Related
Well, the Crusaders are on top of the Super 14 ladder at the end of week ten which provided the best entertainment of the season so far.
The Stormers produced a display that reminded me of the Blues and the Crusaders in their prime, tight forwards combining brilliantly with their classy backs to pummel the Chiefs. I’d have to agree with Graham Henry and say they’re definitely the team to beat in the four remaining rounds. The Bulls were tripped up again by the ever-improving Reds, and if you didn’t believe they’re a chance to take out the competition (like me), you’d better believe it now. The Hurricanes managed to do what not many teams have done and beat the Brumbies in Canberra, while the Blues also kept their season alive by subduing the Force.
But can the Crusaders stay on top, and is the top four done and dusted? The red and blacks have the toughest run home starting with the Force away, then the Stormers and Bulls in the Republic before heading home to take on the Brumbies.
To win all of these four games would be a remarkable achievement, and with Dan Carter yet to reach his straps it could be time for the Crusaders to stamp their mark on the tournament. After all, if you don’t have home advantage in the finals, you don’t have much of a chance.
Chris Jack: we’ll see him in this jersey again.
The Reds still have three tough games against the Stormers, Brumbies, and Hurricanes remaining and the Bulls still have to take on the Sharks, Stormers, and Crusaders … so the Canes and the Blues still have a chance.
I think the top-four will be Crusaders, Stormers, Bulls ... and I’m putting a sneaky Hurricanes in there. Who do you think will be in the top four?
Super stuff that.
- John Day