Monday’s rugby news has concerns for the Wallabies pack, Beale back to normal, Pocock back to full training and an Argentinean upset.
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Wallabies pack told to toughen up
Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has emphasised that the forward pack must do more to shed the tag of being suspect in the physical contest and scrum battle. “I think most teams probably think they can out-muscle us,” Cheika said.
“It’s up to use to harden right up and make sure we belie that image of us.” The new coach did say that the scrum has been improving, although a few moments of weakness were decisive in costing the team penalties late in the 29-26 loss against Ireland.
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Beale wants to be role model
Kurtley Beale has talked up his road to redemption after playing most of the second half of the Wallabies’ loss to Ireland in replacing injured centre Tevita Kuridrani. Beale said he was “very close” to finalising an ARU contract for next year and emphasised that he was looking to be a role model for young indigenous kids.
He also rejected claims that he displayed a misogynistic attitude because his mother, grandmother and girlfriend are also women and that there was no intent to hurt anyone with the text message circulated in secret.
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Pocock starts full training
Former Wallabies captain David Pocock will start full training with the Brumbies today for the first time since his second knee reconstruction. Pocock will join the ACT squad for the initial training block before the Wallabies return from the Spring tour.
Coach Stephen Larkham said Brumbies captain Stephen Moore, Scott Fardy, Siliva Siliva and Sean Doyle (all knee injuries) would all rejoin the group over the coming weeks. If Pocock can get back to full form, it will be curious to see where he will fit into the Wallabies backrow.
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Pumas upset France
Argentina has defeated France 18-13 in Sunday’s match in Paris. Despite a majority of possession, the French team could not break through the opposition defence in scoring only one try through centre Wesley Fofana, while the Pumas kicked four field goals.
Argentina continue to show promising signs ahead of the World Cup, coming off a a solid Rugby Championship in which they came close to beating South Africa in Salta and defeated Australia 21-17, before beating Italy earlier this month.
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