Cape Town – The Blues’ virtually weekly, mass concession of tries at present should send a tempting message to the Bulls as the South Africans weigh up their first overseas tour match at Eden Park on Friday (09:35 SA time): be adventurous against them.
This notably worst-performing New Zealand franchise – even the Crusaders have nipped slightly back into the playoffs picture, joining compatriots the Hurricanes, Chiefs and Highlanders – continues to exhibit a defensive shape (for want of a better word) and commitment that borders on the flaky.
It was evident all over again as the Auckland-based side were thrashed 42-22 in Melbourne by the surprise package Rebels in the latest round.