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.
Rugby nut
Guest
Kirwan will definately stay on, he's proven himself far too cunning for anyone that actually cares. Akld rugby's in a terrible state, but when you look at the big picture its supposed to be. We have a ridiculously strong ABs side, and 4 very strong small-med sized franchises being fed players from one large (and very weak) one. Its a good model so why change it for only Akld rugby's benefit? Keep it rolling, that is until the Blues start to cause problems for other parts of NZ, like poaching their coaches, or Kirwan starts eying up Shag's role...I doubt anyone could stop him if he set his spin doctoring mind to it
Rugby nut
Guest
Kirwan will definately stay on, he's proven himself far too cunning for anyone that actually cares. Akld rugby's in a terrible state, but when you look at the big picture its supposed to be. We have a ridiculously strong ABs side, and 4 very strong small-med sized franchises being fed players from one large (and very weak) one. Its a good model so why change it for only Akld rugby's benefit? Keep it rolling, that is until the Blues start to cause problems for other parts of NZ, like poaching their coaches, or Kirwan starts eying up Shag's role...I doubt anyone could stop him if he set his spin doctoring mind to it.
Rugby Tragic
Guest
With Reiko, I am not sure... my experience with him only through reading about this young kid before watching him play in the 7's. The kid was fresh out of school and Gordon Tietjens grabbed him at the ripe old age of 17 to represent the NZ 7's and he scored on debut. He actually does not look as big as he is .. he looks more like a sprinter that rugby player. I just hope they give him plenty of time to mature before they select him (if he continues his improvement) before they throw him to the wolves in the 15 man game. His elder brother Akira really looks the goods already... a bit green but what a talent!
RobC
Roar Guru
He's a big boy at 17yo, 102kg. Almost 190cm, powerful option to SBW. He will face guys like Samu K though, who is 108kg who will be more powerful. But I think Reiko might be faster. time will tell. Maybe he can do a Bernard Foley and work on his kicks and playmaking. Potential Handre Pollard type ten, who can command his backline. Can he kick? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lc8K9m08Eto
Rugby Tragic
Guest
Mate, given their results this year, I have my eyes on a few... namely Akira Ioane (what a revelation - I told mentioned to you to check our his younger brother Reiko as well!), Gibson-Parks (was looking for Bryn Hall but injuries prevented his appearances) as I thought Cowan had had his time, and was not wrapped when they signed him up. Well with West, you are probably right but quicker service might give his a bit of respite. I thought out flyhalf woes were over when they signed Westie but it has not worked out that way. While Moala is playing well, I will be pleased to see Ranger back next year
Rugby Tragic
Guest
Had to come back and read the blog again!!.... lol
Taylorman
Guest
Ha ha...just trying to milk every positive digger. Actually hope they don't win next week and push the canes further out in front.
Digby
Roar Guru
No ;)
Taylorman
Guest
Interesting, the Blues have now beaten both the overseas conference leaders. Canes next week...?
RobC
Roar Guru
Just saw the game RT. Blues needs an AB level 10. Then they will do v well. Blues making rushed mistakes in attack, like it was the last opportunity they are going to get. A good attacking leader who can settle the Blues will go a long way. Someone who can organise the opportunities created. Maybe West can use the ITM to start boosting his confidence using kicks from hand, set piece plays and most importantly organising the structure and flow attack in general. Once the pieces know where they are on the chess board, they wont crack and they will finish the game.
RobC
Roar Guru
v nice maul TO by the Blues. Right out of the Stormers maul D playbook: - Cycle the maul D front man a bit, exposing the Bulls maul frontman - New Blues man comes in and attack that guy - Hit him. Lift him. Take him out, our take him back - Repeat until it stops. Defending the indefensible. Long live the maul!
Stu. B.
Guest
Congrats to the Blues also won with a little razzel dazzel.How dumb are the Bulls?slow lumbering,predictible and only one backline move completed in 80 mins of rugby,hard to believe any one would pay $25 to watch and support this team.Kick out of defence,milk a penalty,kick for the corner then have 8 big oxes hold on to each other and struggle towards the line time after time after time,one game plan only.
Harry Jones
Expert
Excellent blog! Excellent result! Thank you, Blues!
Highlander
Guest
Well done Blues
Rugby Tragic
Guest
Thanks Rob ... very happy for the boys to be honest...
Rugby Tragic
Guest
OB, I am in Perth for the weekend .. no Fox no coverage .. rely on grabbing a minute here and there relying on blogs to keep me informed. Injuries are a part of our game unfortunately. Barrett is out for the Canes and I know the Chief's are missing Cruden (but it gives McKenzie a chance to shine. Due to time diff and visiting wineries, I will miss the blog tomorrow as well ... I had you guys to win the NZ Conference but think you blew it against the Rebels who out enthused and played to their strengths better. Not unhappy with the Canes though.. they deserve "a turn" and they generally are playing great rugby to watch. Good luck to both you and Digs for the big game
Digby
Roar Guru
Luatua update - dislocated shoulder, some time on the sideline for sure unfortunately.
Old Bugger
Guest
Hear hear mate....like you, I am so looking forward to this match....so, chin up, good luck and may the weather gods bless this match as a union game made in heaven that it so richly, deserves.
Digby
Roar Guru
1) Ioane 2) Dont know, did not look great 3) Ioane my MOM, Park was good too, West looks more comfortable with the quicker service.
Rugby Tragic
Guest
Before I do, thanks for all the well wishers, you guys know who you are! It is appreciated!! Kia, an interesting game coming up with the Crusaders, and even without some of their stars, I hope the Blues are competitive. -- Comment from The Roar's iPhone app.