Brumbies v ACT XV trial

[Brumby Jack]

Here's a quick summary. I had to leave before getting a chance to hear the thoughts of Jake White or Ben Mowen.

• The scoreline of 66-0 doesn't truly reflect the game as the ACT XV had plenty of chances to score and at times had the Brumbies on the back foot but were let down by mistakes.
• The penalties against the Brumbies would probably cause some concern for Jake White as they came in multiples against the Brumbies, particularly in key positions on the field where a better team would be increasing the score in 3's.
• There was probably a little bit too much aimless kicking but it was a trial so that may not be what happens for the rest of the season.
• There were a few standout performances - Jesse Mogg looked good on the left wing, Robbie Coleman looked good at times and is playing with a sternum injury. In particular Nic White played well and bagged a sneaky try and kicked 3 conversions and a penalty goal and general field kicking may put him ahead of Ian Prior, but the battle for starting 9 is very close. Matt To'omua directed the backline well and his replacement, Zack Holmes didn't disappoint either.
• The scrum looked solid, despite Ben Alexander and Stephen Moore not playing. It may have been against inferior opposition but still looked good.

Brumbies 66 Hegarty, Mogg, White, Fardy, To'omua, Crawford, Kimlin, Prior tries; penalty try, White 3 cons 1 pen, To'omua 2 cons, Holmes 4 cons
ACT XV 0

 

[mudskipper]

ACT XV was a good opportunity to get game time without any heavy body damage a week before the start of the season. Thanks to the ACT XV lads for helping out the Brumbies crew.

 

[Slim 293]

From all reports it seems that Robbie Coleman was the star at fullback, and that Mowen had a good game in his new official role.

Placing Coleman at fullback could be a stroke of genius by White/Larkham.

It's also a good indication that when McCabe returns he should move into outside centre.

I really didn't want to see him wasted at the back there all year.

 

[spectator]

Jesse Moggs continued progress is good to see. Is he ahead of Sitauti at this stage?

 

[mudskipper]

Coleman has good speed in attack and cover defense...

 

[SuperGrover]

Jesse Moggs continued progress is good to see. Is he ahead of Sitauti at this stage?

As far as I can tell, assuming Speight has one wing spot sewn up, it looks like Mogg will battle it out with Sitauti and Tomane for the right to start the season on the other wing.