Ryan Vrede

Ryan Vrede

White’s stamp on Sharks evident

Having blown away the Bulls in round one, Jake White's Sharks added resilience to their growing list of qualities against the Hurricanes, writes RYAN VREDE. 

Bulls in big trouble

The Bulls are facing a season that could get uglier than their diabolical 2008 campaign and Frans Ludeke seems powerless to stop it, writes RYAN VREDE.

Perspective needed on Catrakilis

In the context of the Stormers' game plan, Demetri Catrakilis is an infinitely better option than Elton Jantjies, but don't expect him to be the piece of the puzzle that ends their title drought, writes RYAN VREDE.

Bleak outlook for Hougaard

Even at this early stage of the season, Francois Hougaard has given Vodacom Bulls and Bok fans little to be optimistic about, writes RYAN VREDE. 

De Villiers deserves all praise

Jean de Villiers has had to endure pressure that would have cracked lesser men and deserves to be recognised as South Africa's Player of the Year, writes RYAN VREDE.

Bulls set for season of struggle

Victor Matfield's return alone won't be enough to ensure the Bulls are in the conversation for the title. Their poor succession planning will undermine their Super Rugby cause, writes RYAN VREDE. 

Sterile Stormers need intervention

The Stormers' success will be built on attacking improvement. Ominously for their supporters, that looks to be beyond their coaching staff, writes RYAN VREDE. 

Five Aussie backs to watch

RYAN VREDE looks at the backline men who could play an important role in the 2014 Super Rugby tournament.