All eyes on Hogs in rugby semis

NELSON DIRENG
Correspondent | Friday July 23, 2010 00:00

 

Hogs start as favourites as they beat Cheetahs in a group stage clash. Before EMG Gunners' triumph, Hogs and Cheetahs were the only teams to have won the BRU League Cup. Last season, Gunners became the first Northern side to win the cup after a shock win over Hogs in the semi-finals. Hogs went on to lose the rest of their games to finish fourth after being on top of the log all season.

Hogs' coach, Charl Vanzyl, said he expects a tough game against Cheetahs. 'Any team competing in the semi-final has the potential of winning the league, which is why we cannot underestimate them,' he said. He stated that a win against Cheetahs tomorrow is critical. He said their intention is to commit fewer mistakes and focus on getting maximum points. 'We have been training intensively for the game although there are some injuries,' Vanzyl said. He said some players have flu, but they might pass a late fitness test. He explained that they would stick to the same strategy they have been using throughout the season. 'Trying to change our game plan now will just hinder the team's performance,' he added.

The new Hogs' coach said the league is no longer one-sided like before when it was dominated by certain teams. 'This should be the toughest league the BRU has ever had,' he emphasised.

Cheetahs' manager, Ncube Marula, said it is impossible for Hogs to beat them twice in one season. He said his team has prepared itself well and unlike Hogs, they only have two injury worries - Kaone Gopolang and Gilbert Machobane. 'Cheetahs are good going forward and we on the other hand have good back players,' he said. He explained that they will use Hogs' strong point as a weakness. He is happy that Hogs are playing at a place where they have a lot of support. 'We want to convert some of those supporters to Cheetahs,' he said.

In the other semi, Gunners will face Rhinos.  BDF Sharks face Desert Whales and Francistown Tuskers take on Hungry Lions in shield semi-finals.