The Brumbies' season will hinge to a large extent on how the inexperienced backline reserves fare. It will be a good test for the likes of Dargaville and Taliauli if and when they get on. Bernie seems to have a lot of confidence in James Dargaville, likening him to Pat McCabe, and if he brings his tackle busting abilities that were often on show for Sydney Uni to the game, I'm sure he will be of great value covering for 12, 13 or wing. Taliauli played some NRC and showed quite a bit of pace for a big man, and also the ability to beat tacklers with a step. Will be keeping a watchful eye on these two.
The debutante in the forwards is Rory Arnold, famous as being the tallest player in Super rugby. Thought he played with a fair bit of aggression (mongrel) in the NRC. Guess he wont go under the radar given the size of his frame.
The major factor working against the Reds (other than the whole of the Brumbies' team) is the number of debutantes in the team for this game. Whatever they do tomorrow, I have no doubt they will be better as the season progresses.