One would expect the Bulls to provide the bulk of our Vodacom United Rugby Championship of the week, however, the performance of the other South African teams ensured a more even spread, with the passion the Lions played with giving them the edge.
Some positions proved challenging. At fullback Fassi's consistency and try-scoring abilities gave him the nod, just, ahead of the Bulls' Kurt-Lee Arendse.
Chris Smith's consistency also got him the nod ahead of the sometimes erratic and inconsistent Manie Libbok, while the consistent Embrose Papier lost out to the exciting Morne vd Berg from the Lions.
The discussion in favour of either Elrigh Louw or Evan Roos will continue for the next few years, with both sides having a lot of credible arguments. Evan got the nod as he was the Stormers' standout player on a difficult day for their forwards.
The tighthead combination of the Lions with Carlu Sadie the anchor must get the nod. PJ Steenkamp is growing by leaps and bounds and was the standout physical number four. The effort of Jaco Visagie come scrum time is often missed, however, a lot of credit must be given to this burly hooker for the Lions' dominance come scrum time.
Team:
15. Aphelele Fassie (Sharks)
14. Stean Pienaar (Lions)
13. Lionel Mapoe (Bulls)
12. Damian Willemse (Stormers)
11. Sbu Nkosi (Sharks)
10.Chris Smith (Bulls)
9. Morne van den Berg (Lions)
8. Evan Roos (Stormers)
7. Arno Botha (Bulls)
6. Jaco Kriel (Lions)
5. Ruan Nortje (Bulls)
4. PJ Steenkamp (Lions)
3. Carlu Sadie (Lions)
2. Jaco Visagie (Lions)
1. Steven Kitshoff (Stormers)
