Continuing with our look at the 2010 Super 14 semi finals, we take a look at the game between the 2nd placed Stormers and 3rd placed Waratahs.

Stormers VS Waratahs: The Stormers have been in their best form ever for most of this year’s Super 14, and it has duely paid off for them. Ending in second place on the log, with the best defensive record this year, they have also played with the kind of flair that has seen them score some of the best tries of the season.

The Waratahs on the other hand, have played some of the most boring rugby over the last two seasons of Super Rugby, but kudosto them for still managing to grind it out and finda way to the semis, ending third on the log after the round robin stages.

Factors to take into account:

  • The Own Worst Enemy Factor: The Stormers are renowned for being their own worst enemy, and losing against themselves when the going gets tough. For year’s the have thrown away what should have been the easiest of wins, and crumbled under pressure. This year is different for them though, and they are playing with new vigour. Can they stick it under the pressure of a home semi?
  • The Newlands faithful:A sea of dark blue will descend upon Newlands come the 19h10 (local time) kick off. The cape fans are extremely vocal, and there isn’t much love lost against any of the Aussie teams. The Waratahs will be playing ‘spot the light blue supporter in the crowd’
  • The last match-up:The Stormers disposed of the Waratahsduring their match-up in the round robin stages and will be carrying that confidence into this encounter. They shouldn’t be over confident though. This is semi final rugby, and all clocks are returned to zero.
  • Attack: Both teams are capable of some deadly attack. Both enjoy playing a fast paced, open style of game, and both have a fair share of international players. Should be some awesome head to head battles
  • Defence:This is semi final rugby, and one defensive error could cost you a place in the final. The Stormers have the best defensive record in this years tournament. The Waratahs have a few weaker spots in their backline,but their defence is by no means lacking.

Head to head:

There are key match-ups between most player’s in this game, with either side wanting to gain the ascendancy over the other.

  • Front row VS Front row: These two front rows will each enter the game with a point to prove. The much improved Stormers front row, won’t want to give an inch against the experience of internationals Al Baxter and Polota-Nau, but the biggest match-up will be between the later,Polota-Nau and Tiaan Liebenberg. With Liebenberg sure to be hoping for Springbok selection after his superb for this year, this could be a preview to the Tri Nations battle.
  • The Locks: Andries Bekker is arguably the best #5 lock in world rugby at the moment. He shouldn’t have too much trouble outplaying his opposite, Kane Douglas. The real battle of the locks will be  between the hard men, Adrian Fondse and Dean Mumm. Should be interesting to see who comes out ahead in the donkey work.
  • Schalk Burger’s loose trio VS Phil little girl Waugh’s loose trio: The Stormers loose trio have been consistently leading the way in the competition. Phil Waugh on the other hand, has been around the block a few times and basically wrote the book of tricks for loose play. I put Schalk ahead though, especially with the impressive back up of Francois Louw and Duane Vermeulen.
  • #10 VS #10: I still don’t believe Peter Grant is the answer at #10. His kicking record has been impressive this season, since taking over from Joe Pietersen near the beginning of the season. Barnes will be looking to put his hand up for reselection into the Wallaby squad after impressive form by both Matt Giteau and Quade Cooper. I put Berrick Barnes ahead in this battle on the overall game play though
  • The back three: Both teams have an impressive back triangle. The Waratahs have the fastest man in Australian rugby ever, in Lachie Turner, on the wing, with Drew Mitchell on the other, and no slouch himself. Kurtley Beale has been superb in the last few outings at #15. The Stormers have some pace men themselves, in Springbok stalwart, Bryan Habana and sevens star, Gio Aplon. Both are quick off the mark and tough to get in hand. Their kicking game is probably ahead of their Waratahs counterparts. Joe Pietersen put his hand up well at the begining of the season, before he got injured, and he will want to make a strong statement today. He will have his work cut out for him though, with Kurtley Beale sure to want to turn him at every opportunity.

Where we put them at the beginning of the season:

  • BSR’s prediction for the Stormers’ best possible finish: definite playoff contenders [full article here]
  • BSR’s prediction for the Waratahs’ best possible finish: possible playoff contenders [full article here]

Our prediction for the Newlands clash: We back the home team to take it by 12 or less.