The Free State Cheetahs : Eternity (2023 Currie Cup Win)

On the 27th, March, 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic, I wrote an article on that blog saying that it would be the last. I was wrong. I am coming back for one article to celebrate a rugby event which happened yesterday.

It was the Currie Cup Final in South Africa, rugby’s oldest competition which was first held at the very end of the 19th century. The Cheetahs won the 2023 edition and goes in eternity with that incredible performance.

That article will pay tribute to that incredible south-african province which always played his rugby with passion and developped a special relation with his crowd. It is all about playing rugby and giving back to the people.

Let’s review the Free State Cheetahs Currie Cup campaign for 2023

I- Background Information

A) Who are the Cheetahs ?

The Free State Cheetahs are a rugby province from South Africa based in Bloemfontein, the siege of the Supreme Court. The rugby province was created in 1895 and quickly built their legacy on core rugby values.

The tradition in South Africa means that rugby provinces adopt animals as their emblem. The Free State went for the Cheetahs because it suited the way that they wanted to play : some quick, fast and spectacular rugby.

Over the years, the Free State Cheetahs became popular and built a strong fanbase not only in Bloemfontein but in all the country. They are a well respected province considering what they achieved.

B) Their playing style

As said above, the Free State Cheetahs have always prided themselves on a specific way to play the game. Their playing style goes with the Cheetahs. The province have got players who are some incredible athletes.

Their players are very quick and they are never shy when it comes to throwing an offload. The Free State Cheetahs have always played a very aggressive and attacking game, playing ball in hands from their own half.

Their attacking game can easily be recognized with several waves of players in the backline being potential options and some huge depth in the phases of play. The lineout has always been a prolific attacking platform.

C) The History since 1895

The Free State Cheetahs province regularly played in the Currie Cup over the years and had some huge success. In the beginning of the 2000’s, they started to push for a franchise to make sure that they were in Super Rugby.

Initially, they played as the Cats, which was a mix between the Cheetahs and the Lions, before they got their franchise in 2006. The franchise area is including the Free State, obviously, but also the Griquas and the Griffons.

The Cheetahs played in Super Rugby until 2017 before they were excluded by SANZAAR. After that, they were included in the Pro14 before another exclusion during Covid-19. They were invited in the 2023 Challenge Cup.

II- The 2023 Currie Cup campaign

A) Before starting the 2023 campaign

The Free State Cheetahs had a point to prove heading into that new Currie Cup season. The last Title was dating back to the year 2019 and they had not got the opportunity to show their potential in the last few years.

Involved in the Pro14, they had to find some depth in the squad to compete in both competitions, which was a step too far. During the Covid-19 pandemic, they were unable to compete and lack crucial game time.

The year 2022 was meant to be a successful one for the Free State Cheetahs. The squad had been rebuilt and the coaching staff highly motivated. Unfortuntately, it ended in a tough home semi-final defeat to the Pumas.

B) A strong beginning of the campaign

1) Match I : Griquas (A) – Promising

The Free State Cheetahs opened their Currie Cup with a tricky away game in Kimberley where they faced the Griquas. It was a very competitive side which was selected for that opening game of the campaign.

In the forwards pack, Schalk Ferreira, former Sharks prop, started in the front-row as did second-rower Victor Sekekete. The back-rower was great as well with Gideon van der Merwe and Jeandre Rudolph.

In the backline, Ruan Pienaar was selected as scrum-half with François Steyn at inside center. Munier Hartzenberg on the wing had a great game. It was a comfortable win at the end for the province (FT : 19-42).

2) Match II : Griffons (A) – Impressive

For the second game of the Currie Cup campaign, the Free State Cheetahs had another away game to the Griffons. That was the first time for a few years that the Griffons were back in the competition with a point to prove.

Most of the side which had started the first game retained the coaching staff’s confidence. Hencus van Wyk started with Schalk Ferreira as the two props and Friedle Oliver had also another start as flanker, too.

The half-back pairing still was Ruan Pienaar and Reinhardt Fortuin. The back-three was composed by Munier Hartzenberg, Daniel Kasende and Tapiwa Mafura for another convincing away win (FT : 12-52).

3) Match III : Bulls (H) – Convincing

The Free State Cheetahs were playing their first home game of the Currie Cup in the Free State Stadium of Bloemfontein against the Bulls. Hawies Fouries, the coach, gave some game time to his fringe players.

For example, Marnus van der Merwe was trusted as the hooker, Rynier Bernardo partnered Victor Sekekete in the second-row and Cohen Jasper got some game time from fullback for the first time.

In a rather convincing game, the Free State Cheetahs relied on a very strong forwards pack. Gideon van der Merwe was on the scoreboard and so was Munier Hartzenberg, in a scintillating form (FT : 32-07).

C) Opponents showing their hand

1) Match IV : Pumas (H) – Managing

That fourth game of the Currie Cup campaign was always going to be tricky for the Free State Cheetahs. In fact, they were also playing in the Challenge Cup as a an invitational team and were qualified for the play-offs.

They were away to Toulon in the Round of 16 of the competition and obviously sent in France the lineup that usually plays in the Currie Cup. That meant that the coaching staff had to re-shuffle all the starting XV.

The Pumas had the momentum going into that game. Even in front of the home crowd, it was too much of a task for the Free State Cheetahs who had their first defeat of the Currie Cup campaign (FT : 21-61).

2) Match V : Lions (A) – Reassuring

The Free State Cheetahs were back to business for that clash against the Lions in Johannesburg. The back-rowers Oupa Mohojé and Daniel Maartens were given a go and they did not fail to impress in that game.

The backline did not change much with Ruan Pienaar and Reinhardt Fortuin resuming their half-back pairing. Despite some discipline issues again with a few yellow-cards, it was a reassuring performance.

It must be highlighted that Tapiwa Mafura had a hat-trick during that game. The Free State Cheetahs played very well and controlled the situation nicely with the campaign back on track (FT : 15-52).

3) Match VI : Western Province (A) – Pressurizing

It was the second away game in a row for the Free State Cheetahs who wanted to keep their campaign going. The coaching staff trusted the same side who had performed well against the Lions, a week ago.

There were some minimal changes with the introduction of two new players who still had not played in the 2023 Currie Cup : prop Aranos Coetzee and back-rower Sibablo Qoma, offered a chance to impress.

Playing against the Western Province in Cape Town is always a tough ask. At the end, the Free State Cheetahs showed some great strenght and resilience to clinch a very close encounter (FT : 17-26).

4) Match VII : Sharks (H) – Closing

That home game against the Sharks was going to bring the curtain on the first-half of the campaign. The Free State Cheetahs were hosting the Durban-based franchise in Bloemfontein for a tough game.

The Free State Cheetahs coach, Hawies Fouries, decided to mix things up in the backline. Ruan Pienaar was selected at scrum-half and associated with Siya Masuku with Reinhardt Fortuin playing at inside centre.

The Sharks produced a very impressive performance as the Free State Cheetahs did not have a good track record against that province but still managed to get a vital losing bonus point from the game (FT : 17-24).

D) The toughness of the Currie Cup

1) Match VIII : Griffons (H) – Powering

That opening game of the second-half of the season was an opportunity for Hawies Fouries to keep managing his side. That home game against the Griffons saw the introduction of Rewan Kruger at scrum-half.

Jeandré Rudolph resumed at number 8 while Robert Ebersohn got some game time at outside centre. That encounter had to be delayed due to the very bad weather conditions as a storm was really threatening.

Once again, Tapiwa Mafura had an electric performance with two more tries scored to his name. Siya Masuku was very good from fly-half as well in what was an animated but controlled game (FT : 33-10).

2) Match IX : Western Province (H) – Toughening

The Free State Cheetahs had another home game against the Western Province. George Cronje was selected at numer 8 while François Steyn was unavailable following a knee injury which was very worrying.

From the beginning, it was never going to be an easy game for the Free State Cheetahs. The Western Province led for most of the game with an accurate kicking game from their backline players.

The Free State Cheetahs always hung up though and it finally paid. With a few minutes to go, winger Munier Hrtzenberg clinched the bonus point try for a relieving win at the Free State Stadium (FT : 26-21).

3) Match X : Lions (H) – Disappointing

The Free State Cheetahs received another big blow in the build-up to that game with the injury to their winger Munier Hartzenberg. Hawies Fouries trusted his replacement Cohen Jasper to have a big impact.

The Free State Cheetahs skipper, Victor Sekekete still led by example but the Lions were decided to make a point in that game. There was a lot of speed and the home side could not handle the pace.

However, the Free State Cheetahs rallied in the last moments of the game. Their forwards pack did the job and scored two quick tries to make sure they get the two bonus points from that big clash (FT : 26-33).

4) Match XI : Sharks (A) – Doubting

The task was not going to get easier for the Bloemfontein-based franchise with another tough trip to Durban. A very strong back-row started the game with Gideon van der Merwe and Sibabalo Qoma.

At fly-half, the young player George Lourens was selected and it probably was difficult for him to drive the team in a hostile environment. The Sharks applied pressure from the start of the encounter.

The Free State Cheetahs played some catch-up rugby from the start and were feeling the scoreboard pressure. They could not do anything as the Sharks caught them up on the table (FT : 35-23).

E) Getting the campaign back on track

1) Match XII : Griquas (H) – Relaxing

In a very difficult situation with two consecutive defeats, the coach Hawies Fouries decided to make a defining tweak in his backline. He selected Ruan Pienaar at fly-half with Rewan Kruger at scrum-half.

The centre pairing was also promising with Evardi Boshoff and David Brits. However, the Free State Cheetahs were heavily penalised and the campaign was threatened until the closing stages.

On the last play of the game, the Free State Cheetahs forwards pack won a penalty thanks to a counter-ruck. Ruan Pienaar stepped up and clinched the kick to nail a vital bonus point draw (FT : 29-29).

2) Match XIII : Pumas (A) – Defending

It was the penultimate game of the regular eason of the Currie Cup and it showed Conrad van Vuuren back at prop. Centre Reinhardt Fortuin was also back in the mix to give some new direction.

The Free State Cheetahs desperately needed the win to stay at the top of the log and give themselves a chance to host their semi-final. Ruan Pienaar went on from the fly-half position in that game, too.

In a very close and tense game, it was a brillant defensive effort from the Free State Cheetahs who held their lines until the end. It was a perfect way to get ready for the play-offs as well (FT : 14-29).

3) Match XIV : Bulls (A) – Showing

The Free State Cheetahs wanted to get some momentum before the play-offs. Ruan Pienaar was unavailable for that game in what was the only change to the starting lineup. The Bulls were ready.

The game had his turning point just before half-time when the Bulls were reduced to 14 players following some foul play. The Free State Cheetahs had some discipline issues as well.

Playmaker Siya Masuku, who was replacing Ruan Pienaar, was insctrumental. He kicked really well and scored a defining try. The last defensive effort was also massive for the team (FT : 27-31).

F) Going for Glory

1) SEMI-FINAL : Bulls (H) – Delivering

The draw for the semi-finals meant that the Free State Cheetahs were hosting once again, the Bulls. Having finished top of the log, they knew that a home final was beckoning if the win was there.

Ruan Pienaar was back in the starting XV while Reinhardt Fortuin was celebrating his 50th cap for the Free State Cheetahs. He scored on a charge down at the beginning of the semi-final.

Fullback Tapiwa Mafura was incredible in that game while Ruan Pienaar kicked some penalties when it mattered the most. The Free State Cheetahs earned the right to host another Currie Cup Final (FT : 39-10).

2) FINAL : Pumas (H) – Inspiring

The Free State Cheetahs were going to face the Pumas in that Currie Cup Final. prop Nqoba Mxoli came into the starting XV following a failed HIA Head Injury Assessment) from Schalk Ferreira.

The backline remained unchanged with Cohen Jasper and Daniel Kasende partnering Tapiwa Mafura in the back-three. It was a nervy final with the Free State Cheetahs showing some good patience.

The Free State Cheetahs, true to their rugby style, scored three tries thanks to their backline players. They deservedly won their 7th Currie Cup in front of a passionate home crowd in Bloemfontein (FT : 25-17).

III- The Heroes

A) The matchday squad

Starting XV (15-1) : Mafura – Kasende – Brits – Fortuin – Jasper – Pienaar – Kruger – Olivier – Qoma – G. van der Merwe – Sekekete (C) – Bernardo – van Vuuren – M. van der Merwe – Mxoli

Bench (16-23) : van der Westhuizen – Tshakweni – van Wyk – Rudolph – Cronje – Maartens – Masuku – Ebersohn

B) The players

15. Tapiwa Mafura : Electric fullback, Tapiwa Mafura has been central to the Free State Cheetahs Currie Cup success. His pace and ability under the high ball provided his team try scoring opportunities

14. Daniel Kasende : A speedster on the wing, Daniel Kasende has contributed to the Title as well. He beat many defenders and chased the grubber kicks well. He was never shy in defence as well

13. David Brits : Powerful centre, David Brits has carried the ball very well during the campaign. His work in defence cannot be underestimated as well as he was central in that aspect of the game

12. Reinhardt Fortuin : Versatile player who can play at fly-half, Reinhardt Fortuin has had a breakthrough season. He is very physical, can kick very well and he can distribute to the backline, too

11. Cohen Jasper : Initially part of the fringe players, Cohen Jasper took the most of his opportunities when Munier Hartzenberg went injured. He has got a similar profile as Daniel Kasende

10. Ruan Pienaar : The 39-year old legend was instrumental in the Currie Cup triumph. Ruan Pienaar had a massive influence on each game that he played thanks to his vision and his kicking

09. Rewan Kruger : He was not initially the starting scrum-half but Rewan Kruger earned his place thanks to his hard work. His passing has been very accurate and he scored vital tries

08. Friedl Olivier : Not the most famous player of the squad, Friedl Olivier is an uncompromising number 8. His physicality and his defensive work were pivotal to the Free State Cheetahs success

07. Sibabalo Qoma : Just as Friedl Olivier, Sibabalo Qoma went through a lot of hard work. His tenure at scrum time was really important and his contribution both in attack and defence was great

06. Gideon van der Merwe : Incredible player, Gideon van der Merwe was absolutey everywhere during the campaign. He had a huge influence at lineout time and scored some great tries as well

05. Victor Sekekete : Inspiring captain, Victor Sekekete always led by example on and off the field. He showed the way to the Free State Cheetahs thanks to an incredible amount of work all campaign

04. Rynier Bernardo : Powerful second-rower, Rynier Bernardo was central when it was lineout time. His defence was also incredible as he won many turnovers at the breakdown, too

03. Conrad van Vuuren : Very good prop, Conrad van Vuuren helped the Free State Cheetahs scrum provide a decent platform for the backline. His tackling was also very good, to be honest

02. Marnus van der Merwe : Very strong hooker, Marnus van der Merwe was instrumental for the Free State Cheetahs. His work in defense ensured that the team held her lines for numerous times in the Currie Cup

01. Nqoba Mxoli : Surprising starter for the Final, Nqoba Mxoli worked very well at scrum time. He was very good in defence as well and managed to apply some good pressure to the opponents

16. Louis van der Westhuizen : Very good player, Louis van der Westhuizen always did a good job at scrum ime and lineout time. His power was a great asset for the Fre State Cheetahs

17. Alulutho Tshakweni : The replacement prop was very good when it was the moment at scrum time. He was very solid and was never on the wrong side of the referee during the Final

18. Hencus van Wyk : In a similar fashion to Alulutho Tshakweni, Hencus van Wyk showed some good impact playing. He started a few games during the campaign as well, proving his worth

19. Jeandré Rudolph : Uncompromising player, Jeandré Rudolph never complained about the hard work. He won a couple of defining turnovers during the Final with some great awareness

20. George Cronjé : Great back-rower, George Cronjé can do everything on the rugby pitch. He scored some incredibe tries and made some great turnovers at the breakdown in the Currie Cup

21. Daniel Maartens : There will not be any difference with Daniel Maartens compared to Jeandré Rudolph and George Cronjé. It must be highlighted that his pace was very useful in attack

22. Siya Masuku : Very quick player and outstanding kicker, Siya Masuku can create some sort of havoc in the defence. A favourite of the crowd, he has got that kind of magic with him

23. Robert Ebersohn : Very well-known player in Bloemfontein, Robert Ebersohn contributed to the campaign with his versatility in the backline. His experience is second to none as well

C) Trivia

* There is no player who took part to the last 3 Currie Cup wins (2016, 2019, 2023). Conrad van Vuuren was on the bench in 2016 but not in the matchday squad in 2019 while Ruan Pienaar was not in the team in 2016

* Contrary to 2016 and 2019, the Free State Cheetahs did not beat all the teams. They were unbeaten in 2016 while they beat in the 2019 play-offs the two sides that beat them in the round-robin (Sharks, Lions)

* That is the 7th Currie Cup win for the Free State Cheetahs and the 6th in the last 18 years. There has been 1 Title shared with the Bulls in 2006. They are only one win short of the Sharks who have got wins

* The Free State Cheetahs have never lost a Currie Cup Final in Bloemfontein

* Twice the Free State Cheetahs won the Currie Cup in World Cup years, twice South Africa won the tournament (2007, 2019). To be confirmed for 2023 …

Conclusion

The Free State Cheetahs have written another glorious page of their History against all odds. They managed to get another Currie Cup Trophy staying true to who they are and their incredible playing style.

It is about time for South Africa to recognize their contribution though the years, promoting them to greater rugby competitions and selecting their players for the Springbok jersey.

That province has created a special relation with the crowd through the years. It just shows what that team is : passion, courage, joy, happiness, kindness, equality, hard work and humanity.

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 Barrett Review : Rugby Championship 2019 – South Africa (Game II)

Richie Mo’unga and Beauden Barrett showing their disappointment following the 16-16 draw

Following a hard-fought win over the Pumas for their first game, New Zealand were back at home to face the Springboks. They exactly knew what to expect from their fierce rivals over the years.

Besides, that game, in Rugby Championship Round 2, was taking place at the same venue than the year before. In 2018, in Wellington, South Africa claimed a historic win so the All Blacks were cautious.

I- Background

Westpac Stadium is not a happy ground for New Zealand. They had lost their last two Test matches there : the second Test against the British & Irish Lions in 2017 and South Africa in 2018.

Steve Hansen was looking to keep testing his players. It resulted in another massive turnover with a big surprise. The All Blacks selectors went for a twin playmakers gameplan for that Test match.

Richie Mo’unga started the game as the first-five eighth while Beauden Barrett was shifted at fullback. In other significant moves, Sonny Bill Williams made his long awaited comeback, too.

II- Game Summary

Just like the weekend before in Buenos Aires, that second Rugby Championship Test was the tale of two halves. In the first-half, the All Blacks were completely outplayed by the Springboks.

They still managed to get a counter-attacking try with Jack Goodhue. Then, in the second-half, it was New Zealand’s turn to be on the front foot but again, they could not quite capitalise with tries.

Finally, in the last play of the fixture, with New Zealand having a 7-point lead, South Africa went to the wide channels. Herschel Jantjies scored the try and the conversion from Handré Pollard drew it.

III- The Barrett Review

* Kicking : Beauden Barrett missed two goals. His first one was a technical issue while the second was because of cramps. He slotted a conversion and a penalty and shared the duties with Richie Mo’unga.

* General Play : He created New Zealand’s only try, making the assist to Jack Goodhue. His partnership with Richie Mo’unga will need time. Goalkicking was a mixed bag. Definitely room for improvements.

Max.

The Rugby Wrap : Weekend Review (Friday, 26th, July, 2019 – Saturday, 27th, July, 2019)

Marika Koroibete set up a try for Australia against Argentina in the 2019 Rugby Championship

This weekend was going to be entertaining in the Southern Hemisphere. First of all, the Currie Cup was going on in South Africa. The provinces were targeting good results to qualify for the play-offs.

Also, there was the Round 2 of the Rugby Championship. The four southern nations wanted to get momentum. The North were also preparing for their upcoming warm-up games.

The Northern Hemisphere had these few warm-up games planned in the coming weekends. It was going to be a good build-up for them with the World Cup coming. It was all about preparation.

* Pumas vs. Bulls : Currie Cup (Nelson Mandelay Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth, South Africa)

The home side ran from their 22-metre zone and winger Etienne Taljaard scored the try. Though, Rosko Specman intercepted and the Bulls tied the game up. Rosko Specman got a brace.

Marnitz Boschoff missed a kick for the Bulls as Christopher Smith kicked a penalty for the Pumas. In second-half, Marnitz Boschoff landed a penalty. The Pumas had a try with Willie Engelbrecht.

Kobus Marais missed a kick before Manie Libbok kicked a penalty for the Bulls. Rosko Specman got a Hat-Trick. Kobus Marais missed a penalty for the Pumas as the Bulls won (FT : 17-25).

* New Zealand vs. South Africa : Rugby Championship (Westpac Stadium, Wellington, New Zealand)

The All Blacks could not find any possession in the opening phases of play. The Springboks kicked two consecutive penalties with Handré Pollard as New Zealand needed a big reaction quickly.

On a counter-attacking play, Beauden Barrett found space and made the assist to Jack Goodhue. In the second-half, Beauden Barrett kicked a penalty before Handré Pollard replied with a kick.

Richie Mo’unga later kicked two consecutive penalties. After that, Herschel Jantjies concluded a build-up and the try was converted. It was a good draw for New Zealand in Wellington (FT : 16-16).

* Australia vs. Argentina : Rugby Championship (Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, Australia)

The Wallabies had the better start with Christian Leali’ifano kicking a penalty. Nicolas Sanchez replied with a kick for Argentina before Reece Hodge touched down from a set-piece play.

Australia added one more penalty with Christian Leali’ifano. In the second-half, the Wallabies playmaker kicked two more penalties. The Pumas came back with a try from forward Facundo Isa.

Australia got a scrum penalty but Matt Toomua missed the resulting penalty kick. The Wallabies remained strong in defence and controlled one last scrum to get the good home win (FT : 16-10).

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

The Cheetahs found space out wide for Junior Pokomela for the first try. Henco Venter concluded a build-up. Joseph Dweba scored from a maul while Williams Small-Smith got a stunning try.

In the second-half, Joseph Dweba got a brace from a maul as Eduan Keyter scored for the Griquas. Dries Swanepoel scored from a quick-tap for the Cheetahs. Ederies Arendse had a try for the Griquas.

Rabz Maxwane touched down while William Small-Smith got a brace. Dries Swanepoel was denied but got his brace. Louis Fouché sealed the win for the Cheetahs with an outstanding try (FT : 68-14).

Conclusion

This weekend has been very entertaining. First of all, in the Rugby Championship, New Zealand got the draw with South Africa as both nations could still win the Rugby Championship.

Moreover, Australia are back in the contest and could still win it as well after their convincing win against the Pumas. In the Currie Cup, the Bulls got momentum back with their away win.

The Cheetahs remain unbeaten in the Currie Cup. Next weekend, it should be very interesting as it will be another Currie Cup Round with the World Cup build-up for the nations going on.

Max.

The Barrett Review : Rugby Championship 2019 – Argentina (Game I)

Beauden Barrett was not far from scoring a try a few times during the Argentina Test match

It was a new era in Beauden Barrett’s carrerr at the start of this 2019 Rugby Championship. Obviously, he was in New Zealand’s camp to prepare for the World Cup, starting in Japan, in September.

Also, his new Super Rugby contract had been announced a few weeks ago. Beauden Barrett had decided to leave the Hurricanes for the Blues. It was not for rugby reasons but for personal reasons.

I- Background

For the first Rugby Championship game, Steve Hansen and his staff had decided to rest a few Crusaders players. They had been involved in the Super Rugby Final just two weeks before that Test.

It meant that the All Blacks were missing key players for this Test match, including players like Joe Moody, Codie Taylor, Owen Franks, Sam Whitelock, Kieran Read and Richie Mo’unga.

It meant that the New Zealand coaching staff fielded an inexperienced XV against Argentina in Buenos Aires. A few players got an opportunity such as Vaea Fifita, Ngani Laumape and Jordie Barrett.

II- Game Summary

It definitely was a curious game. The All Blacks conceded many penalties in the first-half. The Pumas surged to a 6-point lead before Ngani Laumape rescued his teammates with a powerful try.

New Zealand scored a second try, courtesy of an intercept from Brodie Retallick on the cusp of Half-Time. However, the second-half was tougher for the defending Champions who did all the defending.

They made a few linebreaks but were unable to find any form of continuity. The attacking moves from set-play were inaccurate. They had to make a 81st-minute turnover on their 5-metre line to win it.

III- The Barrett Review

* Kicking : It was a faultless display from the kicking tee with four attempts succeeded. In a stadium that he did not know particularly well, Beauden Barrett was satisfied with his place-kicking display.

* General Play : The former Hurricanes pivot probably was the biggest attacking threat for New Zealand on the pitch. He just was not able to find support but he broke the Pumas line many times.

Conclusion : For a first Test match outing, it was a pretty promising performance from Beauden Barrett. Goalkicking form is there and he certainly has not lost his running magic as well.

Max.

The Rugby Wrap : Mid-July Review (Saturday, 13th, July, 2019 – Saturday, 20th, July, 2019)

Winger S’busiso Nkosi touching down for South Africa during the Rugby Championship in 2019

In July, there is always some rugby entertainment and especially during the World Cup year. For the year 2019, all the nations which will compete for the main event, have begun their camp preparations.

The Southern Hemisphere have got the Rugby Championship and additional fixtures to warm-up for the World Cup. Meanwhile, the Currie Cup is taking place in South Africa with some spectacular games.

It is just the beginning of the story. In August, with the Currie Cup, the Mitre 10 Cup in New Zealand will also be played. The Northern Hemisphere will also play their World Cup warm-up fixtures.

* Currie Cup – Round 1

* Lions vs. Pumas (Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa)

The Pumas scored with Carel du Preez. The Lions hit back with Madosh Tambwe but Le Roux Roets scored. Rhyno Herbst was binned and Shaun Reynolds missed a kick but Madosh Tambwe had a brace.

Kobus Marais landed a kick for the Pumas. Tyrone Green scored a 90-metre try for the Lions. Kobus Marais landed another kick. Etienne Taljaard finished on the corner and Kobus Marais had another kick.

Franco Naude got a stunning try. The Lions hit back with Madosh Tambwe scoring a Hat-Trick and a quadruple. Shaun Reynolds touched down from a set-piece play. The Lions snatched the win (FT : 38-37).

* Western Province vs. Bulls (Newlands, Cape Town, South Africa)

The Western Province went on the attack early but the Bulls turned the ball over and scrum-half Embrose Papier scored. Western Province threw the offloads and centre Ruhan Nel finally touched down.

The Western Province missed a few oppotunities. In the second-half, the home province released pressure and back-rower Juarno Augustus scored a great try as the Bulls were making handling mistakes.

Fullback SP Marais kicked a 50-metre penalty before missing another one. Winger Craig Barry collected Jean-Luc du Plessis’ cross-field kick and he sealed the win with a stunning try (FT : 20-05).

* Currie Cup – Round 2

* Bulls vs. Cheetahs (Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria, South Africa)

The Cheetahs got a penalty with Tian Schoeman. Henco Venter touched down but Cornal Hendricks had a try for the Bulls. Though, centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg got a brace in a few minutes.

The Bulls had another try with Ruan Steenkamp. In the second-half, Louis Fouché concluded a build-up for the Cheetahs. Rosko Specman got a great try for the Bulls but the Cheetahs replied.

Jasper Wiese touched down from a maul and Darren Adonis also scored. The Bulls scored consolation tries with Johan Grobbelaar and Conraad van Vuuren but the Cheetahs won (FT : 27-43).

* Rugby Championship – Round 1

* South Africa vs. Australia (Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa)

The Springboks quickly found space out wide and Herschel Jantjies scored on debut. Bernard Foley kicked a penalty as André Esterhuizen was binned for a high tackle. Though, Lood de Jager got a try.

The Wallabies came back with Dane Haylett-Petty. In the second-half, Elton Jantjies missed a penalty as Taniela Tupou was yellow-carded. S’busiso Nkosi concluded a stunning build-up.

Herschel Jantjies got a great brace. Australia were not out of it with Bernard Foley getting a counter-attacking try. Though, the Springboks sealed the win with a try from Cobus Reinach (FT : 35-17).

* Argentina vs. New Zealand (Velez Sarsfield, Buenos Aires, Argentina)

The Pumas started brillantly with two penalties respectively from Nicolas Sanchez and Emiliano Boffelli. New Zealand replied with a try as Ngani Lauampe made a strong carry from close range.

Nicolas Sanchez and Beauden Barrett traded a penalty with the All Blacks playmaker adding another. Before Half-Time, Brodie Retallick intercepted and it was a second try for New Zealand.

In the second-half, the Pumas scored a try from a high kick with Emiliano Boffelli. New Zealand had to defend all the second-half and made one last turnover to snatch a tough away win (FT : 16-20).

Conclusion

While the Northern Hemisphere is still in camp to prepare the World Cup, the Southern Hemisphere was playing. The first two Rounds of the Currie Cup has been really entertaining on the fields.

The Lions snatched the home win while the Western Province started well. The Cheetahs were also impressive during their opening game. The Rugby Championship started with great Test matches.

South Africa clinched the bonus point win in Johannesburg while New Zealand got a very scrappy win. Next weekend, these two competitions will go on with the Mitre 10 Cup not too far away.

Max.

The Southern Hemisphere : Year 2019 – Track Record

Year 2019 is not an usual year in rugby union because it is a World Cup year. It is time to make a first assessment about the Southern Hemisphere season. The Super Rugby regular season is now over so this is an opportunity to analyse what happened this year.

Besides, the Southern Hemisphere nations will shortly begin their preparations for the upcoming World Cup. It is already a good moment of the year to assess the four southern powerhouses’ form. The respective coaches have several months to build the gameplan.

Moreover, while the South will be in World Cup mode, the provincial competitions will also take place. That is disappointed to have those played during the World Cup as it deserved the best players. However, it still is the evidence of the south’s bright future.

PART I : SUPER RUGBY – WHAT WE LEARNT THIS SEASON

1) New Zealand : Business as usual or a bit of a slip ?

The Super Rugby play-offs shows, like the previous seasons, four New Zealand franchises qualified : the Crusaders, the Hurricanes, the Chiefs and the Highlanders. You could think, introduced that way, that the Kiwi franchises remain dominant in Super Rugby.

Actually, it is more complicated than that. First of all, the Crusaders, compared to last season, were defeated. They lost away to the Waratahs and the Chiefs while they had to settle for a home draw against the Sharks. Their form has not been flash all season.

About the Hurricanes, they won more games than the Crusaders. Though, it must be noted that their home defeat to the Jaguares was their first home loss to a franchise which is based outside of New Zealand since 2015. This was not just a game in that point.

Finally, the Chiefs and the Highlanders qualified in the last Round. The Chiefs started the season without a single win in 5 games, including a home defeat against the Sunwolves. The Highlanders only won 6 games, drew 3 times and lost their 2 games in South Africa.

All of that means that it would be wrong to say that New Zealand does not remain a force in Super Rugby. However, it would be also wrong to say that New Zealand franchises are as dominating as the previous seasons. Clearly, there is no gap anymore in Super Rugby.

2) South Africa : Rising again

South Africa showed that they are rising again in Super Rugby. That is definitely good news for the competition. The Springboks franchises have always been famous for entertaining the crowds all around the world. All their franchises have performed well.

The most obvious point in Super Rugby 2019 is how the Bulls re-discovered their gameplan which brought them 3 Super Rugby crowns in 4 years between 2007 and 2010. They made a few statements including two away draws in Auckland and in Dunedin.

They showed some composure at every stage. Their defence has improved with turnovers made and discipline on the park. On attack, they spread the ball wide with a lot of width. Their forwards carried very well and their backline unleashed the combos.

The Stormers and the Lions were definitely unlucky not to be part of the play-offs. The Stormers had injuries to deal with as they probably lacked accuracy at some times. The Lions were a bit inconsistent. They got the home form but they did not find consistency.

On top of that, the Sharks were able to qualify like the last year, showing how unpredictable they are. The franchises in South Africa have performed well this season with a decent record against the New Zealand franchises. Their pool’s player is strong.

3) Australia and Argentina : Trying to build franchises

To finish with, Australia and Argentina have known various fortunes during the Super Rugby 2019. The Brumbies and the Jaguares have qualified to respectively represent Australia and Argentina in the play-offs. The sides have been linked with controversies.

First, the Brumbies have relied on their traditional gameplan with strong forwards and almost every try scored from set-piece mauls. It prompted one of the Brumbies coaching staff member to take on people suggesting their gameplan’s limits by insulting them.

This attitude cannot really lauded as the values of rugby union are bigger than that. About the Jaguares, the controversy came from Australia, suggesting that the Pumas franchise fooled the Sanzar as it is a national team on the field and not really a franchise.

On that point, it is tough to blame the Jaguares as they do not have enough players to build another team. It might change soon as the Jaguares qualified for the play-offs for a second time. It will be a home game as their rugby brand must be highly praised as well.

About the other Wallabies franchises, the Rebels developped an ambitious brand as well but could not win the defining fixtures. The Waratahs were disrupted off the field with the Israel Folau saga while the Reds showed improvements but they need to do more.

PART 2 : THE PROVINCIAL COMPETITIONS – OFF-FIELD NEWS

1) New Zealand : Steve Tew is leaving

As the Super Rugby is nearing towards its end for 2019, many things are happening at the same time. Provincial competitions will take place even if it is a World Cup season. Also, the nations had many off-field news to deal with. Let’s start with New Zealand.

It is already known that Steve Hansen, the All Blacks coach, will leave his role after the 2019 World Cup. His successor is still unknown but a few names have been thrown in the media : Warren Gatland, current Wales coach, and Scott Robertson, the Crusaders coach.

It has also been confirmed that the current NZRU (New Zealand Rugby Union) boss Steve Tew will leave. He helped New Zealand maintain his rank over the years. Steve Tew managed to keep the worldwide success while maintaining the players’ eligibility rules.

Rugby is starting to change and New Zealand have got a big challenge ahead of them. Many All Blacks players are taking up lucrative contracts in Japan. The NZRU have to create new deals, allowing players to go, while making sure that they remain with them.

It will be tough for the New Zealand board to balance the two. Despite these changes, New Zealand can rely on a strong academy system. The Mitre 10 Cup, starting in August, is the evidence of the talent coming through in the Land Of The Long White Cloud.

2) South Africa : New contracting system

The current South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus will be leaving his role after the 2019 World Cup as well but he will leave a strong legacy despite only the two years in charge. In June 2018, he appointed the first ever Black Springbok Captain : Siyamthanda Kolisi.

Since his arrival, Rassie Erasmus always worked on the best way to retain the best players at home. He pushed for the 30-cap rule as the Springboks players outside the Republic cannot play Test Rugby unless they reach that mark. It was an achievement.

Then, a few days ago, the SARU (South Africa Rugby Union) boss Jurie Roux announced that South Africa would put in place a new contracting system. From now, the players will not be contracted with the federation anymore but with their respective franchise.

This system should be more efficient to develop the desire for the players to remain in the country. Jurie Roux also specified that there would be special and significant advantages for the players staying home. It must be financial wages and recognition.

South Africa have also its provincial competition : the Currie Cup. The SARU pushed for the inclusion of provinces from Zimbabwe and Namibia. The first Tier will remain unchanged for the Currie Cup (Sharks, Western Province, Bulls, Lions, Cheetahs, Pumas).

3) Australia and Argentina : The Israel Folau saga and Delivering

In Australia, the year has been really difficult, off-field wise. It all started in May, while Super Rugby was entering its second part of the season. Israel Folau had just become the Super Rugby’s all-time try scorer with his 60th try that he scored against the Blues.

Just after that fixture, with the Waratahs having the bye weekend, Israel Folau posted a message on social media. The Wallaby fullback had immediately his contract removed by the ARU (Australia Rugby Union) claiming a high breach in the Code Of Conduct.

Amid the tension that the controversy created in the society, let’s have a cool and objective approach to get everybody agreed on that. First of all, everybody is entitled to an opinion but everybody must also act according to an universal value : Respect.

Israel Folau has got the right to think what he wants. We cannot prevent people from thinking what they want. Nevertheless, Israel Folau did not have to share this in a public way. It is obviously disappointed not to have him on the field but rugby is about respect.

About Argentina, the players really wants to deliver. There was a huge noise in 2017 when the national side was not performing. The players really want to achieve something great and the coaching staff does not want to know the same story twice.

PART 3 – THE WORLD CUP PREPARATIONS

1) New Zealand : Huge task for Steve Hansen

The All Blacks have got the ambition to win a third consecutive World Cup, which would be their fourth crown. If they want to achieve that feat, they are facing a huge task. Steve Hansen and his coaching staff will have to face a few challenges and not easy ones.

First of all, New Zealand have got a big competition from many sides all around the world. Since the 2015 World Cup success, the All Blacks have witnessed many nations showing how competitive they were. There are so many threats for New Zealand.

New Zealand have suffered a few losses against their Southern Hemisphere rivals : South Africa (2018) and Australia (2017). Also, the All Blacks have struggled against the Northern Hemisphere. They lost twice against Ireland (2016, 2018) among titanic tussles.

England and Scotland were also not far from winning and there also was the drawn British & Irish Lions series in 2017. Their aura is not as strong as what it was. Besides, there are questions about the gameplan that Steve Hansen wants to change quickly.

Finally, New Zealand had several key players injured such as Brodie Retallick, Kieran Read, Sonny Bill Williams and Ben Smith. They should come back in time but will have to deliver. There are also some doubts about the front-row and the back-row stocks quality.

2) South Africa : From outsiders to winners ?

The Springboks are considered as outsiders for the World Cup but they could well surprise the rugby world and win it. Seeded in the same pool as New Zealand, their first fixture against the defending Champions could be crucial if they are to win the Cup.

The Rugby Championship in 2019 showed that South Africa had the ability to win against New Zealand. They won in Wellington and almost did the same in Pretoria a few weeks later. Rassie Erasmus has been smart in the way that he has managed his squad so far.

He has led the racial transformation in the country, something that Allister Coetzee was unable to do. He gave time to Black players with calls based on merit and not favouritism (Siya Kolisi, Embrose Papier, Elton Jantjies, S’busiso Nkosi, Makazole Mapimpi).

The training camps will be an opportunity for Rassie Erasmus to work on his gameplan. He wants to add some width to the Springboks’ game. Second-rower RG Snyman was brought in the squad for his offload magic and the back-row options are outstanding.

In the backline, Handré Pollard has been instrumental on the pitch. If Jesse Kriel can get back to fitness, it would be good news. In the back-three, there is world-class talent : Cheslin Kolbe, Cornal Hendricks, Warrick Gelant, Curwin Bosch and Damian Willemse.

3) Australia and Argentina : Unity, a big factor

The biggest challenge for Australia and Argentina during the World Cup will be the unity. In the past, some rifts have appeared in the respective squads. It could completely disrupt their campaign so the boards will have to be very clear as what they expect.

To start with, the Pumas had an outstanding World Cup in 2015. They qualified for the semi-finals and huge credit was deservedly given to the coach Daniel Hourcade. Though, Argentina could not carry that form and Daniel Hourcade had to step down in 2017.

The Pumas’ poor form after the World Cup raised a few eyebrows considering how well the Jaguares were performing in Super Rugby. Mario Ledesma is now the coach but Gonzalo Quesada, the Jaguares manager, will not be part of the good coaching set-up.

As for Australia, the Israel Folau saga has shown a rift in the Wallabies training camp. The polynesian players playing for Australia expressed their support for Israel Folau, feeling their religion is in danger. It was the case for Taniela Tupou and Samu Kerevi.

Scott Johnson, the newly appointed Australia Director Of Rugby, spoke to these players. He tried to be objective to them and he will have the task to unify the squad. There also was a rivalry in the past between David Pocock and Israel Folau so that is a challenge.

Conclusion

The Super Rugby 2019 showed that New Zealand remain a force but their franchises are not so dominant as they were a few seasons ago. South Africa are rising again while Argentina have made improvements. It has really been a mixed season for Australia.

The All Blacks are in transition. They are trying to find their gameplan for the World Cup while their coach and the NZRU boss will leave soon. In South Africa, Rassie Erasmus is preparing well his squad while the new contracting system will help retain the players.

Australia have been disrupted by the Israel Folau saga and the federation will have to unify the squad. Finally, Argentina have performed well in Super Rugby and will have to replicate that at Test level. Southern Hemisphere remain strong and powerful as ever.

Max.

The Rugby Wrap : Weekend Review (Friday, 05th, October, 2018 – Sunday, 07th, October, 2018)

 

This weekend, the Northern Hemisphere clubs were playing one last league game before the return of the european competitions. Champions Cup and Challenge Cup would start and the managers had to make a few turnovers according to their own players’ policy.

Meanwhile, the provincial competitions in the Southern Hemisphere were close the end. The Mitre 10 Cup and the Currie Cup were very competitive with the play-offs starting soon. The provinces were targeting some silverware to end their season on a high note.

Finally, on this weekend, there were also the last two 2018 Rugby Championship games. New Zealand were facing a tough trip to South Africa while Australia were playing away to Argentina. These nations wanted to get momentum with the November Tour coming.

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

Manawatu began the game on the attack with Brad Tucker finishing a great build-up. Prop Michael Alaalatoa scored from close range while Otere Black kicked a penalty. Hawke’s Bay replied when Pasqualle Dunn touched down on the wing after a good run.

Kianu Kereru-Symes got the try from a maul while Michael Allardice carried over the line for Hawke’s Bay. They kept the momentum in the second-half when prop Mark Braidwood touched down. It was followed by a stunning try from Jamie-Jerry Taulagi.

Hawke’s Bay had all the possession and were clinical in defence as well. Jonah Lowe got the interception for the try with Michael Buckley finishing on the corner. Hamish Northcott was binned for Manawatu as Hawke’s Bay claimed the home win (FT : 45-17).

* Glasgow vs. Zebre : Pro14 (The Scotstoun, Glasgow, Scotland)

The Glasgow Warriors were on the board early with a try from Huw Jones. Zebre started to apply a big pressure and they were finally rewarded with a try from Apisai Tauyavuca. Adam Hastings and Marcelo Violi kicked a penalty for their respective team.

In the second-half, the Zebre forward Johan Meyer was binned for a high tackle. Glasgow Warriors relied on their maul and George Turner scored the try. Later, it was Greg Peterson who found the space in the midfield and it was the third try for the home side.

Launching a counter-attacking play from their own half, George Turner finished it for the bonus point try. In the last moments, Peter Horne also got a try after the ball was spread wide. Glasgow Warriors got the big bonus point win at their home (FT : 36-8).

* Canterbury vs. Taranaki : Mitre 10 Cup (AMI Stadium, Christchurch, New Zealand)

There were much tension early with Jarrad Hoeata sent off after throwing a punch. Canterbury had one more player and Mitchell Drummond scored from close range. Conor Garden-Bachop finished a build-up while Billy Harmon scored in the left corner.

Brett Cameron kicked a penalty as well before Half-Time. In the second-half, Taranaki had a bit more momentum. Hugh Renton was binned for a late tackle for Canterbury while prop Daniel Lienert-Brown was sent off for the home side after a big head butt.

Though, Canterbury had the control and Sam Beard found the space to score before Ngane Punivai scored a stunning try. Jayson Potroz had a consolation try for Taranaki before centre Brayden Ennor sealed the win with a last try for Canterbury (FT : 41-7).

* Northampton vs. Leicester : Premiership (Twickenham, London, England)

In support of Rob Horne, the game took place at Twickenham. Leicester Tigers were first on the board with George Ford kicking a penalty. Northampton Saints replied with a try from the lineout. Jamie Gibson scored it before George Ford added another penalty.

After that, the Leicester Tigers fullback Jonah Holmes made two world-class contributions. It led to tries scored by Ben Youngs and Jordan Olowofela. However, Northampton Saints came back again when David Ribbans touched down for the team.

In the second-half, the defences were settled and many mistakes were made. George Ford kicked a penalty while Mikey Haywood had another try for Northampton Saints. Though, Leicester Tigers defended well and claimed a very convincing win (FT : 15-23).

* Scarlets vs. Ospreys : Pro14 (Parc Y Scarlets, Llanelli, Wales)

The Scarlets were on the attack early in this game though the Ospreys defence made a few turnovers. Building a few phases, the Scarlets found the space out wide and Johnny McNicholl touched down. Cory Allen had a try as well for the Ospreys after some move.

They were ready for the big battle and after a good build-up, George North scored the try. The TMO confirmed that it was a try while Leigh Halfpenny kicked a penalty to close the gap. In the second-half, he kicked his second penalty to take a 1-point advantage.

Later in that second-half, Rhys Patchell found the space and scored a superb individual try. The Ospreys remained in the contest until the end when Luke Morgan finished a counter-attacking play. The Scarlets managed the end of the game to win it (FT : 20-17).

* South Africa vs. New Zealand : Rugby Championship (Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria, South Africa)

The first-half was a big contest between the two sides with the Springboks having most of the possession and building the phases. However, at Half-Time, it was all square as Handré Pollard and Beauden Barrett both kicked two penalties for their respective sides.

In the second-half, there was more intensity and centre Jesse Kriel beat two defenders to score. Handré Pollard kicked a 60-metre penalty while Damian de Allende had the space in the midfield for another try. New Zealand replied with a good try from Aaron Smith.

However, Cheslin Kolbe scored on the wing after a TMO check. Rieko Ioane had a try for the All Blacks who closed the gap with Scott Barrett carrying. In the last play, Ardie Savea carried over the line and Richie Mo’unga kicked the winning conversion (FT : 30-32).

* Stade Toulousain vs. Agen : Top14 (Ernest Wallon, Toulouse, France)

Stade Toulousain and Agen started this game with some difficulties as the weather conditions were not great. Besides, the pitch was not the best so it was very tough to launch the attacking moves. There were many handling mistakes from both sides.

The home side opened the scoreboard with a penalty from Zack Holmes. The Agen fly-half, Jake McIntyre, was binned for foul play. It resulted in a try scored by the scrum-half Sébastien Bezy. It was converted by Zack Holmes and the Half-Time came in Toulouse.

The second-half was even scrappier with Stade Toulousain remaining in defence and Agen targeting a score. The try did not came with the home side trying to play a little bit more in the last quarter. However, it remained difficult but that was a win (FT : 10-0).

* Argentina vs. Australia : Rugby Championship (Padre Ernesto Martearena, Salta, Argentina)

The Pumas began the game brillantly with Pablo Matera having a run for the first try while Emiliano Boffelli scored on a counter-attack. Australia had their first try after a carry from Michael Hooper but Matias Orlando found the space for the Pumas’ third try.

Just before Half-Time, Santiago Gonzalez Iglesias touched down and added a penalty. The Wallabies launched the comeback in the second-half. Izack Rodda carried over the line while Israel Folau and Dane Haylett-Petty scored after some great phases of play.

Santiago Gonzalez Iglesias kicked a penalty but David Pocock carried for the score. Bernard Foley made a cross-field kick for Dane Haylett-Petty who got a double. Tolu Latu was binned for foul play as Bernard Foley kicked a penalty to seal the win (FT : 34-45).

* Castres vs. Stade Français : Top14 (Pierre Antoine, Castres, France)

Under very difficult weather conditions with a strong rain, the two clubs tried to adapt to the conditions. Castres Olympique had a first penalty but Rory Kockott missed it. A few moments later, Morné Steyn attempted a kick for Stade Français but it also went wide.

Stade Français managed to get more structure to their play with turnovers coming from high kicks. Jules Plisson nailed three consecutive penalties to get a 9-point lead at Half-Time. In the second-half, Rory Kockott kicked a penalty to close the gap to two penalties.

Though, Stade Français were clinical and Julien Arias gathered a grubber kick to score a try on the corner. They were settled in defence though Rory Kockott scored two more penalties. However, Stade Français secured the big away win there in Castres (FT : 9-14).

* London Scottish vs. London Irish : Championship (Richmond Athletic Ground, London, England)

London Irish did not waste time as some good offloads led to a try scored by Tom Parton. Though, London Scottish hit back with Mark Bright from close range. London Irish came back on the attack and Brendan Macken had the space to score and get the lead back.

Going through the phases, Bryce Campbell got the third try while Rory Jennings kicked a penalty for London Scottish. However, after another wide move, Luke McLean touched down for the bonus point try for London Irish while Matt Rogerson was on the board.

London Irish kept scoring with Ofisa Treviranus carrying over. Tjiuee Uanivi was binned for London Scottish as Saia Fainga’a scored after a maul. Henari Veratau scored late for the home side while Ollie Hoskins sealed the win with a try for London Irish (FT : 17-54).

Conclusion

The Mitre 10 Cup has delivered some interesting results such as Hawke’s Bay and Canterbury claiming bonus point wins. In the Rugby Championship, there were two massive comebacks from New Zealand and Australia to win their respective game.

In the Northern Hemisphere, Glasgow Warriors got the win at home while the Scarlets found their running rugby again in the Pro14. In the Premiership, Leicester Tigers performed well at Twickenham in the special game to help the Wallaby Rob Horne.

Stade Toulousain did the job with Stade Français claiming an away win. In the Championship, London Irish remain unbeaten after the win against London Scottish. Next weekend, southern competitions and european games in the North come back.

Max.

The Rugby Wrap : Weekend Review (Wednesday, 26th, September, 2018 – Sunday, 30th, September, 2018)

 

Rugby was going on in both hemispheres this weekend with many competitions being played. In the Northern Hemisphere, the domestic leagues were delivering some competitive games with managers having to rest their players for the next fixtures.

It was all about finding the right balance between the quality of the squad and the ability to get some results. In the Southern Hemisphere, it was not really the same approach. With the provincial competitions, the players are coming to the end of their season.

The Champions Cup and the Challenge Cup fixtures will come quickly while the provinces from South Africa and New Zealand will target some silverware. Obviously, the November Internationals will also be a key part of the build-up to the World Cup.

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

Hawke’s Bay scored the first try thanks to Gareth Evans after a driving maul. Northland replied with a penalty from Jack Debreczeni but Hawke’s Bay had a a second try with Stacey Ili finding space. Jaycob Matiu and Matthew Wright touched down for Northland.

Hawke’s Bay had a try again when Marino Mikaele-Tu’u beat a defender and ran to score. Northland unleashed Rene Ranger who offloaded from Jordan Hyland and Matthew Wright got a second try. Stacey Ili also got a brace before Rene Ranger scored.

Peter Dunn got a try while Jack Debreczeni scored a penalty. Forward Ben Power scored two tries from mauls for Hawke’s Bay with Kara Pryor binned. Peter Dunn got a brace while Jamie-Jerry Taulagi sealed the win with a last try for Hawke’s Bay (FT : 55-41).

* Edinburgh vs. Treviso : Pro14 (Murrayfield, Edinburgh, Scotland)

The two teams were trying to run the ball early. Tommaso Allan kicked a penalty for Benetton Treviso while Simon Hickey replied with a penalty as well for Edinburgh. The home side scored the opening try thanks to Matt Scott after some good phases of play.

Edinburgh added a second try with Duhan van der Merwe before Luca Sperandio touched down for Benetton Treviso. However, Edinburgh were settled and after a great attacking move, Blair Kinghorn scored. Benetton Treviso had a try with Marco Fuser.

In the second-half, following a good scrum, Dougie Fife had the bonus point try for Edinburgh. Luca Sperandio scored two more tries to get a Hat-Trick. Grant Gilchist was binned for foul play as Matteo Barbini had a try before Edinburgh hung on (FT : 31-30).

* Newcastle vs. Wasps : Pro14 (Kingston Park, Newcastle, England)

In a very scrappy game, the Wasps opened the scoreboard with Josh Bassett who gathered a chip-kick to score. The Newcastle Falcons came back immediately with a try from Mark Wilson. Later, fly-half Lima Sopoaga scored a penalty kick for the Wasps.

The first-half was played with pace and after a move, Johnny Williams got a try for the home side. Though, the Wasps relied on their scrum to get another try with Marcus Watson. In the second-half, Johnny Williams got a brace and the game was very close.

Showing some composure, the Wasps built a few phases. Centre Juan de Jongh found the space and dotted the ball down. Lima Sopoaga kicked a second penalty to get a 1-point advantage. The Wasps got the win with their big defence after 86 minutes (FT : 22-23).

* Western Province vs. Sharks :  Currie Cup (Newlands, Cape Town, South Africa)

The Western Province lost an early ball and the Sharks turned it over with Marius Louw scoring. Though, Johan Coetzee hit back for the home side before Ruhan Nel concluded a stunning build-up. The Western Province fullback SP Marais also kicked the penalty.

The Sharks were feeling the pressure and the Western Province found the space. Back player Dillyn Leyds gathered an inside ball for the score while winger Sergeal Petersen showed his pace to score the try. The Sharks replied with Tyler Paul who carried well.

Gideon Koegelenberg had another try for the Sharks before Half-Time. In second-half, they came back as Aphelele Fassi scored. The Western Province stayed composed as SP Marais touched down. JJ Engelbrecht and Chad Solomon both scored to win (FT : 50-28).

* Exeter vs. Worcester : Premiership (Sandy Park, Exeter, England)

The two teams tried to run the ball in the first-half but they were many handling mistakes. Worcester Warriors scored the first points with Chris Pennell. Exeter Chiefs got the try with Jack Yeandle after a maul. The home side wanted to apply the big pressure.

Just before Half-Time, Exeter Chiefs were going through the phases and back-rower Dave Ewers scored twice to give his team a big lead. Worcester Warriors were not out of this game with Chris Pennell scoring his second penalty and Ted Hill concluding the move.

However, the Exeter Chiefs were stronger at scrum time and Ryan Bower was yellow-carded for repeated infringements. Finally, the Exeter Chiefs were patient and prop Harry Williams carried over the line for the good bonus point win at home (FT : 28-11).

* South Africa vs. Australia : Rugby Championship (Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth, South Africa)

The Wallabies did not start the game well when Aphiwe Dyantyi intercepted Kurtley Beale’s pass to score. Fly-Half Handré Pollard ran the backline well and his offload reached Faf de Klerk for the second try. Australia reacted strongly after that try scored.

First of all, following a good attacking play, Reece Hodge scored on his right wing. Few minutes later, winger Marika Koroibete had space on the short side and he made the assist for Will Genia. Handré Pollard kicked two penalties to end a high-quality first-half.

With the second-half beginning, Handré Pollard kicked a penalty. Australia tried to come back as Aphiwe Dyantyi was binned for too much indiscipline. The Springboks turned the ball over a few times and a strong defensive set earned them the win (FT : 23-12).

* Scarlets vs. Kings : Pro14 (Parc Y Scarlets, Llanelli, Wales)

The Scarlets went through the phases in this game with centre Jonathan Davies beating a defender to score. His midfield teammate, Paul Asquith, did the same a few minutes after. The Southern Kings had space out wide and winger Bjorn Basson touched down.

The try scorers so far kept some momentum as Jonathan Davies and Bjorn Basson both got a brace for their respective sides with Half-Time coming. In the second-half, the Scarlets shifted the ball wide and Ioann Nicholas got the score as they just ran rampant.

Dan Davies and Simon Gardiner benefited from strong platforms to get tries. Steffan Evans also touched down while Bjorn Basson was binned for foul play. The Scarlets sealed the win when the replacement scrum-half Kieran Hardy scored a try (FT : 54-14).

* Munster vs. Ulster : Pro14 (Thomond Park, Limerick, Ireland)

Munster did not waste time with centre Dan Goggin scoring a try after a few minutes. Flanker Tommy O’Donnell beat a defender and had a great run to score. Munster were rampant with Joey Carbery kicking a penalty and Tommy O’Donnell scoring his brace.

Just before Half-Time, centre Dan Goggin found the space and also got his double. Ulster did react at the beginning of the second-half with Darren Cave. Nevertheless, Munster found their attacking game again and the skipper Peter O’Mahony scored in the corner.

Running from their 22 metres, Alex Wootton delivered an assist for Joey Carbery while Sam Arnold touched down with John Andrew binned. Keith Earls and Alex Wootton added two last tries from two counter-attacking plays to seal the big win (FT : 64-7).

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

The home side, Clermont Auvergne, did not wait to apply the pressure as Damian Penaud scored early. Anthony Belleau kicked a penalty for Toulon to come back. Clermont kept the momentum and Camille Lopez decided to take on the defensive line and he scored.

Having most of the possession, Clermont even scored another try when winger Remy Grosso gathered a cross-field kick. It was tough for Toulon who conceded a penalty from Morgan Parra. The Toulon prop Marcel van der Merwe was also yellow-carded, later.

Morgan Parra kicked another penalty while Toulon had a try with Romain Taofifenua. Though, Clermont remained composed and Yoan Beheregaray scored the bonus point try after a maul. Sebastien Taofifenua was also binned as Clermont won the game (FT : 28-8).

* Argentina vs. New Zealand (Estadio Velez Sarsfield, Buenos Aires, Argentina)

New Zealand were feeling the pressure as Nicolas Sanchez kicked a penalty for Argentina. The All Blacks got their game going and winger Rieko Ioane got the first try. They had the momentum and after some phases of play, Waisake Naholo had a second.

In a very physical first-half, New Zealand were settled and after a loose ball, Rieko Ioane picked it up and got his double. Lacking discipline, Sonny Bill Williams got a yellow-card. In the second-half, Patrick Tuipulotu got a big carry and had the score for the All Blacks.

The Pumas did react with scrum-half Tomas Cubelli scoring after pressure on the New Zealand line. Turning the ball over, Emiliano Boffelli finished on the corner. However, the All Blacks were composed and Anton Lienert-Brown sealed the win (FT : 17-35).

* Leicester vs. Sale : Premiership (Welford Road, Leicester, England)

Leicester Tigers had to show a big performance at home but it did not start well. Marland Yarde scored on the corner for Sale Sharks. Leicester Tigers got back into the game with Kyle Eastmond getting an offload. George Ford kicked two penalties in that first-half.

In the second-half, Leicester Tigers wanted to apply more pressure but they could not generate momentum. Sale Sharks made a few turnovers at the breakdown and Rob Webber scored the try after a powerful driving maul and they were back in the game.

Leicester Tigers kept the composure and decided to go for the penalties. George Ford kicked two more penalties. However, Sale Sharks scored another try from a maul thanks to Curtis Langdon. Leicester Tigers defended and managed to get the win (FT : 19-15).

Conclusion

This weekend, there were some great games played. In the Mitre 10 Cup, Hawke’s Bay got a great win on Wednesday while the Western Province won a key game against the Sharks. In the South, the Springboks and the All Blacks got Rugby Championship wins.

In the Northern Hemisphere, Edinburgh bounced back in a tough win while the Scarlets and Munster showed their attacking game. In the Premiership, the Wasps got a massive away win while the Exeter Chiefs and the Leicester Tigers picked up their home wins.

Finally, in the Top14, Clermont Auvergne got the win in some good conditions. Next weekend will be the final weekend before the first european fixtures. The Rugby Championship will come to an end as well in what should be some great encounters.

Max.

The Rugby Wrap : Weekend Review (Thursday, 06th, September, 2018 – Sunday, 09th, September, 2018)

 

This weekend, there were many rugby competitions taking place all around the world. First of all, in the Northern Hemisphere, the domestic leagues were going on with the Top14, the Pro14 and the Premiership. It was still the early stages of these competitions.

Meanwhile, in the Southern Hemisphere, the Rugby Championship was back after a resting week for the involved rugby nations. Besides, in South Africa and New Zealand, there were the respective provincial competitions with the Currie Cup and Mitre 10 Cup.

The players are still focusing on their respective season but the November Internationals will come soon. The South will come to play in the North and it will be interesting to know how the South will react. It will be an opportunity to prepare for the World Cup.

* Canterbury vs. Manawatu : Mitre 10 Cup (AMI Stadium, Christchurch, New Zealand)

In Christchurch, Canterbury relied on their powerful maul to get the first try thanks to flanker Reed Prinsep. However, they lacked discipline and Manawatu got two penalties with their first-five eighth Sean Malcolm. They even got the first try with Liam Mitchell.

Canterbury reacted with their maul once again as Greg Pleasants-Tate touched down. The home side was trailing at Half-Time but winger Caleb Makene finished a nice build-up to score. Later, playmaker Brett Cameron kicked a penalty and scored a stunning try.

Manawatu could not find the answers as the attacking game was not as accurate as the beginning. Luke Romano scored a try for Canterbury from close range and Manawatu had a late try with Lifeimi Mafi. Canterbury got the big bonus point win (FT : 34-23).

* Sharks vs. Pumas : Currie Cup (Kings Park Stadium, Durban, South Africa)

Under the rain, the Sharks had some possession and they scored the first try. Jeremy Ward gathered the chip-kick from Robert du Preez. Nevertheless, they did not adapt quickly to the Pumas’ kicking game. First, back Ruwellyn Isbell just scored a superb try.

After that, Le Roux Roets carried and scored the second try. In the second-half, the Sharks had more accuracy with Johan Deysel concluding a build-up under the posts. Later, winger Aphelele Fassi gathered a cross-field kick from Robert du Preez again.

It was a stunning score on the left corner with Robert du Preez converting from the sidelines. Replacement fullback Curwin Bosch added a try on a counter-attacking play. The Sharks defended well in the last quarter to secure the bonus point win (FT : 28-12).

* Northampton vs. Harlequins : Premiership (Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton, England)

The Harlequins had the ball during the opening moments and Marcus Smith scored a penalty. However, Northampton Saints put their hands on the ball. Ben Franks was powerful at scrum time and flanker Heinrich Brussow worked well at the breakdown.

Fly-Half Dan Biggar kicked three consecutive penalties to make a 6-point gap at Half-Time. In the second-half, he added another penalty as the Harlequins’ scrum-half Danny Care got a try from close range. Dylan Hartley replied with a try after a driving maul.

Later, Dan Biggar and Marcus Smith traded a penalty each and James Lang scored a good try for the Harlequins. Harry Mallinder kicked one as well and the Northampton Saints held their lines for 83 minutes. It was a great win for the coach Chris Boyd (FT : 25-18).

* New Zealand vs. Argentina : Rugby Championship (Trafalgar Park, Nelson, New Zealand)

New Zealand kept the ball and Richie Mo’unga kicked a penalty. The Pumas replied when Ramiro Moyano beat a few defenders for a superb try. The All Blacks hit back with Nehe Milner-Skudder who had the space to score. TJ Perenara was key for New Zealand.

He made a try-saving tackle and later carried over the line for the try. Richie Mo’unga also added a penalty. In the second-half, New Zealand conceded a turnover and Nicolas Sanchez scored the try. New Zealand had a try back with the great skipper Kieran Read.

Nicolas Sanchez kicked a penalty before Anton Lienert-Brown unleashed the offload for TJ Perenara’s brace. Emiliano Boffelli scored from a scrum but New Zealand finished strongly with Shannon Frizell and Jack Goodhue, both scoring stunning tries (FT : 46-24).

* Australia vs. Souh Africa : Rugby Championship (Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, Australia)

The Wallabies took a brillant start to this game with flanker Michael Hooper touching down from close range. The Springboks fought back with Elton Jantjies kicking a long penalty. Also, Bongi Mbonambi managed to score after a very powerful driving maul.

Australia could not adapt and the Springboks scored a second try with Makazole Mapimpi. However, the Wallabies were back when Matt Toomua collected a loose ball to score. Elton Jantjies and Reece Hodge respectively traded a penalty each just after that.

In the second-half, it was an arm-wrestle between the two sides. The Wallabies had the possession and the territory and Matt Toomua scored two more penalties. South Africa pushed for the try until the end but Australia hung on for this massive win (FT : 23-18).

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

The Blue Bulls opened with a quick score from Damian Warner but the Griquas replied with Nicolaas Oosthuizen. The Blue Bulls shifted the ball wide and Franco Naudé touched down. Jaco Visagie scored after the big maul and JT Jackson had a stunning try.

The Griquas hit back with André Swarts scoring and a penalty try as Duncan Matthews was binned. Eidel Bredenkamp was on the scoreboard and Jaco Visagie was also binned for the Blue Bulls. It just allowed André Swarts to get a brace with a really good build-up.

Edgar Marutlulle had a try for the away team. The Griquas had Pieter Jansé van Rensburg binned. The Blue Bulls unleashed offloads in stunning tries from Jano Venter and Ivan van Zyl. AJ Coertzen got a late try as the Blue Bulls claimed the win (FT : 40-45).

* Dragons vs. Kings : Pro14 (Rodney Parade, Newport, Wales)

The Dragons began well at their home of Rodney Parade with forward Ollie Griffiths carrying over the line for the first try. Later, Aaron Wainwright did the same thing before fly-half Josh Lewis led his team to score the try. It was some great passage of play.

Though, they were in trouble when Rhodri Williams was sent to the bin for foul play. The Southern Kings scored two quick tries with Mike Willemse and Bjorn Basson as Half-Time came. In the second-half, Godlen Masimla concluded a nice move for his franchise.

Having to react, the Dragons relied on their fly-half Josh Lewis who re-gathered a clearing kick to score a stunning try. He kicked a penalty too as the Southern Kings hit back with Yaw Penxe. After this score, the Dragons hung on and got the win (FT : 27-22).

* Leicester vs. Newcastle : Premiership (Welford Road, Leicester, England)

In Welford Road, it started early when George Ford ran into space to score the opening try. The Leicester Tigers were spreading the ball wide and Jonny May, along with Adam Thompstone, found the space on the wings to score. Newcastle Falcons replied quickly.

Scrum-half Sione Takalua was awarded a try but the home team were brillant and Manu Tuilagi ran through a gap for the bonus point try. Before Half-Time, winger Vereniki Goneva got a brace in a few minutes while Jonny May also had his in an incredible game.

The second-half was a bit scrappier but Mark Wilson touched down after a maul while Sami Mavinga was a scorer, too. Telusa Veainu was binned but Leicester Tigers still managed the game well with George Ford kicking penalties to secure the win (FT : 49-33).

* Toulouse vs. La Rochelle : Top14 (Ernest Wallon, Toulouse, France)

Stade Toulousain came into this game with the rugby which made them famous. Going through the phases, hooker Julien Marchand got a try in the corner. Then, Romain Ntamack made a sublime offload which allowed Zack Holmes to score under the posts.

La Rochelle were completely unsettled as Yoann Huget was also on the scoreboard. Alban Placines had another one in the second-half before Elliot Roudil replied for Stade Rochelais. Stade Toulousain got the ball back though and Thomas Ramos finished that.

It was another great try but the home side let La Rochelle back into it. Elliot Roudil got a brace and Arthur Retiere showed his pace to score two tries in a few minutes. Stade Toulousain managed the end of the game to still take the good win at home (FT : 33-26).

* Bath vs. Gloucester : Premiership (The Recreation Ground, Bath, England)

It was not the greatest start for Bath Rugby who conceded two early tries to Ruan Ackermann. The flanker gained the metres to get a brace in a quarter of time. Gloucester Rugby kept the momentum and scrum-half Callum Braley also scored after a few phases.

Bath Rugby reacted with Semesa Rokoduguni touching down on his wing at Half-Time. In the second-half, Bath Rugby got all the momentum with them and Tom Dunn picked up a loose ball to score. Later, he carried powerfully to get a brace and it was just all square.

Billy Twelvetrees and Rhys Priestland shared a penalty before Elliott Stooke touched down for Bath Rugby. Though, Gloucester Rugby came back with Matt Banahan scoring against his former club. It remained all square in an entertaining fixture (FT : 31-31).

* Scarlets vs. Leinster : Pro14 (Parc Y Scarlets, Llanelli, Wales)

The Scarlets put some early pressure on Leinster as their back-rower Josh Murphy was binned for not rolling away. Putting pressure, the Scarlets eventually got the try from close range thanks to Ken Owens. However, Fergus McFadden had a try for Leinster.

Leigh Halfpenny kicked a penalty for the Scarlets. However, infringing too much, Samson Lee was binned and Leinster used their maul to score at the end of the first-half with James Lowe. Fullback Leigh Halfpenny later kicked two really important penalties.

The game was in the balance and Hadleigh Parkes was through a gap and offloaded for Gareth Davies for the great try. Leinster replied with Rhys Ruddock and the Scarlets defended powerfully. Leigh Halfpenny got a sensational turnover to win it (FT : 23-21).

* Clermont vs. Stade Français : Top14 (Marcel Michelin, Clermont, France)

The two Top14 clubs trusted their kickers at the beginning of the game. Morgan Parra kicked two penalties and Camille Lopez scored a drop-goal for Clermont. Meanwhile, Jules Plisson scored two penalties. Though, Clermont were playing with a huge pace.

Finding some space out wide, George Moala scored the try but Gaël Fickou replied for the away side. Scrum-half Morgan Parra had the last word of the first-half when he spotted the space around the ruck for the try. He also made an assist for Wesley Fofana.

Tony Ensor was sent off for a lifting tackle on a Clermont player. George Moala got a brace with Judicaël Cancoriet adding a try. Étienne Falgoux was binned for Clermont and Julien Delbouis scored late for Stade Français as Clermont claimed the win (FT : 42-20).

* Brive vs. Béziers : ProD2 (Amédée Domenech, Brive, France)

Brive, relegated from the Top14 last season, wanted to take a new start. They conceded the first points when Samuel Katz lined up a penalty for Béziers. Though, going through the phases, Brive were rewarded with a few kickable penalties in a scrappy first-half.

Fullback Thomas Laranjeira kicked four consecutive penalties. In the second-half, he scored a fifth penalty as Béziers lacked discipline. Prop Francisco Fernandes was sent to the bin for repeated infringements. It created some space for Brive in the last stages.

Béziers hit back with the penalty scored from Thibauld Suchier. However, Brive managed the yellow-card well. Stuart Olding made a chip-kick that Félix Le Bourhis re-gathered for the try and Mathieu Ugalde also scored. It was the win for Brive (FT : 27-6).

* Toulon vs. Castres : Top14 (Félix Mayol, Toulon, France)

The home side relied early on their forwards pack as Liam Messam scored from a maul. Castres replied with a try scored by Martin Lavaux on a counter-attacking play. After that, Anthony Belleau kicked a penalty while Benjamin Urdapilleta had two for Castres.

Rory Kockott touched down for Castres as well with Stéphane Onambele Mbarga replying for Toulon. Benjamin Urdapilleta added a drop-goal and a penalty. Though, Toulon were back in it when Sébastien Taofifenua used the driving maul to score a try.

Benjamin Urdapilleta scored a penalty as the Castres prop Tudor Stroe was binned. Mathieu Bastareaud was sent off and Christophe Samson, yellow-carded. Finally, Louis Carbonel kicked a penalty and Filipo Nakosi scored the winning try for Toulon (28-27).

Conclusion :

This weekend has been entertaining. In the Top14, Toulouse and Clermont will be contenders while Toulon got a tough win. In England, Northampton Saints started well at home and so did the Leicester Tigers with Bath Rugby finally snatching a deserved draw.

It was a good weekend for the Welsh regions of the Pro14. The Dragons got a good home win while the Scarlets beat Leinster in Llanelli. In the South, in the Currie Cup, the Sharks kept the momentum while the Blue Bulls bounced back in a high scoring game.

In the Mitre 10 Cup, Canterbury also got the win. New Zealand had a good game while Australia worked hard to secure the result. Brive recorded a win at home to get their ProD2 season going, the second division in France. The next weekend will be great, too.

Max.