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FULLTIME – BLUES 23 have defeated the BULLS 18
With the wet weather, the Bulls played a simple game plan and for all intensive purposes, succeded, dominating all the key statistics and will be looking back on this game as one that got away.
Essentially the losing of the match was their tackling, missing a whopping 20 tackles which against a dangerous Blues side, is simply not acceptable. The Bulls found space in midfield at times where Jan Serfontein at times ran amok but the Bulls continually preferred to use their maul and forwards which in hindisght proved fruitless tonight along with crucial errors at simply the wrong time.
The Blues were stubborn and defiant on defence, repelling repeated raids and this young side dug deep and managed to live off scraps in terms of possession and territory with George Moala terrorising the Bulls defence at times while the rising star of Akira Ioane continues to shine with a strong performance in all facets and would be my pick for man of the match.
The Blues have given themselves something to smile about after a difficult week in the media while the Bulls have now placed themselves under enormous pressure with a trip to Hamilton on the horizon
The opening game of Super Rugby Round 13 has the Blues hosting the Bulls at Eden Park in Auckland. Join us for all the action from 5:35pm (AEST).
This game has the Blues playing for pride after a disappointing season, while the Bulls are fighting for the lead in the South African conference and a guaranteed playoff berth.
Despite a disastrous year results-wise, the Blues boast a formidable home record over the years and will be no push over for the travelling Bulls.
A host of experience is missing tonight for the Blues through injury, including All Black and captain Jerome Kaino, Charles Piutau and Patrick Tuipolotu.
In comparison, the Bulls have a number of Springboks available, and highly experienced players such as Adrian Strauss and Victor Matfield along with Handre Pollard at first five make them look particularly strong.
The Bulls will likely target the Blues’ set piece and the contact areas in order to keep them static and place pressure on their exciting yet inexperienced backline. If the Blues can hold their own they have the strike power to get the job done. The elevation of Jamison Gibson-Park to starting halfback should be beneficial for Ihaia West to get the backline moving forward and creating opportunities.
The Bulls however possess their own quality finishers out wide in Jesse Kriel and Francois Hougaard, along with the out-and-out pace of Bjorn Basson, so the young Blues halves’ kicking game will need to be executed well to eliminate counter-attacking opportunities for the Pretorian side.
Both sides will be desperate for a win tonight for different reasons and a cracking contest should be in store for us this evening.
Join us here on the Roar as we cover all the action live and don’t forget to join in the debate below.
Tip
Blues.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.