Over the Neglect

I began with good intentions, but have been tied up with assignments due this week.

Anyway, my look at this weekends Super 14 matchups:

Crusaders v Waratahs

Without question the Crusaders are the form team in the competition at the moment, despite that little shake up the Force gave them - May I add the Force were very unlucky to lose that one and deserved to win. Waratahs have been struggling for consistency following their thrashing of the Canes where they had looked to be a force.

All eyes on:
Beale vs Carter

Result:
Crusaders

Brumbies v Cheetahs

Another easy pick. Although the Cheetahs head to Brisbane with a number of rested players, the Brumbies should cruise.

All eyes on:
Tyrone Smith

Result:
Brumbies

Highlanders v Force
G.O.T.R

Could swing either way. on the one hand, the Highlanders have done a fantastic job this season and defend like a brick wall. On the other hand, the Force put in a mighty effort against the Crusaders and showed up the Blues, so it could go either way, which is what makes it the Game Of The Round. Giteau could spark a solid attack if he spies any chinks in the Highlanders armour.

All Eyes On:
Setephano

Result:
Force

Blues v Stormers
Another two form teams, with the Stormers beginning to pick up their act at the moment. The Blues will need to be ruthless to bounce back from their loss last week, without allowing the Stormers to assert control.

All Eyes On:
Tony Brown

Result:
Stormers

Chiefs v Bulls

Its always a shame when the defending champion fails to fire the following season - a common occurrence in the NFL, yet not so much in the Super series. Yet this is the story of the 08 Bulls, underlined by their performance against the Reds last weekend. The Chiefs will get their season back on track this weekend, relieving a little of the pressure they're feeling from their nearly written off season.

All Eyes On:
Stephen Donald (although this could change, I'd be more interested in watching Stephen Brett at #10 for the Chiefs as RugbyHeaven say he is)

Result:
Chiefs

Lions v Reds

The Reds are coming off a strong performance against the aforementioned Bulls(**ts) and should dust off the hapless Lions with ease.

All Eyes On:
Roe

Result:
Reds


Bye Hurricanes
Sharks