For the Lions to have improved enough to give the 'Canes a run for their money, they should have thrashed the Sharks rather than win by a long range penalty.
This is the strongest "Canes team ever, full of in form AB's and other best in comp players. It is far stronger than the team that won last year, with another season under the belt for the younger guys like Savea and Laumape. The Lions will need to play fast and hard for every one of the 80 minutes just to keep Perenara under control, and then still find the ability to handle forward speedsters Cole and Ardea, the genius who is Beaudie Barrett and the try scoring machines at 12 and 13 - 28 trys between them with Aso missing several games. Can the Lions deal with those guys? Then how about Fifita, Shields, Jordie, Nehe and Goosen?
Gets harder by the minute and we still have very mobile and skilful locks and props and a bench which has never let the 'Canes down.
Obviously I back the Hurricanes to win, but despite my earlier diatribe in reference to attacking skills, I think the win will be based on the best offensive defense in the comp. That was why they never conceded a try in the whole final series last year and have only lost narrowly this year even when under-strength.
This year it seems SA supporters are more confident that ever they have the comp winner. I hope the game is a ripper and the winner goes on to win the final. If the lions win they deserve the result and will ensure the upcoming tests are brilliant. If the "Canes run away with it, we are back to usual and the only brilliant thing is the US$5.45 I got for a 'Canes win before the comp started - and I went in boots and all!!
Being in Aussie I only have to stay awake and sober for a 10.30pm start of coverage - Thank hell!!
