The Currie Cup

By Loosehead

Pumas v Blue Bulls

Few would have predicted that a side like the Blue Bulls would sit at the bottom of the standings after four weekends of action but that is the case and they will be desperate for a victory this afternoon as they aim to work their way up the table.

Whilst the Blue Bulls field virtually the same pack of forwards as last weekend, the back division has been significantly strengthened this weekend with the additions of Bjorn Basson, Wynand Olivier and debutant Jano Vermaak at scrum half following his early release from the Lions.  This is without doubt the strongest side that they have fielded so far and they have an ideal opportunity to get back on track this afternoon.

The Pumas started the season well with narrow losses away to the Lions and at home to the Sharks but they have since been beaten by less formidable outfits in the Griquas and the Leopards.  Whilst they did manage to pull off the shock of the season at home to the Blue Bulls last year, that very fact will guarantee that there will be no complacency this afternoon within the visitor’s ranks.

The Blue Bulls will have targeted this as a ‘must win’ match and it is one that I believe they will win comfortably.

Selection – Blue Bulls -10 to beat Pumas – 3 points at 1.91 Betfred

Western Province v Sharks

With heavy rain expected all afternoon in Cape Town I was hoping to get involved in the points markets but alas there are no lines available at this time.

It is a most intriguing clash between future stars of South African rugby in the Western Province side against the a Sharks side with a combination of youth and experience.  The youth of Western Province have certainly stood up and been counted so far, with the likes of Demetri Catrakilis, Nick Köster and Siya Kolisi being unearthed as potential stars. 

The Sharks however, represent their most difficult challenge to date.  The Durban based side include a number of Springboks, including Ryan Kankowski and look far more experienced in key areas.  Their one area of inexperience is in the front row but the likes of Craig Burden at hooker and Dale Chadwick at loosehead prop have been most impressive to date.

This should be a hard fought battle in the pouring rain but I feel that the Sharks greater experience will pull them through by a narrow margin.

Selection – Sharks to beat Western Province by 1-12 points – 3 points at 2.88 Bet 365

Loosehead