Blues edge Bulls

By Athenkosi Tsotsi

In weather conditions that were not ideal for a match of rugby, the Bulls and Blues gave the wet crowd at Loftus Verdfeld an entertaining yet damp match.

The away side began the game with intent, putting the Bulls under pressure. The New Zealanders got a penalty, reward for their efforts; unfortunately they could not convert it as Harry Plumner's kick fell short of the poles. Minutes after the Bulls received a penalty of their own and would go on to  draw first blood on the score board through Morne Steyn's boot.

The conditions demanded a lot from both teams, the first 10 minuets were simply an adjusting phase for the sides, also they were seizing each other. Cornal Hendricks danced his way through the Blues defence line, getting the crowd on their feet but he would end up slipping into the Blues pack, the pitch was slippery. Morne Steyn seconds after, kicked in his second penalty of the game. The Blues eventually got on the scored with flyhalf Otere Black successfully kicking in a penalty.

As expected, the Bulls started to grab the game by a choke hold settling in the Blues 22 as they were in search for the games first five points. They would go close with Rosko Specman who was running for the ball but failed to control it. Blues winger Emoni Narawa also came close to dotting over the white line but he also failed to control the ball, difficult conditions indeed to play rugby.

Bulls captain Burger Odendaal clashed into speedster Narawa, the winger got up and was unhurt while Odendaal received a yellow card for a dangerous tackle. Momentum was with the man from New Zealand, they looked to take advantage of their numerical superiority, they went on a chase for the try but the Bulls defence was not to be shaken, after 8 phases the Blues could not cross over the white line. The period of sustained pressure finally paid off as Mark Telea scored a try from an excellent build up from the Blues, Warrick Gelant and Cornal Hendricks tried by all means to stop Telea but there was no holding him back. The conversion was taken by Otere Black, the angle he was kicking from was a hard ask plus the wet windy weather did not aid his case. Towards the end of the first half the Bull thought they had scored their first try through Rosko Specman but his effort was ruled off. Play was taken to a scrum and from that passage Morne Steyn would fly over the try line, the veteran missed the conversion. Score at half time was 11 - 8 to the Bulls.

 Worth mentioning Blues scrum half Jonathan Ruru had been sent to the sin bin and the away team began the second half with 14 man. Morne Steyn kicked things off in the second half  and instantly the visitors were pinned down. Bulls got a penalty and  Steyn did not miss. Afterwards the Blues went on to score a try courtesy of Emoni Narawa but through the TMO it was denied, as big man Hoskins Sotutu was judged to have played a forward pass.

The away side got their second try of the day when Tom Robinson forced his way over the Bulls defence, flyhalf Otere Black, converted the kick that followed to give his side a one point lead. The Blues were on the up, after a great cross over kick from Black which was caught by Matt Duffie who then offloaded to fullback Stephen Perofeta who went on to get his sides third try of the game.

Mannie Libbok came on replacing Morne Steyn, not the best scenario to come on to, Libbok botched some kicks showing signs of rustiness and anxiety. The Bulls seemed deflated and the atmosphere inside Loftus was cold much like  the weather. But they were not out of it, the side from the capital of South Africa were determined to score a try with nine minutes left in the game, Jeandre Rudolph did just that, got five points for his team and Mannie Libbok kicked in the conversion to give his a one point lead.

That lead was not enough to secure a win for Pote Human's side, the Blues at the death were awarded a penalty and it was converted by Otere Black, in doing so he gave the team from Auckland a 23 - 21 victory.

The Bulls dull start to the season continues as they are winless in three outings, next they face the Jaguares at home and they would look to build on from this heart crushing defeat.

Scorers
Bulls 
Try : Morne Steyn, Jeandrè Rudolph
Con : Mannie Libbok
Pen : Morne Steyn (3)

Blues 
Try : Mark Telea, Tom Robinson, Stephen Perofeta
Con : Otere Black
Pen : Otere Black (2)

Bulls lineup
: 15. Warrick Gelant, 14. Cornal Hendricks, 13. Johnny Kotze, 12. Burger Odendaal (C), 11. Rosko Specman, 10. Morné Steyn, 9. Ivan van Zyl, 8. Josh Strauss, 7. Wian Vosloo, 6. Jeandré Rudolph, 5. Juandré Kruger, 4. Andries Ferreira, 3. Trevor Nyakane, 2. Jaco Visagie, 1. Lizo Gqoboka.

Replacements: 16. Corniel Els, 17. Gerhard Steenekamp, 18. Wiehahn Herbst, 19. Ruan Nortje, 20. Ruan Steenkamp, 21. Embrose Papier, 22. Manie Libbok, 23. Divan Ross

Blues lineup
15. Stephen Perofeta, 14. Emoni Narawa, 13. Joe Merchant, 12. Harry Plummer, 11. Mark Telea, 10. Otere Black, 9. Jonathan Ruru, 8. Hoskins Sotutu, 7. Tony Lamborn, 6. Tom Robinson, 5. Jacob Pierce, 4. Patrick Tuipulotu, 3. Sione Mafileo, 2. James Parsons, 1. Karl Tu'lnukuafe


Replacements 16. Kurt Eklund, 17. Ezekiel Lindenmuth, 18. Ofa Tuungafasi, 19. Aaron Carroll, 20. Dalton Papalii, 21. Sam Nock, 22. TJ Faiane, 23. Matt Duffie

Khenyeza and TS Galaxy perfect for each other

by Athenkosi Tsotsi

TS Galaxy and Mabhuti Khenyeza are a match made in heaven and it only took 20 minutes for the union to happen according to both parties.Passion, desire, ambition, determination and trust are the major vows to this fitting marriage.

The coaching appointment of Mabhuti Khenyeza is arguably the biggest in South African football in the last five year. This appointment carries so much risks and at the same time it flows with excitement. 

Not a lot of people working in the football media spaces or even the average football fanatics saw this coming, let alone Mabhuti Khenyeza getting his first head coach gig so soon.

During the unveiling on Tuesday 18 February Tim Sukazi  spoke with conviction when introducing the new man at the helm. His confident that the former Lamontville Golden Arrows striker is the correct person to take the club to new heights. 

"As young as he is, I do believe that South Africa is about to find out about his capabilities when I comes to football. I trust and believe that all of us, myself included, will embrace such a talent and we have to make sure that he thrives and succeeds from a coaching point of view. Personally I'm confident, Mabhuti has got the drive, his got the belief and his confident," said Sukazi

The man behind the rise of TS Galaxy beamed with pride when talking about the road Mabhuti took to get where he is in his coaching career.

"Many of you may not necessarily know that as a player he has been coaching, uMabhuti. He has been coaching in the ABC Mostsepe League and in his own youth development setup. He has been a good servant of the game. Sometimes he would leave for Maritzburg when was playing to coach his players and then travel back. Coaching is not new to him, many may say that 'its a new appointment, this is a new coach', yes, maybe on paper but this is a job his done for years now," added Sukazi.

The Roodeport based team is on the up in South Africa, their fanbase is ever growing, especially after their Nedbank Cup triumph last season. Khenyeza is not phased by the prospect of steering the ship of this young brand. 

"It is the best thing for me, I want to thank the Chairman for the opportunity and I am very happy to be here. I know some of you will say 'he is still young', I'm young in age but the knowledge and understanding is older than me. I did not take this job to be paid at the end of the month, I took this job to plant a seed, to make these players better, to leave a legacy. I am not working for money, I am working for a legacy; something that you can never buy. At the end of the day I am here to win. You know me, my character allows that, I just want to win. There is no replacement for that, no excuse, I cry and I fight to win," said Khenyeza during his unveiling.

The man definitely backs himself, he surley promises to have that same hunger to win he had as a player. One thing that Khenyeza has in his favour boot is that he has not been mandated by the club, although the team his inheriting sits above the relegation zone. 

"For a young coach like this, it would be silly for the stuff to set a mandate him, you must not do that. In football you want the coach to settle in an accommodative environment. Once you set a mandate in my view and of this club, you are destined to fail because people when they work they know about this mandate.If there is one sign that the mandate may not be achieved, then panic will set in, then everything gets derailed. We did not do it with our previous coach, we did not say 'you must win the Nedbank Cup', what coach Dan found here was an enabling environment. Mandate stories do not work here," said Sukazi

Coach Mabhuti carriers a lot of experience and having leanerd from many coaches including Mushin Ertugal. The two had a fallout at Kaizer Chiefs and then went on to mend their relationship and form a mentor mentee relations.

"I fought with Mushin before and people did not know what happened, I sat down and realised that what he said at the time was spot on. I went back to him and we worked together at Maritzburg. I still communicate with him. He has been sending massages to me all the time. His mentor, he is very happy I am here, he said if he was not far he would send red flowers to follow the colours of the team. He is happy, he pushed me to have the desire to be a coach. Something's I learnt from him. Now that his in the FIFA panel he always sends me stuff so I can be updated. I fought with him but now I'm benefitting,"said Khenyeza 


The appointment of Mabhuti Khenyeza has the making of ushering in a new generation of coaches in South Africa. Those who were not given a chance to be coaches in a system that is hard to manoeuvre due a merry go around of coaches; now have hope. His tenure as TS Galaxy coach will be one for the record books, monumental moment for South African football. The legend of Khenyeza continues. 

Bulls looking to brush away thier Blues

by Athenkosi Tsotsi

The Bulls are rejuvenated after their bye week and look forward to returning to action at Loftus Versfeld when they face the Blues of New Zealand on Saturday.

Bulls head coach Pote Human when speaking to the media on Wednesday 19 February emphasised how his team have been working on their attack in order to get results.

"After the first two losses we worked very hard on our attack. We did not use our opportunities against the Sharks, we were there and we could have won the game; against the Stormers our forwards, who I thought played very well, we just could not convert our chances. That is something that really bothers the whole team, we really worked on that, converting, in the last two weeks, really hope it comes off on Saturday.

I'm very happy with where the players are, they are confident and looking forward to Saturday. We need points on the board, this is a must win," said Pote Human.

Human also touched on the usage of flyhalf Mannie Libbok, who has had to deputise on the bench with Morne Steyn ahead of him.

"Morne is still playing at ten, if it is raining on Saturday we will maybe use him a bit longer but we want to give Mannie Libbok more game time because he can open up the game in the second half. Mannie, he is just an awesome guy, his for the team first and then himself. I know her deserves a start at this stage, he knows he will get his chance in the next few weeks," added Human.

 The side from Pretoria are yet to register a try in this Super Rugby season. Back trio of Warrick Gelant, Rosko Specman and Cornal Hendricks have been off form this season and are to kick on. Winger Cornal Hendrciks has produced two high profile blunders but his coach Pote Human insisted the player will rectify his mistakes this weekend and that his errors have not affected his mentally on or off the field.

Bulls captain Burger Odendaal is happy about the opportunity of returning to Loftus after the team traveled to Durban and Cape Town to play the Sharks and Stormers respectively in their opening two rounds.

"The team is really excited about being back at Loftus, its vital we get points at home. We did not get anything away from home, so we are a bit behind, we need to get the four points, if we get five it would be excellent," concluded Odendaal.

Bulls lineup for Saturday

: 15. Warrick Gelant, 14. Cornal Hendricks, 13. Johnny Kotze, 12. Burger Odendaal (C), 11. Rosko Specman, 10. Morné Steyn, 9. Ivan van Zyl, 8. Josh Strauss, 7. Wian Vosloo, 6. Jeandré Rudolph, 5. Juandré Kruger, 4. Andries Ferreira, 3. Trevor Nyakane, 2. Jaco Visagie, 1. Lizo Gqoboka.



Replacements: 16. Corniel Els, 17. Gerhard Steenekamp, 18. Wiehahn Herbst, 19. Ruan Nortje, 20. Ruan Steenkamp, 21. Embrose Papier, 22. Manie Libbok, 23. Divan Rossouw.

Stormers await Jaguares test

by Athenkosi Tsotsi 

The Stormers will be looking at upping their game when they take on the Jaguares on Saturday 22 February at Newlands, Cape Town.

John Dobson's side will face last years finalist in what will be a stiff test for the Stormers as the Jaguares present something different to what they have face so far.

"I think the Jaguares are a slightly physical side, they are a different team from last year, with a bit of personnel changes. Against the Jaguares we have to get back to our traditional game, with our forwards carrying us and hopefully creating more space for the backs," said Dobson.

Dobson alluded to the fact that his side are not playing at full capacity even though they have won three games on the spin, he expects the game on Saturday against the Jaguares to be a spectacle as it pits two of the tournaments favourites.

"I do not think we are operating at our half capacity, which is frustrating. The good thing we are seeing from the team is character, to get three from three without firing is a good thing.

They are tainted to be ahead of us, they are tipped to be the conference leaders, so it is going to be a cracker at Newlands between two conference favourites," added Dobson.

Winger Sergeal Petersen who played a crucial role in the build to the winning try scored by Rhuan Nel against the Lions believes that the side from Buenos Aries will be a big character test for his side.

"This will be a character test for us, the Argentineans never give up, they will be in your face the whole day. They bring their physical aspect to the game whether its being in the forwards or in the backline. We have slipped in a few tries this past weekend so we need to tighten up there at the back. If we come to the game mentally and physically ready we should be fine.


This weekends game is probably the biggest game for us, two conference leaders meeting up. I think this will be a test for us, our character; to see how far we have come since pre season," said Petersen.

The Stormers are out to get their fourth win of the season and Petersen is banking on home ground advantage to help them. The Stormers are yet to concede a point at Newlands. 


"Newlands is our fortress, the aim is not to concede less points anywhere, especially at Newlands. It is a game that will determine who will top the conference, so its a big game for us. If we can get four wins in a row that would be perfect," concluded Petersen.

Rough start for Cheetahs and Kings

by Athenkosi Tsotsi 

Horrendous start to second leg of touring for the Cheetahs and Southern King in the Pro 14. 

The Kings were butchered 68 - 3 by Johan van Graans Munster side. Munster scored a total of ten tries. The Kings point came through a Demetri Catrakils penalty kick. Andell Loubser and Lusanda Badiyana both got yellow cards.

 While the Cheetahs lost to Leinster 36 - 12. Luan de Bruin and  Aidon Davis got the tries for the Free State side, Leinster secured their bonus point victory thanks to tries from Willy Connors who dotted twice over the white line and solitary tries by Michel Bent and Cian Kellerher. Flyhalf Ciaran Crawley kicked in four conversions and a penalty. Commanding victory for the six time champions albeit in difficult whether conditions. 

The Southern Kings square off with Scarlets next week and head home, the Cheetahs on the other hand will take on Ulster and the Dragons to end their tour.

Dobson endorses Lions project

by Athenkosi Tsotsi

Last year after the Currie Cup final in Bloemfontein, in his press conference Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen alluded that they are rebuilding and have a project ongoing, that project has been endorsed by Stormers coach John Dobson.

The Lions pushed the Stormers to their limit on Saturday 15 February in their round 3 Super Rugby encounter. The Stormers nabbed the game right at the death through a Ruhan Nel try. The Lions matched Dobsons side pound for pound physically and exposed their defense as they scored 30 points, being the first team put points against the Stormers after the Hurricanes and Blue Bulls failed to do so. Dobson gave props to the Lions when speaking to the media after the game.

"A lot of people had written the Lions off, you can see what they are trying to do something here. It is a new team, its great what they are doing and you can see how they are trying to play. They caught us at the end, the paradigm at Ellis Park is that the Lions get stronger towards the end. They caught our bigger forwards, at the end Elton Jantjies try was scored between Frans Malherbe and Cobus Wiese, and nobody touched him," said Dobson.

After a successful period in the Super Rugby the where the reached the semi finals for three consecutive season and playing in two finals in 2017 and 2018 coming up second best in both finals. In that period they have lost some senior players like Faf de Klerk, Lionel Mapoe, Ruan Combrink, Malcolm Marx and Warren Whiteley. The loss of those players pushed the Lions towards a rebuild. 
Central to the rebuild is Elton Jantjies, someone who was a key figure in their success is now the captain of the side and has been leading from the forefront. In yesterday's afternoons lose he scored 15 points.

"He (Elton Jantjies) is a true professional, adding captaincy to his responsibility list is only going to make him a better player. His new to the role, he is still learning but Elton is that kind of guy that takes on responsibility, so its great for us," said Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen.

The Lions have a bye week before jetting of to Australasia. The tour will prove to be a stiff test for the Lions side and will test how the project is coming.

Pitso's mind games working

by Athenkosi Tsotsi 

Midweek when Pitso Mosimane had his press conference he gave Kaizer Chiefs no option but to win the league, that was classic way of starting mind have and what he did may have added pressure mentally on the side from Naturena. 

In their loss to Maritzburg United, Kaizer Chiefs began like a house on fire, throwing attack after attack at Eric Tinklers side. Chiefs created multiple opportunities but failed to convert. Maritzburg United in the second half made changes and grabbed the game by a choke hold, now when the hour mark came that's when Tinklers side turned on the screws. 

Midfielder Daylon Claasen scored a quick fire brace, Samir Nurkovic answered back with his 11th goal of the season with 12 minutes left to play, it was a little too late. Tinklers side were swift in their play, while Middendorps team was deflated, they seemed absent minded. Their body languages showed that their minds were somewhere else, mentally they were off and their tactics did not aid them.

They must have heard the comments Pitso Mosimane made earlier in the week about the league being in their hands and obviously the school analogy. Did that play in the minds of the Chiefs players, yes it did. It was a brilliant form of mind games from the man known as Jingles. 

"We put in 12 games in Caf, went to the final in the Telkom Cup, MTN 8; two semifinals, competitors did not even make the top 8. So they are fresh, they are strong, they have got to win the league, they have got no excuse.

Its like I am at school, doing ten courses and you are doing three or four, at the end of the year you have to pass and with distinctions. Because I am doing ten courses, I need more time to cover the amount of work, classes and studying, its tiring and stressful, pressure, so you have got to pass. So the league is in their hands they have to win it, you can never not," said Mosimane. 

Prior to their game against Maritzburg United, Kaizer Chiefs must have been aware of Mamelodi Sundowns win over Chippa United at Loftus Versfeld, the Brazilians had managed to chop down the lead by three points to make the gap a seven point one for Chiefs. The Mamelodi Sundowns players have bought into the notion that the league is in the hands of Kaiser Chiefs.

"All we need to do is win our games and hope they lose a few games. At the moment it is not in our hands, all we have to do is win our games and keep believing. I do not think anyone can be at the top from start to finish, of course they have more points but anything is possible in football. As long as we win, we put pressure on them, we have to believe. At the end someone has to cross the line and hopefully it can be us. They have an edge as they are leading with a lot of points and with a few games to play, we still have them at FNB. We have to keep believing," said Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Dennis Onyango. 


The going is still going to get tough for Middendorps team, they still have Bidvest Wits to play twice, a Soweto derby against Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns. The log leaders will need to have mental resolve and the pressures of being at the top is still going to increase. 

Mhango coming of age

by Athenkosi Tsotsi

Reigning Absa Premiership player of the month Gabadinho Mhango has matured in his game and has become a reliant servant to his club Orlando Pirates as he is living up to the potential he showed when he arrived in South Africa.

At Golden Arrows, Bloemfontein Celtics, and Bivest Wits Mhango showed glimpses of what he can offer, often changing the trajectory of games, at times winning them. One thing that was a major issue with the Malawian international was the inconsistency in his game and the end product that was yet to be fine tuned.

Now that element of inconsistency would not only frustrate those from his club including the management, coaches, colleagues and supporters. Avid supporters of the Absa Premiership also got frustrated with Mhango as they knew he could be effective but he was just not tapping in to that sphere of where he is right now.

What has changed at Orlando Pirates, a lot of things can be taken into consideration. A consistent run of games, Gabadinho Mhango at his previous clubs would start 2-3 games and then in the matches be on the bench coming on as an impact player, or 'Super Sub'.

The inconsistent run in the team dejected his momentum, affecting his body language often at times bringing up a glower look to his face and burning desire to prove a point leading to him being feisty on the field. At Orlando Pirates he is the first name on the team sheet, his started a lot of games, him knowing that he is guaranteed game time brings a certain calmness. The pressures of him knowing he might be dropped are not there, now he is able to perform as the is less weight on his shoulders.

What former Orlando Pirates caretaker coach Rulani Mokoena did well during his stint, was placing technical structures to help and provide disciplined coaching for the player, he also made the striker the 'main man' something coach Josef Zinnbauer has stuck by. The Orlando Pirates team is built around Mhango, the side plays to benefit him, the midfield base and his attacking partners revolve the teams playing passesge around him.

The system Orlando Orlando Pirates deploy; of receiving the ball, moving it and going into space at a ferocious pace, suits Mhango perfectly. When the team is built around you, you are bound to be granted freedom and Mhango has plenty of freedom, his allowed to be flexible in the positions he  occupies, you find him in  the central space,sometimes dropping into the attacking midfielder position, or drafting to the wings hence his goals have come from all over the place and him scoring all sorts of goals.

Its also fair to say Mhango is a confidence player, yes the goals bring confidence but in Mhango's case it is different. The energy he is given by those he is playing with on the field, he gravitates towards it. His teammates allow him to run at players, give him the permission to try things which would have at times been prohibited at his former clubs.

When his confidence is up Mhango strikes the ball with a certain assurance, its like his going to score every time he shoots. He is also able to elevate the game of those around him, for example Luvuyo Memela, the two have a chemistry that is easy on the eye.

Mhango can still get better, at this rate he is on course to getting 20 plus goals.  His come a long way since his arrival in the Premiership, his come of age, at 27 and with him understanding his game better, trust that Mhango is still going to be a dominant force.

Lions v Stormers contrasting styles of play

by Athenkosi Tsotsi 

Saturday's clash between the Lions and the Stormers will be a game of contrasting styles, and both teams will be out to show they can either contain the others teams play or match it.

The Lions over the past seasons have moved away from the traditional South African rugby philosophy of kicking and using physicality to over power opponents. The team from the highveld adopted a more morden style of play with more flair and running with the ball and winging it wide. Success was brought by the system deployed as the Lions went on to play two Super Rugby finals in 2016 and 2017. 

The Stormers on the other hand, play a more physical type of rugby, where its dependent on the forwards and the ex factor of their back trio, their style is similar to the one of the Springboks. Their physicality has resulted in them having a mean defense, John Dobson's side are yet to consider a point in the opening two rounds of the new Super Rugby season.

But going to Saturdays game at Ellis Park they want to play running rugby to match the Lions. 

"In Ellis Park we can show what we are capable of doing with ball in hand. Ellis Park is a lot easier than Newlands, one of the things we have to do is to get the involvement of Sergal, we have seen a lot of him and Sabelo over the past weeks. We have got this electric back three  and its frustrating to not have to play them. We just need to get through three or more phases," said Dobson.

The Stormers trio of Sergeal Petersen, Sabelo Senatla and Dylan Leyds have to tries amongst them this season and will look at improving that stat. 

On the other hand the Lions want to go pound for pound with the Stormers forward pack, in their team for the weekend, on the bench they have six forwards including Willem Alberts. Cash  is  looking at the experience and physical game of Alberts to counter the Stormers pack lead by World Rugby Player of The Year Pieter Steph du Toit.

"They have a world class forward pack, a lot of world cup winning Springboks in their team. So I think the battle is going to start upfront. We looking forward to playing against their defensive system, they have a good system and we have identified areas where we can tackle, where we can play, so we looking forward to that. 

Willem Alberts, I think his ex factor is his physicality, his a little bit of a calmer head. His played a lot of games like the one we have coming this weekend. He will also bring in some energy for us," said Ivan van Rooyen.

Lots of exciting match ups the game will bring, at fly half, where old head in the Super Rugby Elton Jantjies takes on the man still working on his craft Damian Willemse. Steven Kitshoff scrumming against Jannie du Plesisis is another one to look after. 

Teams 

Lions

1 Dylan Smith,2  Pieter Jansen,3  Jannie du Plessis,4 Ruben Schoeman,5  Marvin Orie  ,6 Marnus Schoeman ,7  Vincent Tshituka,8 Len Massyn ,9 Morne van den Berg,10  Elton Jantjies (captain),11 Courtnall Skosan ,12  Dan Kriel ,13 Manuel Rass,14 Tyrone Green ,15  Andries Coetzee     

Replacements:

16  Jan-Henning Campher, 17  Sti Sithole, 18 Carlu Sadie, 19  Wilhelm van der Sluys, 20 Willem Alberts, 21 Hacjivah Dayimani, 22 Dillon Smit, 23  Wandisile Simelane

Stormers

 15 Dillyn Leyds, 14 Sergeal Petersen, 13 Ruhan Nel, 12 Jamie Roberts, 11 Seabelo Senatla, 10 Damian Willemse, 9 Godlen Masimla, 8 Juarno Augustus, 7 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 6 Johan du Toit, 5 Chris van Zyl, 4 Salmaan Moerat, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 Scarra Ntubeni, 1 Steven Kitshoff (captain).

Replacements: 

16 Chad Solomon, 17 Ali Vermaak, 18 Frans Malherbe, 19 JD Schickerling, 20 Cobus Wiese, 21 Ernst van Rhyn, 22 Paul de Wet, 23 Jean-Luc du Plessis.

Supersport United no longer selling club...

by Athenkosi Tsotsi

Supersport United on Monday 10 February,  announced on its social media that the versatile Aubrey Modiba has signed a new four and a -half-year contract keep him at the club until 2024, now the contact extension of Modiba and that one of Ronwen Williams is a strong message of intent to those outside and inside the club. 

In recent years Supersport has been known as a selling club, offloading its best players to the traditional big three but mainly Mamelodi Sundowns. 

That culture of selling to their direct rivals limited their league title credentials, although the club remained successful in terms of winning domestic trophies and reaching a continental cup final in recent seasons, they have yet to reach the highs of their three peat title winning run in the league and that is due to them selling their best players. 

During the 2019 June transfer window Mamelodi Sundowns were in the market for two of Matsatsantsa's bright players Aubrey Modiba and Teboho Mokoena, Supersport United CEO Stan Matthews came out with a statement saying that the club will not sell their best players to local clubs and will only consider overseas offers.  

Did I think Stan Matthews was bluffing? Yes. Did I think Mamelodi Sundowns would go on a relentless pursuit for the players? Yes, I believe they did. Did I think Supersport would give in? Yes, but they stood their ground and did not budge. Did that surprise me, yes.

The message was sent and delivered to those outside the club,  rival competitors and the media, Supersport are no longer a selling club, they are not going to bend down to the wrath of the of big three giants of South African football. 

Sometime during this season Ronwen Williams was rewarded with a new long term contract, this was very significant on two major aspects.  One, the club had been tying down their longest serving player, who has, in recent years assumed a leadership role at the club, this will make sure the teams values and principles are preserved in the long run in the dressing room. Two, they had been keeping the best goalkeeper in the league and the South African national team number one goalkeeper. Above all, the club had kept its best player and you can only as a club compete when you keep your best players. 

The extensions of Modiba and Williams sends shock waves within the dressing, showing the intentions  management has of keeping the teams best players and a will to compete.

 The likes of Teboho Mokoena, Sipho Mbule and Jamie Webber all signed contracts recently but  should be expecting new deals as they will also be central to the project SuperSport are working towards. This core of players will go on and be one of the best in the league and some will be full time Bafana Bafana internationals, Modiba, Williams and Mokoena already in the fold. 

This is good news for SuperSport, the services of the players mentioned above can also attract players of similar caliber in terms of quality and keep the young and squad players interested in the project the club is developing.

 This transfer model of keeping your best players, taking the best players from lesser teams and signing rejects from the big three, will see Supersport make that jump of finally challenging for league honours again. 

The biggest and most important acquisition for Supersport, was the one of head coach Kaitano Tembo. He is a product of the club, having played at the club; coached in the youth structures; was assistant coach and now head coach; he understands the management's culture and the traditions of the club and his heavily invested in the project.

Supersport are no longer a selling club and are working on project that will see them compete in the domestic and continental spheres. 

'Scarra' relishing game time

by Athenkosi Tsotsi

                            
Siyabonga 'Scarra' Ntubeni has had to endure with a lot injuries over the years and is now relishing the opportunity of getting extended game time due to Bongi Mbonambi's absence.

Mbonambi got injured in the Stormers first game of the season against the Hurricanes and is set to be out for a period of 5 weeks. Ntubeni who played 70 minutes against the Bulls, also won man of the match, is keen on stepping up for his team and taking over from his friend Bongi.

"Obviously its puts, I would not say pressure but ownership from my side (on Mbonambi being out). Usually I have Bongi to bounce ideas and push me, now it has to come from my side I can not wait for him to push me, I need to do the extra work myself and be more of a leader. It is a bit different but I'm enjoying game time, I have had a lot of game time of the bench and I think I am fine, I am behind the injuries, I am excited," said Ntubeni.

The hooker in the space period from 2016 - 2019 sustained two major injuries, he is hoping to stay fit after overcoming that tough phase in his career.

"It was a tough time for me, a year or two before that I was feeling really in good conditions, I was playing the best rugby of my life. Then the niggles slowly started coming in and then the achiles in 2016, that obviously broke my momentum, in the second game when returning I tore my hamstring, what Bongi has done now. Hopefully I can stay injury free and build," continued the Springbok.

The Stormers face the Lions at Ellis Park on Saturday another South African derby in as many weeks, Ntubeni is anticipating a tough challenge from the side from the highveld. The side from Cape Town has not won a Super Rugby game in Johannesburg since 2015.

"For us there is no mental block but it is a big motivating factor. In training we said we are going to do everything this week to win at Ellis Park, whether its not having that beer on a Tuesday or sleeping an extra, we said this is our game.

Beginning of the season we said we want to win at home but if we want to make the playoffs we have to win away, so this is a game we have targeted for two weeks now, we want to go to Ellis Park and win," concluded Ntubeni.

Odendaal optimistic

by Athenkosi Tsotsi

Bulls captain Burger Odendaal believes his side are close to finding the winning formula after their second defeat of the season against the Stormers.

Odendaal speaking to the media noted that the team in the locker room after the match at Newlands discussed their progress and what needs to be done to get back to winning ways.

"We just talked about it in the locker (getting back to winning ways), I think its marginal, I feel as if we could have easily got away with a win here tonight.  We created a lot of opportunities, I do not know if the guys are over eager to get their names on the score board or we just lost our rhythm and shape sometimes. I think if we stick to our shape we will get some points on the board," said Odendaal.

The Bulls skipper believes that the upcoming by week will do them a lot of good.

"We got a by next week, I just want the guys to get away from rugby. But when we come back we set our goals and we just have to work hard again, we are two games down and we do not have any points, still a long road ahead of us," added Odendaal.

The Bulls will relish going back to Loftus after two consecutive away games both in Durban against the Sharks and recently in Cape Town against the Stormers. They will have three straight home game starting against the Blues on Saturday 22 February and then followed by matches against the Jaguares and Highlanders.

Karabo Masehela, The Man Behind NWU's Rise...

by Athenkosi Tsotsi

One can only imagine the adrenaline and euphoria the players from NWU (North West University) were experiencing after they beat Kingborn FC to qualify for the last 32 of the Nedbank Cup, you can also go on to try and imagine how their 30 year old coach was feeling as he was going to play the biggest game of his coaching career.

"I have always had that dream of wanting to see the NWU soccer institute participating in the Nedbank cup some day. I remember while I was still a player for the institute, I wanted to revive my career through it but it did not materialise.  I then got the appointment of being a coach for the university and I stuck to the plan of putting Mafikeng on the map," these are the words of Nedbank Cup last 32 bound NWU coach Karabo Masehela.

The dream of seeing NWU participate in the Nedbank Cup for Masehela is going to come to life when his side tackle Black Leopards on 9 February at the Thohoyandou Stadium , talk about the power of having a vision and speaking things into existence.

Lots football of practitioners join the sports for different reasons, some join because of the monetary value that comes with it, some because the passion and living their childhood dreams but Masehela's involvement in football was due to wanting to make an impact in society.

"Football has always been my life since form the age of 6. I always wanted to play and make a difference in my community and change my family's life. Again send a message to the aspiring ones that it is possible if you love what you are doing,"

Masehela's influenced by the likes of  Kwanele Kopo; Jan Gosgens; Nico Labhom; Gavin Hunt; Serame Letsoaka; Jurgen Klopp; Pep Guardiola; and Fillipe Scolari. A true student of the game, the young coach has studied these greats and encompassed some of their qualities and characteristics, moulding him to be in tune with modern football.

"I basically look at a lot of coaches holistically and how they orchestrate their philosophies and apply on how their players want to play within the field of play. I have always been a Dutch football fan ever since, I have grown under them from a young age.

So I am more of a simple type of coach, who always strives for simplicity, to win a match, take the ball, pass the ball and move into space. I believe more in a simplified type of football where players replace each other especially in offensive positions to create goal scoring opportunities at the same time maintaining a structure according to the type of game model we are playing on that particular day," said the 30 year old about his style of play.

NWU are the reigning Varsity Cup champions and top of their respective league division and are still aiming for the top as they bid to become a dominant institute and play the the elite level of the fraternity according to their head honcho.

A future in football Karabo Masehela is something clearly has given his strong willed mentality "I am going to be coaching at the highest level. Ideally growing in Europe and making a name for myself because it is a career and I want to take care of it, learn more and grow,".

They are arguably one of many underdogs in this seasons Nedbank Cup but at same time NWU are one of the most exciting football prospects in the country. What can they achieve in the tournament, what are their objectives as an institute and individuals?

"An experience, growth for my boys and voicing out to the country that we are a project in progress that is coming to be reckoned as the best in the country," says Masehela.

SARU Snubs Bloem Again

by Athenkosi Tsotsi 

SARU (South African Rugby Union) on Tuesday, 4 February 2020 released the venues for the Springboks 2020 home tests, with Bloemfontein being again snubbed the chance to experience the Springboks.

During the Rugby World Cup winning trophy tour the Springboks did not visit the Free State. That had the Mangaung Municipality, The Free State Rugby Union and public up in arms. The latest snub comes after the Free State Rugby Union made it known that it was not pleased by the Books skipping their province. They would have expected to be compensated by being given one test but that has not been the case.

Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Durban and Mbombela all got the nod ahead of the City of Roses.

"We only have six home Tests a year and the reality is that not all the major stadiums will be able to host the Boks every season. There are many factors to consider when deciding on Test hosts; we are in constant discussions about our home Tests with our provinces and we hope to return to Bloemfontein again soon," said a SA Rugby Spokesperson.

Newlands Through Dobbo

by Athenkosi Tsotsi

Newlands is dearest to many including current Stormers Coach John Dobson, the man has spoken about this being the stadiums last season at length but I had to sit down with him and try to understand the essence of the iconic ground.


For me Newlands is a stadium I grew up idolising, as a child I knew of its magnitude but never really considered all the other factors like the emotional and economical aspects until this year in January. The ground holds huge sentimental value to a lot of people and the man in charge of seeing its final season through is no different.


"I first went there (Newlands) in 1979, that is 41 years ago. I literally grew up watching the old club games and the then Western Province were winning and it was awesome. I have seen the development of the various stands, my dad was referring there, he was here last weekend and his first game was in 1949. So its a massive part of my rugby love," said Dobson.


The demolishing of one of the oldest sporting stadiums in South Africa is bit of a hard one to swallow as it means a lot to the locals and people nationwide but more so for those who plight their rugby there and to a certain extent consider it home. Even the people who work at Newlands do feel hard done as the stadium has given them purpose in life.

"We feel sad, I thought I would be the out layer as I'm older than the players but I'm surprised about how it means to them, the Grand Old Lady. Even guys like Jamie Roberts cites it as one of his favourite grounds, I think we all are very sad,


But one also knows that if you walk around those dusty corners its probably had its time. There are issues around safety and how much it will cost to up keep it, people understand the logic but the emotion is tough.


I have got no doubt that the Western Province negotiator will look after the staff, it would not sit comfortably with our values if we were to just let them fall away. All the long serving staffers and the grounds people absolutely live and breathe Newlands,"


In it's long years history Newlands has seen some amazing games including games in the exclusion era, Rugby World Cup games, Tests and Currie cup and Super Rugby games and the former Western Province hooker has seen plenty of them.


"In the 80's where we won those Currie Cups, they were special. In 1980 we got a smack 39-9 smack at Loftus then in 1982 our first, where Miguel and Charl du Plessis played. We went on a winning run winning 83, 84, 85, 86 and 1989, it was a dramatic game where Charl scored a right at the end and  Goosen was suppose to convert but he did not he missed and we drew.

Post unity, the Pieter Hendricks try in 1995 against Australia, there was a crazy game where we unfortunately lost in 1996 against the All Blacks in the Tri Nations, it was when Pienaar was taken off , it was a magical All Blacks side, the game was even but they got away. They had just installed lights at Newlands, it was a brilliant game. I also remember the Currie Cup we won in 2002, those are some of the memories," reminiscences Dobson.


The likes of your Nick Mallet, Schalk Burger, Schalk Burger jnr, Breyton Paulse, Brian Habana, Percy Montgomery, Chester Williams, Rob Louw, Gerry Brand are some of the greats to have grace the Grand Old Lady. The list of Newlands greats  would have had some more great names of colour had it not been for the exclusion of players during the apartheid regime which did not allow the spectrum to be equal acknowledges Dobson.


There is a sense expectation for the Stormers to bow out with a bang by doing a double of winning the Super Rugby and Currie Cup by doing so giving Newlands a good send off. With their squad consisting with a number of Springboks the Stormers do have the ambition of going all the way and finally lifting that elusive Super Rugby title.

"There are plans for a proper farewell with everything. Newlands has lifted plenty Currie Cups and no Super Rugby, the dreamland would be to win both tournaments but the fitting farewell would be lifting the Super Rugby.


As a coaching group it's not the pressure you want to put on the players but that is the fitting farewell, you do not want Newlands to go out with a whimper," concluded Dobson.

Dobson Calls Out Canes

By Athenkosi Tsotsi 

Legend has it that once you over power the New Zealand sides you frustrate them and then they retaliate with bad antics, that was the case when the Hurricanes could not contain with the Stormers forward pack.

Fuming Stormers Coach John Dobson called out the Hurricanes for their bad disciplined performance from Saturdays game. During the Siya Kholisi went out injured after 25 minutes after he was hit by a late tackle by Ricky  Riccitelli while Bongi Mbonambi went out with a calf tear and many players going to the ground seeking medical attention after horrible tackles.

"I thought that it was a mean spirited game (speaking of Saturdays game) that was not good for the tournament going forward. We reviewed the game quite a few times and we got more and more angry . I think Peter-Stepth went through a hard time, he had his hair pulled twice. We were not happy with anything that had happened, a lots of stuff happened in the field. Apparently  Riccitelli apologised to Siya but its fair to say Siya is not happy either," said Dobson.

Containing the Stormers who have a dominant force similar to the Springboks  is something which is beingcontemplated by their rivals but throwing "cheap shot" to take them out of the game is not the way to go about it according to displeased Coach John Dobson, who admitted that they were not aware of the dangerous incidents that had taken place during the and could not speak out about them to the Hurricanes Head Coach Jason Holland

The Canes were virtually outplayed in every sphere resulting in them instigation to bad behaviour, they conceded 12 penalties and had 2 yellow cards. 

"If this becomes the general trend of the competition, then I would be very worried, it was disappointing. If you have a Pieter-Steph du Toit who is World Player of the Year and the way of dealing with him is cheap shots, then it is a problem," added Dobson 


The Stormers are heavy favourites for this years Super Rugby and teams will be gunning for them, Dobson signaling out the dirty play his team received from the New Zealanders is a way of protecting his players. If they were to be played like they were in the previous week in every game  they would end the season with a crippled squad.