2007 Super 14 season

Men's rugby union club competition April 2014 April 2014 2007 Super 14 185px Official logo AustraliaSouth AfricaNew Zealand Round-robin and knockout RSA Bulls 1 94 440 Stephen Donald (164; Chiefs) JP Pietersen (12; Sharks) 2006 2006 Super 14 season 2008 2008 Super 14 season The 2007 Super 14 season started in February 2007 with preseason matches held from mid-January. It finished on 19 May with the final at Kings Park Stadium in Durban, in the first final between two South African teams in the history of Super Rugby. The visiting Bulls won the 2007 Super 14 Final, scoring a try in the 83rd minute and narrowly defeating the Sharks 20–19, thereby becoming the first South African side to win the Super Rugby title in the professional era. Super 14 is a provincial rugby union competition with 14 teams from New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. This season is the second of the expansion, which led to the name change to the Super 14. The 2007 season saw an old team emerge with a new name, as the Cats changed their name to the Lions effective 8 September 2006.From Cats to Lions ... the new look http://www.planet-rugby.com/Tournaments/Super_12/story_53634.shtml Planet Rugby 8 September 2006 12 September 2006 dead https://archive.today/20070521192334/http://www.planet-rugby.com/Tournaments/Super_12/story_53634.shtml 21 May 2007 There was also some confusion over the inclusion of the Southern Spears franchise, who were in the end not included. The season is also notable of the New Zealand sides resting several All Blacks players in the first half of the season. There were 94 matches held over the 3½ months, with each team playing one full round robin against the 13 other teams, 2 semi-finals and a final. Every team will get one bye over the 14 rounds. Player withdrawal With the Rugby World Cup in September, all three countries would have some of their top players rested, to avoid injuries. All Blacks coach Graham Henry made clear his wish for up to 30 of New Zealand's best players to miss around half of the Super 14, with the five New Zealand franchises supporting him in May 2006. The mandatory stand-down period meant that the 30 players who toured at the end of 2006 would miss at least the first week of competition.http://www.planet-rugby.com/Tournaments/Super_12/story_51395.shtml SANZAR geared for diluted S14 30 May 2006 https://web.archive.org/web/20060618181903/http://www.planet-rugby.com/Tournaments/Super_12/story_51395.shtml 18 June 2006 dead dmy John Connolly, the Wallabies coach, was also interested in lightening the load for his top players. It was expected that the Australians would want to rest only a few players, especially veterans such as Stephen Larkham and George Gregan, as they are seen as key to Australia's World Cup chances. Springboks coach Jake White met the board of SA Rugby, the commercial arm of the South African Rugby Union, in Cape Town on 25 May 2006 to put forward his suggestion to rest key players between then and the World Cup at regular intervals. White was also keen to rest some players during the Boks' 2006 mid-year internationals against Scotland and France. It was revealed in September 2006 that the All Blacks would rest 22 players, who would go into a "conditioning group" for the first 7 weeks of competition. The 22 players named were: Jerry Collins, Jason Eaton, Carl Hayman, Andrew Hore, Chris Jack, Richie McCaw, Chris Masoe, Keven Mealamu, Anton Oliver, Greg Somerville, Rodney So'oialo, Reuben Thorne, Ali Williams, Tony Woodcock, Dan Carter, Byron Kelleher, Leon MacDonald, Aaron Mauger, Mils Muliaina, Joe Rokocoko, Sitiveni Sivivatu and Piri Weepu. Seven of these players were from the Crusaders, six from the Hurricanes, four from the Blues, three from the Chiefs and two from the Highlanders.All Blacks home for rest … and worry https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/all-blacks-home-for-rest-and-worry/6SEUM5F2IERWFKUZBZSUW2QR4Y/ 1 August 2026 NZ Herald NZPA 4 September 2006 en-NZ These players would be available for their franchises from Week 8. From these 22 players, Jason Eaton and Piri Weepu didn't make the final All Blacks squad for the 2007 Rugby World Cup. After the NZRU announced the resting of 22 leading players, Pat Wilson, Australian High Performance Manager, revealed that leading Wallabies would only be rested for one match, which was to be chosen by their state's union. This decision has drawn criticism from former Wallabies coach and current Queensland Reds coach Eddie Jones, who said that while resting the older players could be beneficial, it is better for younger players, such as his own Rodney Blake, to receive game time.http://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/newsdetail1.asp?storyID=103598 Completely different approach to Super 14 13 September 2006 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20070602182802/http://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/newsdetail1.asp?storyID=103598 2 June 2007 The SARU decided against resting their top players for the 2007 Super 14 but conceded that it was likely that players would be rested for some games.http://www.keo.co.za/2006/09/13/boks-get-super-action/#more-2997 Boks get Super action 13 September 2006 https://web.archive.org/web/20060926194230/http://www.keo.co.za/2006/09/13/boks-get-super-action/#more-2997 26 September 2006 dead dmy-all It is expected that News Corp and the other SANZAR nations will request compensation from the New Zealand Rugby Union.May 2007 Southern Spears saga During the 2006 Super 14 season, SA Rugby announced that, contrary to the original plans, the Southern Spears would not replace the lowest ranked South African based side. In August 2006, however, the Spears won a court case for inclusion into the 2007 season, which would be at the expense of the Cats, who changed their name to the Lions the following month. SA Rugby and the South African Rugby Union were expected to appeal the High Court of South Africa's decision.http://www.rugbyheaven.smh.com.au/articles/2006/08/07/1154802818624.html Get Giteau into Gregan's jersey: Jones 8 August 2006 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20060828070207/http://www.rugbyheaven.smh.com.au/articles/2006/08/07/1154802818624.html 28 August 2006 In November 2006, SA Rugby and the Spears reached a settlement. The financially troubled Spears abandoned the court case. They would no longer be a part of Super Rugby, but instead would remain as an organisation to promote and develop rugby in the Southern and Eastern Cape region, with the support of SA Rugby and the SARU.South Africa: Spears Issue Embarrassing, Says MD https://allafrica.com/stories/200611090308.html AllAfrica 1 August 2026 With the settlement, the season's Super 14 line-up was set, with the Lions taking up the final South African place. Table + Key to colours     Top four teams advance to playoffs. TeamPldWDLPFPAPDBPPts 1 RSA Sharks131003355214141545 2 RSA Bulls13904388223165642 3 NZL Crusaders138053822351471042 4 NZL Blues13904355235120642 5 AUS Brumbies1390423417361440 6 NZL Chiefs13715373321521040 7 AUS Western Force13616276292−16632 8 NZL Hurricanes13607247300−53327 9 NZL Highlanders13508235301−66727 10 RSA Stormers13607249326−77327 11 RSA Cheetahs13418265342−77422 12 RSA Lions13508175284−109222 13 AUS Waratahs13319266317−51721 14 AUS Reds132011201438−237311 Results The draw for the 2007 season was released on 2006-10-13. The season started 8 days earlier than the 2006 season, with the first match being between the Blues and the Crusaders at Auckland's Eden Park, the second time in the last two years the Blues had hosted the first match. In total, 94 matches were played, comprising 91 regular season matches, 2 semi-finals and the final. There were 29 Friday night match-ups and 61 Saturday matches. One match, the Brumbies-Waratahs regional derby in Week 10, was played on a Sunday night.http://www.planet-rugby.com/Tournaments/Super_14/story_54450.shtml https://web.archive.org/web/20061021234942/http://www.planet-rugby.com/Tournaments/Super_14/story_54450.shtml dead 21 October 2006 Blues, Crusaders to kick-start SANZAR showpiece 14 October 2006 http://www.mg.co.za/articlePage.aspx?articleid=286569&area=/breaking_news/breaking_news__sport/ Blues to host Crusaders in first Super 14 match 14 October 2006 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20070930184506/http://www.mg.co.za/articlePage.aspx?articleid=286569&area=%2Fbreaking_news%2Fbreaking_news__sport%2F 30 September 2007 Round 1 The 2007 Super 14 started in contrast to that of 2006. The game of the week was the Blues from Auckland beating the defending champions the Crusaders, which was the first loss to a New Zealand side that the Crusaders had suffered since May 2004 and was ironically the Blues' first win over a New Zealand team for two years. The other upset was 2006 Finalists the Hurricanes losing to last years 12th placed Queensland Reds. 2 February 2007 19:35 Blues NZL 34–25 NZL Crusaders Tries: Isaia Toeava, Rudi Wulf, Doug HowlettCon: Isa Nacewa (2)Pen: Isa Nacewa (5) Tries: Corey Flynn, Mose Tuiali'i, Rico GearCon: Stephen Brett (2)Pen: Brent Ward (2) Eden Park, Auckland 26,300http://xtramsn.co.nz/rugby/0,,12448-6895061,00.html Rugby Union – Homepage – Yahoo!Xtra Sport Xtramsn.co.nz 13 November 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20070207085619/http://xtramsn.co.nz/rugby/0%2C%2C12448-6895061%2C00.html 7 February 2007 Paul Honiss (New Zealand)SANZAR announces Super 14 referees http://www.scrum.com/news/news_detail.asp?newsid=39824 scrum.com 16 January 2007 16 January 2007 2 February 2007 19:05 Western Force AUS 7–8 NZL Highlanders Tries: James HilgendorfCon: Cameron Shepherd Tries: Josh BlackiePen: Callum Bruce Subiaco Oval, Perth 30,704http://austadiums.com/sport/event.php?eventid=6421&PHPSESSID=a2b1b6f5e355b55cb2ce206df6553023 Australian Stadiums :: S14: Force v Highlanders Austadiums.com 13 November 2008 7 July 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110707190823/http://austadiums.com/sport/event.php?eventid=6421&PHPSESSID=a2b1b6f5e355b55cb2ce206df6553023 dead Jerome Fortuin (South Africa) 2 February 2007 19:10 Lions RSA 16–25 AUS Waratahs Tries: Louis LudikCon: Louis StrydomPen: Louis Strydom (3) Tries: Daniel Halangahu, Rocky Elsom, Adam FreierCon: Peter Hewat (2)Pen: Peter Hewat (2) Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg 15,000http://www.sportsaustralia.com/articles/news.php?id=607 SportsAustralia.com :: News Article Sportsaustralia.com 13 November 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20070928054809/http://www.sportsaustralia.com/articles/news.php?id=607 28 September 2007 Chris Pollock (New Zealand) 3 February 2007 19:35 Chiefs NZL 15–21 AUS Brumbies Tries: Sosene Anesi (2), Lelia Masaga Tries: Clyde Rathbone, Stirling MortlockCon: Stirling MortlockPen: Julian Huxley (2), Stirling Mortlock Waikato Stadium, Hamilton ~12,500http://canberra.yourguide.com.au/detail.asp?class=sport&subclass=rugby%20union&story_id=553711&category=Rugby%20Union Peter Fitzgerald Bring back the glory years: ACT set for new entertainers era The Canberra Times 4 February 2007 5 February 2007 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20070920030905/http://www.canberra.yourguide.com.au/detail.asp?class=sport 20 September 2007 Mark Lawrence (South Africa) 3 February 2007 19:40 Reds AUS 25–16 NZL Hurricanes Tries: Mitchell ChapmanCon: Clinton SchifcofskePen: Clinton Schifcofske (5)Drop: Berrick Barnes Tries: Cory JaneCon: Jimmy GopperthPen: Jimmy Gopperth (3) Lang Park, Brisbane 22,654 Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa) 3 February 2007 17:00 Sharks RSA 17–3 RSA Bulls Tries: JP Pietersen (2)Con: Percy Montgomery (2)Pen: Percy Montgomery Pen: Morné Steyn Kings Park Stadium, Durban 33,572Match Summary - Super 14 - 2007 https://www.rugbydatabase.co.nz/game.php?gameId=1984 Rugby Database 1 August 2026 en Lyndon Bray (New Zealand) 3 February 2007 19:10 Cheetahs RSA 27–9 RSA Stormers Tries: Adriaan Strauss, CJ van der Linde, Kabamba FloorsPen: Meyer Bosman (4) Pen: Naas Olivier (3) Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein ~35,000http://www.news24.com/Die_Volksblad/Volksblad-Sport/0,8523,5-84_2064475,00.html Hendrik Cronjé Cheetahs slaag hul groot toets af Die Volksblad 5 February 2007 5 February 2007 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20070927221103/http://www.news24.com/Die_Volksblad/Volksblad-Sport/0%2C8523%2C5-84_2064475%2C00.html 27 September 2007 Craig Joubert Round 2 Week two saw the New Zealand teams have a strong week with the Hurricanes, Crusaders, Blues notching wins. Western Force began to show vast improvement from 2006 winning only their second match since entering the competition in 2006. Apart from the Force all other Australian teams suffered a loss. 9 February 2007 19:35 Chiefs NZL 32–39 NZL Hurricanes Tries: Roy Kinikinilau, Tom Willis, Brendon Leonard, Liam MessamCon: Stephen Donald (3)Pen: Stephen Donald (2) Tries: Alby Mathewson, Serge Lilo, Ma'a Nonu, Tana Umaga, Paul TitoCon: Jimmy Gopperth (4)Pen: Jimmy Gopperth (2) Waikato Stadium, Hamilton 17,000 (approx) Bryce Lawrence (New Zealand) 9 February 2007 18:00 Stormers RSA 3–22 AUS Western Force Pen: Naas Olivier Tries: Ryan CrossCon: Cameron ShepherdPen: Cameron Shepherd (5) Newlands Stadium, Cape Town Lyndon Bray (New Zealand) 9 February 2007 20:05 Sharks RSA 22–9 AUS Waratahs Tries: Butch JamesCon: Percy MontgomeryPen: Percy Montgomery (4)Drop: François Steyn Pen: Peter Hewat (3) Kings Park Stadium, Durban 28,669http://www.sharksrugby.co.za/default.asp?id=204464&des=article Sharks Rugby Sharksrugby.co.za 13 November 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20070219234911/http://www.sharksrugby.co.za/default.asp?id=204464&des=article 19 February 2007 Chris Pollock (New Zealand) 10 February 2007 19:35 Crusaders NZL 33–22 AUS Reds Tries: Ross Filipo, Mose Tuiali'i, Scott Hamilton, Brent Ward, Stephen BrettCon: Stephen Brett (4) Tries: Greg Holmes, Peter HynesPen: Clinton Schifcofske (4) Lancaster Park, Christchurch ~19,000 Mark Lawrence (South Africa) 10 February 2007 19:40 Brumbies AUS 15–17 NZL Blues Pen: Julian Huxley (5) Tries: Isa Nacewa, Saimone TaumoepeauCon: Isa Nacewa (2)Pen: Isa Nacewa Canberra Stadium, Canberra 16,127http://canberra.yourguide.com.au/detail.asp?class=sport&subclass=rugby%20union&story_id=556025&category=Rugby%20Union Peter Fitzgerald Blues break Brumbies' heart: Try pips better side at the post The Canberra Times 11 February 2007 11 February 2007 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20070920030905/http://www.canberra.yourguide.com.au/detail.asp?class=sport 20 September 2007 Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa) 10 February 2007 17:00 Bulls RSA 24–20 RSA Cheetahs Tries: Wessel Roux, Bryan Habana, Adriaan FondseCon: Morné Steyn (3)Pen: Morné Steyn Tries: CJ Van Der Linde, Eddie FredericksCon: Meyer Bosman (2)Pen: Meyer Bosman (2) Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria 51,762http://www.super14.com/news/viewarticle.asp?id=1843 Bulls edge Cheetahs in Loftus Super 14 10 February 2007 13 November 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20070927043116/http://www.super14.com/news/viewarticle.asp?id=1843 27 September 2007 Jerome Fortuin (South Africa) 10 February 2007 19:00 Lions RSA 11–6 NZL Highlanders Tries: Wylie HumanPen: Louis Strydom (2) Pen: Callum Bruce, Charlie Hore Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg Paul Marks (Australia) Round 3 In week three a Super rugby record was broken, although not one to be proud of. The Reds and Brumbies played in the lowest scoring match ever, a dire affair that resulted in a Brumbies win 6–3. The 22 All Blacks missing from New Zealand teams started to have a visible effect on the kiwi sides with only the Hurricanes claiming a tight win over the Blues. Another relatively low scoring match saw even the last years powerhouse champions the Crusaders beaten by last years 13th placed Lions, it was the first match in six years the Crusaders hadn't scored a single try. 16 February 2007 18:10 Stormers RSA 21–16 NZL Chiefs Tries: Breyton Paulse, Jean de VilliersCon: Peter GrantPen: Peter Grant (3) Tries: Dwayne SweeneyCon: Stephen DonaldPen: Stephen Donald (3) Newlands Stadium, Cape Town Paul Marks (Australia) 16 February 2007 20:35 Bulls RSA 27–30 AUS Western Force Tries: JP Nel (2), Anton LeonardCon: Morné Steyn (3)Pen: Morné Steyn (2) Tries: Cameron Shepherd (2), Gareth HardyCon: Cameron Shepherd (3)Pen: Cameron Shepherd (3) Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria Chris Pollock (New Zealand) 17 February 2007 19:35 Hurricanes NZL 23–22 NZL Blues Tries: Cory Jane, Serge LiloCon: Jimmy Gopperth (2)Pen: Jimmy Gopperth (3) Tries: Doug Howlett, Anthony Tuitavake, Greg RawlinsonCon: Isa Nacewa(2)Pen: Isa Nacewa Wellington Regional Stadium, Wellington 24,208 Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa) 17 February 2007 19:05 Reds AUS 3 – 6 * AUS Brumbies Pen: Clinton Schifcofske Pen: Stirling Mortlock, Julian Huxley Lang Park, Brisbane 25,170 Matt Goddard (Australia) 17 February 2007 16:30 Cheetahs RSA 30–26 AUS Waratahs Tries: Ronnie Cooke, Phillip Burger, Eddie Fredericks, Juan SmithCon: Meyer Bosman (2)Pen: Meyer BosmanDrop: Herkie Kruger Tries: Kurtley Beale, Ben JacobsCon: Peter Hewat (2)Pen: Peter Hewat(4) ABSA Park, Kimberley Lyndon Bray (New Zealand) 17 February 2007 18:30 Lions RSA 9–3 NZL Crusaders Pen: Louis Strydom (3) Pen: Stephen Brett Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg Brett Bowden (Australia) 17 February 2007 20:30 Sharks RSA 23–16 NZL Highlanders Tries: Percy Montgomery (2)Con: Percy Montgomery (2)Pen: Percy Montgomery (3) Tries: Jason KawauCon: Charlie HorePen: Charlie Hore (3) Kings Park Stadium, Durban 28,023http://www.sharksrugby.co.za/default.asp?id=205340&des=article Sharks Rugby Sharksrugby.co.za 13 November 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20071006082432/http://www.sharksrugby.co.za/default.asp?id=205340&des=article 6 October 2007 James Leckie (Australia) * Note: This match was the lowest-scoring in Super Rugby history at the time. Round 4 Week Four saw the Brumbies lose their second game by conceding a try in the final seconds to the Hurricanes (the first was to the Blues in Week Two). The Blues convincingly put away the Queensland Reds while the Force surrendered in the final seconds to the Lions leaving them yet to win a home game. The Bulls beat the Chiefs while the Crusaders began the show the form that they have displayed in past years by beating the Cheetahs 49–28. 23 February 2007 19:35 Hurricanes NZL 11–10 AUS Brumbies Tries: Thomas WaldromPen: Jimmy Gopperth (2) Tries: Adam Wallace-HarrisonCon: Julian HuxleyPen: Julian Huxley Wellington Regional Stadium, Wellington 21,194 Craig Joubert (South Africa) 24 February 2007 17:50 Highlanders NZL 35–24 RSA Stormers Tries: Matt Saunders (2), Viliame Waqaseduadua, Hale T-PoleCons: Charlie Hore (3)Pens: Charlie Hore (3) Tries: Andries Bekker, Breyton Paulse, François van der Merwe, Luke WatsonCons: Peter Grant (2) Carisbrook, Dunedin Matt Goddard (Australia) 24 February 2007 19:35 Blues NZL 38–13 AUS Reds Tries: Rudi Wulf (2), Isa Nacewa, Jerome KainoCon: Isa Nacewa, Luke McAlisterPen: Isa Nacewa, Luke McAlister (3) Tries: Charlie FetoaiCon: Clinton SchifcofskePen: Clinton Schifcofske (2) Eden Park, Auckland 30,000 Willie Roos (South Africa) 24 February 2007 19:05 Western Force AUS 24–25 RSA Lions Tries: Cameron Shepherd, Gareth HardyCon: Cameron ShepherdPen: Cameron Shepherd (4) Tries: Jaque FourieCon: Louis StrydomPen: Louis Strydom (4), André PretoriusDrop: André Pretorius Subiaco Oval, Perth 25,000 Bryce Lawrence (New Zealand) 24 February 2007 17:00 Bulls RSA 30–27 NZL Chiefs Tries: Bakkies Botha, Gurthro Steenkamp, Bryan HabanaPens: Morné Steyn (3), Derick Hougaard (2) Tries: Lelia Masaga (2), Dwayne SweeneyCon: Stephen Donald (3)Pen: Stephen Donald (2) Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria Brett Bowden (Australia) 24 February 2007 19:10 Cheetahs RSA 28–49 NZL Crusaders Tries: Darren Nell (2), Herkie KrugerCon: Meyer Bosman (2)Pen: Meyer Bosman (2)Drop: Herkie Kruger Tries: Casey Laulala, Caleb Ralph (2), Scott Hamilton (2), Stephen BrettCon: Stephen Brett (5)Pen: Stephen Brett (3) Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein James Leckie (Australia) Round 5 Week 5 saw the Blues defeat the Highlanders, the Chiefs drew with the Cheetahs in the final moments of the game, the Hurricanes lost at | home to bottom placed Stormers and the Crusaders suffered their 3rd defeat of the season losing in the final minute because of a blunder by Rico Gear. The Brumbies also suffered a loss at | home to the Bulls whereas the controversial game of the round saw the Waratahs draw with the Western Force because of a blunder by Waratahs utility back Sam Norton-Knight who decide to run with the ball in the final minute instead of taking the penalty shot which could have won them the game and for his mistake Lote Tuqiri shoved him and walked off the pitch looking very disappointed. 2 March 2007 19:35 Blues NZL 28–9 NZL Highlanders Tries: Isaia Toeava (2), Troy FlavellPen: Luke McAlister (3)Con: Luke McAlister (2) Pen: Nick Evans (3) Eden Park, Auckland 22,500 Steve Walsh (New Zealand) 2 March 2007 19:40 Waratahs AUS 16–16 AUS Western Force Tries: Morgan TurinuiCon: Peter HewatPen: Peter Hewat (3) Tries Matt Giteau, Drew MitchellPen: Cameron Shepherd (2) Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney 31,149 Paul Marks (New Zealand) 2 March 2007 19:10 Cheetahs RSA 22–22 NZL Chiefs Tries: Tiger MangweniCon: Willem de WaalPen: Willem de Waal (5) Tries: Lelia MasagaCon: Stephen DonaldPen: Stephen Donald (5) Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein 20,500 James Leckie (Australia) 3 March 2007 19:05 Hurricanes NZL 17–30 RSA Stormers Tries: David Smith, Cory JaneCon: Jimmy Gopperth, Blair StewartPen: Jimmy Gopperth Tries: Jean de Villiers, Justin Melck, Corne Uys, Breyton PaulseCon: Peter Grant (2)Pen: Peter Grant (2) FMG Stadium, Palmerston North 16,000 Matt Goddard (Australia) 3 March 2007 19:10 Brumbies AUS 7–19 RSA Bulls Tries: Gene FairbanksCon: Julian Huxley Tries: Pedrie WannenburgCon: Derick HougaardPen: Derick Hougaard (3)Drop: Derick Hougaard Canberra Stadium, Canberra 15,101 Lyndon Bray (New Zealand) 3 March 2007 20:10 Reds AUS 20–26 RSA Lions Tries: Quade Cooper, Will GeniaCon: Clinton Schifcofske (2)Pen: Clinton Schifcofske (2) Tries: Jaque Fourie, Ernst JoubertCon: Earl Rose (2)Pen: Earl Rose (4) Lang Park, Brisbane 17,011 Kelvin Deaker (New Zealand) 3 March 2007 17:00 Sharks RSA 27–26 NZL Crusaders Tries: Albert van den Berg, Bismarck du Plessis, Odwa NdunganeCon: Percy Montgomery (2), Ruan PienaarPen: Percy Montgomery (2) Tries: Kieran Read, Mose Tuiali'iCon: Stephen Brett (2)Pen: Stephen Brett (3)Drop: Stephen Brett ABSA Stadium, Durban 33,470 AUS Stuart Dickinson Round 6 Week 6 saw the Reds travel to the "House of Pain" to play the Highlanders. Recent signing Andrew Walker was rushed into the starting team, however the Reds lost 17–33. The next game saw the Brumbies looking to rectify a three-game losing streak at their home ground. They did so with a convincing 26–13 win against the Stormers. The Force were also looking to end a | home ground hoodoo against the Hurricanes. Seeking their first ever victory at Subiaco the Force looked to have squandered an 11–10 lead upon conceding a try with two minutes left to put the score at 17–11. However a try on the sideline and followed by an unlikely conversion by Force wing Cameron Shepherd gave the Force a maiden | home victory. The next day opened with the Blues thrashing an in-form Lions outfit 41–14. The game saw Doug Howlett score two tries and in doing so becoming the equal highest try scorer in Super Rugby history (with Joe Roff of the Brumbies). The Waratahs then played a | home game against the Bulls – who won 32–19 thanks to two tries apiece to Bryan Habana and Fourie du Preez. 9 March 2007 19:35 Highlanders NZL 33–17 AUS Reds Tries: Aaron Bancroft, Lucky Mulipola, Glen Horton, Jason MacDonaldCon: Nick Evans (2)Pen: Nick Evans (2)Drop: Aaron Bancroft Tries: Berrick Barnes, John RoeCon: Quade Cooper, Berrick BarnesPen: Berrick Barnes Carisbrook, Dunedin 12,000 Marius Jonker (South Africa) 9 March 2007 19:40 Brumbies AUS 26–13 RSA Stormers Tries: Mark Chisholm, Stirling Mortlock, Adam Ashley-CooperCon: Stirling MortlockPen: Stirling Mortlock (3) Tries: Gio AplonCon: Peter GrantPen: Peter Grant (2) Canberra Stadium, Canberra 14, 410 Steve Walsh (New Zealand) 9 March 2007 19:05 Western Force AUS 18–17 NZL Hurricanes Tries: Drew Mitchell, Cameron ShepherdCon: Cameron ShepherdPen: Cameron Shepherd (2) Tries: Tana Umaga, Jimmy GopperthCon: Blair Stewart, Jimmy GopperthPen: Blair Stewart Subiaco Oval, Perth 30,704 Mark Lawrence (South Africa) 10 March 2007 19:35 Blues NZL 41–14 RSA Lions Tries: Doug Howlett (2)*, Ben Atiga, Rudi Wulf, Daniel Braid, David HolwellCon: David Holwell (4)Pen: David Holwell Tries: Louie Ludik, Ethienne ReyneckeCon: André Pretorius, Earl Rose Eden Park, Auckland 22,000 Paul Marks (Australia) 9 March 2007 19:40 Waratahs AUS 19–32 RSA Bulls Tries: Kurtley BealeCon: Peter HewatPen: Peter Hewat (4) Tries: Bryan Habana(2), Fourie du Preez(2)Con: Derick Hougaard(3)Pen: Derick Hougaard (2) Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney 21,854 Kelvin Deaker (New Zealand) 9 March 2007 17:00 Cheetahs RSA 14–30 RSA Sharks Tries: Juan Smith, Herkie KrugerCon: Willem de Waal (2) Tries: JP Pietersen, Jacques Botes, Waylon MurrayCon: Ruan Pienaar (3)Pen: Ruan Pienaar (3) Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein 29,500 JC Fortuin (South Africa) Note: Doug Howlett became the joint top try scorer in Super Rugby with Joe Roff on 57 Tries Round 7 The Chiefs put on a convincing win against the Lions to start week seven. This was followed later that evening with the Force easily putting away the bottom of the table Reds in Perth. The Crusaders began to show their regular form with a win against the Bulls and the Waratahs season slumped to a new low with a home loss at the hands of the Stormers. The Cheetahs pulled off an unexpected win against the Brumbies and the undefeated Sharks continued their streak – beating the Hurricanes. 16 March 2007 19:35 Chiefs NZL 34–7 RSA Lions Tries: Stephen Donald (2), Marty Holah, Liam Messam, Tane TuipulotuCon: Stephen Donald, Tasesa Lavea (2)Pen: Stephen Donald Tries: André PretoriusCon: André Pretorius Waikato Stadium, Hamilton 12,000 James Leckie (Australia) 16 March 2007 19:05 Western Force AUS 38–3 AUS Reds Tries: Chris O'Young, Penalty try, Cameron Shepherd, Digby IoaneCon: Cameron Shepherd (3)Pen: Cameron Shepherd (4) Pen: Andrew Walker Subiaco Oval, Perth 26,023 Brett Bowden (Australia) 17 March 2007 19:35 Crusaders NZL 32–10 RSA Bulls Tries: Johnny Leo'o, Rico Gear, Tim Bateman, Scott HamiltonCon: Stephen Brett (3)Pen: Stephen Brett (2) Tries: Wikus van HeerdenCon: Derick HougaardPen: Derick Hougaard Lancaster Park, Christchurch 18,240 Stuart Dickinson (Australia) 17 March 2007 19:40 Waratahs AUS 10–16 RSA Stormers Tries: Penalty tryCon: Peter HewatPen: Peter Hewat Tries: Luke WatsonCon: Peter GrantPen: Peter Grant (3) Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney 18,409 Lyndon Bray (New Zealand) 17 March 2007 17:00 Cheetahs RSA 38–20 AUS Brumbies Tries: Falie Oelschig, Gavin Passens, Richardt Strauss, Phillip Burger, Juan SmithCon: Willem de Waal (5)Drop: Willem de Waal Tries: Adam Ashley-Cooper, Mark Chisholm, Patrick PhibbsCon: Julian HuxleyPen: Julian Huxley Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein 3,500 Paul Honiss (New Zealand) 17 March 2007 19:10 Sharks RSA 27–14 NZL Hurricanes Tries: JP Pietersen, Johan Ackermann, Jacques Botes, Warren BritzCon: Butch James (2)Pen: Butch James (1) Tries: Anthony PerenisePen: Blair Stewart (3) Kings Park Stadium, Durban 36,700 Matt Goddard (Australia) Round 8 The Waratahs fell to another loss – being convincingly beaten by the Blues in Auckland. The Bulls were not worried about the "House of Pain" moniker of Carisbrook – instead they turned in on the Highlanders to win 22–13. The Crusaders continued their quick ascent up the ladder with a bonus-point win over the Stormers. Queensland slipped to another loss – albeit a close one – against the Chiefs. The Sharks suffered their first loss of the season as the Brumbies recording a big upset at ABSA Stadium. It was also the Brumbies first ever away win against the Sharks. The Lions continued the Hurricanes bad season with an easy win. 23 March 2007 19:35 Blues NZL 34–6 AUS Waratahs Tries: Daniel Braid, Troy Flavell (2), Steve DevineCons: Luke McAlister (4)Pens: Luke McAlister (2) Pens: Peter Hewat (2) Eden Park, Auckland 27,500 Marius Jonker (South Africa) 24 March 2007 17:30 Highlanders NZL 13–22 RSA Bulls Try: Jimmy CowanCon: Nick EvansPens: Nick Evans (2) Try: Jaco van der WesthuyzenCon: Derick HougaardPens: Derick Hougaard (5) Carisbrook, Dunedin Stuart Dickinson (Australia) 24 March 2007 19:35 Crusaders NZL 36–11 RSA Stormers Tries: Casey Laulala, Rico Gear (2), Leon MacDonaldCon: Dan Carter (2)Pen: Dan Carter (4) Tries: De Wet BarryPen: Peter Grant (2) Lancaster Park, Christchurch AUS Brett Bowden 24 March 2007 19:40 Reds AUS 19–21 NZL Chiefs Tries: David CroftCon: Andrew WalkerPen: Andrew Walker (4) Tries: Kristian Ormsby (2)Con: Stephen DonaldPen: Stephen Donald (3) Lang Park, Brisbane 16,830 Willie Roos (South Africa) 24 March 2007 17:00 Sharks RSA 10–21 AUS Brumbies Tries: Adrian JacobsCon: Butch JamesPen: Ruan Pienaar Tries: Julian Huxley, Adam Wallace-HarrisonCon: Julian HuxleyPen: Julian Huxley (3) Kings Park Stadium, Durban 38,787http://brumbies.com.au/act.rugby/page/51633 CA Brumbies sink Sharks Brumbies Rugby 24 March 2007 5 May 2007 https://web.archive.org/web/20070901035626/http://www.brumbies.com.au/act.rugby/page/51633 1 September 2007 dead Bryce Lawrence (New Zealand) 24 March 2007 19:10 Lions RSA 30–7 NZL Hurricanes Tries: Ethienne Reynecke, Jaque FourieCon: André PretoriusPen: André Pretorius (5)Drop: André Pretorius Tries: Piri WeepuCon: Blair Stewart Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg Matt Goddard (Australia) Round 9 The Highlanders recorded a home win over the Cheetahs to open the round before the Force subjected the Sharks to their second loss in as many matches in Perth. The Hurricanes pulled off a win over the Bulls and the Blues put in a hard-fought win over the Chiefs. The Blues' Doug Howlett took sole possession of the all-| time try scoring lead in Super Rugby during the latter match. The Crusaders pulled away from the Waratahs early in the game before slacking off in the second half and seeing their lead evaporate to 34–28. The Waratahs scored a try late in the game to seemingly secure a win with the kick to come – but Peter Hewat missed a relatively easy kick to hand the Crusaders a 34–33 win. The Brumbies won a second game in South Africa – this time a close encounter against the Lions. A late Julian Huxley try securing a 14–9 win for the Canberra-based side. 30 March 2007 19:35 Highlanders NZL 21–17 RSA Cheetahs Tries: Kane Thompson, Lucky MulipolaCon: Charlie HorePen: Nick Evans(2), Charlie Hore Tries: Eddie Fredericks, Kabamba FloorsCon: Willem de Waal, Meyer BosmanPen: Willem de Waal Rugby Park, Invercargill Stuart Dickinson (Australia) 30 March 2007 19:05 Western Force AUS 22–12 RSA Sharks Tries: Cameron ShepherdPen: Matt Giteau (5)Con: Matt Giteau Pen: Ruan Pienaar (3)Drop: François Steyn Subiaco Oval, Perth Lyndon Bray (New Zealand) 31 March 2007 17:30 Hurricanes NZL 17–9 RSA Bulls Tries: Hosea GearPen: Piri Weepu (4) Pen: Derick Hougaard (3) Wellington Regional Stadium, Wellington 20,874 Brett Bowden (Australia) 31 March 2007 19:35 Chiefs NZL 11–18 NZL Blues Try: Tasesa LaveaPen: Stephen Donald (2) Tries: Jerome Kaino, Keven Mealamu, Doug HowlettPen: Isa Nacewa Waikato Stadium, Hamilton Steve Walsh (New Zealand) 31 March 2007 19:40 Waratahs AUS 33–34 NZL Crusaders Tries: Lachlan Turner, Sam Harris, Sam Norton-Knight, Tatafu Polota-NauCon: Peter Hewat (2)Pen: Peter Hewat (3) Tries: Campbell Johnstone, Rico Gear (2), Mose Tuiali'i, Aaron Mauger, Casey LaulalaCon: Stephen Brett (2) Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney Craig Joubert (South Africa) 31 March 2007 17:00 Lions RSA 9–14 AUS Brumbies Pen: André Pretorius (3) Try: Julian HuxleyPen: Julian Huxley (2)Drop: Julian Huxley Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg Paul Honiss (New Zealand) Round 10 The Blues easily put away the Cheetahs in the sole Good Friday game. The next day saw the Chiefs beat the Highlanders before a startling mountain backdrop in Queenstown. The Crusaders annihilated the Force 53–0. It was the largest score ever conceded by the Force and the largest losing margin – but for the Crusaders it didn't come close to their 96–19 win against the Waratahs in 2002. The Sharks continued the high scoring – putting 57 points on the Reds in Brisbane for a big win. The Stormers upset the Lions 30–8 in Cape Town. In the sole Easter Sunday clash the Waratahs failed to resurrect their season against the Brumbies – going down 36–10 in the interstate grudge match between the rivals. The win put the Brumbies into the top four for the first time in 2007. 6 April 2007 19:35 Blues NZL 26–8 RSA Cheetahs Tries: Steve Devine, Doug Howlett, Anthony TuitavakeCon: Isa NacewaPen: Isa Nacewa (3) Try: Ryno van der MerwePen: Herkie Kruger Eden Park, Auckland Paul Marks (Australia) 7 April 2007 14:35 Highlanders NZL 34–38 NZL Chiefs Tries: Lucky Mulipola, Anton Oliver, Viliame Waqaseduadua, Matt Saunders, Toby MorlandCon: Nick Evans (2), Charlie HorePen: Nick Evans Tries: Niva Ta'auso, Sitiveni Sivivatu (2), Lelia Masaga (2)Con: Stephen Donald (5)Pen: Stephen Donald Queenstown Events Centre, Queenstown 11,000http://www.stuff.co.nz/4019165a1823.html https://web.archive.org/web/20070427205405/http://stuff.co.nz/4019165a1823.html dead 27 April 2007 No Saving Highlanders James Ryan www.Stuff.co.nz (Fairfax) 8 April 2007 5 May 2007 Steve Walsh (New Zealand) 7 April 2007 19:35 Crusaders NZL 53–0 AUS Western Force Tries: Rico Gear, Mose Tuiali'i, Kieran Read (2), Ross Filipo (3), Richie McCawCon: Dan Carter (5)Pen: Dan Carter Lancaster Park, Christchurch Mark Lawrence (South Africa) 7 April 2007 19:40 Reds AUS 16–59 RSA Sharks Try: John RoeCon: Clinton SchifcofskePen: Clinton Schifcofske (3) Tries: AJ Venter (2), JP Pietersen (2), Jacques Botes, Brad Barritt, Waylon Murray, Bismarck du Plessis, Keegan DanielCon: Ruan Pienaar (5), François Steyn (2) Lang Park, Brisbane 14,443http://www.stuff.co.nz/4019710a1823.html https://archive.today/20070514165324/http://www.stuff.co.nz/4019710a1823.html dead 14 May 2007 Jones Slams his Reds after record loss Stuff.co.nz 8 April 2007 5 May 2007 Chris Polluck (New Zealand) 7 April 2007 17:00 Stormers RSA 30–8 RSA Lions Tries: Peter Grant, De Wet Barry, Naas OlivierCon: Peter Grant (3)Pen: Peter Grant (3) Try: Jaque FouriePen: André Pretorius Newlands Stadium, Cape Town Bryce Lawrence (South Africa) 8 April 2007 19:40 Brumbies AUS 36–10 AUS Waratahs Tries: Mark Gerrard (2), Jone Tawake, Stephen Larkham (2)Con: Julian Huxley (2), Mark Gerrard (2)Pen: Julian Huxley Try: Rocky ElsomCon: Peter HewatPen: Peter Hewat Canberra Stadium, Canberra 23,097 Matt Goddard (Australia) Round 11 This week saw the Hurricanes take on the Cheetahs and Hosea Gear became the Hurricanes' hero after scoring a 90-metre try in the final moments of the game. It was also the team's fourth try of the game which gave them a bonus point on top of the win. The following day, the Chiefs thrashed the Western Force 64–36, a game which saw a total of 14 tries being scored, nine of which were scored by the Chiefs, with Roy Kinikinilau and Brendon Leonard each getting hat-tricks. The Crusaders then defeated the Highlanders to climb to the top of the table. The Blues lost to the Sharks at home, going down by 7 points, and the Waratahs won only their second game this season, defeating the Reds, who sit at the bottom of the table. In the last match of the week, the Bulls thrashed the Stormers 49–12. 13 April 2007 19:35 Hurricanes NZL 37–15 RSA Cheetahs Tries: Chris Masoe, Jerry Collins, Jason Eaton, Hosea GearCon: Piri Weepu (4)Pen: Piri Weepu (3) Tries: Gavin Passens, Juan SmithCon: Willem de WaalPen: Willem de Waal Wellington Regional Stadium, Wellington 15,770http://www.stuff.co.nz/4025529a1823.html https://archive.today/20070429221350/http://www.stuff.co.nz/4025529a1823.html dead 29 April 2007 Canes Still in Contention for S14 Title www.Stuff.co.nz (Fairfax) 14 April 2007 5 May 2007 AUS Paul Marks 14 April 2007 14:35 Chiefs NZL 64–36 AUS Western Force Tries: Roy Kinikinilau (3), Lelia Masaga, Brendon Leonard (3), Tanerau Latimer, Tasesa LaveaCon: Stephen Donald (5)Pen: Stephen Donald (3) Tries: Nathan Sharpe, Matt Giteau (2), Cameron Shepherd, Drew MitchellCon: Matt Giteau (4)Pen: Matt Giteau Waikato Stadium, Hamilton 13,100 Craig Joubert (South Africa) 14 April 2007 17:30 Highlanders NZL 3–38 NZL Crusaders Pen: Nick Evans Tries: Dan Carter, Casey Laulala (2), Caleb Ralph, Rua TipokiCon: Dan Carter (4), Stephen BrettPen: Dan Carter Carisbrook, Dunedin 10,000 Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa) 14 April 2007 19:35 Blues NZL 25–32 RSA Sharks Tries: Keven Mealamu, David Gibson, Daniel BraidCon: Isa Nacewa (2)Pen: Isa Nacewa (2) Tries: JP Pietersen (2), Odwa NdunganeCon: François SteynPen: Percy Montgomery (2), François SteynDrop: François Steyn (2) North Harbour Stadium, Albany 20,100 Stuart Dickinson (Australia) 14 April 2007 19:40 Waratahs AUS 26–13 AUS Reds Tries: Josh Valentine, Benn RobinsonCon: Peter Hewat (2)Pen: Peter Hewat (4) Tries: Clinton SchifcofskeCon: Clinton SchifcofskePen: Clinton Schifcofske (2) Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney 21,872 Kelvin Deaker (New Zealand) 14 April 2007 16:00 Bulls RSA 49–12 RSA Stormers Tries: Bakkies Botha (2), Wikus van Heerden (2) Pedrie Wannenburg, Heinie Adams, Wynand OlivierCon: Derick Hougaard (2), Morné Steyn (2)Pen: Derick Hougaard (2) Tries: Brent Russell, Dylan des FountainCon: Peter Grant Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria 50,000 Marius Jonker (South Africa) Round 12 The Crusaders defeated the Hurricanes in a thrilling encounter which saw Jerry Collins being stretchered off after injuring his neck in a tackle on Rua Tipoki. The Brumbies defeated the Western Force in an all-Australian derby by just two points and the Reds won their second game of the season defeating the Cheetahs. Ben Tune (who is leaving the club after the season) scored the winning try in that match, but the match of the round saw the Chiefs defeat the Sharks to put themselves in contention for a semi-final spot. The Waratahs lost to the Highlanders by a point after Peter Hewat missed another conversion, and in a South African derby, the Bulls thrashed the Lions 31–7. Finally, the Blues lost their away match to the Stormers, but they remain second in the table nonetheless. 20 April 2007 19:35 Crusaders NZL 23–13 NZL Hurricanes Tries: Corey Flynn, Ross FilipoCon: Dan Carter (2)Pen: Dan Carter (3) Tries: Ma'a NonuCon: Piri WeepuPen: Piri Weepu (2) Lancaster Park, Christchurch Paul Honiss (New Zealand) 20 April 2007 19:40 Brumbies AUS 14–12 AUS Western Force Tries: Jeremy PaulPen: Julian Huxley (2), Mark Gerrard Pen: Matt Giteau (4) Canberra Stadium, Canberra Stuart Dickinson (Australia) 21 April 2007 15:30 Reds AUS 23–13 RSA Cheetahs Tries: James Horwill, Ben TuneCon: Clinton Schifcofske (2)Pen: Clinton Schifcofske Tries: Kabamba FloorsCon: Meyer BosmanPen: Meyer Bosman (2) Lang Park, Queensland 12,500 Bryce Lawrence (New Zealand) 21 April 2007 19:35 Chiefs NZL 35–27 RSA Sharks Tries: Lelia Masaga, Tasesa Lavea (2), Brendon LeonardCon: Stephen Donald (3)Pen: Stephen Donald (3) Tries: Bobby Skinstad, Deon Carstens, Bismarck du Plessis, Penalty tryCon: Percy Montgomery, François SteynPen: François Steyn Waikato Stadium, Hamilton James Leckie (Australia) 21 April 2007 19:40 Waratahs AUS 25–26 NZL Highlanders Tries: Peter Hewat (2), Josh HolmesCon: Peter Hewat (2)Pen: Peter Hewat (2) Tries: Viliame Waqaseduadua, Nick Evans, Jason KawauCon: Nick EvansPen: Nick Evans (3) Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney Craig Joubert (South Africa) 21 April 2007 15:00 Lions RSA 7–31 RSA Bulls Tries: Willem AlbertsCon: André Pretorius Tries: Wynand Olivier (2), Bryan Habana, Akona Ndungane, JP NelCon: Derick Hougaard (3) Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg J.C. Fortuin (South Africa) 21 April 2007 17:05 Stormers RSA 33–20 NZL Blues Tries: Conrad Jantjes, Luke Watson, Jean de VilliersCon: Peter Grant (3)Pen: Peter Grant (4) Tries: Isaia Toeava, Tony WoodcockCon: David Holwell, Isa NacewaPen: David Holwell (2) Newlands Stadium, Cape Town Matt Goddard (Australia) Round 13 With the semi-final week just around the corner, Week 13 saw some close matches including the opener between the Highlanders and the Hurricanes at the cake tin. The score was 22 – 16 to the Hurricanes at 80 minutes but a final minute try to Toby Morland in the corner turned things around. Nick Evans needed to get the kick over to win the game but was unsuccessful allowing the Hurricanes to win the game lucky to not have the same situation when the Hurricanes lost to the Force in week 6. The force continued their up and down season by comfortably beating the cheetahs. The Waratahs narrowly lost going down to the chiefs. The Brumbies pulled an upset win over the Crusaders to keep their semi final hopes alive. The Sharks dominated the lions to make sure they would at least get a home semi final. The Blues lost their third game in a row going down to the Bulls which slimmed the chances of the Blues securing a semi final spot and helped the Bulls secure a semi final spot. The last game of the week saw the stormers easily put away the Reds. 27 April 2007 19:35 Hurricanes NZL 22–21 NZL Highlanders Tries: Jimmy Gopperth, Hosea GearPen: Piri Weepu (4) Tries: Nick Evans, Toby MorlandCon: Nick EvansPen: Nick Evans (3) Wellington Regional Stadium, Wellington 19,790 Bryce Lawrence (New Zealand) 27 April 2007 19:40 Waratahs AUS 23–28 NZL Chiefs Tries: Sam Norton-Knight, Lachlan TurnerCon: Peter Hewat (2)Pen: Peter Hewat (3) Tries: Sitiveni Sivivatu, Liam Messam, Tane TuipolotuCon: Stephen Donald (2)Pen: Stephen Donald (3) Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney 16,266 Willie Roos (South Africa) 27 April 2007 19:40 Western Force AUS 45–17 RSA Cheetahs Tries: Ryan Cross (2), Scott Staniforth (2), Digby Ioane, Tai McIsaac, AJ WhalleyCon: Matt Giteau (5) Tries: Philip Burger, Ryno van der Merwe, Kabamba FloorsCon: Wilem De Waal Subiaco Oval, Perth 24,330 Paul Honiss (New Zealand) 27 April 2007 19:05 Bulls RSA 40–19 NZL Blues Tries: Pedrie Wannenburg, Wikus van Heerden, Fourie du Preez, Heini AdamsCon: Derick Hougaard (4)Pen: Derick Hougaard (3)Drop: Derick Hougaard Tries: Troy FlavellCon: Isa NacewaPen: Isa Nacewa (4) Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria Stuart Dickinson (Australia) 28 April 2007 19:40 Brumbies AUS 15–6 NZL Crusaders Pen: Stirling Mortlock (3), Julian HuxleyDrop: Stephen Larkham Pen: Dan Carter (2) Canberra Stadium, Canberra 20,127 Marius Jonker (South Africa) 28 April 2007 15:00 Sharks RSA 33–3 RSA Lions Tries: JP Pietersen (2), Jacques Botes (2)Con: Percy Montgomery (2)Pen: Percy Montgomery (2), François Steyn Pen: Earl Rose Kings Park Stadium, Durban Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa) 28 April 2007 17:05 Stormers RSA 37–24 AUS Reds Tries: Luke Watson (2), Brent Russell (2), Joe van NiekerkCon: Peter Grant (3)Pen: Peter Grant (2) Tries: Ben Tune, Sean HardmanCon: Clinton SchifcofskePen: Clinton Schifcofske (4) Newlands Stadium, Cape Town Steve Walsh (New Zealand) Round 14 Both South African contenders—the Bulls and the Sharks—faced the possibility of a home semi-final. The weekend started with an upset when the Chiefs beat the Crusaders 30–24 at Lancaster Park. This result gave the Sharks the opportunity to take the top spot if they won in Cape Town. The Blues kept their chance at the title with a 33–6 victory against the Western Force. Later, the Brumbies maintained their semi-final potential with a 29–10 victory against the Highlanders. Waratahs defeated the Hurricanes away in Wellington 38–14. Cheetahs beat the Lions 16–10. The first main game of the day was the Stormers vs the Sharks. The Sharks claimed a 36–10 victory, becoming the first South African side to finish at the top of the table at the end of the round-robin stage in the Super 14 competition's history. The last game of the weekend featured the Bulls and the Reds, the former of which needed a bonus-point win to reach the semi-finals. Initially, the Reds were ahead 3–0, but by a quarter of the way into the match, the Bulls were on track for their bonus-point win. Early in the second half, the Bulls reached the 45-point margin needed to push them up to third place. The Bulls went on to achieve a margin of over 72 points over the Reds, bringing them to second place and securing a home semi-final at Loftus Versfeld; their final winning margin on 89 points set a new Super Rugby record. 4 May 2007 19:35 Crusaders NZL 24–30 NZL Chiefs Tries: Richie McCaw, Ross FilipoCon: Stephen BrettPen: Stephen Brett (4) Tries: Sitiveni Sivivatu (2)Con: Stephen DonaldPen: Stephen Donald (6) Lancaster Park, Christchurch Bryce Lawrence (New Zealand) 5 May 2007 19:05 Western Force AUS 6–33 NZL Blues Pen: Matt Giteau (2) Tries: Rudi Wulf, John Afoa, Keven Mealamu, Tony WoodcockCon: Luke McAlister (2)Pen: Luke McAlister (3) Subiaco Oval, Perth Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa) 5 May 2007 17:30 Highlanders NZL 10–29 AUS Brumbies Tries: Jason KawauCon: Nick EvansPen: Nick Evans Tries: Julian Huxley, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Stirling Mortlock, Mark ChisholmCon: Stirling Mortlock (3)Pen: Stirling Mortlock Carisbrook, Dunedin J.C. Fortuin (South Africa) 5 May 2007 19:35 Hurricanes NZL 14–38 AUS Waratahs Tries: Jimmy Gopperth, Jerry CollinsCon: Jimmy Gopperth, Piri Weepu Tries: Dean Mumm, Lachlan Turner, Lote Tuqiri, Ben JacobsCon: Peter Hewat (3)Pen: Peter Hewat (4) Wellington Regional Stadium, Wellington 25,290 Craig Joubert (South Africa) 5 May 2007 15:00 Lions RSA 10–16 RSA Cheetahs Tries: Ashwin WillemseCon: Earl RosePen: André Pretorius Tries: Eddie FredericksCon: Willem de WaalPen: Willem de Waal (2)Drop: Bevin Fortuin Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg Marius Jonker (South Africa) 5 May 2007 17:05 Stormers RSA 10–36 RSA Sharks Tries: Peter GrantCon: Peter GrantPen: Peter Grant Tries: Ryan Kankowski, Waylon Murray, Percy Montgomery, François Steyn, JP PietersenCon: Percy Montgomery (4)Pen: Percy Montgomery Newlands Stadium, Cape Town 48,000 Mark Lawrence (South Africa) 5 May 2007 19:10 Bulls RSA 92–3 AUS Reds Tries: Bryan Habana (2), Pierre Spies (2), Wikus van Heerden (2), Derick Kuün (2), Fourie du Preez, Wynand Olivier, Gary Botha, Pedrie Wannenburg, Jaco Van Der WesthuyzenCon: Derick Hougaard (11), Morné SteynPen: Derick Hougaard Pen: Clinton Schifcofske Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria Kelvin Deaker (New Zealand) Finals Semi finals 12 May 2007 15:00 Sharks RSA 34–18 NZL Blues Tries: Johann Muller, Butch James, Waylon MurrayCon: Percy Montgomery (2)Pen: Percy Montgomery (4)Drop: Butch James Tries: Rudi Wulf, Isa NacewaCon: Isa NacewaPen: Isa Nacewa (2) Kings Park Stadium, Durban 52,173 Stuart Dickinson (Australia) 12 May 2007 17:30 Bulls RSA 27–12 NZL Crusaders Pen: Derick Hougaard (8)Drop: Derick Hougaard Pen: Dan Carter (4) Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria ~53,000 Matt Goddard (Australia) Grand final 2007 Super 14 Final The match had four tries – two by each team, and the last of which was scored by Bulls' wing Bryan Habana in the 82nd minute to give his team the trophy. It was the first Super rugby final to be played in South Africa, as well as the first all South African final, and the first final with a South African winner.http://www.worldcupweb.com/wcrugby/news/viewarticle.asp?id=4076 Super 14 final preview: Sharks vs Bulls worldcupweb.com 18 May 2007 16 July 2007 Morris David dead https://web.archive.org/web/20070928025619/http://www.worldcupweb.com/wcrugby/news/viewarticle.asp?id=4076 28 September 2007 19 May 2007 15:00 Sharks RSA 19–20 RSA Bulls Tries: Pietersen, Van den BergPen: Montgomery (3) Tries: Spies, HabanaCon: Hougaard (2)Pen: Hougaard (2) Kings Park Stadium, Durban 54,000 Steve Walsh (New Zealand) FB 15Percy MontgomeryRW 14François SteynOC 13Waylon MurrayIC 12Brad BarrittLW 11JP PietersenFH 10Butch JamesSH 9 Ruan PienaarN8 8 Ryan KankowskiBF 7 AJ VenterOF 6 Jacques BotesRL 5 Johann MullerLL 4 Johan AckermannTP 3 BJ BothaHK 2 John Smit (c)LP 1 Deon CarstensSubstitutes:HK 16Bismarck du PlessisLP 17Tendai MtawariraRL 18Albert van den BergN8 19Warren BritzBL 20Bob SkinstadFH 21Rory KockottOC 22Adrian JacobsCoach:RSA Dick Muir FB 15Johan RoetsRW 14Akona NdunganeOC 13JP NelIC 12Wynand OlivierLW 11Bryan HabanaFH 10Derick HougaardSH 9 Fourie du PreezN8 8 Pierre SpiesBF 7 Wikus van HeerdenOF 6 Pedrie WannenburgRL 5 Victor Matfield (c)LL 4 Bakkies BothaTP 3 Rayno GerberHK 2 Gary BothaLP 1 Gurthro SteenkampSubstitutions:HK 16Jaco EngelsLP 17Danie ThiartRL 18Danie RossouwN8 19Derick KuünSH 20Heinie AdamsFH 21Morné SteynFB 22Jaco van der WesthuyzenCoach:RSA Heyneke Meyer Bulls defeat Sharks to win Super 14 Man of the Match:Victor Matfield (Bulls) Assistant referees:Lyndon Bray (New Zealand)Bryce Lawrence (New Zealand) Television match official:Kelvin Deaker (New Zealand) Assessor: Tappe Henning (South Africa) Player statistics Leading try scorers Top 3 try scorers (Stats) Pos Name Tries Pld Team1 JP Pietersen1215Sharks2 Bryan Habana815Bulls Lelia Masaga813Chiefs4 Cameron Shepherd713Force Rico Gear714Crusaders Leading point scorers Top 3 overall point scorers (Stats) Pos Name Points Pld Team1 Stephen Donald164 (2T, 26C, 34P)13Chiefs2 Derick Hougaard161 (0T, 28C, 33P, 3DG)15Bulls3 Peter Hewat156 (2T, 19C, 36P)13Waratahs References 2007 Category:2007 rugby union tournaments for clubs