The Rogues Rant

Welcome to The Rogues Rant, an occasional look at all things Rugby.

An abridged version of the Rant this week. The Rogue is on holiday resting up for the upcoming Final Series.

Congratulations to the Crusaders, winning their eighth Super Rugby title with a commanding 25 – 17 win at Ellis Park. The Lions did it hard losing flanker Kwagga Smith one minute out from half-time, sent off for a dangerous tackle. Leading 15 – 3 at the break, the New Zealanders took a grip on the match scoring early after the break to be out by 25 – 3. To the Lions credit they fought back well but could only manage two tries against stout Kiwi defense. The Crusaders are the only side to have won the title outside their own country which they have now done twice after winning in Canberra in 2000. They are the first team also to have traveled to South Africa for a final and come home with the Trophy.

The Dexter Porter Cup Blood drive continues with Shamrocks still out in front with three weeks remaining. Shamrocks are 72 with Vikings hanging in with 59 still thirteen behind. Kiama sit on 6, Tech Waratahs have made 5, University 4, Bowral 2, and Camden 1. Time is running out so get busy.

Last Round in the IDRU Builders Club Premiership this week with the Final Four decided for this year. The University win over Shoalhaven last week means that fourth spot is cut and dried with the Bulls now eight points clear of fifth placed Shamrocks. This week sees the top five sides playing the bottom five and the results should be pretty straight forward but there is still plenty of pride to play for. Avondale showed last week against Camden that they are prepared to show no mercy and should be too good again this week against the season’s big improvers Tech Tahs. At home at Gerry Cappetta Oval, the Wombats should win well. Avondale to win. Campbelltown conclude a very disappointing season at home to Bowral. With Bowral building toward a big semi -final showdown with Uni it’s hard to see a win here for Campbelltown. Bowral to win. Kiama are at home to University and could cause an upset here if they are at full strength. Unfortunately though the Cows have had an unhappy year and I think that will continue here. University to win. Shamrocks host Camden at Ocean Park and after showing some signs of last year’s form of late will have no trouble getting the points here from the out of touch Rams. Shamrocks to win. Match of the Round is at Shoalhaven Rugby Park with Vikings visiting the Shoalies. Shoalhaven upset Vikings in this match last year which cost Vikings a place in the finals. The Blueys will want to take winning form into the Major Semi-Final against Avondale and will win here but will have to work hard to get over an up and coming Shoalhaven side. Vikings to win.

All opinions offered in this column are the opinion of the author. They should not be considered to represent the views of the IDRU.