Bulls vs Stormers Super 14 final preview

The Bulls and the Stormers of South Africa meet tomorrow in what is the first ever Super 14 rugby final to be held in the black township of Soweto, a highly significant moment for the country. Its not only an achievement to have both sides in the final, but politically its a massive step forward.

The match being held in Orlando Stadium has been hailed by Archbishop Desmond Tutu as 'the most important development in South African rugby since the World Cup in 1995.'

The sport has once again proved to be a nation-builder, as fans of all races converge on the streets around the stadium to celebrate rugby as one, and watch what should be a titanic battle as the traditional powerhouses of SA rugby go head to head.

The match is being held three, as was the semi final, because the Bulls homeground in Pretoria is under going final preparations ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

"It is one of those special South African moments that proves we are better off for having one another, and that despite the challenges we face, our society is on the right track," said Nobel Peace Prize winner Tutu in a statement.

The Stormers will be playing in their first Super Rugby final, while the Bulls, defending champions, will be looking to pick up their third trophy in four years.

"If you win the battle there, you will be remembered for a long time. We have to embrace this opportunity to play in Soweto and be part of this bit of history in our country," said Stormers coach Allister Coetzee.

"Soweto has been perceived as a soccer-playing community, so it's not rocket science why there is such excitement. It shows how far our country has moved along," he added.

The 40 000 seater stadium, considered not big enough to host FIFA World Cup matches, was sold out earlier in the week. Its set to be a massive physical battle with Springbok kingpins going up against each other ahead of the international season.


Time: 03:23
Credit: Thanks to Supersport

Posted at 9:39 am | 12 comments

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