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The bizarre Loftus Versfeld factor that potentially played into Glasgow's hands
By Ben Smith
Many expected the Blue Bulls to hold a significant home field advantage over the Glasgow Warriors at Loftus Versfeld in the United Rugby Championship final, in part due to the altitude.
The famous stadium on the High Veld has the altitude level bannered above the entry to the field play, telling visitors that "it matters".
The altitude factor was attributed in playing a role of the Bulls' victory over Leinster in the semi-final last weekend.
Glasgow Warriors prop Jamie Bhatti shared a playful post after the Warriors' 21-16 upset win, taking a photo with the signage.
But some have tabled a new theory that led to fortress Loftus becoming "night club Loftus", with interference from the stadium DJ contributing to an atmosphere that took away the intimidation factor.
South African rugby writer Brendan Nel penned a column for SuperSport highlighting that the DJ attempted play music for the entire 80 minutes.
"When you have a partisan home crowd backing you, playing 80 minutes of music takes them out of the fight," he wrote.
Others chimed in with agreement, with the music at Loftus becoming a gripe over "a few seasons".
He's 100% right. Had that at the Champions Cup Final a few weeks ago too. Why does anyone think it's a good idea?— Declan Higgins ☘ (@declan1968) June 23, 2024
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Paddy T is playing the best footy of his career off the bench, and he’s a leader.
Straight swap: Paddy in for Scott, Scott to the bench.
But I’m loving Tuipolotu as an impact sub.
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I'd like see the young fullbacks play fullback, and so Jordan cover on the wing instead. Even seeing Reiks on the other wing would be cool, Reece can go back on the bench if theres even room for him there.
So preferably it would be ALB and second five where he came of the bench in the weekend and was great. He's a bit slow on the play for outside center but looks like he might need to play there if we need wingers.
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No team lists here, that's kid games...
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