Na na na na na na na, We've got Evan Strauss...

We managed to catch up with young Cobras Star Evan Strauss between his busy schedule of playing in a band, hitting the gym, seeing his bird and playing for the Cobras. This is what we got out of him...

You first memory of The Cobras?
The pride eminating out of the changeroom during my first experience of a jersey handout and squad annoucement.

When did you get your first Cap for the purple and white?
6 April 2011. First Round Game versus Marquard.

Preferred position on the field?
Flanker.

Off the field?
Anywhere, but Anton's lift.

Favourite Cobras song?
Kyle, Kyle Rennie! When he plays for Cobras he's drunk and happy!

Where is the best spot to bird watch on campus?
The trees by the Fitness Centre, opposite the Aerobics studio...

Evan cleaning a Saints player with the help of Dino

Relationship status?
It breaks my heart to admit that I do sometimes cheat on the Cobras with my girlfriend.

Where could we find you on any given night on the jol?
Tin Roof.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In the change room of the Cobras, asking Dino to help pull my jersey down over the size of my belly.

Black Label or Castle?
Castle.

Who is your role model in the cobras and why?
Poen. A scrummaging God and all-round nice guy.

Which Cobra would you want with you if you were stuck on a deserted island and why?
Warren Handley, weve caught many a fish together and with his ability to talk shit, boredom would simply never be an issue.

Cobras FTW?..
You bet your fucking life on it.

Check out Evan's band on facebook and like it, he is on the vocals...can this oke do everything or what? Impressive stuff...

http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-First-Descent/122983644415453?sk=app_178091127385

Long break

The Cobras have a few weeks off until their next Internal League fixture of 2011 vs. Wild Boys.

We go into the Easter break with two out of two so far having scored 67 points in the first two fixtures with 20 against, which came in the second fixture against the Shebeen Boys. The next fixture sees a big game against the other unbeaten team in our pool. This game will decide who finished top of the pool which allows for a better place in the next round.

The fixture vs. Wild Boys is on Wednesday the 11th of May, pencil it in it's going to be a big one.

Oh so brave

He plays on the left, he plays on the right!

You first memory of The Cobras?

In my second year, the Kelly’s were still playing, so a long long time ago. Smuts asked me to play so i could beef up the backline cause it was suppose to be a big game! All I know was that I was on the receiving end of a 50-0 thrashing. I remember thinking, sho those okes can play! Oh and olie put me on my head! PS i was a lot smaller back in the day, that’d never happen now. Obviously

When did you get your first Cap for the purple and white?

2010 against MOB

Preferred position on the field?

Right wing, I’m lazy so less running on that side

Off the field?

69

Favourite Cobras song?

Oh van Der Vyver you’r the love of my life....

Where is the best spot to bird watch on campus?

I’ve been in commerce for the last 4 and a half years and talents few and far between. So you’d have to ask Callan he knows the humanities building very well.

Relationship status?

Married to CFA

Where could we find you on any given night on the jol?

Okes tigers my home!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In the gym with my 5 year old laaitie showing him how to curl so he can get ready for the cobras! U must start them early u know

Black Label or Castle?

Naked Mexican preferably but otherwise castle draught thank you very much

Who is your role model in the cobras and why?

It has to be JP van hauffel! I have never seen a more passionate man for his favorite team the cobras. The oke is on some building site in Swaziland but still msgs me about the game!

Which Cobra would you want with you if you were stuck on a deserted island and why?

Definitely not one of those accounting okes! Sorry Graeme don’t want to be bored to death. This was a toughie but I reckon I’d go for Poeni. Yes he might not be the smartest cat on the block and probably couldn’t hunt or anything but chances are though that he is carrying some sort of “stimulant” and he is always on about how much fun he has so i guess at least I’d die a happy man. But seriously if worse comes to worse i could take him man for man! A Poeni steak sandwich can go a loooong way!

Cobras vibe?

If there was one thing the cobras have more of than any other team in the league, it would have to be gees! With all the new young guns its even more exciting cause they haven’t yet tasted the sweet sweet nectar of the internal legaue cup! With that in mind lets go f**king mental and bring it home!

Second one down

The Cobras beat a plucky Shebeen Boys last week Wednesday. After a dominant first half performance The Cobras raced to a 22-3 lead at the break. With a couple new combinations being tried in the second half the Shebeen Boys upped their game and came back strongly to eventually lose to The Cobras 29-20.

The first half saw some absolutely champagne rugby as the forwards dominated from the outset and the backs ran through at will, a lot of confidence taken from that performance.

The Cobras now have a lengthy break until the next fixture, more details to come soon...

Oh so brave

Whose that man from the Greek Islands?

We managed to catch up with Dino this morning in the middle of his busy daily schedule while he was sitting on the Jammie Steps observing the sights...this is what he had to say:

Dino, you well:

Dino: Jaaa man, all good in the hood. Amped for tonights game.

Dino: But shit there are some beautiful girls strutting their stuff this morning...

Are you not concerned about winter being here and the fact that they are now wearing more clothes?

Dino: Good point, but I reckon with more clothes comes a bit more sophistication, this get's my imagination going....

Oh right. Have you got a minute to spare to answer some questions for us?

Dino: Bru we could sit here for hours...I got nowhere to be.

Ok brilliant, it will only take a minute...

Dino: Fire away...

You first memory of The Cobras?
First memory of the Cobras would have to be my first game for the Cobras. It was cold, windy evening on the green mile and it was the quarter finals in 2009. I was nervous as I was only in grade 11 and much smaller than evryone else (despite nico). I don't remember that much but I do remember my first lineout when stand-in captain, Graeme Steen, looked me dead in the eye and said, "Dino, you see that guy... (he then proceeded to point at an oppososion player)... I want you to fucking kill him, fucking kill him Dino!". Truely inspiring.

When did you get your first Cap for the purple and white?
2009, when i was in grade 11.
Preferred position on the field?
My favourite position is 8th man, nothing better than a pick and go off a scrum thats dominating, most great players around the world play at 8 aswell. Although I do enjoy playing on the flank, blindside defense is always fun.

Off the field?

Straying offside from time to time.

Dino looking very stressed in the Greek Islands...

Favourite Cobras song?

I do enjoy most of the songs, last week in the changing room was incredibly festive but the few that stand out have got to be the Weather man's, Cobi's and Cian's, they all get the whole team going, but the best song for me would have to be Anton's one that he delievered in fine fashion last week. Always a fan favourite.

Where is the best spot to bird watch on campus?

Interesting question, for those willing to go the distance then I'd recommend any Film and Media class, there are loads of dumb but pretty girls that do that course. Otherwise Jammie steps is also a good call.

Relationship status?

In a relationship, 7 months and its been good so far. Not yet at the 'considering marriage stage' that Warren and Julz are at ha ha.

Where could we find you on any given night on the jol?

mmm... Tin Roof dance floor perhaps. That playlist is ageless.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Very very rich, owning a mansion, living in America, the works.

Black Label or Castle?

Black Label, just feels better to be drinking something that sponsors us our shorts. Although if a Castle is going, I"m not one to turn it down.

Who is your role model in the cobras and why?

There are a lot of choices in this catergory, but as a young memeber, I'd have to go with Kyle Rennie. As a fellow 8, Kyle has been doing it for years, showing experience and great skill at the position. His relaxed manner of living mixed with intensity on the field has really helped me build confidence on the field and feel welcome in the team.

Which Cobra would you want with you if you were stuck on a deserted island and why?

Warren Bulter, despite his leadership skills and some sense of resourcefulness, at least I'm certain he'll die of old age before me.

Cobras FTW?

Definitely, if we play like we did last week we should cruise home to another victory. I doubt it will be as easy as last week, but if our forwards set that physical platform from last week and our back run like they did, we should be 2-0 going into the 2 week break.

What's your view of the vibe in the Cobras?

Well, I think the answer to this question is already known if you were in Stones last week, but here is is again. Last week just proved to me why I love playing in this team, the entire build-up and all. Dinner at Hudsons, pre-game chat, bbm group jokes, the actual match and the fines with the night afterwards was all just one amazing experience, and I can't wait for tomoorow and the rest of the season.

A U A U A UCT!!!

A massive CONGRATULATIONS to the UCT 1XV on winning the 2011 Varsity Cup against Tukkies. What a game it was.

Oh so brave

The Cobras vs. Shebeen Boys - Kick off time changed!

This Wednesday The Cobras play their second fixture against a solid team in the form of the Shebeen Boys. The Shebeen Boys went down narrowly to the Wild Boys in their opening encounter and are sure going to come out firing looking to turn around last weeks performance into a victory.

The Cobras sealed a comfortable 38-0 win in their opening encounter a week ago, and will be looking for 2 out of 2 come Wednesday night. Another week, another exciting fixture.

Past results between the two sides:

2007: The Cobras 49 - 0 Shebeen Boys

2010: The Cobras 40 - 5 Shebeen Boys

Although history shows a one sided affair this Wednesday will be a completely different story as with a new year comes a new side. It is important that we take the momentum from last week into this fixture, it looks set to be a cracker with a team which we share a good bond with.

The Cobras vs. Shebeen Boys

Kick off: 19:30

Meet 18:30 SHARP below Cecil

UCTRFC B-Field

Starting XV:

1. Shane 2. Warren H 3. Poen

4. Dugald 5. Poefies

6. Evan 7. Dino 8. Kyle

9. Scud 10. Warren 12. Mike Nel 13. Nico

11. Maarzie 14. Rayaan 15. Army

Beer Boys for the 2nd fixture:

1. Cobi

2. Shane

3. Kyle

4. Evan

5. Shaun

6. Mike B

7. Callan

8. Fridge

9. Josh

1 x case of Castle Lager. Please if you can't bring beer make sure you get someone else to do so in your place.

This is a big game guys, let's get fired up...

Oh so brave

Bring it home...

It's the big Varsity Cup final tomorrow when UCT take on Tukkies in Pretoria. The UCT First team has a strong presence of Cobras in it for the big occasion.

Pete Haw receiving the man of the match award in the semi's

The Cobras who are running out in the blue and white hoops tomorrow evening come in the form of captain Nick Fenton-Wells, semi final man of the match Pete Haw, Zandy Macdonald and Mike Morris. Other Cobras who have represented UCT in the varsity cup are Adrian Kritzinger, Dayne Jans who are both unfortunately out of action due to injury, and then centre Olly Braithwaite.

We wish the whole squad the best of luck for this occasion, hope you guys bring the cup home!

Oh so brave

First one down...

The Cobras came out firing against a young Marquard side on Wednesday evening with a convincing 38-0 win. The forwards laid the perfect foundation for the backs to run some supreme angles while the Marquard defence stood clueless.

A great performance on the night from star centre Nico Loizides which was well supported by wing and man of the match Rayaan Adams.

Final score 38-0 to The Cobras.

Practice:

Friday 5pm

Sunday 5pm

Game next week:

The Cobras vs. Shebeen Boys...

Let's start thinking about it...

We all agree...

Cobras Cricket tour to Stellenbosch...

The Cobras embarked on a recent weekend 'Cricket Tour' of Stellenbosch to compete in the annual Graham Gooch Cricket Cup, which was held at Van Der Styl CC. After departing on the Friday afternoon the men from the Cape went straight to the nearest wine farm in the Boland region to kick off proceedings.

The team consisted of Kyle, Matt, Army, Stefan, Graeme, Nico, Warren with the management being made up of Dugald and Trent, and our own official umpire in the form of Brendan Raubenheimer.

What a great weekend it was although The Cobras lost narrowly in the semi's for the second year in a row to The Presidents. To our celebration the Presidents lost in the final therefor giving up their 2 year winning streak, having been the only team in the competition until this year to have won it, thank goodness.

Here we go...

After another successful Cobras team dinner at Hudson this evening, the boys are ready and focused with the task at hand going into the season opener against res side Marquard.

After a long off season and touch having been started in mid January, The Cobras are chomping at the bit to get out onto the park tomorrow evening to get their 2011 title campaign underway, and what an evening it looks set to be.

Let's have a quick look at the past results between the two sides, which have only ever met twice before in the 5 years of The Cobras:

The teams first met in the 2006 quater Final where The Cobras won the encounter 26-21.

We met again in the quater final in 2007 when the Cobras won 28-7.

The overall record of The Cobras: Played 44, won 39, Lost 6, Drawn 1.

The Cobras vs. Marquard

Kick off 18:30

Meet 17:30 SHARP below Cecil

UCTRFC B-Field

Starting XV

1. Shane 2. Warren H 3. Poen

4. Poefies 5. Jaimie

6. Dugald 7. Dino 8. Kyle

9. Skud 10. Warren B 12. Josh 13. Nico

11. Mano 15. Geoff 14. Maarzie

Beer Boys for first fixture: (1x case of Castle Lager)

1. Dugald
2. Poen
3. Craig
4. Warren H
5. Rayaan
6. Jason
7. Dino
8. Cobi
9. Junks

If you are unable to bring a case please arrange for someone else to do so in your place.

There it is, let's get out there and enjoy every minute of it...that's what it's all about!

Oh so brave...

Fixtures

First round fixtures:

Wednesday 6th of April

The Cobras vs. Marquard

Wednesday 13th of April

The Cobras vs. Shebeen Boys

Wednesday 4th of May

The Cobras vs. Wild Boys

Pools

The groupings for the first pool stage of the 2011 Internal League have been released, this is what it looks like for us:

Group B:

The Cobras

Wild Boys

Shebeen Boys

Marquard

First round of matches kick off on Wednesday 6th of April.

It's here again...

The 2011 UCT Internal League season coming soon....

The messages keep pouring in

From Warren Oupa Kelly

Fellow Cobras...

I joined this team in 2008 after having spent 2/3 years playing for other franchises in the UCT Internal League. I had no idea that I had just begun a journey with a group of okes that would involve unforgetable moments, mental motivation and uncontrolled madness both on and off the field.

Wednesday mornings I'd wake up thinking about a victory that evening on the Green Mile, nervous but excited. During the day I would visualize Raubs smashing over frightened opposition, Army bringing down giants, Warren B crusing through half-gaps, Kyle Rennie hitting okes back over the advantage line, Smorey carving up backlines, and woogy headbutting nadoes boneheads. Thinking about playing with the Cobras was all I could do.

It is the culture of this team that makes us a hard team to beat. Never did I get the feeling that a cobra wasn't putting every ounce of his purple heart into his performance. When it comes to motivation, what better way to find it than to look into your team mates eyes in the huddle before kick off and know that every oke is itching to do his part. Putting body on the line is never in question.

When you run out against the Nadoes today, be calm. You already know you are champions. I have played with most of you, I have seen the talent, the guts and the fucking glory. Give the cobras name everything you have on that field, because it will give back to you like you cannot imagine. Hit them hard boys, dazzle that crowd, and take home that cup, whatever it takes.

Oh so incredibly brave

Everywhere you go...

Keeeeeeennnnnnnnnnaaaaaaaaaakkkkkkkkkkkkoooooooooo! Good day Gents. And what a goooooood day it is. I can't tell you how I've been feeling for the last 48 hours. Waking up in cold sweats, nervous when the phone rings and scared of sunshine. I want this. I need this. We need this. It's the day of the final and my palms are sweaty. Five years from the inception of the Cobras on jammie steps we're in our second final with a team that seems (at least on paper) stronger than any we've fielded in the past.

Let's just take a moment here to rein in our emotions and reflect on past performances. Good and bad. Remember that shit nil nil draw up on a devilish evening on the Green Mile. Think back to that Herculean defense against a powerful Ubumbo side. Think back to those debuts, that sensational chip kick from Graeme Steen, that huge hit and those glaring mistakes. Think about them, learn from them and then forget them. Because tonight we wipe the slate clean. We build on positives and learn from the negatives. It will be a magnitude of game that most of us have never experienced. That none of us have played. For many it will be the pinnacle of our rugby carriers. It's final time baby! Let's take it home.

I'm giving my final weather report for the Cobras. So it would seem. What a journey it's been. What amazing blokes you all are. I often wonder if I would come across and befriend many of you in the CRFC. Imagine life without 'I want some Poeni, Poeni for me!'. Try to comprehend living a week where you don't get to hear- 'Sean, Sean, wherever you may be...!'. How different life is after Luc Du Plessis. The truth of the matter is we have, through one way or another, stumbled onto something so special, so unique that it is difficult to grasp who we'd be without the Purple Cobras. We wouldn't be half the men we are today. Swali Philanderer? Where do you think that name came from? I love going out at night with a non- cobra friend and run into one of the Cobras boys. 

'How do you know that guy?' My friend may ask.

'He's a fucking cobra!' I'll respond.

It's a bond shared amongst a bunch of dudes that not many guys get to share. It's not gay. It's just the truth. Wherever you may go, and for however long you will always be a Cobra. That means a free couch and many free beers all around the world. 

What I'm trying to say is this: Tonight we have the chance to put the cherry on the cake. We have it all. We've worked hard. So lets just go that little bit further. Another sixty minutes. 

And so... with that out the way I am ready to give you a full run down of Cape Town's weather today. What the predictions are and what will really happen.

Weather for Cape Town, South Africa

19°C | °F Current: Cloudy Wind: NW at 26 km/h Humidity: 52% Thu 16°C | 11°C

There you have it. Low temperatures with a strong NW. Nothing compared to the howling devil wind. I am predicting the wind to swing round into the SW towards late afternoon. This won't be too bad but it certainly won't be nearly as bad as the SE that makes the game one of two halves. 

I've had my say. All there is left is for you boys to get the job done. Make it ahppen and we'll be singing songs into the early hours of the morning.

Always take the weather with you...

This is what its all about!!

Lets bring the trophey home boys!!

OH SO BRAVE!!!!!

Tributes from the boys

A few of the Cobras who are currently abroad or unable to play sent in their words of encouragement ahead of tonights massive occasion. Let's go out there and not only represent ourselves and the team, but the okes that can't be here and who would have given their right arm to be able to play! This is our time...


Luc Du Plessis

Boys, manne, lads, chaps, buggers, distinguished Gentlemen of the Cobras

It’s unbelievably difficult to fathom the fact that I won’t be joining you in arms tonight on this momentous occasion.

As we speak I am overcome with an overwhelming emotion whilst engrossed in my own misfortunes (fuck flights are expensive) I wish things could be different, donning that no 8. Shirt, one last time, on a night like this.

But yet still in my despair there's an ominous cloud that washes over me, as I'm strangely comforted by the reverberations of immense Cobra's figures, it soothes my pain of missing out (FOMO) when I remember the quality of both the person and player alike – those men who form of part of the Cobras brotherhood and to-day for he who sheds his blood with you, shall be your brother.

I composed this little rhyme here for the boys: Enjoy!

Of what is to come is certainly going to be test
Of mans endeavour, his grit and his desire to be the best

For me it always starts there up front
Poenie and Badr bearing the brunt

Poefies and Jose –
team-players of the highest degree
Poefie the workhorse,
Jose - dangerous if you let him free!

To part of a backrow
Of such great men with heart
Fridge, Fetish and Rennie
They really set us apart

There’s stumpie or armie at halfback –
I know what you're thinking?
The one likes tall chicks,
the other one likes jinking

The men in centre,
I will never forget
For every opposition
they pose a double threat,

Lovely to watch –
they would always bust through
They're Oli, Jussie & Joush.
need-I remind you?

Out wide there’s JP & Coebie
They’re not short of toe
Junks works in Worcester baby
Probably the most hectic oke I know

Warren Butler
He is our the talisman,
He was there at the inception
when the Cobra began

He created such a vibe,
so special to us all,
So many a sing-song
That I can recall

He gave us a trip to Arniston,
Which stands clear in mind
Where Morrie and I won the golf
And some okes (Blakie) were fined

The legendary weather man
created a song for me
One which you will hopefully sing
When we drink out that trophy

Great characters, great memories
That I never will forget
This day will go down history
Boys play with no regret

All jokes now aside,
so bleak to miss the game
Lets dominate the Nadoes
and put them to fukin' shame

Draw inspiration from that great song and imagine that I’m the old man (much like Stefan Terblanche) speaking to you the Cobras on your journey to victory...”

“They stopped an old man along the way,
Hoping to find some long forgotten words or ancient melodies
He turned to them as if to say, Hurry boy, it's waiting there for you.”
(Toto – Africa)

Boys its waiting there, now go win it!
Amen

Bailo

having been lucky enough to play for many different teams and clubs around the world, no other team can even compete with the vibe and sense of brotherhood that the cobras offer. when you play for the cobras you know that everyone is going to look after each other on and off the field, something that not many teams offer. On top of that is what critics call the best fines meeting in world rugby, which puts together a potent mixture! They say that home is where the heart is, and i have no doubt that everyone who has had the privilege of playing in purple will keep and cherish this team for the rest of their lives.

wish i could be with you guys on this special occasion.
Alert, Awake, Alive, enthusiastic out.
oh so brave

Dil McEvoy

Throughout my year of traveling, undoubtedly the one thing I miss most about home is the Purple Cobras. There is just nothing else quite like it.

The first time I arrived on UCT B field at 6.30pm on a Wednesday evening with the wind howling down the Green Mile, I played a bit of touch with the okes to warm up, Stephen (Starven Steven) led the stretching, and I took to the field, full of nerves and hope. On that day I became part of something truly special. I became part of the Cobras. The team synonymous with flashy but fucking hard rugby. And after a night of merrymaking and chanting in the change room, the bond was sealed.

At the time I knew I was part of something great. But only now, being away from it, do I fully realize how extraordinary the vibe is. Now I don’t mean to get soppy and nostalgic, but these really are the days of your life. I’ve finished studying, I’m overseas and am now starting my career, I don’t know if I’ll ever get the opportunity to play for the Cobras again. But looking back on the memories I made and shared with The Cobras on the Green Mile, in change rooms, at the Bishops fields on a Sunday, at Wadda, Bang Bang and Forreys, those really were the best times of my varsity life. I would give anything to get them back, to be there on Thursday.

Lets get that fucking trophy engraved with C.O.B.R.A.S.

2010 – Year of The Cobras.

Oh So Brave boys!!

Nick Fent

where else would i have started? if it wasn't for the cobras i wouldn't have got to where i am today. This legendary outfit has created friendships and impressions that will last forever.. WE play great rugby and have awesome jols. You don't just "become" a cobra, its an honour and privilege to call myself a cobra! best of luck boys. know you'll do it.

OH SO BRAVE!

Let's bring it home...

The time has finally come...

After an extremely long season, the Final is finally here...and what an occasion it looks set to be.

UCT Internal League Championship Final

The Cobras vs. Tornadoes

Meet 18:00 SHARP below Cecil

Kick off 19:30

UCTRFC A Field

This is it Gentlemen, let's grab it with both hands.

Oh so brave

NB: Please bring Cobras Jerseys, don't forget.

Fridgey the Cobras man

See much of a difference? Na, didn't think so me neither!

My time as the resident interviewer this season has taken me too many interesting places. Front passenger seat of Poefie’s old mans Aston, the AG head offices, the dungeons at the UCT library (its a real place), a Greek church (whatever they’re called) but the most far out and broadening of which (in my mind at least) was visiting our engineer friend, Fridge, in Hout Bay. I donned the safety cloves, face mask and crotch protection items all in the name of health and safety, walked through a chaotic and noisy industrial factory with many folk hitting metal and melting what looked like old wheel burrows only to walk into a pristinely cleaned office to find, Fridge sitting in front of a computer playing spider solitaire. ‘Oh hi’ he said. ‘I’ll be right with you, I’m almost finished’. That’s where a four year engineering degree gets you I guess...

Explain the nick name fridge, if you would?

Well, it all started in std 6 back in 1999... our year at school had an indecent obsession with student head shapes, and derived many nick-names from this obsession. So, back when Bobby Skinstad was still the darling of Newlands, and hadn't yet defected to that pack of rats they call the Sharks, i got a bit of a short back and sides hair resembling old bob's. Unfortunately it made my head look completely square - thus the nick name Fridgehead. (other Head nicknames from my year include bushead, lollipop and lippe)

How many and which internal league teams did you play for before seeing the light and becoming Fridgey the Cobras man?

hmm.. 4
wildboys - 5 years
marquad - 2 years
soco thocos - 1 year
college house - one game.. haha

Marital status?

why does everyone ask me when i'm getting married.. the pressure, gosh!

Profession?

professional surf/engineer on the weekends

What’s it like representing the Purple and White?

its bloody fucking fantastic.. neither my liver nor i have experienced such a vibe!

How stoked are u about playing in the final on Thursday? Excited sleepless or petrified sleepless nights?

To quote Kearnsy: " this is where the experience comes in".. but a slight mixture between excited and petrified.

How do you rate the Hudson’s burgers?

average.. jokes.. pretty good... is that were we are fueling up on wednesday night?

Preferred position?

the reverse cowgirl!.. haha.. flank

Favourite Cobras drinking song?

oooooooooooh wazza's fuckin magic

Cobra till you die?

for sure.. which is probably pretty near for an old boy like me!

Explain in your own words the vibe in the Cobras camp leading up to the all important match on Thursday?

focussed, deadly, unstoppable..oh so brave

Favourite hangout spot?

Nothing beats the old forresters

How many surf boards do/ have you owned?

had 8, currently only have 5.. need some new ones though

What does your match day ritual consist of?

passing the ball around with lusky, until i pass it over the stairs, then joke around with junks for a bit, then stretch!

Is your boss a doos?

nah, he lets me off at lunch time on fridays to go surfing

Drink of choice?

Pint of Castle

Where d you see yourself in 10 years?

Playing for the cobras!

Shoe size?

11.5

Favourite band?

Kings of Leon definitely rock my sock off!

Best Cobras memory thus far?

i would say Luke and Bailo's send off but i cant remember much from that night.. otherwise cobras tour and administering a beat down on stumpi in fight club!

Just a few gees shots of who we are, The F**cking COBRAS!!

We all believe...

Hey Mikey you're so fine...

Cobi managed to fit me in between his early morning gym session (7am) and his late morning library session (10am) to give us a few words on his tenure with the Cobras men. A very busy man indeed, but his tan never seems to suffer...

How long have you been apart of the Cobras?

I've been with the Cobras since the beginning of 2008 so almost three years now hey.

Cobras till you die?

Of course

Please tell us why you despise Locnville (spelling) so much?

I don't actually despise Locnville as much as people think, I just don't really understand the fuss about their music, not my style to be honest.

Who do you rate is better Cooper or Carter?

Carter is solid but I'm going to have to go with Cooper, he's a magician and I enjoy the way he plays - especially in the Super 14 this year

As this is your 3rd year with the Cobras what’s it like representing the purple and white?

It's always a great thing to represent and be apart of such amazing vibe, on and off the field

Favourite rugby team (other then the Cobras of course)?

Prooovincccee!!

What does your Tuesday evening pre match ritual consist of?

Just a chilled night at home hey, a little spagbol or something and take it easy, nothing too hectic

How many cell phones have u lost in the past 2 years?

Including ones that weren't my fault/broke/etc? around the 8 mark..

If you were a travel agent (or something) and people were sitting of the fence over going to Infanta or not, what would you tell them in order to make them go?

Anyone who understands what Infanta is about can second me when I say that it really is a place just to get away from everything. Okes go there to chill, fish, surf, braai and things like that. But you have to be prepared food and booze-wise because the closest shop is an hour away. You can't explain it, you have to check it out to understand it..

Do you really drive a station wagon?

Ummm...ya..

Give us some highlights of your Cobras career thus far?

Varsity cup tour to PE and Arnies tour are the two which come to mind

Drink of choice?

tequila & red bull

Local hangout?

uct library

What u studying at UCT?

Bcomm - finance & economics

Rugby hero?

Matt Giteau - he dominates in his decision making and execution

What do you do to unwind?

Watch some TV, play guitar, mabye head to infanta if I have enough time off

Favourite Cobras chant and or drinking song?

'Oh Van der Vyfer' is a personal classic but otherwise 'We are the best there's no debate Cobras....na na na na NA...' always gets me going

What do you want to do when you grow up?

I want to be involved in the finance world, its too early to tell exactly what or where but that's the exciting thing

How stoked are u for the final?

Can't describe how amped I am, it's going to be a huge match and I'm 100% confident that the boys can take this if we play like we have up to this point

Got a date for the formal yet?

Not yet, have to keep the ladies on their toes till the last moment...

Seven days to go!

Seven days to go until the 2010 UCT Internal League Final...

23 September 2010
The Cobras vs. Nadoes
19:30 UCTRFC A-Field

The Road to the Final:

Cobras 10 - 7 Magic Lions (M.O.B)

Cobras 10 - 0 Spanners

Cobras 54 - 0 College House

Cobras 40 - 5 Smuts

Cobras 40 - 5 Shebeen Boys

Cobras 0 - 0 Kopano (Cobras take 5 points, no show)

Quaterfinal: Cobras 33 - 6 Ikhaya

Semifinal: Cobras 15 - 3 Ubumbo

.

Points for: 213

Points against: 26

Played 8

Won 8

Lost 0

.

Oh so brave...

Poefda Pretorius

Yes you are!!

Whilst cruising around the city bowl in the passenger seat of Mr Pretorius Snr’s average Aston Martin, sipping on a latte and gorging on a three cheese muffin from Vida, I managed to whip out the not pad and jot down a few answers from the questions I was firing at my fellow lock partner.

Explain, if you would, the story behind the great name ‘Poefies’?

I really wish the story was alot more spicy but unfortunately it's pretty blan; 1st day of boarding school some oke called me "poefter", I haven't looked back since.

When did you earn your first Cobras cap?

My 1st Cobras cap was back in 2006 under the captaincy of one Tom Brukman, hell what a team!

As a slightly older figure in the side, whats your view on the vibe this year in the camp?

I'm really loving the vibe this year, there's a good core group of players that are passionate and committed to the cause. By looking around in the change room before the game you can see that the okes won't settle for anything less than a win and a trophy at the end of the season.

How do you rate our chances in the up and coming final?

I honestly think we can do it. There are some awesome combinations in the side and the guys look like a formidable unit overall. I had the privilege of reffing a cobras game this year and being the closest "spectator" I could see how unstoppable the boys are when they get going. We just need to keep our heads about us and go through the motions the same way we've done all season.

Who’s you rugby idol, is it really Krynauw Otto?

Funnily enough my rugby idol is not the big KO but I prefer to look up to Tiaan Strauss, honestly, block speaking Afrikaans with an Aussie accent!

Beer or spirits? Have you tasted a Castle Light draught?

Tiger or Tin Roof? Tiger

Have u ever taken your Landie off road?

Every Sunday when I park next to Woodlands before touch.

As a man who loves and appreciates the great coastal destination that is Hermanus. Give us a few words about the majestic place incase there are a few out there who aren’t all that familiar with worlds greatest beach dorpie (a proven fact, look it up) Herms?

Hermanus is the best place in the world, fact. It's the perfect distance from Cape Town, world class golf course, awesome beaches and the fish and chips at Hermanus Fisheries is out of this world.

What’s your handicap? 7

What do you do for a little ‘me’ time?

I try to get out on the golf course as much as possible, but nothing beats a jog up to Rhodes Mem.

What makes up your breakfast on match day?

"Oats-so-easy" and a latte from Vida, sensational combo.

What’s it like being a working man and still studying?

It's tough, but I can't just be a student anymore, so I was really keen to do something else while I study. It takes a good balance that I'm still trying to find.

For the okes put there that don’t know, what is it exactly that you do (work wise)?

I'm help run a scuba diving magazine, basically it's a free, high gloss, A3 size magazine. You get it by subscribing online and it comes out 4 times a year. I do everything I can from selling advertising to writing articles, it's a really cool way to learn everything there is to publishing a magazine. We are in the process of launching a wine magazine using the same, successful, media model we use for the dive mag.

What would you do if you didn’t play rugby?

Refing the game is something that I've taken up this year so I would definitely try and give that a good run and see how far I can get.

Any messages you would like to pass on to the new up and coming youngsters in the Cobras ranks?

It's a great vibe to be apart of, there are so many friends to be met and, barring league rugby, there aren't many sports that you can feel part of a team as much as rugby. The Cobra's brand is a proud one and I would like to see the name being carried around UCT for as long as possible.

UCTRFC.co.za Final Preview...

IT'S THE BATTLE OF SUPREMACY IN THE STEINHOFF UCT INTERNAL LEAGUE FINAL

It's the Dream Final that everybody has been waiting for; Steinhoff Purple Cobras face off against their archrivals Steinhoff Tornadoes for the bragging rights of becoming 2010 champions.

The Steinhoff UCT Internal League Finals will be played on Thursday, 23 September which will see all 16 teams in actions on the night. The league has been divided into two sections, the Championships Section as well as the Cup Winners' section.

Steinhoff Tornadoes, the 2009 champions, will contest the Championships Section against Steinhoff Cobras after reaching the final with a convincing win over the Magic Lions in the semifinals.

Both teams playing a different brand of rugby - the Steinhoff Cobras are well known for their defensive game and quick counters, whilst the Steinhoff Tornadoes are best known for their attack-orientated approach; all of which makes for an interesting 2010 Final.

Although playing for the Championship trophy, these two teams are also playing for the rights to participate in the Steinhoff Koshuisrugby Championships - which, of course, takes place at the same time as the 2011 Varsity Cup tournament.

Finals: Thursday 23 September 2010 Championship Section

19:30 Steinhoff Tornadoes vs Steinhoff Cobras
A - Field

18:30 Steinhoff Magic Lions vs Steinhoff Ubumbo
B - Field

18:30 Steinhoff Ikhaya vs Steinhoff Wild Boys
C - Field

18:30 Steinhoff Spanners vs Steinhoff Smuts
A - Field

http://uctrfc.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=11986:its-the-battle-of-supremacy-in-the-steinhoff-uct-internal-league-final&catid=41:internal-league&Itemid=74

Interview time

Mano was kind enough to lend us his time and give us some thoughts on his tenure with the almighty, supreme, awesome, sick, legend Cobras!

Here's how it went down...

How long have you been a part of the Cobras?

Since first year- 2007.

Is it true that you were conceived whilst your old folks were watching the very popular (at the time), industry defining movie series of ‘Emanuel’? And therefore gave the name ‘Emanuel’.

I’ve avoided asking my parents about the time I was conceived- So maybe...

Are u Greek or Jewish?

Greek, but claim Jewish when I want to come right in the upstairs section of Fez… or get into Fez.

Cobras till you die?

F#cking of course!

Who do you rate is better Ricky January or Bolla Conradie?

Ricky is definitely a better looking terd.

As this is your 4th year with the Cobras what’s it like representing the purple and white?

It’s quite an honour playing outside the likes of Jussy B and Oli. Quite nerve racking as well as I don’t want to let down Oli. But I’m very proud to be a Cobra.

What does your Tuesday evening pre match ritual consist of?

I get to bed early- I know the tomorrow’s a big day. I find it hard to sleep because I’m thinking about tomorrow. I pop a speaker into the ear I’m not sleeping on. Music/playlists/rugby/peace with the inches speech… Hopefully I fall asleep soon, but unlikely- I’m anxious.

Give us some highlights of your Cobras career thus far?

Tour to P.EEEEE. The emergence of photographic evidence of Smorrie and Dugald ripping up that poor bus driver’s son’s clothes after getting kakked out by Dugald sr. Cian yakking on G at our first fines- racist!

Drink of choice?

Castle Lager, but thinking Castle Lite will be the beer for the summer.

Where’s your local hangout?

Kelvin waterside.

What u studying at UCT?

Finance and accounting.

Rugby hero?

Gio Aplon. He plays with a big heart and that’s what we want.

Favourite Cobras chant and or drinking song?

Oh van der Vyfer, you are the love of my life… I want curly hair too!

What do you do to unwind?

Rewatch some British Office, arrange my music collection, touch if its Sunday at 4pm.

What do you want to do when you grow up?

I'll be stoked if I become a CA. That's the plan. Have a big test on Monday, so will keep you updated.

How stoked are u for the final?

Very stoked

From the Cobras change room to the Aviva Premiership

Stuart Commins says he is settling into life at Franklin's Gardens and enjoying his time at the Saints.
8Share The 21-year-old scrum-half arrived during the summer after finishing his studies at the University of Cape Town, and after playing in the pre-season friendlies against Bedford and Dax he got his first taste of Aviva Premiership Rugby 'A' League action in the Round One match at Leicester.
And after having dried off from the deluge that hit Welford Road in the second half he took some time to reflect on his first few weeks at the club.

"Settling in has been easy, to be honest," Commins said. "The guys are great, the team spirit's unbelievable, and on and off the field things are going well. People are very friendly and that's the most important part. I've come here and I'm enjoying my rugby, and whether I'm at Franklin's Gardens or outside it's very special."

The trip to Leicester came 24 hours after Commins had experienced his first East Midlands derby from the stands, and he has already got a taste for the passion for rugby that this region of England has.

"You went to the Premiership game last Sunday and you can see the rivalry that exists between the two teams," he added. "There was a bit of banter going on both on and off the field! But it's great to see. The Saints have passionate supporters and it's always special when they get behind the team."

You can see the full interview with Stuart Commins highlighting exclusively at PremiershipRugby.tv

Stu has been included in the match day 22 for the Saints game against Harlequins tomorrow.

source: http://www.northamptonsaints.co.uk/news/6850.php

The Cobras go marching ON ON ON!

The Cobras advanced to the Final of the 2010 Internal League with a commanding performance against a powerful Ubumbo side on Wednesday evening. This will be the Cobras 3rd final in 5 years, also their 3rd against the Nadoes, with the record being 1-1 in Finals.

After a few strong and inspiring words from Nick Koster in the changeroom the jerseys were handed out and The Cobras were ready. The game started at a frenetic pace with both sides giving it their all in the opening exchanges. Ubumbo serged hard in the opening 5 but The Cobras defence was impenetrable with play moving back up field in favour of the Cobras. After a well worked move down the left Cobras flyer VIVA JP Van Huffels made the telling break and offloaded to stalwart Olly Braithwaite who was greeted under the poles by half a dozen teammates sharing the moment with him. It didn't stop there as once again Ubumbo serged but again, and the story of the night, The Cobras defence was too much for the physical Ubumbo players.

The heart and commitment of every Cobra at the point of contact was something special, as Nick Koster said before the game, it's about the little battles on the field that win the games, and the contact situation was most certainly won by The Cobras.

After sucking up a lot of the big pressure from Ubumbo the Cobras played their patient game and with some tactical kicking made their way up into the Ubumbo half with a scrum. The experienced Kyle Rennie broke from 8, offloaded to Graeme Steen only to put Brendan Raubenheimer away to score just right of the upright, 12-0.

Again The Cobras sucked up the pressure, and after some massive defence held out only for Ubumbo to have a shot at goal, 12-3. The game continued with massive hit after hit as both sides weren't giving each other an inch on the field. The Cobras patiently made there way up field which forced a penalty which Warren converted making leaving the score at 15-3 at half time.

The Cobras were fired up and knew they were 30min away from a place in the final. The set pieces were being won, Warren Handley playing a massive role in the lineouts and scrums at hooker in only his second outing for The Cobras. The pack stood up to a far bigger pack than themselves and dominated from the word go. It was a great clinical performance from the Cobras as until the last minute the Cobras were being asked to defend with their lives. The game was won but still the hunger and heart of the men in purple in white paid off as the ref drew the curtain on what was a fantastic effort and great momentum for The Cobras ahead of the all important final which is on the 23rd of September.

Man of the Match went to Captain courageous Callan Artis, the man is unstoppable when it comes to looking for contact, he led from the front putting his body on the line every second of the game.

Another special fines evening happened straight after the game as The Cobras celebrated reaching their 3rd final in 5 years, which already is an achievement to be proud of. One more step to go...it was the type of semi any team would have liked to have overcome going into a final.

Touch SUNDAY 4PM BISHOPS.

Oh so brave

Come on...

Best 3 Quarter Time Rev Up Speech Of All Time - Click here for another funny movie.

One more step...

Tonight is the biggest Cobras fixture of the season, and what a game it looks set to be. As the rain falls in Cape Town the men in Purple and White will still be looking to play their attractive brand of running rugby.

Semi-Final 2010

The Cobras vs. Uumbo

Meet 18:00 below Cecil

Kick off 19:00 UCT B-Field

This is it Gentlemen, let's fuckin do this...

Oh so brave

Beer boys for tomorrow

The men in charge of supplying us with sustenance after the game are...

Warren
Craig
Mano
Junks
Jape’s
Callan
Sean Patterson
Jason
Blackie

Viva JP

The wing slash fullback Viva JP is the next to give us a few details

First Names: Jean Paul Viva

Last Name: van Huffel

Birth Date: 09/04/1987

Birth Place: Sandton JHB

Country of Birth: South Africa

Height in cm: 180cm

Weight in kilos: 82kg

Preferred position: Wing

Primary School: Usutu Forest Primary School

High School: St Charles College

Tertiary Education: University of Cape Town

Favourite Movie: Law Abiding Citizen

Favourite Music: Dubstep

Favourite Food: Pizza

Favourite Player: Richard Kahui

what do you do before a rugby game: warm up

Favourite playing moment: Scoring a try against the Nadoe's

Godspeed Mighty Cobras

First and fore mostly a bloody big congratulations, and high fives all round for making it to the second last stage of the UCT internal league. A feat achieved 5 years in a row since the inception of the PC’s in 2006, and our pristine track record is still in tact! An impressive achievement. I’m proud as a peacock, as should be you.

But now is not the time to gloat. Tomorrow we have our biggest test of the season thus far. Umbumbo are typically a quality and very fiery side, they give it their all and hate to lose. We’ve  come up against them many times throughout the last 5 years, and both teams have a great amount of mutual respect (its not a rare occurrence to catch a cobra enjoying a gentle brew with an umbumbo at Tiger (Fez these days??) at 3.57am on a Saturday), however our track record speaks for itself. A track record that boldly tells tales of how we have come out the victor more often than not (ask Waz B for the exact figure). We are always hungrier. We are always harder. We are always better. We always fucking HATE losing more.

So Cobras go out there tomorrow and do what you do best. Give it your all. Go hard. No regrets.

I don’t want anyone sulking off to that changing room, head down, drinking a beer to drown the sorrow of loss, thinking if only I had given that much more. If only I had made that tackle, committed to that ruck, passed the ball, etc. No regrets.

No. I want you going into that changing room hearts full, knowing that win or lose

(Fucking win) you fucking gave it your all, that tonight you put your body on the line. And when that first ice cold gloriously golden lager starts gushing down your gullet, you are content in fact that you gave your absolute everything for your brother standing next to you in purple.

I leave you with this. Scarface knows the vibe….

Sending the best of luck from Croke Park in Dublin,

OSB

Quade

Quater-Final highlights...

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