ACT Brumbies
The Brumbies suck.
Their defence deteriorated in 2014: only two teams missed more tackles per game last year than they did, yet their opponents had not much trouble tackling them. Another bad statistic was that they were the worst in the competition at forcing turnovers.
They had easily the worst Super Rugby scrum success on their put-in, 75%, and their goal kicking percentage of 62% was also the worst.
The Brumbies will always be the most pragmatic Aussie team in the style of rugby they play because of the weather and ground conditions close to the mountains, and it showed in 2014—only three teams passed the ball less than they did.
Coach Steve Larkham should have them run the ball more when conditions are right for it. He knows something of expansive play, does he not, and he has some handy players who know how to attack,
Matt To’omua – should be playing inside centre
The Brumbies could be missing a trick playing Matt To’omua at flyhalf. He’s a damned good Wallaby inside centre and his combination with Tevita Kurindraini works well in test matches. Christian Lealli’ifano did a fine job wearing the 1o jersey when To’omua was crocked in 2012, before his own serious injury occurred, and one wonders why the Wallaby midfield, one of the few functioning units in the team, is not given a shot in Brumbieland.
The Brumbies didn’t lose a lot of players they wanted to keep but the retirement of Pat McCabe robbed them of a gritty utility who will be missed. The loss of skipper Ben Mowen’s onfield leadership, lineout management and referee manipulation is another negative.
David Pocock – can he stay healthy?
Why the Brumbies may not suck in 2015
They were successful in re-signing several players players who may have gone elsewhere, and if David Pocock can have a full season it would be like getting a brand-new star. If Fotu Auelua can start the season, unlike last year, and new skipper Stephen Moore finish it, it would be like having an additional experienced player compared to 2014.
They have a strong second row and earned the second highest lineout success percentage last year but how much that was down to Mowen is unknown. Tight head prop Allan Ala’alatoa and lock Tom Staniforth are two of the finest young tight five prospects in the country and could have an effect even this year.
They have two class wingers in Henry Speight and Joe Tomane and if Jesse Mogg can get his mojo back from 2013 they will have a cracking back three. Also, rookie James Dargaville may surprise a few if he gets an opportunity on the wing, as he has been brilliant in Sydney club rugby.
Suckiness index – 4
See next page for why the Waratahs suck
