Round Two Surprises

Hurricanes Back on Track by Beating Wayward Chiefs

In the first game of the round the Chiefs seem to be back to their most woeful worst. They bumbled at least 3 first half tries and handed a barely deserved victory 32-39 to the Hurricanes, who also looked unimpressive. In the words of the straight shooting Umaga, they were very lucky to win. Tito, former winner of the ugliest man in Super 12, snatched victory for the canes in the dying stages of the match leaving the Chiefs 0 from 2 at home...not a good start to the season and it seems the cellar dweller ways of the Chiefs may have returned. It could be a long season for them.

Force Notch up First Win Against Stormers

The much favourited Stormers failed to get any traction in this game, even with the aid of their formerly great number 7 Schalk Burger. They were pitiful in this game, and they will fail to attract much of a home crowd if they keep playing like this. They too appear to be destined to dwell in the lower stages of the competition. The Force on the other hand did manage to get a good win under their belts after the disappointing display against the Highlanders at home last week. 22-3 was the margin and very few would have picked that the Force would blos the Stormers off their own ground.

Warratahs Outclassed by Sharks

Despite a wealth of possession the Warraths confirmed for all to see why they have never managed to take out the title. Missed tackles, bumbled passes, and an inability to win a game that was there for the taking, this loss 22-9 will be considered a warning sign by the fans of this side. Class players simply failed to live up to their reputation and the home side ground out a win predicted by the bookies, but in the press the Tahs were considered a good bet. Not so it would seem. Poor penalty kicking did not see the Tahs put pressure on the home side, missing four of seven shots at goal. The Sharks on the other hand managed to get their kicks at goal and grind out a win in a scrappy affair from which no plays are likely to make the highlights reel from this season.

Plenty of good games to come this round, the main event being the Crusaders against the Reds from Christchurch. Also, the Blues shape up against the Brumbies and with Stirling Mortlock out for the game, the Blues may be feeling that things are starting to go their way. Traditionally they haven't done well against this side, especially in Canberra, and this could be a cracking game. Enjoy, and check back here for more of the results.