Just some of my opinions on the pack and the backs:
THE FORWARDS
Loosehead: Gregory Jackson (Michaelhouse)
Jackson who is arguable the best scrumming prop in KZN this season was no show at trials. This was a real pity because he deserves a shot at Craven Week selection. Apart from scrumming he is also a good ballcarrier.
Loosehead: Kenny van Niekerk (Glenwood)
Gave a good account of himself at trials. This isn’t the sort of thing props are picked for but Kenny has great set of hands and a textbook pass, assets which he showed off today again when he was in the backline. His height of about 1.86m has to be playing on the minds of selectors and this may prove invaluable for lineout lifting.
Loosehead: Tijde Visser
After a shoulder injury Tijde is slowly coming right. He’s got a super attitude as well. This is year where here is unusual depth at prop and even though he went to Craven Week as an injury replacement late call-up last year, there is no guarantee he will get picked this time around.
Props: Ngoni Chidoma and Kabelo Motloung (Northwood)
The two former SA under-16 props are a big part of the physical package that Northwood brings to every game this season. They thrive in tight-loose play particularly as ball-carriers. Somehow today we just didn’t see what these two are really capable of. I think Chidoma has the inside track on CW selection but Motloung in spite of being a tighthead, he will have to show a lot more desire if he is at final trials.
Tighthead: Koos Tredoux (Glenwood)
Koos missed trials. He had an operation in the offseason and I don’t think he has reached the peak of his ability this season, yet he remains a solid scrummager. Was selected for CW last year. I expect him to retain that no.3 jersey in 2014.
Tighthead: Cody Thomas (Westville)
I think there have been many seasons in the past when KZN was crying out for a TH of Cody’s quality. Certainly this boy would not let the CW team down if given the chance. Did enough to let people know he was on the field today.
Tighthead props missing: Disi Dlamini (Maritzburg College) and Lee-Marvin Mazibuko (Michaelhouse)
DNP. Would have been nice to see these tightheads in action.
Hooker: Ntutuko “Beast” Mthembu (Northwood)
He just recently returned from injury and looked subdued by the standards he has set this season. There is usually an explosiveness about his game and has a noticeable physical presence in contact situations. Not evident today but generally everything about his game in the loose says select me for Craven Week. Acid test is how will his lineout work cope in the face of pressure. Still u17. I also don’t want to rule out Beast as a possible backup prop
Hooker: Masikani Mazwi (Maritzburg College)
Not at trials today. I think Mazwi is one of the selector’s favourite. He carries and cleans well but just like Mthembu, a lot will hinge on how he copes with lineout throw-ins when accuracy and consistency become vital to win ball against taller challengers like SWD’s Zandberg or Willemse and De Villiers of WP, opposition that KZN could be up against at CW.
Hooker: Bradley Roberts (Michaelhouse)
He’s on the small side but he is good and mobile. Nice thrower, has skills and offers a different sort of attacking option with ball in hand because he has good awareness of how to attack in space. The selectors have to give consideration to the size of the pack vs mobility before deciding on someone like Bradley. You go in too small or too slow and you could cost you.
Renier Pieterse (Westville)
Renier really impressed me at KERF. He can throw that money ball to the back of the lineout, which could prove to be vital, so I have confidence in his lineout work. He’s also fairly big so will be useful for those collisions. He can also play prop. If it was up to me, I would try find place for him in the CW team. I though he did enough today to make it through to the final trials but I doubt he will be a first choice for the main game.
Hooker: Percy Mngadi (Glenwood)
Percy’s a player I think has to play himself out of CW selection rather than into it. He’s found favourite target Kevin du Randt with a high degree of success in the lineout this year. I think he’s been among the more consistent lineout hookers. No problems with workrate either. I think he did enough today to get selected for the main game next Tuesday.
Locks / Flanks: I’ll cover this together because for me this is where KZN has to look for their forward versatility this year.
Secondrow/Backrow: Bandisa Ndlovu (Voortrekker)
He turned out to be the surprise package of trials. Appropriately he was up against Mthokozisi Ntuli of DHS in the PMB vs South Durban game and outplayed him. More pace, good ball skills and a real hunger to succeed. He plays no.8 for Vories but later on the selectors tried him at lock. He’s a bit short for that possie but he got the right attitude.
Secondrow/Backrow: Mthokozisi Ntuli (DHS)
He has a good physique and although DHS use him at no.8, he could fill the position of lock. Ntuli gets himself involved in the game and tries to carry and offload but at this stage of u18 rugby, he is not dominating contact. He’s still u17 so time is on his side. I think next year he might have a bit more weight, confidence and experience for CW level.
Secondrow/Backrow: Sibablo Qoma (Westville)
He actually looking quite big and could add valuable weight as a second-row player who could play backrow if need be. But again measuring him against Ndlovu today, just a different level of intensity in the approach. Qoma is also still u17, so no harm in considering him for Academy Week this year.
Lock: Kevin du Randt (Glenwood)
Kevin is by no means a flashy player but he has been solid as a rock for Glenwood this season and has safe hands in the air. He’s a tight forward in the true sense of the word. Every team needs boys like this to get good foundations at rucks. I don’t think Kevin can play loose-forward, so he has t obe picked purely as a lock. Coming into trials, I had him as a must have player in the CW team but today young Tristan Dixon did very well.
Secondrow/Backrow: Tristan Dixon (Kearsney)
Still u17. For a big boy (±1.94m, 105kg) he’s got some gears. Just in the last month or so he’s come to the realisation that he when he injects his pace, can dominate the hits and generate go-forward. His contributions in the loose are evident. He stands a good chance of playing in the main trial game next week.
Lock: Gary Porter (Michaelhouse)
Sadly Gary reinjured his troublesome shoulder against Northwood and watched today from the sideline. He’s close to 2m tall and plays a good enough game of rugby to make it to CW but he’s nowhere close to being a certainty and needs to prove himself on the field at trials. Hopefully the selectors give him chance next week if he’s fit.
Secondrow/Backrow: Jayson Gouws
This is just my personal feeling now but I would love to see Jayson have a go at openside flank. They may be questions about his speed but everything else about his game, tells me he can pull it off. He plays at the ball, he gets hands on the ball, he’s got heart. He’d also make a good extra option jumper. BUT like a few other players he was not fit to take part today and this might be the end of the line for him.
Secondrow/Backrow: Adrian Heystek (Westville)
This has become one of the easiest picks for the selectors to make. Adrian is the best tail jumper in KZN, he’s mobile, he’s got a bit of aggro in his game. And although they should look to use him in the backrow, he can play lock if need be. The only thing to consider is whether he can pull it off as an opensider. It might be saver to select him on the blind.
Blindside: McMillan Muller (Glenwood)
To me Mac doesn’t really fit the profile of the type of KZN CW needed because he’s shorter and not the quickest on the park. But that said, he has low center of gravity, good upperbody strength and he definitely has a physical presence on the field and he has stood the test against good opposition this season. I think the arrival of Kobbie at Glenwood might have hurt his chances a little because in preseason he was being used as a backup hooker to Percy. If he’d continued on in that role, it would have made himself a lot more marketable now. I think he will have another chance to impress next week and although it might be too late in the day, maybe his lineout throw in skills should be put to the test as well.
Openside flank: Hayden Tharratt (Maritzburg College) / James Venter (Glenwood)
Both players are in excellent form for their respective schools. I think Hayden may have just shaded James at these trials so far.
No.8: Jaco Coetzee (Glenwood)
Jaco is away on SA u18 Sevens duty. I have little doubt he will be first choice no.8
No.8: Daryn Goodson (Maritzburg College)
I think Daryn will be the main game but I also think he will have to play out of his skin now if he wants to go to CW. Today I though Sebastien D. de Marigny (Hilton) and Matthew Potgieter (Michaelhouse) did very well while Daryn was not quite as prominent as I would have liked. There’s no doubt he’s capable of produce a high standard.
No.8 Sebastien Desvaux-de Marigny (Hilton)
Worth a mention because I thought he had a great day. He likes to play a very loose game. He has size and toe but most of all I enjoyed his linking. Like a few others, he played in more than one trial. I imagined he arrived at Woodburn with nothing to lose and so just went for it. ’ll be disappointed if he is not rewarded with an opportunity to play next Tuesday
THE BACKS
9. Kwazi Khanyile (Glenwood)
I don’t think he’s produced his best form yet this season but for me an obvious first choice. I like his level of urgency. I like to measure Kwazi by what Glenwood are like without him. The first 20+ minutes of the Framesby game was a good example. He is a key player for them.
9. James Hall (Kearsney)
Had a good trial and must now by one of the selectors top two choices ahead of final trials. Maybe not the fastest player but does a lot of things well especially his pass. Perhaps just has to work on his quickball decision-making – sometimes the best attacking ball is instinctive otherwise the defence has time to reorganize.
9. Kyan Braithwaite (Westville)
There is something special about Kyan. He has a bit of X. Unfortunately these qualities did not come to the fore as his trial team did not flow like some of the others on display. Good enough to get another shot but based on this trial, he is going to have to come up with possibly his best form of the season next week if he wants to keep the CW dream alive.
9. Kwando Ngidi (DHS)
A huge surprise that he did not get an invite to final trials
9. Matthew Dahl (Hilton)
u17. I think next year will be Matthew’s year. It might be a good idea to take him to Academy Week. He has the ingredients to be a very good player but just needs to be tidier.
10. Tristan Tedder (Kearsney)
DNP. A Craven Week certainty but a headache as well. I think he deserves to be captain and play all three games at CW but this does cause selection issues because it means his backup flyhalf will have to be able to start in a different possie. Right now the two other quality flyhalves are Jonas and Pretorius and both are basically specialists 10’s.
10. Curtis Jonas (Glenwood)
Curtis did all he could to earn a CW place. He was up against Bader in the last game and was marginally better. The truth is both players are CW quality. The Sharks have hinted at using Curtis as a 9 next year. 9 is more specialized position, so I can’t see the selectors trying him there to accommodate Tedder and have a backup 10.
10. Bade Pretorius (Michaelhouse)
A very reliable player. u17 still so no harm in sending him to Academy Week. Apart from being a skilled player he does have one big up on Jonas, which is his place-kicking ability. If Tedder does not play, the team needs a reliable kicker. Knowing what he has to offer at 10, perhaps needs to be trialed as a 12 next week.
10. Dawid Weersma (Northwood)
He was on the same team as Braithwaite. Not a memorable trial at flyhalf for the big boy who often gets praised for his performances. The trials basically showed up flyhalves who couldn’t get their backlines moving. Unfortunately there was no second chance during the day for Dawid to show what he has to offer as a 12. Chances are he won’t make final trials now.
12. Wayne Smith (Westville)
Cemented his place as the no.12 in KZN. I will be very surprised if he does not go to Craven Week
12. Tristan Blewett (Hilton)
Surprisingly played at 12 when there is a huge need at 13. He’s a decent 12 but I think he’s still a strong contender for CW as a starting 13
13. Tyran Faber (Michaelhouse)
Injured and ruled out for CW. A pity because he had attacking flair
13. Snish Mpontsane (Dundee)
He showed that there is something there. A nice hard runner. Hopefully gets another chance to show how good and where his defence and distribution can be looked at more closely. He played for KZN CD at Academy Week last year.
13. Donovan du Randt (Glenwood)
Still u17. Alhough small its worth mentioning Donny because there are few centres who have the x-factor ability to get around their opponents. He is very quick off the mark. He’s big challenge is keeping his head in the game.
Wing: Xolisa Guma (Maritzburg College)
An amazing attacking player. Unbelieveable lateral movement. The trials saw a plan unfold as Guma tried at 13. Question-marks about his tackling still but at 13 he showed vision. He has a good rugby brain so understands how to create and make a telling pass.
Wing: Philani Ngcobo (Glenwood)
His jersey was too big for him for a start so he looked very small. He wasn’t overly impressive but I think he will come back for another shot next week. He’s proven to be a good finisher for Glenwood this season and still a CW candidate for sure.
Wing: Liam Furniss (Michaelhouse)
This boy is very underrated. For one I don’t think there is anyone better than him under the highball in KZN. Maybe not the fastest but he has skills, heart and makes for a good all-round player. Hopefully he also makes it through to final trials. Still u17
15. Morne Joubert (Glenwood)
Away on SA u18 Sevens duty. A certainty to make the team.
15. Brandon Holder (Maritzburg College)
Continued his good form. Strong with ball in hand. With 15 wrapped up by Joubert and knowing what he can deliver in the role as well, maybe worth trying him at 13 in final trials because he is big, strong on his feet and has a good hand-off. Just his defence needs testing.
15. Mabuthana Peter (DHS)
Did not stand out. Peter thrives in space and has a nice step but in contact situations he’s perhaps too upright and too light so gets dominated. So he has to work harder at manipulating defenders like Guma does in order to generate go forward. Wing will be his best bet now.
15. Lindo Buthelezi (Westville)
Had a good trial. Utility players are valuable for CW. Lindo has a good skills set. I actually think he should be the starting wing at CW and a utility thereafter. Again maybe a little pace gets sacrificed on attack but he is reliable under a kick and can execute a clearance kick and he can pass fairly well.
15. Jean Luyke (Voortrekker)
He’s a nice player with skills, physical attributes and a keenness to get involved. Just his decision-making needs to improve. Again with the starting no.15 sorted out – Joubert, it might be worthwhile to give Jean a chance at 13 to see if he can deliver.
@LineBreak: Yeah James Venter was my personal Man of the Match yesterday with Kevin du Randt and Ilunga Mukendi close behind.
I’ve been very impressed by Kevin all season. I still recall how he came on as a nervous looking sub against Kearsney in that epic match last year. The old coach right there on the side in the tech area shouting to him and teammates to make sure they secured the restart. Ball gets kicked off towards Kevin’s area, he gets lifted and then doesn’t make the catch in the air, KC reclaim it and go all the way from the GW 10m to score the winning try. This year he’s a completely changed player. I see in all his play is confidence and calmness and in the air he has just about the safest pair of hands in KZN.
Going into final trials I think Hayden Tharratt has the edge on James because of the specialist ability. Especially if KZN doesn’t have a big dominant pack, they need boys who get their hands on tackled ball, it’s absolutely vital. That’s why I also like Jayson Gouws. Based on yesterday’s overall contributions in the match though, for me James easily came out on top in the openside challenge. He has developed a really good feel for the game and it’s turned him from a nobody at the start of the season into one of the more threatening players around.
Ilunga another relative unknown at the start of the year. Now definitely a CW option, possibly ahead of his teammate Philani Ngcobo who had to leave the field yesterday. Not an easy call between these two tho. Philani has done some really good things this season.
@star: I partly agree with what you are saying and I think there is recent evidence at u18 provincial level to make the KZN selectors aware of picking too small or too short a pack of forwards.
The Glenwood pack was dominated by EG, to the extent that EG had the platform needed to win – lots of possession + territory but EG failed for a few reasons, the most obvious of which was lack of game-breaking ability in the backline play they tried (they had an x-factor fullback but did not use him). Rugby isn’t just a game of attack, its one of defence as well and much praise had to go to Glenwood’s forwards for absorbing so much pressure and not crumbling. In my view the GW pack had a far harder defensive (and offence) duty than their backs did in that game. Luck of the bounce was in GW’s favour on the day and they were sharp to seize opportunities. Also their backs also did not fall off regulation tackles on 1D plays – a lot of the time the EG carriers were as predictable as tackling bags.
But getting back to the view on the forward, Grey College is hardly the measure of a team that tries to dominate a match up front, especially this year where their pack is not that big. Certainly if Westville had come out trumps against a pack like EG, Monnas or a fully fit Paarl Gim, there would have been a lot of merit to what you’re saying.
I feel that when Glenwood plays Grey Bloem later this year they will be able to hold their own in the forward exchanges and there definitely wont be a repeat of the EG situation.
Like I said above your point is worth noting though. If we go to CW with a pack that easily gets bullied we had better pray that the opponents lack penetration in their backs and that the ball bounces kindly for us.
@Grasshopper: Tredoux went off with what looked like a serious concussion, I hope that doesn’t affect his chances as he is a solid tighthead.
The way Venter has stepped up since last season is nothing short of miraculous, in top form, I reckon he has a CW shot.
Kevin du Randt does everything right and good leadership – he should walk in unless Gouws or Porter surprise on Tuesday.
@star:
Glenwood 31 EG Jansen 20
Westville 20 Grey College 32
Westville 15 Glenwood 32
Quod Erat Demonstradum
@LineBreak: I certainly don’t share Masjiens green goggles…..Van Niekerk, Mgadi, Du Randt and Coetzee are CW material with Mac, Venter and Tredoux in the Academy side…
@LineBreak: he was better than Palvie, but remember No8 is not Palvie’s position, he is young and inexperienced at this level. He will get better….
@ Greenmachine- did you not watch the GW game against EG Jansen. As a result of their lack of forward domination( and exit strategy) they spent 80% of the game in their own 22.They won as a result of the fairly limited attacking strategy of their opponents as well as sublime defence predominately by the backs who as a result created 3 intercept tries. Interesting at the same KERF tournament there was another KZN school whose forward pack stood toe to toe with the number one school in the country.
@LineBreak: The only changes/additions would be in the tight 5
@GREENMASJIEN: So are you saying the CW pack should be the following ?
K Van Niekerk
P Mngadi
K Tredoux
K Du Randt
R Desmore
J Venter
M Muller
J Coetzee
Thank goodness the selectors don’t share your green tinted glasses
@GREENMASJIEN: This was the 5th game I watched him this season and still trying to understand the hype. I must say he was solid yesterday but I’m still looking for the quality many bloggers allude to.
I felt he was superior to Palvie as a #8 on the day.
@GREENMASJIEN: The College loosies were not influencing the game or the result , I have not seen any games won against national top 10/20 side with Westville / College forwards in the pack etc.
The CW side selected will need to have the tight 5 and loosies capable of competing and winning against the likes of EG Jansen , Monnas , Affies , Grey , Paarl sides etc etc.
I do not see College / Westville / Kearsney forwards being able to make the step up.
@GreenBlooded: Tharrat was not in the game , not one decent carry or turnover
@Grasshopper: Doubt that very much – Staples would probably play lock this year and be the choice 8 next year. No way he would displace Tharrat or Le Roux this year either.
Meant Heysteck is better but he is bigger too…
@GreenBlooded: I think Goodsen is good but nowhere near the game breaker of a Coetzee. Heysteck at Westville is bigger. Look he plays at 120%, lots of yanking and movement but not really big enough to scare any of the other provinces loosies. I would pick Mac ahead of Goodsen because he breaks the line and gets over the advantage line everytime. Goodsen will probably go to CW due to his leadership. Imagine if Staples had stayed at College Goodsen’s spot would be under threat…
@GREENMASJIEN: Have to disagree. How did you enjoy Tharrat? Playing the best rugby of his life at present.
@LineBreak: was at the game this weekend , Glenwood vs College. Goodsen highly over rated IMO.The Glenwood forwards dominated the game.
@Buffel: Good call Buffel!!
@LineBreak: He has proved himself time and again and would be in my 22 any day.
Thanks for the feedback, it seems Goodsen has a lot of fans and must have done something special to earn the respect he has, I personally haven’t seen it yet and hopefully we will see his quality against Glenwood this weekend.
Regarding his leadership, with both Glenwood and Kearsney captains looking probable for 2014 there is no shortage of leadership there, what we need from Goodsen is what he puts on the field as a Number 8.
My R0.05 on those mentioned in the main article:
Cody Thomas (3): Love this boy. Could write an article on him. Definitely has what it takes for the CW side. Will not disappoint. Has not found himself wanting in the scrumming department this season…..
Masikane Mazwi (2): Proper!! The real deal. Great throw at the lineouts and who saw him running like a wing (for 40m at least – dunno if he’d keep it up for 80m) on Saturday at Kearsney. Special player…..
Tristan Dixon (4/5/6/7/8): Not many know that he spent his junior school career as a 10 so brings a whole additional skill-set into the equation. Playing out of his socks at the moment. Could he be that rare breed who plays CW for 2 years? On current form, and all things being equal, I think so.
Hayden Tharrat (6/7): Self selects as far as I’m concerned. Plenty of X-factor and does not disappoint in any department. One of the 2 players I’d take to war with me.
Jaco Coetzee (8): The obvious choice at No 8. A more complete No 8 will be difficult to find.
Daryn Goodson (8): Highly under-rated. This guy will deliver when it matters. Can read the game and is a leader of men!!
James Hall (9): Far and away the best 9 in KZN. This oke has it all – right options, great box kick, tough as nails and can kick massive goals when required. No-one else comes close.
Tristan Tedder (10): More X-factor you will not find. Cool, calm and collected. Does the basics to perfection and makes magic from fresh air. Combined with his team-mate Hall – this has to be the CW half-back combination.
Curtis Jonas (10): Also a lot of X-factor. But can he command a backline in a fix like Tedder can? Can he step Quade Cooper?? Quality player – maybe a good bench-warmer but nowhere near Tedder’s quality.
@Jordaan: I look forward to the day when you, for once, make a remotely intelligent contribution to this forum. Hope I don’t die waiting…….
@RBugger: I was one of them – and I was proved wrong. Humble pie tasted good – chicken and mushroom as I recall.
I hope those bloggers who are under-rating Goodie in 2014 end up with the same aftertaste. The oke is a machine. Been the stalwart of the team through the age-groups too. As one blogger said – he is the one man I’d take to war with me if the battle was un-winnable.
@Jordaan: we’ve covered this ground many times before…..boring…..
Kenny van Niekerk, Koos Tredoux, Kevin van Niekerk, Donovan du Randt sound very much like they have been poached from North of the Vaal, unless of course Glenwood has become an Afrikaans school in the last 10 years.
I wonder if all the calls are still in English?
@beet: Great write up, very informative. I think on the Westville side Heystek at no.7, Wayne Smith at no.12 and Cody Thomas should be certainties at CW this year.
Hopefully this year we see shift away from the bias that the selectors have shown towards certain schools in the past. Let’s hope KZN has a better CW this year, the last few years have been very average.
Goodson is top draw! He is quick enough to be a winger, has great skills, immense in the tackle and at the breakdown. I think the coaches have been under utilizing his running ability with his leg drive. The have been using Le Roux as a Basher instead.
@Gungets Tuft:
Poor Hudson Park!
Of course I have a college bias but Goodsen is a player that does so much that gets noticed by very few. IMO the best all round no 8 in KZN. Makes everyone else look good as well as scoring more than a fair share himself. Best defender in the college side along with Watson and Tharratt to boot.
@Westers: Are there any U17’s left at Hudson Park?
@Grasshopper: He is one of Westville’s imports from Hudson Park. Still U17 I think.
All very exciting, seems the competition is going to be tough. Looking forward to the teams named for final trials, obviously, a lot can be read from that
goodson puts in the hard yards that often don’t get seen or noticed. i watched a lot of SBR last year and he was the stand out no8. maybe this year the captaincy has blunted his effectiveness (a la Bismark with the Sharks this Super15). Just my thoughts.
goodson is one I would have in the trenches when the going gets tough. His tackling technique out of the top draw, safe hands ,has serious pace and a good leader to top it off. Back 3 – Tharratt at 6, Goodson 7 and Coetzee 8. That is my starting loose trio.
@RBugger: This one says 187cm and 100kg, http://www.hsrugbyworld.co.za/blogs/school-article/sport-star-profile-jaco-coetzee/557/10531
I heard he had picked up a little and maybe grown a little….not sure. Just know he is almost as big as me at 193 and 105kg, so big for a schoolboy No8…
@Grasshopper: I am astonished at those stats, having seen him playing, I would have thought he was no more than 92kg – wow, I guess it just goes to show.
If those are his true stats, then he certainly is not too small.
What are Coetzee’s stats then?
I know this doesn’t really matter but Sibablo Qoma sounds like a Xhosa name, is he from the Eastern Cape?
@RBugger: Interesting at 188cm and 101kg he is not exactly short or small for a No8. In fact, when I stood next to him at Westville in his boots he is my height (193cm)….again not massively tall but could even cover lock in KZN…
@ GCollege- very much in the Ist team mix. I think it was Tang who mentioned what a good game he had against PBHS. Still developing and so I think 2015 will be his year.
@Linebreak: A lot was made of him last year. In fact, there were a few out there who said he should be the 2013 number 8 ahead of Schramm. I found this strange as I thought Schramm was out and out the best 8. However, you always have to take other oponions into account and because I had only seen him play once before, I thought perhaps I had missed his brilliance in other games.
Therefore, after all said and done, I thought he would walk into the 2014 CW side…
I still need to see more of him as a lot of people rate him, just from what I have seen, I am not sure how effective he would be at flank
@star: What happened to Jorden Els (prop) who moved from Border? Is he still playing for Westville’s 1st’s?
@beet: I’m not sure that there are hard and fast rules insofar as injured players are concerned. Pat Lambie was injured and didn’t play at all in the 2008 trials but was chosen to captain the CW side that year. Admittedly he was the incumbent SA Schools 15 and had been playing outstandingly for MHS.
The back row is all about balance. You need the direct player who can turnover ball on the ground( Tharrat), a ball carrier and solid lineout option( Heystek) and a powerful linking 8 with vision( J.Coetzee with experience improving in this regard with every game). That loose forward trio will do us proud at CW. Leadership in the pack will come from the GW captain with TT controlling the backs.
I am still trying to understand the hype around Goodsen. From the 4 matches I’ve seen him play this year he hasn’t excited me at all, in fact I think the other loosies in the College side overshadow him. What am I missing ?
With the brilliance of J Coetzee there is no need to find a spot for Goodsen, there is ample backup at 8 if Jaco gets injured, especially if the selectors are looking at Ndlovu or Dixon.
@beet: Good call Beet. Potgieter doesn’t have the skill or speed of Goodson!
@Beet: At the start of the year, I was almost certain that would happen – ie, Goodsen at 8 and Coetzee on the flank. The SA Selectors were very keen for Coetzee to be moved to flank, as they felt his most usefull asset, was his ability at the turnover – he is quick and fit and therefore gets to the breakdown quickly. He is also not the tallest player around, helping him to be competitive on his feet at ruck time.
However, having said all that, it seems he has been linking far better this year. I read an article on him where he said he has put in a lot of effort when it comes to positional play and his vision on the field – which obvioulsy will help a great deal if playing at 8.
The question I have on Goodsen, if he plays flank, will he be effective come ruck time? Is he physically big enough to play flank? He does not seem the biggest chap in the world, not the be all and end all, but he then needs to be effective come ruck and tackle time!
Could Dixon not be used as a flank option? I know he played 8 and only moved to lock this year… It would be nice to go into CW matching the other unions in the loose forward department
@Thumper: @RBugger: I think it’s tricky for Goodson. He is effective for College in the role he plays but for CW selection he basically has to show that he can jol as a flank as well which requires him to play tighter and get hands on the ball a lot more. Looking at Matthew Potgieter of MHS, he plays a style of rugby that gives me confidence he can do well at flank (granted he has played there for his school).
The alternative is move Jaco to flank and Goodson to 8 on Day 2.
But there aren’t an unlimited number of places on the team
@RBugger: Goodson could play at 7 or 8, and a great leader. Deserves a place!!
@Buffel: I don’t buy into the long kick specialist thing. It’s a luxury you have but not a player you look to pick for that quality. Those types of kicks don’t come around every game and the kickers who take them are probably at 25% success rate max if they are really good.
A goalkicker with a range of 50m at altitude should be fine. I think it’s more important that he’s accurate enough to land the easier kicks.
If KZN does not play Tedder in all three games and they are worried about 2 and 3 point kicks in that 2nd game then surely Bader Pretorius becomes a CW must.
@Beet: Nice little report Beet. I am surprised on the comments/form of Goodsen, last year, many people felt he should have played CW in 2013. Now it seems he could be struggling to make the 2014 CW side.
Seems competition is tough, which is very good news for KZN! Always better to have a few players going for the same position.
Agree with you on Coetzee, his position in the side is guarenteed, no doubt about it – he just needs to stay injury free. Congrats to him on making the SA 7’s side, fantastic achievment.
All in all, It looks as though KZN might have a solid tight 5 this year – bring on CW!
@kcob: @Pedantic: I personally think of the AW 6 Visser is now the long shot for CW. Visser is great player, lots of heart, good attitude but now also lots of compo who are doing well and Visser’s injury setback has been limiting his game as well of late. He will have to produce something really special at final trials or the head CW coach who is from Kearsney will have to make a special case for him to be included, which I’m not sure the selection rules permit him to do.
Besides the point but Visser is actually a CW player having played in 2013 after receiving a late call up.
I’m not sure why Jackson missed trials but he gave Tredoux a go, Hilton the scrum suffered and apparently he scrummed the NW LH as well – MHS got something like 6-7 tightheads. I’m not sure how he performed against Thomas of Westville. It could just as easily be argued that his injury came at the wrong time and its tough, but if you have a player performing this well, as a selector you look to give him a fair shot at being picked for CW
Van Niekerk has been in great form too and is a big boy.
Chidoma also doing very well. He brings a physical edge.
@LineBreak: Buthelezi was also in the Academy team, but was a late call up. Played at wing
@LineBreak: The hooker berth has a lot of contenders and none of them would disgrace themselves at CW. At the highway trials Pieterse’s performance was first class but a little disjointed yesterday but all the boys looked a little jaded- very hot conditions to play in.
@Pedantic: played 2nd XV behind Reece-edwards at KC and didn’t get time at the Highway trials to make a difference. Remember that both scrum halves came from Highway in 2013. Injured for the GK trials in 2012.
@kcob: Was Hall injured for 2013 trials?
He is in fine form at the moment and the long standing combination of Hall / Tedder could come into play.
For me, he is the player that could possibly displace one of the AW 6.
Jonas is a tough one, being a specialist 10 I’m not sure they can find a spot for him.
@Thumper: too unpredictable. His mechanics all wrong and needs some help in this regard. Reminds me of the advert with the lad and the fire bucket.
@LineBreak:
Um, I would have it a guess that all of them are likely to be in the CW Team. I assume the 2013 CW four have not gone backwards and have maintained their abilities to maintain re-selection. Its seems like it from bloggers and neh-sayers.
I also have heard favorable things about the 2013 AW six, so assume they too have not gone backwards but played well enough to put their hands up for a promotion to the CW side.
Thing is; who missed selection last year AND has played better to warrant displacing the above ten players.
I think what I said makes sense..well I hope anyway.
@beet: Lindo has a lot to offer in many aspects, definitely the utility back I would pick in my squad.
At risk of being controversial, Pieterse’s biggest challenge is not his rugby performance as he offers a lot as a player, but with Mazwi and Mngadi in the mix I can’t realistically see it happening for him. No fault of his own.
@star: A quick look at the 2013 AW team answers your question:
MAZWI M. (MC)
MNGADI P. (GW)
VISSER T. (K)
BLEWETT T. (HILT)
JONAS C. (GW)
KHANYILE K. (GW)
Then, players from 2013 CW team available for 2014:
COETZEE J. (GW)
TREDOUX K. (GW)
JOUBERT M. (GW)
TEDDER T. (K)
How many of those 10 will make the 2014 CW team?
@Buffel: What about Joubert, can he kick?
kicking for poles is a major factor that needs consideration and there are only a couple of options available. Tedder at close range and Hall for the longer kicks from 45m and further.On the highveld the ball can fly and it isn’t impossible that he can launch it from 65m or further. Other than those 2 ,Buthelezi can do the job but that is where it ends. Natal need to be able to convert their penalties and conversions at a tournament of this stature to keep in touch with the other unions.
@LineBreak: I think you have it nailed down there based on picking players in their trial positions.
For me I think Lindo Buthelezi needs to be looked at as the 11 but I think Mukendi was an oversight in the other thread because he trialed well.
Furniss another good player but a right wing. Guma has played left and right for College tho.
And sorry I still want to make a case for Pieterse of Westville at hooker
@beet: Agreed Beet, Seba has done exceptionally well as he is the 2nd team scrummie. Dahl is definitely one for next year with Bader at flyhalf.
Interesting to see if there is a progression from the Academy side.( As Beet has referred to Bader doing his time at that level.) I wonder what players from that 2013 side have put themselves in contention for CW 2014?
@Thumper: I think little Seba of College had a super trial, redeeming himself for a below best performance against Kearsney.
Also sad that Mac vd Linde of College not fit.
Thomas a super tackler around the fringes and obvious leadership. Not so sure about his distribution or base kick tho. I would definitely say test Jonas at 9 if Walker is the player selectors have in mind.
To me Braithwaite is the unknown coz he is capable of performing a lot better at 9 and should be the scrummy to challenge Kwazi and Hall.
I have Dahl there because he is the future and I think the Academy team must look to include a good number of u17 players.
@Redblack White: that would be my pick with the Glenwood 11 getting the nod.
@Redblack White:I am surprised that Walker (Scrumhalf and Captain for MHS) hasn’t got a mention. He has been the stand out no9 this year. Walker and Glenwood scrummie for CW for me!
@Redblack White: Matiwane!
@Thumper: I think Brad Roberts is in the mix . But where do you put him. A specialist hooker where as Percy and Maswi can double as prop should the need arise . Pretorious for next year. The Academy team is going to be strong and should come close to taking the silverware.
For me:
9. Hall
10. Tedder
12. Smith
13. Blewett ( with Holder/Luyte as utilities)
14. Guma
15. Joubert
11. ???????? seems no takers here so would need to be a utility back, but for me>> Don’t know the name, but the Kearsney no.12 from Saturdays game vs College should be a wing – good ball player, big defender and he has wheels,
Based purely on performances at trials yesterday and ignoring reputations or balance of the team;
1.K Van Niekerk
2.P Mngadi
3.C Thomas
4.B Ndlovu
5.T Dixon
6.H Tharrat
7.A Heysteck
8.S De Merigny
9.J Hall
10.C Jonas
11.L Mukendi
12.W Smith
13.S Mpotshane
14.X Guma
15.J Luyke
Interestingly, 6 players fit the PDI profile – no need for quotas any longer, the players are coming through on pure merit.
@Thumper: Many of the MHS candidates were either injured or did not attend.
@burra: I agree with you with the back up front row being Northwood & College boys…
@Buffel: I see you haven’t picked one MHS boy!
Beet- how about your summary of the backs on show.
One could choose various options but we must remember that we need to have 9 players of colour and the majority will come from the pack and the wings. So this is my pick
1. Northwood (c)
2. College (c)
3. Northwood (c)
4. Glenwood
5. Kearsney
6. College
7. College
8. Glenwood
9. Kearsney
10. Kearsney
11. Glenwood (c)
12. Westville
13. Hilton
14. College(c)
15. Glenwood
16. Northwood(c)
17. Glenwood (c)
18. Glenwood(c)
19. Kearsney
20. Glenwood
21. Westville(c)
22. Westville
23. Glenwood
1 Kenny van Niekerk
2 Masikani Mazwi
3 Koos Tredoux
4 Kevin Du Randt
5 Tristan Dixon
6 Hayden Tharratt
7 Adrian Heystek
8 Jaco Coetzee
This is my pack of choice Although some bloggers won’t agree with me.
Excellent write up Beet! Exciting times. I agree about Big Mac probably needs to play hooker where he can use his size more. Shaping up to be a pretty competitive pack :-)