Misc news from Auckland... (Tvnz.co.nz)

http://tvnz.co.nz/view/page/488120/1160341

Sleep-in costs Laharrague
May 31, 2007

The under-strength French team to face the All Blacks in the first test at Eden Park on Saturday has suffered another hit.
Winger Julien Laharrague has been axed for sleeping in and missing training on Wednesday.
The 28-year-old's place in the starting XV has gone to Bourgoin winger Jean-Francois Coux, who will become the sixth new cap.

Nicolas Laharrague, Julien's brother, also woke up late but retains his place on the bench due to a lack of options at back-up for first-five.

French side: 15.Thomas Castaignede, 14.Jean-Francois Coux, 13.Arnaud Mignardi, 12.Jean-Philippe Grandclaude, 11.Benjamin Thiery, 10.Benjamin Boyet, 9.Nicolas Durand, 8.Sebastien Chabal, 7.Olivier Magne, 6.Gregory Le Corvec, 5.Julien Pierre, 4.Pascal Pape, * a young captain for les Bleus (Pape is just 40 days older than the ABs captain! Generation 1980 rules!!!) 3.Nicolas Mas, 2.Sebastien Bruno, 1.Christian Califano. Reserves: 16.Raphael Ibanez, 17.Franck Montanella, 18.Olivier Olibeau, 19.Damien Chouly, 20.Mickael Forest, 21.Nicolas Laharrague, 22.Ludovic Valbon.

--> ca c'est ballot. Avoir une panne de reveil, deja, ca ne met pas de bonne humeur! mais si en plus ca te coute une cap face aux Blacks, ca craint... Les freres Laharrague ont deja commande un autre reveil au Pere Noel!

*****
Photos

Richie : yesterday's press conference and today's training session
French players : yesterday training session

*****
http://tvnz.co.nz/view/video_popup_windows_skin/1161351

New scrum law
The controversial scrum laws that plagued the Super 14 have been changed and the revised rules make their debut in the All Blacks' test with France on Saturday


--> nouvelle regle pour la touche (on garde le touch-engage mais on le fait plus rapidement). Ca ne derange en rien Sebastien Chabal qui parle (en gros) d'une nouvelle premiere ligne avant francaise qui n'a rien a voir avec celles des tests matches de novembre.

Rugby: ABs urge public not to expect too much (TV3)

So why are they playing, Wayne ?

http://www.tv3.co.nz/News/SportsNews/tabid/185/Default.aspx

Expectations may be high but All Black management are urging caution ahead of Saturday’s first test match of the season against France.

While much has been made of an under-strength French team, All Black back coach Wayne Smith hopes fans do not expect too much from their side first up.

“You expect your first game of the season to be reasonably rusty, like I said we've had four days together and we've had a lot of time to plan for that and I think it has gone pretty well, But you can't expect everything to click into place like it did on the end of year tour.”
The All Blacks beat a full strength French side twice on that tour, the first match by a record 47 points to three.

On Saturday they will face a side widely regarded as France C and expectations are high the All Blacks will punish the French the way springboks pummelled an under strength England last weekend.
But for the All Blacks it will be all about sticking to the game plan.

*****

Video

http://www.tv3.co.nz/VideoBrowseAll/SportsVideo/tabid/317/articleID/28079/Default.aspx#video

J -100!

We are getting closer... September 7th is in 100 days... Woaw! I've been waiting for that moment for so long that I'm almost crying.

Anyway, these 100 days are within reach but the road is still long so guys : DON T GET INJURIED!!!!! even if you are just a staff-man ;), right coach? see the last pic!

On tient le bon bout ; match d'ouverture France vs. Argentine dans 100 jours... Ca fait tellement de longtemps qu'on attend ce moment que ca en devient presque emouvant.

N'empeche 100 jours, c'est proche et loin a la fois, donc une seule regle : NE PAS SE BLESSER!!! meme si on est dans le staff, n'est-ce pas coach? regardez la derniere photo!

Retour sur le reportage de l'Equipe TV :

L'interview de Richie ne depasse pas les 5 minutes (pour etre franche, ca parle plus de Dan Carter que de notre Captain!).

Ce qui etait mignon, c'etait de voir que pour une fois, un journaliste avait pris l'avion pour se rendre au pays des Blacks et des fermiers et n'avait pas juste repris (et traduit) un reportage local! Si ca peut aider a la mediatisation du rugby, on doit faire avec...

Rugby: Henry takes low risk approach for first test (TV3)

http://www.tv3.co.nz/News/SportsNews/tabid/185/Default.aspx


Tue, May 2007 4:14p.m

All Blacks coach Graham Henry has taken a low risk approach to naming his first team of the year for Saturday night's first test against France at Eden Park.

He has rested players nursing minor injuries, allowing Leon MacDonald to get the nod at fullback, while Chris Masoe and Reuben Thorne combine with Captain Richie McCaw in the loose forwards.

Other notable selections include Blues teammates Jo Rokocoko and Ali Williams starting despite limited Super 14 game-time.

Jerry Collins is the latest member of the All Blacks walking wounded club ahead of Saturday’s test.

And like Byron Kelleher, Mils Muliaina, Conrad Smith and Anton Oliver, Collins was unavailable for selection opening the door for Thorne on the blindside flank.

Ali Williams has overcome a minor leg injury while Chris Masoe gets the number eight jersey ahead of Rodney So'oialo. With Byron Kelleher injured Piri Weepu is the halfback. On the bench Troy Flavell will cover lock and loose forward with Waikato's Brendan Leonard poised to make his test debut.

Starting 15:
Leon MacDonald ; Josevata Rokocoko ; Isaia Toeava ; Aaron Mauger ; Sitiveni Sivivatu ; Dan Carter ; Piri Weepu ; Chris Masoe ; Richie McCaw (c) ; Reuben Thorne ; Ali Williams ; Chris Jack ; Carl Hayman ; Keven Mealamu ; Tony Woodcock.

Reserves:
Andrew Hore ; Neemia Tialata ; Troy Flavell ; Rodney So’oialo ; Brendon Leonard ; Nick Evans ; Ma’a Nonu.

******
Watch out "France C", people!

Chabal, Ibanez and Magne won't appreciate being pointing out as rookies!!!
Like the ABs staff during their last international matches, Bernard Laporte chose to bring some fresh air in Les Bleus to New Zealand ... even if it was not really a choice (the French top 4 national teams play the semi finals this weeken)
And whatever happens this weekend (or even during this June tour, or even during the Tri Nations) what really matters is the September and October Tour in France (Scotland and Wales)!!!!!

Attention aux inconnus!

Chabal, Ibanez et Magne ne sont pas des ptis jeunes, attention!!!
Comme leurs adversaires de samedi lors de leurs dernieres rencontres, Laporte et son entourage ont choisi d'emporter avec eux de nouveaux visages au Pays du Long Nuage Blanc... meme si on ne peut pas tellement dire que c'etait un choix (demi finales du To14 ce weekend!)
Et puis de toutes facons, quoiqu'il se passe ce weekend (ou pendant cette tournee, ou meme cet ete), ce qui compte cette annee, c'est tout ce qui se passera en France (un pti peu en Ecosse et au Pays de Galles) du 9 septembre au 20 octobre!!!

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Videos
- About the article

http://www.tv3.co.nz/VideoBrowseAll/SportsVideo/tabid/317/articleID/27917/Default.aspx#video
- About the injuries in the squad

http://www.tv3.co.nz/VideoBrowseAll/SportsVideo/tabid/317/articleID/27866/Default.aspx?articleID=27866#video

- OneNews : "Henry unhappy, Masoe in"

http://tvnz.co.nz/view/video_popup_windows_skin/1156283?bandwidth=128k

All Blacks vs. les Bleus on Saturday in Auckland.

The French rugby team (i.e. les Bleus) took their plane to New Zealand yesterday (Sunday) at noon (French time) ; if I am right, they are to arrive soon.

Meanwhile, in Auckland, the Abs are not having fun, playing rugby is such a tough job! Look at them -and especially their captain! These poor babies all look tired...

==> Reminder :

- Match in Auckland on Saturday at 7PM (local time)

- Revenge (???) the following Saturday in Wellington

*****

Alors que les Bleus ont decolle hier a midi pour la Nouvelle Zelande (ils sont donc sur le point d'arriver -si mes calculs sont exacts), les All Blacks se tuent a la tache!

Les pauvres cheris, regardez-les, ils ont tous l'air de souffrir -et en particulier leur capitaine!

==> Rappel :

- Nouvelle Zelande/ France a Auckland, samedi a 9h sur Canal+

- Match retour le samedi suivant a la meme heure, sur la meme chaine mais a Wellington.

******

ATTENTION

Demain (Mardi 29.05) a 20h sur l'EquipeTV

Magazine special All Blacks (et Nouvelle Zelande)

Avec une interview du capitaine Richie McCaw!

A vos magnetos!!!

***

Out of the field, still a good guy!

http://www.catwalk.org.nz/richie_mccaw_patron_page

New Zealand rugby star Richie McCaw teamed up with the CatWalk Trust in March 2007 and immediately made an impact with both the organisation and its supporters.

"Spinal cord injuries have a really serious impact on not only the person who's been hurt but also on their family and friends. I'm really happy to lend my support to the CatWalk Trust to help raise funds to find a cure," Richie said at the time of joining.

On the field, Richie McCaw has carved a stellar rugby career. The openside flanker was born and raised in Otago, where he started in the game as a seven year old. He now plays his rugby out of Christchurch and is widely regarded as the world's best in his position.

But it's not all glamour and high profile lifestyles - Richie McCaw also has a strong sense of social responsibility and takes time to speak with and meet a wide variety of community organisations.
Away from rugby, Richie appreciates the freedom of movement he can achieve through flight - he's a keen aviator and went solo in a glider at Omarama in 2006.

"I love to fly and I enjoy making the most of life. I certainly appreciate that the loss of movement through Spinal Cord Injuries would be devastating.
The quicker a cure is found, the better."
Other activities which Richie enjoys in his increasingly rare leisure time are fishing and spending time with his friends and family.

Why CatWalk?
CatWalk founder Catriona Williams says it’s an honour and a privilege to have Richie McCaw on board.
"This will reinforce the importance of our message: finding a way to get people out of chairs and on to legs,"she said. "Our fundraising comes from all over New Zealand, and from all walks

******

related link

http://www.hospice.org.nz/emily-mcgregor/?operation=print

Baby Richie turns one!!! Part 2

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

BABY RICHIE
May 21st

*********
Richie McCaw embodies everything that I really love about New Zealand rugby.
My obsession with rugby began over a decade ago and my love for the men in black coincided with me finding the sport that would become the sport of my life.

For over 100 years, New Zealand has consistently produced the best players the world has ever seen. I missed the legendary careers of the likes of Pinetree Meads, Buck Shelford, Graham Mourie, John Timu and Murray Mexted. However, I was blessed to see the likes of Michael Jones, Grant Fox, John Kirwan, Zinzan Brooke and Sean Fitzpatrick close out their careers.

My favourite All Black stars include Jeff Wilson, Christian Cullen, Andrew Mehrtens and Justin Marshall. Once these four heroes of mine hung up their jerseys, I felt a void in my heart and wondered who my next favourite All Blacks would be and if I’d feel the same way about them as I did my idols?

The next generation of All Blacks have picked up where the last tide have left off; the new era has ushered in a new wave of superstars, including Daniel Carter – who surely must be the best no.10 the world has ever seen. With this new breed came Richie McCaw.

Much has been written about him as a player and, rightly so, he has been given legendary status while still playing. It is amazing that this champion player is still only 26, but he seems to be peerless at the top of rugby’s great players list.

Apart from having the tag as the world’s best player, Richie has been vaunted for being intelligent, hard working, focussed and determined – qualities that has helped his meteoric rise to fame. It therefore should not be surprising that he has achieved all that he has in his career, but it is! How many others can lay claim to what he can? How many others don’t use him as the benchmark or the standard of how the game should be played? Richie only seems to get better with each season that he plays and every game he steps into, he gives his all, having no regard for his own body. Its one of the reasons that I love All Blacks rugby so much – Richie is a supreme example of what the black jersey means to this exclusive club and his country. The passion, with which he plays this game, is something that I greatly admire about him.

Another reason I hold Richie in such high regard is the person that he is. Again, this is a major reason why I support the All Blacks and not another team. Despite their geniusness, despite their flair, despite the fact that they are miles apart from their counterparts, All Blacks tend to have that extra quality that makes them really special – their humility. They are down to earth and unassuming, always approachable and accessible even to fans like me that are not New Zealanders by birth.

I highly respect Richie in this regard. As he has assumed the reigns of the All Blacks captaincy, he has gone out of his way to become a people’s captain, like the amazing Tana Umaga before him. However, what sets Richie apart from other New Zealand captains is his knack to connect to people from every background and make them feel as though they are special when speaking to him. Gracious in defeat and even more humble when he is winning – and how many times has he lost a game, only once as All Blacks captain even! – Richie is a rare breed – polite, kind and eminently decent. These qualities have confirmed his status as one of the best All Blacks to ever captain this mighty rugby nation, but as a player, Richie will be up there along Pinetree as one of the finest to grace a rugby field and I am honoured to have been able to watch his unprecedented career.

Chill


*****
From Yeely, Camelia, whatever her name :
Richie's one and only fan from Morrocco.

So it's us...

She apologizes to Izzy and Kaylin : she didn't know what you girls looked like so you aren't on the drawing ; we do hope you'll join us for the second birthday of baby Richie!

Baby Richie turns one!!! Part1

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

BABY RICHIE

May 21st

****
All I can say is that it was a great honour for me to meet you guys (girls, mostly! but I don't forget Armand here, the Dad of this blog!). I hope we can make it for another year (and actually other yearsssss) with our lovely Captain (whatever his results!)

This blog has become more and more popular thanks to (mostly) Richie's teams (whatever the name : Canterbury, Crusaders or All Blacks) so thank you very much to Richie's team-mates (even if it's not THEIR blog!)

Good to have met great people here, chatting with you and keeping in touch (God Bless Bebo, MSN and Yahoo!!!)

And last but not least, thank you to mister William W. Ellis for creating rugby, a sport without which our lives would be empty ; so Bill-Will (whatever) thanks a lot for taking that football ball into your arms and having scored the first try ever in rugby History!

Happy Birthday Baby Richie ; and wish our Champ' all the best for the rest of this 2007 season.

MaryL

*****

There was a man called Richie McCaw

He had all the women around him in awe

So a blog was formed a year ago today

Where we all now come to say G’day

We leave our messages and share our perve

So thank you Maryl praises sent that you really deserve

and of course we can’t forget Mr McCaw

for being the sexiest and best player of all

Liss (tonliss)
Poem and Winnie

********

Jo from England

She made this Richie red-scrap.

*********

I tend to post from time to time however that's kind hard because the only time that I can be on everyone is not. All I can say is thank-you for creating such a wonderful blog. Thanks to it I have met people that I would not have met if the blog did not exist. Thank-you for taking the time to update it and for posting such wonderful pictures and articles.

I would also like to thank all the other ladies for posting and for keeping the blog fun and entertaining. Between the snakes and tongue jokes and all the sexy Richie pictures strong bonds and friendship have blossomed. We have become more than posters on a blog, we have become friends. Richie gets some of the credit because were it not for him we would not have met. But most of the credits go to the ladies for being such a strong support group. We have come to share our happiness, anger, anguish, and frustration and someone is always there to listen. Everyone is very supportive of one another and to me that is priceless. So once again thank-you for creating such a wonderful blog.

I'm only as strong as the caffeine I drink, the hair spray I use and the girlfriend I have. What would most us do without our sisters,confidants,shopping, and lunching girlfriends? Here is to you my friends: Lissie, Rose, Camelia, MaryL, Gillian, Anne-Sophie, Jo, Jain, Izzy, Cass and everyone else who posts on the blog. And thank-you Richie for being such a wonderful athlete.

Kaylin
XOXO

********

From Izzy (our local spy)

She sent us a cartoon by Murray Webb (whose work you can find on the Internet www.stuff.co.nz in the cartoon gallery )

What do you think about it?

I prefer the real one, but it's true to say that this man did a great job!

Finals this weekend (under Richie's control)

So in the Super 14 final, thanks God I hadn't bet because the team I was cheering on lost...

The end of the match was pretty exciting (not the whole match though!) What can make the Crusaders not regretting their semi final is that they had lost against the future champion, i.e. the Bulls. Steve Walsh seems to be showing him the way to victory!

So sorry for Ruan and his guys (you will make it next year...oups, sorry, no! 'coz next year, no conditionning camps for the ABs...I don't know when, but you will make it one day, the Sharks!!!)

But the only final I was really focused on yesterday was the European Challenge final between Bath (England) and AS Montferrand (France). The (maybe) last final of the one and only Kiwi- Maori-Bleu, Tony Marsh, who suffered a little during the match (check his head) but who scored a great team-try!

Hopefully it wasn't ASM's last final of the season.

If I mention Montferrand here, it's of course for Tony but also for their coach Vern Cotter, who was in the Crusaders staff till last year (so this victory can be shared with the Canterbarian fans in the Southern Hemisphere...)

*******

Donc hier en differe sur Canal+ Sport, on a pu suivre la finale du Super 14 entre les Bulls et les Sharks. La prochaine fois que j'annonce mon soutien a une equipe, prevenez les que la defaite leur sera assuree...

Desolee pour les futurs copains de Fred Michalak! mais meme l'arbitre semblait vouloir montrer le chemin de la victoire aux coequipiers du mecahnt Matfield!

Mais les Sharks gagneront l'annee prochaine....enifin, non, pas l'annee prochaine ; les Crusaders gagneront l'annee prochaine! les Sharks gagneront un jour! c'est sur...

Mais honnetement, la seule finale qui m'interessait hier, c'etait celle du Challenge Europeen (a 18h30 sur France4) entre Bath et l'ASM. Peut-etre la derniere finale de notre ami Tony? Tony qui a pas mal souffert hier (regardez son bandage) mais qui a conclu un essai superbement construit par son equipe!!!

Esperons que cette finale n'etait pas la derniere pour nos amis auvergnats...

Rappelons que le coach de l'ASM, Vern Cotter, etait jusqu'a la saison derniere dans les staff des Crusaders (on peut donc partager cette victoire avec nos amis d'outre hemisphere!)

Rebel Sport Super 14 Grand Final Preview (on crfu.co.nz)

http://www.crfu.co.nz/main/index.cfm/1,347,2063,html/Rebel-Sport-Super-14-Grand-Final-Preview

Saturday May 19
Sharks v Bulls
At The ABSA Stadium, Durban, 3pm (1am, Sun May 20, NZ time)
Referee: Steve Walsh (hey check! there is a Kiwi in final!!!)

The Sharks are hoping it will be a case of third time lucky as they host the Bulls in the first ever all-South African Super rugby final. The Durbanites have reached the tournament decider twice previously, in 1996 and 2001, but lost out in away ties to the Blues and ACT Brumbies respectively. Last weekend’s 16-point rout of the Blues represented the Sharks’ seventh win from eight in Durban this season, and their 12th success in 14 Super rugby ties at home in the last two years. Their first home win this year was achieved against Saturday’s opponents, with the Bulls falling 17-3 to a Sharks side that was spearheaded by two tries from exciting winger JP Pietersen. Although he was kept try-less last weekend in the semi-final, Pietersen still comfortably leads the way among the competition’s try-scorers, having scored 11 for the season, which includes four try-scoring doubles. Pietersen’s tally is four in advance of that gathered by the Bulls’ leading predator, Bryan Habana. This year’s success was the Sharks’ fifth from 12 ties against the Bulls in Super rugby. Five others have been lost, while the two teams slugged out draws in 1997 and 2000. The Bulls have twice successfully raided the Shark tank in Super rugby, winning 24-16 in 2003 and 23-17 two years later. It promises to be an anxious afternoon for Sharks assistant coach John Plumtree. He took Wellington to three NPC finals in four years back in New Zealand – and lost the lot! The Sharks have won all four contests against South African opposition so far this year, while the Bulls beat every other African team but the Sharks. The Bulls trek down to the Natal coast hoping to have Bok halfback Fourie du Preez back on deck for their maiden Super rugby final appearance. South Africa’s 2006 Player of the Year missed last weekend’s gripping 27-12 win over the Crusaders but is expected to return for the championship settling game. The Bulls have won four of seven on the road this year, and bring strong recent form to the contest, having won their last five. They’ve also conceded just one try – a last minute and largely irrelevant effort by defeated Blues skipper Troy Flavell – in their last 240 minutes of action.

Last meeting: Sharks 17, Bulls 3 at Durban

Recent Form –
Sharks: Beat Lions (home) 33-3, Beat Stormers (away) 36-10, Beat Blues SEMI-FINAL (home) 34-18
Bulls: Beat Blues (home) 40-19, Beat Queensland Reds (home) 92-3, Beat Crusaders SEMI-FINAL (home) 27-12

Twenty One Crusaders Called up on His Majesty's Service (on crfu.co.nz)

http://www.crfu.co.nz/main/index.cfm/1,111,2067,html/Twenty-One-Crusaders-Called-up-on-His-Majesty-s-Service

May 18, 2007

Twenty one Crusaders have been called up for international duty after a busy day on the selection front, which was highlighted by the inclusion of six Crusaders in the 2007 All Blacks squad.

All six – Leon MacDonald, Aaron Mauger, Daniel Carter, Richard McCaw, Reuben Thorne and Chris Jack – were members of the All Blacks’ Rugby World Cup conditioning programme earlier in the year.

A further 11 Crusaders have been included in the 26-man Junior All Blacks party for the second Pacific Six Nations, with their number including first year Crusader Kieran Read.
The blindside flanker featured in all 14 matches played by the Crusaders during his freshman Super rugby year.

Read is joined in New Zealand’s second selection by Campbell Johnstone, Corey Flynn, Wyatt Crockett, Ross Filipo, Mose Tuiali’i, Andrew Ellis, Stephen Brett, Casey Laulala, Scott Hamilton and Rico Gear.

The Junior All Blacks, who assemble on Monday, play the first match of their programme in Samoa next weekend.

Today’s selection follows Monday’s naming of the New Zealand Maori squad for the Churchill Cup in England, which saw Rua Tipoki, Isaac Ross and Ben May all called up.

Tipoki captains the New Zealand Maori team for the first time while Ross and May are on debut for the side, which was scheduled to depart to England for the tournament tonight.

There was also Crusaders representation in the New Zealand Under-21 squad that was announced earlier this week for a one off match against the touring Canadian side, with second-five-eighths Tim Bateman earning selection following three Super rugby appearances this year.
The 20-year-old – the 21st member of the Crusaders class of 2007 to earn national honours – is one of five Canterbury players to have made the New Zealand Colts.

The others are James Broadhurst, Owen Franks – the younger brother of Crusaders prop Ben Franks, James Patterson and Colin Slade.

Team announcement on TV3

http://www.tv3.co.nz/default.aspx?tabid=250&articleID=27297#vidlist27297

There are two bolters in the first All Blacks team of 2007.

Waikato halfback Brendan Leonard and Wellington prop John Schwalger have made the 30-man squad for tests against France and Canada, and the Tri-Nations.

Schwalger is the stand out name in an otherwise predictable pack featuring the return of Blues captain Troy Flavell as a lock who can cover blindside, while Reuben Thorne keeps his place as a blindside who might cover lock.

Leonard is the only new face in the backs, overtaking Andy Ellis and Jimmy Cowan in the halfback stakes, while Isaiah Toeava's Super 14 form meant he could not be left out.

And with Joe Rokocoko making the cut, Rico Gear along with Ma'anonu are the major selection casualties.

Coach Graham Henry praised Leonard's Super 14 form saying he had been the best attacking halfback in the competition. The 30-man squad has been named for the upcoming tests against France and Canada as well as the Philips Tri-Nations.

The squad:

Dan Carter - Canterbury ; Jerry Collins - Wellington ; Nick Evans - Otago ; Troy Flavell - Auckland ; Carl Hayman - Otago ; Andrew Hore - Taranaki ; Doug Howlett - Auckland ; Chris Jack - Tasman ; Byron Kelleher - Waikato ; Brendon Leonard - Waikato ; Luke McAlister - North Harbour ; Richie McCaw - Canterbury (Captain) ; Leon MacDonald - Canterbury Chris Masoe - Wellington ; Aaron Mauger - Canterbury ; Keven Mealamu - Auckland Malili Muliaina - Waikato ; Anton Oliver - Otago ; Keith Robinson - Waikato ; Josevata Rokocoko - Auckland ; John Schwalger - Wellington ; Sitiveni Sivivatu - Waikato ; Conrad Smith - Wellington ; Rodney So’oialo - Wellington ; Reuben Thorne - Canterbury ; Neemia Tialata - Wellington ; Isaia Toeava - Auckland ; Piri Weepu - Wellington ; Ali Williams - Auckland ; Tony Woodcock - North Harbour.

NZRU Chairman Jock Hobbs speaks to the media during the naming of the All Blacks squad for the Iveco Series and the Philips Tri Nations at Eden Park

A Message from the Crusaders captain (on crfu.co.nz)

http://www.crfu.co.nz/main/index.cfm/1,111,2065,html/A-Message-from-the-Crusaders-captain

May 17, 2007

On behalf of the 2007 Crusaders team and management, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the support and enthusiasm you have provided throughout the 12th Crusade.
No one is more disappointed than the players and management staff that we were unable to make the final, but we remain proud – both of the effort and commitment that everyone has shown to the cause throughout the campaign – and also of the people that we represent.
The Crusaders have, and always will be, a special team.
It is an honour and a privilege to wear the jersey and represent the people of the franchise. This is something we, as players, will never ever take lightly.
As with all campaigns, there have been some special moments and some great memories.
Even in defeat, I was proud of the way the team collectively held its head high, and humbled by the genuine nature of the Pretoria crowd’s post-match reaction to us.
It reinforced, even at a time when we had not achieved the outcome we were seeking, why the Crusaders are such a great team to play for.
To Jacko [Chris Jack], Johnny [Johnny Leo’o] and Azz [Aaron Mauger], thanks for the memories guys. You are all Crusaders legends, and the place won’t seem the same without you, but we wish you well in your futures beyond the Crusaders next year.
Despite their departure, a lot of talented young players have been introduced to the side this year, with their being nine new Crusaders in all.
This should stand us all in good stead moving forward, and make the 13th Crusade one for us all to look forward to.


Thanks again

Richard McCaw
Crusaders captain 2007

VF

http://marylanceron.blogspot.com/2007/11/message-from-captain.html

ABs ready to face French C-Lis (tvnz.co.nz)

http://tvnz.co.nz/view/video_popup_windows_skin/1123214?bandwidth=128k

*****

The French federation had tried to cancel this tour, promising huge amount of money to the NZRU who rejected all propositions. You don't change tradition, that's it : when it's the WC year, France and NZ meet in NZ! Wherever the WC takes place!

So now, it would be great if some people stopped complaining about the fact that European teams don't send their best "soldiers"....

No, David Auradou won't be here, Richie!

But it doesn't mean you'll have to give up! We'll send some other (even tougher) opponents 'coz we LOVE you!

*****

La FFR a propose de l'argent a la fede Kiwi pour annuler cette tournee. Proposition restee sans suite, car on ne change pas ses ptites habitudes : chaque annee de Coupe du Monde, la France va en juin en Nouvelle Zelande et puis c'est tout!

Maintenant, faut pas se plaindre si les equipes n'amenent pas leur equipe type...y'a pas que la CDM dans la vie!

Non, David Auradou ne fera pas le voyage en Nouvelle Zelande, Richie!

Mais ca ne veut pas dire qu'il ne faudra pas se donner a fond pour les deux test matches! On a prevu de t'en envoyer d'autres (desplus costauds!) parce que nous, ON T'AIME!!!

They're the whole Boks and dice: Kiss (rugbyheaven.com)

http://www.rugbyheaven.smh.com.au/articles/2007/05/13/1178994999115.html

Rupert Guinness
Monday, May 14, 2007

THE Springboks deserve an immediate upgrade in World Cup reckoning from solid chances to major contenders.
So says former Springboks defence and current NSW Waratahs assistant coach Les Kiss after watching the Sharks and Bulls win their Super 14 semi-finals on the weekend to set up the first all-South African final in Durban on Saturday.
The mantra may be that Super 14 form does not correlate to Tests. And true, the semi-final losses by the two New Zealand sides - the Blues to the Sharks and Crusaders to the Bulls - may have been influenced by their All Blacks being underprepared after being rested half the season for the World Cup.
However, Kiss believes South African rugby has shown enough in the Super 14 to indicate the Springboks are set to re-emerge as the force they were when they won the 2004 and 1998 Tri-Nations, and 1995 World Cup at home.
"If you took me back six or eight months ago, I would have said they wouldn't be much more than a quarter or semi [final hope]," said Kiss who was Springboks defensive coach in 2001 under Harry Viljoen when they won 11 Tests.
"Now they are the team that I think can really surprise at the World Cup."
But Kiss says to achieve that the Springboks need to:
* Be willing to play an expansive game, which he says they have shown the capacity for this Super 14 season;
* Hold on to their traditional game strength - the use of bulk up front and a penchant for 10-man kicking rugby;
* Select the right squad, which is easier said than done in South Africa, as shown by Bulls fullback Derrick Hougaard's omission from the 46-man Springbok squad named on Saturday night after he scored all 27 points for his side in the semi-final.
"They can expand the game, but the one thing they can't lose is their traditional strength," said Kiss, adding: "And that is their scavenging forward play, their driving game, their lineout, which is a key difference with Victor Matfield in it.
"The Bulls and Sharks have shown that they can impose those strengths. They have the forwards power, the 10-man rugby with the kicking game. But they have a good counterattack, too. If they can do that they will have a more complete game that they can unleash on the World Cup later this year."
After the Sharks beat the Blues 34-18 and the Bulls defeated the Crusaders 27-12, talk of World Cup supremacy was soon heard coming from South African lips.
"It's created a huge hype, vibe and excitement about rugby," said Sharks and Springboks captain John Smit, whose top-of-the-table side will host the final. "It's great having two South African teams … the trophy can't go anywhere else."
On what that means for South Africa's World Cup hopes, Smit said: "If we can put 22, 25 guys together and they click and they work, they can beat anyone."
Smit, his Sharks teammates and the Bulls have plenty on their plate with the challenge of becoming South Africa's first Super 12 or 14 winners.
The semi-finals were won in contrasting style. The Sharks won first at ABSA Stadium in Durban before a capacity 52,000-strong crowd by three-tries-to-two.
Their win came despite losing a hard-earned lead at the 52nd minute for 16 minutes when Blues No.10 Isa Nacewa matched winger Rudi Wulf's five-pointer at the 45th minute to leave the score 18-14 in the Blues' favour.
That the Sharks allowed the Blues back in as they did might be a concern for coach Dick Muir when the stakes are higher this Saturday. But their rally to shut down the game showed strength and calm under pressure. The strong Sharks scrum, lineout and mauling augurs well for their hopes of matching - if not getting an edge on - the traditional mighty Bulls pack.
The Bulls, meanwhile, had to rely on the boot of Hougaard for their points from eight penalty kicks and a drop goal before a 50,000-crowd at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria. While a try-less affair, it was a torrid test of defences indicating the Bulls will take some beating if they are to surrender ascendancy to the Sharks.

COMING UP FINAL (SYDNEY TIMES)

■SATURDAY SHARKS (RSA) 34 BLUES (NZ) 18
ABSA STADIUM, DURBAN.

CROWD: 50,000.
Tries: J Muller, B James,
W Murray.
Goals: P Montgomery (2c, 4p),
B James (1fg).
Tries: R Wulf, I Nacewa.
Goals: I Nacewa (1c, 2p).

■SUNDAY BULLS (RSA) 27 CRUSADERS (NZ) 12
LOFTUS VERSFELD, PRETORIA.

CROWD: 53,000.
Tries: Nil.
Goals: D Hougaard (8p, 1fg).
Tries: Nil.
Goals: D Carter (4p).

NEXT SATURDAY

Sharks v Bulls at ABSA Stadium,

Durban, RSA(11.00pm)

Bulls end Crusaders' run with 27-12 win (ABs.com)

http://www.allblacks.com/index.cfm?layout=displayNews&newsArticle=5977

Bulls determination quelled the Crusaders' Rebel Sport Super 14 ambitions in a tryless encounter which saw the home team win 27-12 at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria.

While the first semi-final between the Sharks and Blues was a thrilling encounter of typical Super rugby intensity, the contest on the high veldt was a much more defensive oriented encounter where forward power proved to be the preferred option. In that regard the bigger home pack called the tune to blunt the Crusaders' thrusts at the line. And as the Crusaders' desperation increased so did their mistakes, with forced passes failing to find their mark. It was the first semi-final the Crusaders have lost and will mean the first all-South Africa final in the tournament's history.

First five-eighths Derick Hougaard was the star for his side scoring all 27 points with eight penalty goals and a dropped goal. His rival Dan Carter landed four penalty goals for the Crusaders. The Crusaders also infringed slightly more often allowing Hougaard to land his goals. The Bulls blew a great scoring opportunity 19 minutes into the game after a fine break and run off the back of a lineout by loose forward Pedrie Wannenburg.

He carried the assault up to the Crusaders' line and passed to supporting hooker Gary Botha. However, as he hit the ground in the tackle he attempted to reach backwards over his head to place the ball, only to knock the ball on. Carter broke through the line soon after the restart following Hougaard's third penalty goal, to create space for second five-eighths Aaron Mauger. The Crusaders seemed unprepared for Carter's thrust and the move broke down, but not before the Bulls had infringed, allowing Carter to land his third goal.

The kick fest continued into the second half with Hougaard landing two and Carter responding with one as the score crept out to 21-12 to the home team. Victor Matfield was the expected force in the lineouts, but also demonstrated his other skills, including a kick chip from the halfback position which created a chance for Akona Ndungane but which ended in a penalty goal chance. Halfback Heini Adams was under pressure to perform in the absence of Fourie du Preez and lived up to expectations. Hooker Botha was a livewire in the loose exchanges for the Bulls while Hougaard supplemented his goal-kicking with some powerful line kicking.

The Crusaders suffered a blow when captain Richie McCaw was sin-binned for dragging down a maul 57 minutes into the game. From the resulting penalty, Hougaard landed his eighth goal. Desperation overtook the Crusaders who were solid in defence and it was only a Hougaard dropped goal from 40m that the home team could achieve.

Scorers: Bulls 27 (Derick Hougaard 8 pen, dropped goal) Crusaders 12 (Daniel Carter 4 pen). HT: 15-9

Hougaard downs Crusaders (tnvz.co.nz)

http://tvnz.co.nz/view/page/488120/1119787



Derick Hougaard** scored all 27 points to steer the Bulls into their first Super 14 final with a 27-12 win over holders the Crusaders.

Hougaard equalled the tournament record of eight penalties in a match and added a 65th-minute drop goal as the Bulls lined up a first all-South African final against the Sharks in Durban next Sunday.

Opposite number Dan Carter replied with four penalties for the Crusaders in a match without tries.
Earlier, the Sharks defeated the Blues 34-18.

It was the first time the Crusaders had lost in the semis, in their ninth appearance in the last four. It was also their third successive defeat after losing their final two group matches.
The Bulls dominated through their forwards and watertight defence.

Australian referee Matt Goddard repeatedly penalised the Crusaders at the breakdown and Hougaard took every opportunity that came his way, landing all his kicks at goal.

The tone of the match was set in the first 10 minutes with Hougaard booting his first two penalties to put the Bulls 6-0 up.

The Crusaders fought back with two Carter penalties before Hougaard kicked three more, the last from 59 metres.

Hougaard was also on target in the 46th and 49th minutes, only to see Carter grab his fourth penalty soon after.

When Crusaders captain Richie McCaw was yellow-carded for repeated infringements at the ruck in the 58th minute, the game turned the way of the home team.

Hougaard landed one more penalty and then slotted his drop goal for the final points of the match.

Rugby: History is to be made in first all-South African S14 final (TV3.co.nz)

http://www.tv3.co.nz/News/SportsNews/tabid/185/articleID/26920/Default.aspx#top

It is a bridge too far for New Zealand's semifinal hopes in South Africa.

The Sharks stung the Blues 34-18 in a frenetic end to their top four battle in Durban, then the Bulls bullied the Crusaders 27-12 in a try-less affair at Loftus Versfeld.

Two sizzling breaks from Isaia Toeava sent the Blues into a four point lead early in the second half - but coach David Nucifora watched it all slip away in the last ten minutes.

The deadly boot of Derick Hougard kept the Bulls one step ahead of the Crusaders throughout a dour affair in Pretoria, and the Crusaders never looked like breaking the defensive line.

History will be made next weekend - when the Sharks host the Bulls in the first all-South African final.

****

See the good part of it, the All Blacks have now 3 full weeks to prepare their two matches against France on June 2nd and 9th...

As far as I am concerned, as many a you know, I won't see the match before Friday so I can't really comment on it! and as for the final, I'll cheer on the Sharks :

a. because the Bulls defeated the "Richie boys" ;

b. because the Blues defeated the Crusaders during the opening match ;

and c. because they (the Sharks) are the only S14 to have accepted a foreign rugby players in their squad for next season (our national Frederic Michalak!)

So Go Ruan and the boys...

And, Richie, don't worry, we all know that your main objective this year doesn't take place in May in South Africa but on October 20th, in Paris so we won't blame you (or the guys, or even the referee) for this defeat!

pictures from both semi finals

ps : the link at the bottom is a tribute to Tony Marsh (the only Kiwi Bleu ever!) who will have to be missed by every rugby fan round the globe!

****

Voyons le bon cote des choses, les internationaux ont maintenant 3 semaines completes pour preparer leurs test matches contre les Bleus...

En ce qui me concerne, je n'ai pas pu voir le match, qui sera -je vous le rappelle ou vous l'annonce- diffuse 2 fois vendredi sur Sport+ a 9h45 et sur Canal+ Sport a 20h45! Et pour la finale, je soutiendrai les Sharks parce que

1/ ce sont les Bulls qui ont battu les Crusaders

2/ les Blues avaient gagne le match d'ouverture, toujours face aux Crusaders

et 3/ parce que les Sharks sont la seule equipe du S14 a avoir accepte un joueur etranger (en l'occurance notre n°10 national Fred de Toulouse) pour la saison prochaine.

Alors Allez Ruan Pienaar et ses copains!!!

Et Richie, ne t'inquietes pas, on sait tres bien que cette saison est particuliere et que l'objectif n'est pas un trophee en mai en Afrique du Sud mais une coupe le 20 octobre au Stade de France! Alors on ne t'en veux pas (ni a tes coequipiers ni meme a l'arbitre)...

Photos des deux demi finales

ps : Lien pour une video hommage au seul et unique Kiwi Bleu, Tony Marsh ; qui va nous manque

http://images.photomania.com/videoview_flv.asp?login=x_x11052007_MFPOL&photo=rad71A73.flv&album=1

Road to the final...Sorry for the Blues!

The Sharks have just won 34/18.
The Bulls are currently leading the match : 3/0, penalty scored during the 7th minute.

Won't be able to stay online for a while, sorry! Update in the comments as much as you want, thank you.

http://livescoring.tvnz.co.nz/rugby.php?match_id=60

ps: in England, the trophy goes to Leicester! Good job!

Rugby: Super-14 South African perils (tv3.co.nz)

Article
http://www.tv3.co.nz/News/SportsNews/tabid/185/Default.aspx#

Video
http://www.tv3.co.nz/default.aspx?tabid=250&articleID=26909#vidlist26909

*****
For the first time in Super-14 history both semi-finals will be held in South Africa.

Defending Champions the Crusaders take on the Bulls in Pretoria and the Blues need to adjust to the sweltering heat when they play the Sharks in Durban.

The Crusaders have won all eight semi-final matches they have played in, but captain Richie McCaw believes this will be one of the toughest matches yet

*****
Another video link for Dougie, DC and Richie's fans...
10 hours left before being sure of the 2 finalists! Fingers crossed people!!!

ps: ONE WEEK LEFT FOR BABY RICHIE TURNS ONE...DON'T FORGET!!!


*****

Encore une video pour les fans de Doug Howlett, Dan Carter et de Richie...

Dans 10 heures, on sera fixe sur les finalistes...Prions pour eux!

ps : PLUS QU UNE SEMAINE POUR FETER LES UN AN DU BLOG...N OUBLIEZ PAS!!!

marykoala@hotmail.fr

"marythefroggy" on bebo.com

Crusaders take strength from the past (rugbyheaven) + bonus

This story was found at: http://www.rugbyheaven.smh.com.au/articles/2007/05/10/1178390463829.html
Thursday, May 10, 2007

The Crusaders are drawing strength from their season-altering defeat of the Bulls in Pretoria a year ago when they go seeking the same outcome in the Super 14 rugby semi-final on Saturday (early Sunday AEST).
The 35-17 triumph at Loftus Versfeld - achieved with rookie flanker Tanerau Latimer starring in place of rested captain Richie McCaw - has been heralded as a turning point in the Crusaders' 2006 season which culminated in a sixth Super rugby title.

Following a draw with the Western Force and loss to the Stormers, the Crusaders travelled to Pretoria to face a confident Bulls side coming off two dominant home wins.
There is even great momentum favouring the Bulls this weekend, with the hosts having notched four consecutive wins of the comprehensive variety.
The Crusaders are coming off twin losses, to the ACT Brumbies and Chiefs.

Five-eighth Daniel Carter couldn't help but compare the two scenarios.
"Last year it was a key point in our campaign," he said.
"It's pretty similar now so we're looking to turn things around and what better way to do it than in a semi-final.
"You can get confidence from games like that, you realise how big a challenge it's going to be."
Losses over the last two weeks weren't mortal blows to the Crusaders, who had all-but qualified for the semi-finals before then.

However, this weekend was death or glory and Carter had noticed the lift in intensity.
"We have to lay everything on the line. If you don't perform here then your campaign is over, and everything we've put into it.
"(Playing in Pretoria) just makes the rewards so much better if you do come out on top."
The decision-making of Carter and inside centre Aaron Mauger will be crucial against a Bulls side who have improved markedly over the past month since they returned to South Africa.
In their last four games the Bulls have scored 212 points to 41, averaging a 53-10 win.

"In terms of momentum, we don't really have any I suppose," Mauger told NZPA.
"There's been a couple of disappointing losses for us, it's been hard to put a real finger on (why). It's probably given ourselves a kick up the bum and made sure we harden ourselves.
"But there are some good things we've done which hopefully we can bleed in."
All of the Crusaders have experienced playoff rugby, most for more than one season, something which should hold them in good stead in an intimidating arena.
"It's about the mental side of it and making sure we go into the game believing in what we've got," Mauger said.

Meanwhile, nobody within the Crusaders squad was prepared to comment today on the alleged fight on a Christchurch street over the weekend which reportedly involved a group of players from the team.
Team management wanted the players and coaching staff to concentrate on the semifinal while the police and Canterbury Rugby Union investigated the incident.

*****
Video link on TV3
http://www.tv3.co.nz/default.aspx?tabid=112&articleID=26794#vidlist26794

****

Hors sujet/ Out of the topic:

Tony Marsh, NZ born rugby player who represented France in the early 2000's, after playing for the Blues and the Crusaders, announced he was playing his last professional season with ASM (coach by Vern Cotter, former Crusaders coach). We'll miss him!

Ca y est, c'est officiel, le plus All Black de tous les Bleus a annonce qu'il mettait un terme a sa carriere a la fin de cette saison. Il avait represente les Blues et els Crusaders avant de venir s'exiler a Clermont Ferrand, ou il joue encore sous le coaching de Vern Cotter (lui aussi expat' Kiwi). Il nous manquera!

http://tvnz.co.nz/view/page/488120/1116721

Crusaders - from beatable to beat-a-Bull (yahoo.co.nz)

http://yahooxtra.net.nz/rugby/0,,14646-7320345,00.html


11/05/2007
Marc Hinton


Analysing the semis:
This is the greatest challenge the Crusaders have ever faced in Super rugby finals football, and who would it past the masters finding one more way to win when they run out at the cauldron that is Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria in the early hours of Sunday morning?

That's what it comes down to for the defending and six-times champions as they find themselves in the rare position of being underdogs in the second of Sunday morning's (NZ time) all-South African Rebel Sport Super 14 semifinals against the Bulls.

In the first, just a few hours earlier on Saturday afternoon (SA time), David Nucifora's embattled Blues will tackle the table-topping Sharks at Absa Stadium in Durban in an equally daunting fixture from a New Zealand perspective. It's going to take a major turnaround, in form, confidence and execution, for the Auks to have any shot at reaching their fifth final.


But the Crusaders first. Their record at this time of the year is nonpareil, and from that perspective alone it would be foolish to write them off. They've played in eight semifinals since Super rugby first started back in 1996, and won them all. They've also gone on to prevail in six of the eight finals they've played in since first making the showpiece game back in 1998. So they know how to win in finals football - we all know that.


But the Crusaders (who have played seven of their eight semis at home) have never had to win in South Africa at knockout time, and that alone makes this weekend's task a journey into the unknown.


We all know how tough it is to win in South Africa, doubly so it seems when the opposition is from New Zealand.


As great as Graham Henry's All Blacks have been in the three full seasons he's had with them, he's lost three out of four tests played in the republic. It's why the Boks will be a potential bogey team for them at this year's World Cup in France.

What's more, the record by all of the New Zealand sides in South Africa in this year's Super 14 has been nothing short of abysmal. From all the matches played, there's been just a solitary win (the Crusaders over the Cheetahs) and a draw (the Chiefs, also against the Cheets), suggesting there's been a major reversal in the trend between the two countries.

Then there's the form aspect to consider. Or rather, the lack of it. The Crusaders have none to speak of, having lost their last two matches to finish their campaign in surprisingly ignominious fashion.


It's also been notable that the heavy-hitters haven't been firing for the red and blacks. Dan Carter (when he's played) and Richie McCaw have yet to awaken from their post-reconditioning slumber? Likewise Chris Jack, Aaron Mauger and Leon MacDonald, who have yet to produce the sustained quality we know they're capable of.


Can they turn it on now?


You bet they can. These guys are champion performers who will recognise the situation for what it is, and will rise to the occasion. Plus, I'm expecting a big one from Rico Gear who will relish the likely user-friendly conditions and could be an X-factor figure in this semi.


Into uncharted territory

How much do we read into the Crusaders' finishing stumble? Not too much, I reckon. They've been without a few key performers the last fortnight, and that hasn't helped their cause. They're all back on board now, and settled into enough of a rhythm for one more of those famous one-in, all-in performances.

Plus, I just have a sneaking suspicion that this is the sort of challenge that these guys need this year. Let's face it, there's nothing at this level of football that these guys haven't done. And in some ways there's a staleness about all that success.

But now here they are in charted territory, forced to win probably back-to-back games in South Africa to claim yet another title. If that doesn't rattle their chain, then check their pulses, they might be dead.

One other thought before we move on to the Blues. The Bulls have been in imperious form of late, capped by last weekend's record-breaking 92-3 victory over the disgracefully soft Queensland Reds that saw them catapult into the runnerup slot.

But the Crusaders will be as far from the Reds as you get. They won't lie down in the forwards and simply let that Bulls pack steamroll their way to the line at will, and they certainly won't adopt the turnstile method of defence as Eddie's boys did when they downed tools on the job last weekend.


And in some ways the Bulls' run home might just have been a little too comfortable for their own good.


The Crusaders are the smartest team of the professional era, and they will have worked out a way to beat this huge, but often one-dimensional, side. Expect the Bulls to be taken out of their comfort zone by a Crusaders outfit using width, numbers to the breakdown and disciplined defence as their pillars.

Let's not forget either that the Crusaders have won three of their six matches at Loftus. Don't be surprised if they claim their fourth, and most significant, victory there in the early hours of Sunday morning.


I don't have quite the same optimism about the Blues who will clearly have to pull a rabbit out of the hat to down the Sharks. The loss of Luke McAlister to a hamstring injury was a devastating blow last weekend, and the shift of Isaia Toeava into second five is a major gamble by Nucifora.

The combination of Isa Nacewa and Toeva in the five-eighths is one by which the Blues will either live or die. With ball in hand they're excitement personified, and when you throw in the likes of Anthony Tuitavake, Doug Howlett and Rudi Wulf outside them, there is try-scoring potential aplenty in the visiting backline.

But how will they go under pressure? Neither has a renowned kicking game, and their option-taking will have to be spot-on, lest those relentless Sharks force them into the sort of errors they feast off.

The Blues must also muscle-up in the forwards and meet fire with fire there to have any chance. But they've got to do it in a disciplined way. Sadly there's been few signs thus far they have the concentration and poise to do that.

The Blues have also never played a semi in South Africa, and to prevail in their first they're going to have to leave behind the travails of the last month, where they've lost three of their last four matches (all to African sides) and had Ali Williams as an unnecessary disruption, and come up with something out of the box (or, at least, out of the Boks).

They're certainly capable. I just wouldn't put any money on it happening right now.


Semifinal rundown:
Sharks v Blues, Durban, Sunday, 1am

SHARKS: 15 Percy Montgomery, 14 Francois Steyn, 13 Waylon Murray, 12 Bradley Barritt/Adrian Jacobs, 11 JP Pietersen, 10 Butch James, 9 Ruan Pienaar; 8 Ryan Kankowski, 7 AJ Venter, 6 Jacques Botes, 5 Johann Muller, 4 Johan Ackermann, 3 BJ Botha, 2 John Smit (c), 1 Deon Carstens/Tendai Mtawarira.

Reserves: 16 Bismarck du Plessis, 17 Mtawarira/Patric Cilliers, 18 Albert van den Berg, 19 Warren Britz, Bob Skinstad, Rory Kockott, Jacobs/Odwa Ndungane.

BLUES: 15 George Pisi, 14 Doug Howlett, 13 Anthony Tuitavake, 12 Isaia Toeava, 11 Rudi Wulf, 10 Isa Nacewa, 9 Steve Devine; 8 Nick Williams, 7 Daniel Braid, 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Troy Flavell (c), 4 Greg Rawlinson, 3 John Afoa, 2 Derren Witcombe, 1 Tony Woodcock. Reserves: 16 Keven Mealamu, 17 Nick White, 18 Angus Macdonald, 19 Justin Collins, 20 Taniela Moa, 21 David Holwell, 22 Ben Atiga.

Referee: Stuart Dickinson (Aus).

How we see it:
Everything says the Sharks should win this one. The great unknown is whether the Blues can rediscover their A game. It's going to take a major form reversal for the Kiwis to steal this from a Sharks side that has a pretty effective mix of forward grunt and backline dash. The home side will be sweating on the fitness of key loosehead prop Deon Carstens. Sharks by 12 or less.




Bulls v Crusaders, Pretoria, Sunday, 3.30am

BULLS: 15 Johan Roets; 14 Akhona Ndungane, 13 JP Nel, 12 Wynand Olivier, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Derick Hougaard; 9 Fourie du Preez/Heini Adams, 8 Pierre Spies, 7 Wikus van Heerden, 6 Pedrie Wannenburg, 5 Victor Matfield (c), 4 Danie Rossouw, 3 Rayno Gerber, 2 Gary Botha, 1 Gurthro Steenkamp.

Reserves: 16 Jaco Engels, 17 Danie Thiart, 18 Bakkies Botha, 19 Derick Kuun, 20 Adams/ Nicholas Eyre, 21 Morne Steyn, 22 Jaco van der Westhuyzen.

CRUSADERS: 15 Leon MacDonald, 14 Rico Gear, 13 Casey Laulala, 12 Aaron Mauger, 11 Caleb Ralph, 10 Daniel Carter, 9 Kevin Senio; 8 Mose Tuiali'i, 7 Richie McCaw (c), 6 Reuben Thorne, 5 Chris Jack, 4 Ross Filipo, 3 Campbell Johnstone, 2 Corey Flynn, 1 Ben Franks.

Reserves: 16 Ti'i Paulo, 17 Wyatt Crockett, 18 Michael Paterson, 19 Kieran Read, 20 Andy Ellis, 21 Stephen Brett, 22 Johnny Leo'o.

Referee: Matt Goddard (Aus).


How we see it:
Should be a ripper. The Bulls have looked unstoppable of late, but can they survive the acid test against the most accomplished side this competition has ever seen? No one's made finals football their own like the red and blacks, and they have the chance to add another special chapter at the intimidating Loftus Versfeld. Richie, Dan and co will be pumped. Crusaders by 12 or less.



****
Pictures from this year's match at the Jade Stadium. The captain was Corey Flynn (Richie and some of his mates were in conditionning camp!) and from last year's semi final (still in NZ)

NB: the link below is a OneNews report about the Crusaders before the semi.

****

Photos du match aller en Nouvelle Zelande. Le capitaine du debut de saison etait Corey Flynn, notre Captain et ses copains etaient en "camp de conditionnement" (la traduction est vraiment moche, mais il fallait que j'essaie!) et de la demi finale de l'an dernier (toujours en NZ)

NB: le lien en dessous amene a un reportage de OneNews sur la preparation de la demi finale par l'equipe de Canterbury.


http://yahooxtra.net.nz/rugby/0,,14677-7316502-300,00.html

Deans calls time on conditioning programme (stuff.co.nz)

http://www.stuff.co.nz/4056155a1823.html

Friday May 11th.

DURBAN: Crusaders coach Robbie Deans hopes New Zealand rugby has seen the last of the All Blacks' conditioning programme.
Deans said the decision to allow 22 leading players to sit out the first half of the Super 14 had turned his team's season into an enormous challenge for players and management.
The New Zealand Rugby Union, by agreeing to the wishes of All Blacks management, had also effectively handed South Africa early momentum in World Cup year, he added, as their Super 14 teams had taken advantage of the weakened New Zealand franchises.
Deans was careful with his criticism, acknowledging his franchise had got in behind the concept.
However, the most successful coach in Super rugby history couldn't speak highly enough of his team's achievement in reaching this weekend's semifinals, considering the obstacles.
"We supported it because that was meant to be the best thing and we want them (All Blacks) to succeed," Deans told NZPA.
"But I'll give you this much, I'd like to think we won't be going through that again."
Deans was not surprised that a number of the players who returned to action after missing the first seven rounds had picked up injuries or were off the pace.
"To get thrown into the middle of a competition with no pre-season background is very, very hard. And it showed through breakage (injuries) and we anticipated that," Deans said.
"The Hurricanes are a case in point, in the way some of the individuals struggled to get going."
Among his six returnees, lock Chris Jack and first five-eighth Daniel Carter had been sidelined with injury.
Elsewhere, Chiefs backs Mils Muliaina, Sitiveni Sivivatu and Byron Kelleher had all acquired damage of varying degree, as had Blues winger Joe Rokocoko and Hurricanes forwards Jerry Collins and Jason Eaton. The latter is out of rugby for six months.
"Our players spoke of the soreness they experienced. It wasn't easy but they did very well. They produced some outcomes while grappling with fitting into the mix and coping with the stresses and strains."
Deans said his conditioned All Blacks - Leon MacDonald, Aaron Mauger, Carter, Richie McCaw, Reuben Thorne and Jack - enter Sunday morning's semifinal at the same level of preparation as if they were in round three or four of the competition.
"That's essentially it, we still lack the full background," he said.
"Normally at this point we've got a team who have been through a whole campaign and yet we're still covering detail."
Deans praised both his returning players and those who had set up the Crusaders' campaign in the first seven weeks by keeping them on the competition pace.
"If you said to us back in December that we'd make the playoffs, we'd be over the moon. And we are," he said.
"It was a huge challenge just to get here. We're here now and we're pretty keen to push on."
When asked why South African teams had improved this year, Deans again pointed to the conditioning programme. The under-strength New Zealand teams weren't the dominant force they have been against South African outfits in recent seasons.
"The intervention from New Zealand left the door ajar to some extent early," he said.
"When you give a capable group a bit of a sniff, they tend to get pretty excited and want to push on and make the most of it."
Another impact of the programme was on the standard of rugby, which may have been compromised, Deans said.
He noted much of the public comment early in the season was that the standard of play was down on previous years.
"And that was probably more of a reflection of some of the challenges at home. It was self-induced in many ways, due to the withdrawal of the 22 players," he said.
"I think we've seen in the latter half of the competition, it's just got better.
"The quality of the rugby in the last half has been pretty remarkable."

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Pictures from the so-called Conditionning camp (in Wellington, I think) and this poor little girl who had asked nothing to no-one and was bumped into by some captain...We all hope she has recovered from this "accident" and will keep cheering on Richie!

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Photos du Conditionning camp de Wellington (si je me souviens bien!) ; rappelez vous de cette petite fille qui n'avait rien demande a personne et qui s'etait pris un Richie McCaw en pleine figure... On espere qu'elle s'en est remis et qu'elle continue de supporter son capitaine national!