The conference problem has another aspect I have only recently began to, erm, appreciate:
"TOP" 6, by points order not rewards of mediocrity:
(1) Chiefs 39
(2) Stormers 37
(3) Bulls 37
(4) Highlanders 34
(5) Crusaders 33
(6) Brumbies 31
So, let's see this omit one from each conference BS and who it benefits.
TEAM - Top 6 Matches - Top 6 Opponents
(1) Chiefs - 6 - 4 (miss Stormers)
(2) Stormers - 4 - 3 (miss Chiefs, Brumbies)
(3) Bulls - 6 - 5
(4) Highlanders - 7 - 5
(5) Crusaders - 6 - 4 (miss Brumbies)
(6) Brumbies - 3 - 3 (miss Stormers, Crusaders)
We are rewarding a team (brumbies) with a place (3rd) when they will not play two teams that are above them in that log. If the Sharks had that draw, I am sure they'd be smiling. The chiefs walk away with an impressive tour because they skipped real opposition. Now, I like the chiefs but still - no need to call your tour successful. And the stormers/chiefs match is important. The stormers now in fact have a relatively easy ride while the chiefs perhaps hold a position that they may not entirely deserve.
I dunno. I preferred all teams vs all others. If that happened, brumbies would be outta here!
I watched the 2010 tri nations yesterday and I must say he and Pierre Spies are really good, they might not be playmakers like Aplon or SBW, but in international games defense is so good that playmakers end up looking average and the guys doing the hard work really strut their stuff.
Sadly that has not come to pass.
35-19 to the Canes.