Victory against the Bulls was followed up by a disappointing performance against the Stormers. I visited Eden Park to watch the Force match just in case this wasn’t a 1-hit wonder by the under-performing Auckland-based franchise.

The Blues were convincing in this encounter. They defended with patience and aggression. They hit their rucks with venom and came up with plays in the attacking third that resulted in tries.

Joe Rokocoko

Rokocoko really hit his straps against the Force

Rokocoko scored a hat trick. He ran with purpose and speed – back to his best we hope.

Tony Woodcock got a try – just reward for a good all round performance.

Tony Woodcock

Tony Woodcock takes the last defender over the line

Toeava looked dangerous with ball in hand, showing the kind of vision and ball skills that got him into the All Blacks but so often left him when it really mattered.

But it was back to the frustration in the Republic with an average performance against the Sharks in Durban.

This was a match that they could easily have won but a succession of mistakes and lost opportunities left them flat.

What next for the Blues?

Well, they could realistically win their remaining matches.

The Cheetahs and Lions have performed poorly and the Chiefs’ season has well and truly fallen off the rails.

But will the Blues win these games?

Time will tell.

I give then even money.