Here it is – the G&GR writers’ Super Rugby team of the week for round 5.
With a down week for Aussie sides after 3 losses and 2 wins, who makes the team this week?
[one_third last=”no”]
1. Scott Sio
Not a factor in attack but put on some big shots and disrupted the Tahs scrum all game.[/one_third][one_third last=”no”]
2. Tatafu Polota-Nau
Despite going down to Moore’s Brumbies, TPN was definitely the more involved of the Wallaby contenders. [/one_third][one_third last=”yes”]
3. Ben Alexander
Would have been heart-broken not to get a runaway try, set up the subsequent score nonetheless and outmuscled the Robinson-led Waratahs scrum. [/one_third]
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4. Jaques Potgeiter
Looking to be the buy of the season, showcasing his strong ball-carrying which is seemingly developing from a brick wall mentality to aiming between defenders. Added a few lineout wins. [/one_third] [one_third last=”no”]
5. Sam Carter
In an unspectacular week for no.5’s, Sam Carter gets the nod for his effort in maintaining the Brumby breakdown advantage and contribution at lineout time. [/one_third][one_third last=”yes”]
6. Scott Fardy
Huge game again for Fardy, has been on fire since the switch to 6. So disruptive at the breakdown and running with power, breaking through a number of Tahs tacklers throughout the match. [/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]
7. Michael Hooper
Although denied an anticipated match-up with Pocock, hit hard in defence, worked hard all game at the breakdown and was rewarded with a late try. [/one_third][one_third last=”no”]
8. Ben McCalman
Unstoppable with the ball in his hands, 2 linebreaks, a try and four tackle-busts in a game high 11 runs. Unfortunately will not be-able to continue his good form with a suspension on the cards. [/one_third][one_third last=”yes”]
9. Nic White
Distinguishing himself somewhat in the clouded Aussie 9 field, directed the game well, always up to pace at the breakdown and added a smart try to the mix.[/one_third]
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10. Matt Toomua
Unlucky to be carded for the team’s ill-discipline but was a major factor in the win. Always threatened the line either putting his team-mates into weak tackles or breaking through himself. Very strong in d as well, reminding viewers of his potential stability in a Wallabies midfield. [/one_third][one_third last=”no”]
11. Nick Cummins
Post-match interview was good enough to give him the nod. Also happened to play a strong game, without the highlights but was always working hard to be involved and his pressure led to the Rasolea try. [/one_third][one_third last=”yes”]
12. Mike Harris
Relatively quiet week for Aussie 12s, despite bombing a try practically over the line he ran hard all game against a tough Sharks side. Sliced through the midfield for a classy try, brushing off a few tackles. [/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]
13. Junior Rasolea
Big game from the Force 13, took a number of strong hit-ups, giving the team quick midfield ball. Classy finish after a determined charge down. [/one_third][one_third last=”no”]
14. Peter Betham
On the receiving end of two linebreaks, showed great footwork in the open-field. [/one_third][one_third last=”yes”]
15. Jesse Mogg
A definite highlight of the round was Mogg’s brilliant chip and chase where he blitzed past Izzie to score. [/one_third]
