In the lead up to Saturday night’s clash between the Waratahs and the Brumbies, we have a closer look at the key players from each team.
Henry Speight
Key Stats
37 defenders beaten (10th in competition)
Form
Despite sitting out of Super Rugby for six weeks with a broken jaw, Speight has been in exhilarating form and is definitely a player the Waratahs will want to shut down. Speight’s speed and ability to make metres and break tackles with such little space make him a constant danger.
Israel Folau
Key Stats
25 clean line breaks (1st in the competition)
48 defenders beaten (3rd in the competition)
1031 metres (4th in competition)
43 offloads (1st in competition)
12 tries (1st in competition)
Form
Folau is an obvious danger man for the Brumbies. Early this year the Brumbies were able to shut Folau out for most of the game despite the fact he scored a late try. The Brumbies will have to be careful with their kicking game due to Folau’s high ball and counter attacking abilities.
Jesse Mogg
Key Stats
1109 metres (2nd in competition)
8 tries (4th in competition)
Form
Mogg’s performances have been inconsistent this year and this is reflected by the fact that he has been unable to make the Wallabies squad. His try scoring ability, speed and giant left boot are sometimes plagued by basic errors. His performance could have a large bearing on the outcome of the game.
Jarrad Butler
Key Stat
193 tackles (3rd in competition)
Form
One of the unsung hero’s in the Brumbies team. Butler came in for the injured David Pocock this season and has been a workhorse in the Brumbies forward pack. His stats show that he is one of the top defenders in the competition and he does the small things well. Just like most of the other Brumby forwards he is not flashy but does the simple things well and effectively.
Michael Hooper
Key Stat
168 tackles (6th in competition)
Form
The Waratahs and Wallabies captain has had a superb season so far. His energy in attack and defence always continues to amaze fans and spectators. There is little doubt that Hooper will give his best but will it be enough to nullify the Brumbies forward pack.
Source: http://www.sanzarrugby.com/superrugby/competition-stats/player-ranking/
