What happened to the Cheetahs in Brisbane?

Okay, I’m a big fan of underdogs and South African franchise the Cheetahs definitely fall into this criteria in the 2011 Super 15.

They suddenly caught my attention last weekend when they pinned the Waratahs into submission, beating them 23-3 in Sydney. Where did this come from? The Cheetahs, surely not. It was their first ever win on Australian soil, and I suddenly become a believer and a fan.

However, it’s amazing what happens in a week and how fortunes can change and confidence be suddenly ripped to pieces.

What the hell happened to the Cheetahs in Brisbane after such a dominant performance the week before against the Waratahs?

1. Too much sun and surf midweek in the Gold Coast.

Basing themselves in the Gold Coast midweek may have distracted them. After such a dominant performance in Sydney, the Queensland hotspot may have relaxed them just a little too much.

2 – Three restarts kicked out on the full.

They simply made a hash of the restarts, kicking three consecutive out on the full. It was simply not good enough as it gave the Reds ample opportunity to pile on the points. Indeed they did, leading 29-3 at the break.

3 – Wilhelm Steenkamp’s yellow card.

After throwing away the ball at the restarts, going down to 14 men made the task even harder. A high tackle by Captain Wilhelm Steenkamp left the Cheetahs already stretched on the field, conceding a try in the process.

4 – The Reds red hot attack

The Reds were simply too quick around the field. The attacking capabilities of Will Genia, Quade Cooper and co was evident, tearing to shreads any hopes of the Cheetahs gaining any momentum on the field.

5 – Basic errors and loss of possession

This is what killed the Cheetahs hopes. They simply couldn’t hold on to the ball when needed and threw away possession to the Reds in vital phases of the match. Compared to their match against the Waratahs, this performance was completely the opposite.

The only positive to come out of the match was the performance of replacement halfback Sarel Pretorius. He was outstanding around the field and somehow gave his team some motivation to battle on. Why don’t they start Pretorius more often?

Things don’t get any better for the boys from Free State as they face a tough task toppling the Blues next weekend at Toll Stadium in Whangerai. Can they leave behind the nightmares of Brisbane and defy the underdog tag once again? Good luck to them.