play the promotion-relegation match to stay in the Premier Division. The Blue Bulls did not qualify as the Western Province following a disappointing campaign.

The Sharks qualified for the play-offs. The Free State Cheetahs will host one of the two semi-finals in Bloemfontein. The Golden Lions will play at home against the surprising Griquas, in Johannesburg.

Conclusion

The Round 7 has paved the way for an incredible finish. The Pumas will have to win the promotion-relegation game against the Griffons if they want to remain in the Currie Cup Premier Division.

The Blue Bulls and the Western Province did not qualify and will now begin preparations for the Super Rugby 2020. About the semi-finals, it will take place in Bloemfontein and Johannesburg.

The Free State Cheetahs will host the Sharks while the Golden Lions will host the Griquas. The Free State Cheetahs secured the top of the table. There will be a massive opportunity for them.

Max.

The Rugby Wrap : Weekend Review (Thursday, 15th, August, 2019 – Saturday, 17th, August, 2019)

Wales became the number 1 nation in the rugby world according to the World Rugby rankings

This weekend was going to be a pretty good one. There was rugby played all over the world. It was not only Test rugby with all the nations involved but also provincial rugby with provinces playing on the pitch.

About Test rugby, the World Cup warm-up matches were still taking place in both Hemispheres. The nations only had a few Test matches left to get their preparation right for the main event in September.

Moreover, there was some provincial rugby as well with competitions in the South. The Currie Cup was going into another Round while the Mitre 10 Cup was only beginning so the provinces were motivated.

* Northland vs. Auckland : Mitre 10 Cup (Toll Stadium, Whangarei, New Zealand)

The home side kicked a penalty with Jack Debreczeni. Auckland replied with a try from Jack Whetton after a carry. Caleb Clarke intercepted for another try while Jamie Lane concluded an attacking build-up.

D’Angelo Leuila kicked a penalty. In the second-half, AJ Lam scored on the right corner. Winger Tanielu Tele’a beat a few defenders to score while TJ Fai’ane was on the scoreboard as he collected a chip-kick.

Northland could not find the solution in that contest. They still scored a consolation try thanks to their back player Pisi Leilua. However, Auckland managed to secure an away bonus-point win (FT : 10-43).

* Hawke’s Bay vs. Wellington : Mitre 10 Cup (McLean Park, Napier, New Zealand)

The home side had the try with Brendan O’Connor. Wellington hit back with Teariki Ben-Nicholas. Brendan O’Connor almost had a brace while Vince Aso got a coast-to-coast try for Wellington.

It was all square when Tom Parsons scored. Wellington had the lead back with Kemara Hauiti-Parapara as Wes Goosen was denied a try. In the second-half, Xavier Numia scored for Wellington.

Hawke’s Bay came back with Danny Toala. Jackson Garden-Bachop kicked a penalty. Caleb Makene scored and Lincoln McClutchie kicked a penalty. Wellington secured the away draw (FT : 27-27).

* Otago vs. Southland : Mitre 10 Cup (Forsyth Barr, Dunedin, New Zealand)

Otago threw the ball wide and winger Jona Nareki scored the try. Vilimoni Koroi kicked a penalty. Marty McKenzie replied with a kick for Southland before Slade McDowall got a maul try for Otago.

In the second-half, Dylan Nel got a score for Otago. Josh Moorby got a good try for Southland before Jona Nareki got his brace for the home side. Josh Dixon carried over the line as Otago got another.

Southland had a try with Charles Alaimalo. Otago got a stunning try with Rowan Gouws. Southland had a try from a scrum with Bill Fukofuka. Otago won and kept the Ranfurly Shield (FT : 41-22).

* New Zealand vs. Australia : Test Match (Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand)

The All Blacks kicked a penalty thanks to Richie Mo’unga. Christian Leali’ifano missed two penalties for the Wallabies. On the counter-attack, Richie Mo’unga got the try and so did Aaron Smith.

However, Dane Coles was yellow-carded while Richie Mo’unga missed a penalty. In the second-half, New Zealand maintained the pressure and Sonny Bill Williams got over the line from close range.

The home side was tactically smarter and winger Sevu Reece won a kick chase after a chip-kick for his try. George Bridge also touched down as the All Blacks responded with a great display (FT : 36-00).

* Pumas vs. Cheetahs : Currie Cup (Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit, South Africa)

The Cheetahs got the try with Benhard Jansé Van Rensburg. The Pumas hit back with Alwayno Visagie. Christopher Smith kicked a penalty and Alwayno Visagie got a brace with Devon Williams also scoring.

Clayton Blommetjies touched down for the Cheetahs. Louis Fouché missed a penalty. Ruan Pienaar had a try. Christopher Smith got a kick. Jasper Wiese scored and Benhard Jansé Van Rensburg got his brace.

Louis Fouché got a kick. Juandré Rudolph scored for Pumas but Louis Fouché replied in equal fashion. Alwayno Visagie got a Hat-Trick. The Cheetahs held their lines to get the away win (FT : 37-43).

* Wales vs. England : Test Match (Principality Stadium, Cardiff, Wales)

The two nations showed much physicality in that first-half. Dan Biggar rewarded Wales for their efforts with a penalty. Anthony Watson was yellow-carded for a deliberate knock-down.

On the resulting penalty, Dan Biggar made two cross-field kicks. The second was collected by George North for the try. In the second-half, George Ford kicked two consecutive penalties.

Leigh Halfpenny missed a long attempt before nailing a second penalty. Wales held their lines and got the win to become the number one nation in the World Rugby rankings. Huge (FT : 13-6).

* South Africa vs. Argentina : Test Match (Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria, South Africa)

In the first-half, Elton Jantjies kicked a penalty for South Africa. Joaquin Diaz Bonilla also landed a kick. S’busiso Nkosi got a great try before Guido Petti Pagadizabal got the interception try.

Joaquin Diaz Bonilla missed a penalty. S’busiso Nkosi got a brace. Sebastian Cancelliere was denied a try. Benjamin Urdapilleta and Elton Jantjies both landed a kick. Benjamin Urdapilleta missed a kick.

Pablo Matera scored from a lineout as Elton Jantjies kicked a penalty. The Pumas were denied a second try as Elton Jantjies was on target again on the resulting penalty. South Africa won (FT : 24-18).

* Italy vs. Russia : Test Match (Riviera Delle Palme, San Benedetto del Tronto, Italy)

Russia got a penalty with Ramil Gaisin. Luca Morisi scored for Italy and Sergio Parisse concluded a build-up. Kirill Golosnitskii scored a brillant try for Russia. Mattia Bellini got a brace in a few minutes.

Mateo Minozzi touched down and Jayden Hayward scored. Tommaso Allan had his try and Simone Ferrari carried over the line. Edoardo Padovani scored. Matteo Minozzi and Edoardo Padovani got braces.

Matteo Minozzi even got a Hat-Trick. Bogdan Fedotko scored a consolation try for Russia. Carlo Canna scored one last try from a scrum for Italy for what was an impressive performance (FT : 85-15).

* France vs. Scotland : Test Match (Allianz Riviera, Nice, France)

The French team did not waste time as Alivereti Raka concluded a superb move. Camille Lopez kicked a penalty before an attacking platform sent Maxime Medard to the try line. It was promising.

Scotland were back with a penalty from Adam Hastings. However, he was yellow-carded for a deliberate knock-down. In the second-half, some great offloads allowed Maxime Medard to get a brace.

France were playing their wonderful game again. Scrum-half Antoine Dupont was also on the scoreboard. Scotland could not find the key. France were outstanding and won the game (FT : 32-03).

Conclusion

This weekend has been interesting. In the Mitre 10 Cup, Auckland picked up a convincing away win. Wellington launched their season with an away draw while Otago defended the Ranfurly Shield.

In the Currie Cup, the Cheetahs clinched a massive away win. The home fixture in Bloemfontein next weekend will be key. Moreover, about the World Cup warm-up games, New Zealand made amends.

Wales became number 1 with their win. South Africa snatched the win. Italy and France were impressive. Next weekend, the provincial competitions and the World Cup warm-up games will go on.

Max.

The Currie Cup Review : Year 2019 – Round 6

The Free State Cheetahs centre Benhard Jansé Van Rensburg scored a brace against the Pumas

There were only two Rounds left in the 2019 Currie Cup competition. It definitely was going to be very contested as shown by the standings. Almost all the provinces were still in the fight for the play-offs.

Only the Pumas were unable to reach the play-offs after a tough campaign. The Blue Bulls still had an outside chance but they had the rest this weekend. The Sharks were under pressure as well.

Meanwhile, the Cheetahs and the Lions absolutely needed a win to get their campaign back on track. The Griquas and Western Province were looking for more momentum in that regular season.

Currie Cup – Round 6 – Review

* Game XVI : Griquas vs. Western Province (Griqua Park, Kimberley, South Africa)

The home side scored from the first minute with Ederies Arendse. SP Marais kicked a penalty for Western Province before Eduan Keyter got another try. SP Maras kicked another penalty for Western Province.

Ederies Arendse got a brace for the Griquas before Seabelo Senatla concluded a score for Western Province. George Whitehead kicked a penalty for the home side and Ruhan Nel was yellow-carded.

Western Province still made the comeback with Nama Xaba carrying over the line. Seabelo Senatla got a brace as well. Wester Province could not find the next score in that thrilling contest (FT : 27-23).

* Game XVII : Pumas vs. Cheetahs (Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit, South Africa)

* Game XVIII : Lions vs. Sharks (Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa)

The Lions had the opening try with Shaun Reynolds. The Sharks replied with a penalty from Sanele Nohamba and a try from Jeremy Ward. Sanele Nohamba also got a try from a set-piece play.

Shaun Reynolds kicked a penalty and Boeta Chamberlain replied as well. In the second-half, Tyrone Green scored a great try. Sanele Nohamba and Shaun Reynolds both kicked a penalty.

Shaun Reynolds got his brace for the Lions before Jeremy Ward did the same for the Sharks on a chip-kick. Marnus Schoeman scored for the Lions from a powerful driving maul for the bonus point (FT : 28-30).

Talking Points :

Before the last Round, all the provinces can still make the play-offs except the Pumas. They will play the relegation fixture. The Blue Bulls had the bye weekend but still have an outside chance to qualify.

The Griquas are the only team qualified as it stands. The Cheetahs and the Sharks gathered some momentum. The Golden Lions and the Western Province are under pressure for their last game.

Conclusion

For the Round 7, the Pumas will not play it because they will have the bye weekend. They cannot pick more points and so they will have to play the relegation game as they will finish at the last spot.

The Griquas will host the Golden Lions. The Golden Lions will need the win and so will the Cheetahs. They will host the Western Province which will also have a chance to qualify for the play-offs.

Finally, the Blue Bulls will play in Pretoria against the Sharks. Once again, both provinces will have the opportunity to qualify and particularly the Blue Bulls. The Round 7 will be very interesting.

Max.

The Barrett Review : Test Match (Bledisloe Cup – Australia)

New Zealand and Beauden Barrett finally retained the coveted Bledisloe Cup for the year 2019

Rugby Championship was now over for New Zealand. The World Champions had suffered a heavy loss the last weekend. Their number 1 ranking was also under threat following som sub-par performances.

The All Blacks still had an opportunity to retain the Bledisloe Cup. One week after the thrashing in Perth, New Zealand wanted to make amends. There simply was no choice for the All Blacks squad.

I- Background

Before that Test match, Steve Hansen was not afraid to make the big calls and so he made them. Experienced All Blacks were dropped such as prop Owen Franks, fullback Ben Smith and winger Rieko Ioane.

Centre Sonny Bill Williams started and definitely had an opportunity to stake his claims. The wingers were rookies George Bridge and Sevu Reece. Richie Mo’unga and Beauden Barrett started again.

II- Game Summary

The beginning of the game was tricky for New Zealand. They scored an opening penalty before managing to hold their lines. Richie Mo’unga and Aaron Smith both scored counter-attacking tries.

Dane Coles did not help with the yellow-card. Still, the All Blacks efficiently used the kicking game. There were some good tries scored as New Zealand retaind the Bledisloe Cup for another year.

III- The Barrett Review

* Kicks : 1/2 – Richie Mo’unga had the goalkicking duties before going off with a shoulder injury. Beauden Barrett had two tough conversions. He nailed one. He also missed a 45-metre drop-kick.

* General Play : Once again, he showed that he wa comfortable from fullback. He played first-five eighth in the last quarter. He created a few opportunities and made some good chip-kicks.

Conclusion : The dual playmaking role with Richie Mo’unga is still a work in progress. It will be interesting to know if Steve Hansen will like to try it again for the Tonga Test match in a few weeks.

Max.

The Barrett Review : Rugby Championship 2019 (Game III – Australia)

Only Ma’a Nonu and Richie McCaw scored as many tries as Beauden Barrett against Australia

Following the draw against South Africa in Wellington, New Zealand knew that they were under pressure. The All Blacks had to face a trip to Australia to win the competition and the Bledisloe Cup.

I- Background

The New Zealand coaching staff did not want to panic after the home draw. Steve Hansen and his assistants wanted to trust the same squad of players. Few changes were expected for this Test match.

The Blues centre Sonny Bill Williams needed more game time so he did not play a part. The key players were trusted even if Brodie Retallick was out with an arm injury sustained the week before.

II- Game Summary

The New Zealand were put under pressure from the beginning. They conceded an unusual try from a loose ball. They came back with two consecutive tries which could have been ruled out.

Second-rower Scott Barrett was sent off for a shoulder charge before the Half-Time. New Zealand were unable to come back and conceded their highest points against Australia and a heavy loss.

III- The Barrett Review

* Kicks : N/A – Beauden Barrett did not take the shots at goal for New Zealand against Australia. Richie Mo’unga was handed the goalkicking duties as he kept them all game long.

* General Play : Playing from fullback again, Beauden Barrett was the best All Blacks player on the field. He missed a tackle but created a few opportunities and even scored a try.

Conclusion : It surely was not his greatest game. However, considering that New Zealand played the second-half with only 14 players, it was an honest performance from Beauden Barrett.

Max.

The Rugby Wrap : Early-August Review (Saturday, 03rd, August, 2019 – Saturday, 10th, August, 2019)

The Springboks playmaker Handré Pollard was outstanding against the Pumas in Salta

There were plenty of competitions and friendlies taking place in the rugby world at the start of August. First of all, with the World Cup coming in only a month, both Hemispheres had started preparing.

South was finishing the Pacific Nations Cup and the Rugby Championship while the North was going into their warm-up games. Moreover, there were also the provincial competitions in the South.

In South Africa, the Currie Cup had already reached the second part of the regular season. Meanwhile, in New Zealand, the Mitre 10 Cup was beginning with another entertaining competition to come.

* Fiji vs. Canada : Pacific Nations Cup (ANZ National Stadium, Suva, Fiji)

The Canada players opened the scoreboard with a penalty from Shane O’Leary. Fiji shifted the ball wide and Viliame Mata scored as Shane O’Leary kicked a second penalty for Canada.

Fiji had momentum and Peceli Yato picked up a loose ball to score while Leone Nakarawa carried over the line. Canada got a try in the corner with Kainoa Lloyd. In the second-half, Fiji controlled.

Prop Peni Ravai showed his strength and he carried over the line for the try. Josua Tuisova scored a stunning individual try while Mesulame Dolokoto scored from a maul. Fiji won that game (FT : 38-13).

* United States vs. Japan : Pacific Nations Cup (National Stadium, Suva, Fiji)

The Japanese did not mess around. Michael Leitch scored from a maul and Yu Tamura added a penalty. Kenki Fukuoka got a stunning try before Madison Hughes replied for the United States.

AJ McGinty kicked a penalty. Then, Yu Tamura and Will Hooley traded penalties. In the second-half, Ryohei Yamanaka had a try. Yu Tamura kicked a penalty and Michael Leitch scored a wonderful brace.

United States got a try from the back of a Japanese scrum with forward Hanco Germyshuys. However, Japan remained strong and secured the win as they were crowned Pacific Nations Champions (FT : 20-34).

* Counties Manukau vs. Taranaki : Mitre 10 Cup (Growers Stadium, Pukekohe, New Zealand)

The home side started well with Chris Kuridrani on the corner. Taranaki replied with Sean Wainui on the fringes. Counties Manukau had a try on the wing with Etene Nanai-Seturo as Taranaki came back.

Waisake Naholo touched down and a penalty try was awarded. Sam Slade was sent to the bin and Daniel Waite landed a kick. Conan O’Donnell scored for the home side but Lachlan Boschier replied.

Jackson Ormond got a try in the corner. Counties Manukau came back with a penalty from Riley Hohepa and a try from Daniel Hyatt. Taranaki were defensively strong and snatched the win (FT : 29-34).

* Fiji vs. Samoa : Pacific Nations Cup (National Stadium, Suva, Fiji)

The two Pacific Islands nations showed a huge physicality in the first-half of the contest. The Samoa playmaker Ulupano Seuteni missed two penalties while Ben Volavola was on target for Fiji.

Samoa tied the game up when Ulupano Seuteni kicked a penalty. In the second-half, Fiji made a turnover and winger Vereniki Goneva concluded what was a superb countr-attacking try.

Fiji could not find the next score and had all the defending to do. Peceli Yato was yellow-carded after many infringements. Samoa was denied a try for a knock-on as Fiji claimed a hard-fought win (FT : 10-03).

* Argentina vs. South Africa : Rugby Championship (Ernesto Martearena, Salta, Argentina)

The Pumas scored the first try when Santiago Cordero gathered a cross-field kick. The Springboks replied with a penalty from Handré Pollard and Bongi Mbonambi scored from a rolling maul.

Nicolas Sanchez kicked a penalty and Handré Pollard added two. They both kicked one more each. Handré Pollard attacked the line and scored the try. He got another penalty but Faf de Klerk was binned.

Handré Pollard got a brace while Makazole Mapimpi and Cheslin Kolbe touched down in the corners. South Africa clinched the Rugby Championship in some fashion (FT : 13-46).

Conclusion

These two weekends gave a few informations in the respective competitions. First of all, Japan were crowned Pacific Nations Champions following a few interesting performances.

Fiji also had a good campaign with two wins. In the Mitre 10 Cup, Taranaki began their campaign with an away win. It definitely was a better start than the last season when they got relegated.

Finally, in the Rugby Championship, South Africa won the competition. The provincial competitions will resume next weekend and both North and South will keep preparing for the World Cup.

Max.

The Currie Cup Review : Year 2019 – Round 5

The Springboks skipper Siya Kolisi playing for Western Province during the 2019 Currie Cup

The Currie Cup as going into Round 5 and given the competition, it was really tough to make play-offs calls. All the provinces still had chances to qualify before the beginning of this Round.

The Golden Lions were the only province left unbeaten in the competition. Western Province were back from their bye weekend as well. The Griquas had it this weekend and were not playing.

The Round 5 was another opportunity for all the provinces to push for the play-offs. Bonus points were going to play a huge part in the final standings to decide which province would qualify.

* Game XIII : Western Province vs. Pumas (Newlands, Cape Town, South Africa)

The Pumas scored the first try with Alwayno Viagie. The Western Province replied quickly with Sergeal Petersen on the corner. He was followed by Shikhumbuzo Notshe and Seabelo Senatla, as well.

The home side were rampant and Justin Phillips scored from close range while Seabelo Senatla had his brace. In the second-half, Ernst van Rhyn added another one for the Western Province.

The Pumas scored a consolation try with Christopher Smith. However, the Western Province sealed the win with a try from Ruhan Nel. It was a comfortable win for the home side (FT : 45-14).

* Game XIV : Sharks vs. Cheetahs (Kings Park, Durban, South Africa)

The Sharks started with a penalty from Curwin Bosch before Lwazi Mvovo had space on the left wing to score. The Cheetahs replied with Joseph Dweba and Benhard Jansé van Rensburg also scored.

On a turnover, Aphelele Fassi got the try for the Sharks. In the second-half, Craig Burden was binned as Louis Fouché kicked a penalty for the Cheetahs but Curwin Bosch scored a drop-goal.

The Cheetahs were still on the attack and winger Carel-Jan Coetzee got the score on the right wing on the field. The Sharks had another possession, later on, and Kobus van Wyk scored (FT : 27-20).

* Game XV : Lions vs. Bulls (Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa)

The Bulls ran with the ball and Cornal Hendricks scored. He was followed by Dayan van der Westhuizen. However, Frederick Eksteen was sent off for a shoulder charge and the Lions got a penalty try.

Shaun Reynolds got a good try as well before Manie Libbok kicked two penalties but he missed one. He got a try but Andries Ferreira was binned. Peter Jansen scored from a maul for the Lions.

Manie Libbok added a penalty but Stean Pienaar concluded a build-up for the Lions. Manie Libbok got a penalty and Dylan Sage was yellow-carded. The Lions tried to find the last score (FT : 26-31).

Talking Points :

It is very difficult to know how the last Rounds will decide the play-offs. There is definitely not much between the provinces even if the Pumas and the Bulls are out of the play-offs race.

The Sharks remain in the contest and so does the Western Province. The Golden Lions and the Cheetahs find themselves under some huge pressure. The Griquas will come back from their rest.

Conclusion

For the Round 6, the Bulls will get the bye weekend before returning for the final Round. The Pumas will play their last game. The Western Province will have a tricky contest away to the Griquas.

The Sharks and the Cheetahs will absolutely need a win to remain in the play-offs race. Otherwise, it should be almost over. The Golden Lions will try to still stay unbeaten in the Currie Cup.

The next Round will probably define what will happen in the last Round. The provinces which will come up with the respective wins in Round 6 should be able to qualify for the play-offs.

Max.