Round Three was the best weekend of Australian Super Rugby in quite some time. Two quite exciting matches and we can only hope that the weeks we have following up will be just as good. To kick off round four the Waratahs return home to take on the Rebels and the Force host the Brumbies. The Reds will be sitting this round out on the bye. Lets see how the action will unfold….
WARATAHS vs REBELS – Sydney Cricket Ground
The longer Super Rugby AU goes on, the tougher this sort of match is becoming to pick. While the Rebels have been enjoying the bye last weekend, the Waratahs were out playing arguable their best match on the last few seasons
The Brumbies were expected to make short work of the Waratahs but they put in a performance that should give them plenty of confidence, but my big question is, can they do that two weeks in a row?!
The Waratahs are a side that struggle for consistency over eighty minutes, let alone week to week and if round four sees them back into the shell against the Rebels, this becomes easier to pick.
Weather conditions will be key and despite his lack of experience, if its wet, Will Harrison should have the game over Toomua. Its always been a question of not who is playing for the Waratahs, but if they will perform, nothing has changed there.
The Rebels had the week off but they couldn’t go home. Another week away and another week on the never ending road trip.
The last time we saw the Rebels was the abysmal draw against the Reds, the sooner we forget about that, the better. It was the best round of Super Rugby AU last weekend and the Rebels weren’t involved, coincidence? I think not.
The Rebels won’t want to see rain because they can’t play in it. They will be getting tired of hotels too. They have enough game breakers to cut the game open but they need a better guide at ten. To’omua is not the right option and this is the season to find new talent.
The Rebels will need a massive showing by the backrow. Josh Kemeny has been a great new name for them. If the Rebels are starved of possession, it could be a long night for them. Also watch tighthead prop Pone Fa’amasusili, hes been smashing defenders every week now and looks like another solid player.
RESULT: Waratahs by 3
FORCE vs BRUMBIES – Leichhardt Oval
This should be the ultimate test for the Western Force. They have pushed sides in their two games so far but haven’t shown the ability to close a game out. Maybe that chance will appear in the coming weeks.
For this round its gonna be tough, even if the Brumbies have been far from their best. The Force just need to play their own game above all else.
Play that territory kicking game and try force errors in the right areas. They have good finishers when the opportunity arises. They dearly missed Ian Prior last week and will be without him again for round four but instead have a fit and ready Nick Frisby to take control. A worthy replacement.
In another boost for the Force, Richard Kahui will enter the 23 for the first time since his recent signing and will wear the number 22. A real unknown as to what he will offer and has the possibility to make a difference in this backline.
The mid five if I can call them that will be key for the Force. The back row and the halves. Jono Lance has guided the team well and Brynard Stander has been the stand out.
Where do you start with the Brumbies?! So underwhelming yet they just keep winning. Great to get results but surely they are running out of get of jail free cards at this rate.
In a big blow, Noah Lolesio has been ruled out for the season after suffering an injury last weekend. The young depth will be tested.
If we see an on song Brumbies this could be a bit of a thumping but I don’t think they are there yet. The outside back have picked up though and like others have, should have some fun against the Force defence.
I don’t think he’s key, but the man ill be watch is Tavita Kurindrani. He has had an invisible season so far and needs a step up display. Whoever gets the nod at ten will be important for the Brumbies.
RESULT: Brumbies by 9
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