The Steyn vs Lambie debate

The match-up between Bulls pivot Morne Steyn and Sharks ace Pat Lambie in Durban last weekend was billed as a possible Springbok trial.

Although Steyn was deemed to have performed better, stats suggest neither proved themselves to be the ideal candidate for the Bok flyhalf berth.

Lambie got poor ball from his out-muscled pack making his life very difficult, while the Bulls varied their play astutely throughout, kicking well but also running from unexpected situations – especially in the first half. Much of the credit must go to Fourie du Preez, who always dictates play, while Steyn has improved slightly in this aspect.

Steyn was awarded the Man of the Match award for his seven out of eight goal-kicking performance with a points contribution of 22 via five penalties, two conversions and a drop-goal, which was in accordance with his usual standards. However, all the question marks have been over other areas of his game, while Lambie also only missed one kick at goal, but was also vulnerable in other aspects.

Steyn’s ability to take the ball flat remains a weakness and means the Bulls aren’t as good an attacking unit as they could be, while his defence and decision-making are also not good enough for an international quality No.10.

Steyn was more reliant on his tactical kicking (as is the Bulls’ way), and kicked 14 times – as opposed to Lambie’s three. When Steyn did try kick to space, four of those six times the opposition fielded the ball, indicating his accuracy is still not good enough in what is supposed to be his main strength.

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By Grant Ball (rugbyxv writer)