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Actually I think Hooper was the best performing backrower. Wilson is a great but he throws away possession with his offload attempts, and was his breakdown work any better then Hoopers or Hanigan? I don't think so. He didn't have the same impact with his running game, but Hanigan did with a...

Absolutely. First week we are strong in contact with low missed tackles but shit on the set-piece. Next week it's the opposite. It's like we can't maintain our strengths into the next week and it ends up a weakness the next. Are our players incapable of focusing on more then one part of the...

I think 10 Mo-unga worked with BB at Fullback. But I still think BB at 10 is better with 15 Jordie or DMac. Mo unga was solid but without being outstanding this game. But he doesn't look close to the 'world best 10' by any means. He's had enough chances now a whole RWC and two decent hit-out...

BB and Clarke were a big difference too. Take those 2 players out and the missed tackle count drops significantly. In fact I think we look the better team if they aren't playing.

Now there's an idea Tom Wright would have potential at 15 in the future

3. Hooper 2. LSL (Lukhan Salakaia-Loto) 1. Philip Think these guys were the only ones with no handling errors

Yeh I think he's just got to start at 13. Hunter was good last week. But this is Test rugby. Petaia is better and the best player should start. Not sure he is our best 15, has he played much there? Any kicking game? High ball work? I have been disappointed with Banks. He has zero on attack...

I don't think Wrights role changes much playing at 8 if he moved to 7. He'll play exactly the same around the park. But I do see your logic now. I like that idea.... but would work better with say McMahon at 7. But if you're dropping Hooper then your better off with Samu at 7 and you could...

Next match: Samu for Wright - easy decision Tate for Gordon - Gordon hasn't done much, least Tate has the ability to score a try or add some spark if needed. Hanigan - I think his positives outweighed his penalties. I'd stick with him. Petaia - needs to start Banks - Swap for DHP if fit...

You lost me at Wright for Hooper. Especially after this match. Despite a turnover Wright looked out of place at Test level.

BB and Clarke scare me :(

I agree, I'm more nervous about BPA's line-out throwing. I don't think any of our Hookers are throwing well. I thought Fainga was the most consistant but we all know how that went last match.

Well said. Hanigan is unfairly judged as he was brought in way too early. He has been a solid super XV player for a few years now and deserves another shot. He is workhorse who is strong in the set-peice, especially line-out, so this could balance the pack out nicely. I hope everyone views...

Most NZ's really don't rate BB much at 10. I think his acceleration, speed, chip n chase, and cross-field kicks are a deadly combo at 10 and unlike any other 10 going round. He would score a try on his acceleration alone most games. These attributes seem to be really under-rated. He won...

Disagree. JOC (James O'Connor) has already came out and said he was happy he wasn't playing 12 anymore as it was too hard on his body. I'd prefer a player at 12 who embraces the physicality of the position - not shy away from it. Not that JOC (James O'Connor) would shy away from thr tough stuff if chosen in the position but...

I may be wrong, but I thought he knocked on. So one error and then no impact = poor game IMO.

I don't think moving JOC (James O'Connor) to 12 is a good option. He doesn't offer as much at 12. He won't straighten the line like To'omua or Simone does, and you lose the hard hitting defence. I think we have to view JOC (James O'Connor) as a 10 only. If To'omua is dropped, Id say Simone is the next in line. Or i'd rather see...

Fair points, but I still think a bit harsh in my opinion. But I also think I was a bit light on him too after your post, the reality of his performance is probably somewhere in the middle. The second part is easy to answer "In what world do you as a defender, see someone kick on attack and...

Samu was still solid with a few turnovers, and getting some tough run metres in tight with his footwork. A different Samu to Super Rugby as you mentioned. Valetini was poor when he arrived I thought. Wouldn't mind seeing Liam Wright replace him on the bench or start Liam with Samu on the...

Agree, Banks was absolutely solid at the back which is exactly what you want in those conditions. Deserves to keep his spot. Although he really isn't offering much on attack which needs to improve. Would love to see more of his inside lines.