Tri Nations Game 4 South Africa v Australia - Saturday 13 August 2011 - 3N2011

[fatprop]

I don't like the look of that bench on that predicted team. The lack of a lock is a worry. Before people say McCalman, if he is not having an impact as a loose forward, he isn't going to in the tight 5. Samo would make much more sense.

It is clear Deans doesn't agree.

Samo doesn't appear in his plans without injuries

 

[gowallabiesgo]

I hope Wallabies can retain Digby Ioane.
I think he was the Wallabies' best player against New Zealand and had a brilliant game against South Africa as well.
He has such amazing pace, the like of which we havent seen for a while. Remember those good old days with Lote Tuqiri, Lachie Turner, David Campese, Stephen Larkham and even Clyde Rathbone in their prime who could take on the line and score those amazing tries. We need more of that amazing speed and agility in the side...

I heard that Japan is trying to sign him (Digby Ioane)! The ARU had better secure this guy fast.

What do you all guys think!??

 

[Tangawizi]

If Deans does pick that suggested lineup, I am joing the chorus of those singing for his dismissal. In fact, I'll even write a song about it.

 

[Ruggo]

It is very clear that Deans don't agree. With Hodgeson on the bench, a specialist lock would be better still but if they wan't the lock/flanker combo, Samo would of been more impactful. Keeping our set piece strong should be a major focus for this game and that bench just exposes it. God I hope we don't lose a lock through injury in this game.

 

[antipodean]

Interesting article in the SMH inferring the Springboks have a tactical plan to 'destabilise the Wallabies'. Of more importance is what impact Jacques Nienaber will have in the limited time he's been in camp. I'm surprised he hasn't been brought in earluier given his demonstrated knowledge and ability to have teams execute.

Can't underestimate the importance of FDP, he's so good it's like having an extra player. Always seems to take the best option which enables those around him to be on the front foot. Lambie as a starting 1st 5/8 outside him would finally remove the shackles of the Springbok backline.

On the Wallaby side, Higginbotham to get a deserved start. Be interesting to see if he can have the same impact at the start of a test given everyone will be fresh and he'll have to play a bit tighter. Front five bolstered by the return of Sharpe who will offer more than Simmons did. Not sure about the bench. They all seem to be straight position replacements and a noticeable decline in form from their starting team mates. In terms of execution I'd put A. Fingers in front of McCabe.

 

[gowallabiesgo]

EDIT: Dupe post.

 

[fatprop]

I think we can expect the see the Boks play "Bulls" rugby.

FDP box kicking with a serious chases

A big load of big men running straight up the middle and confrontational defense

 

[gowallabiesgo]

If Deans does pick that suggested lineup, I am joing the chorus of those singing for his dismissal. In fact, I'll even write a song about it.

I hope he does then. Otherwise ill need to go shopping for some earplugs

 

[Troy]

I take it the official team announcements will only be made today SA time?

 

[Blue]

I think we can expect the see the Boks play "Bulls" rugby.

FDP box kicking with a serious chases

A big load of big men running straight up the middle and confrontational defense

Sort of like it's been since the beginning of time.

Never any guesswork needed so it becomes a battle of 1) do the boks execute it weel vs 20 how well can you defend it.

 

[DPK]

I think we can expect the see the Boks play "Bulls" rugby.

FDP box kicking with a serious chases

A big load of big men running straight up the middle and confrontational defense

Let's unleash the Swing it Wide Brigade.

 

[jay-c]

a massive drop off to the bench.
burgess the only one i see as being able to change a game... i expect we'll win it in the first half but everyone else seems a 'safe' player that wont make mistakes, but wont win u a game
we are running out of time before the wc... with limited time i think we need combinations in the 10-12 channel. its time for fainga.
the issue for me is that i have no confidence in turner -considering he has a gift that only bout 5% of players possess i find him infuriating to watch
behind digby and oconner none of our wingers scare the opposition> davies' pace does but cause our forwards get dominated so easily we cant afford to pick only attacking backs

 

[fatprop]

Sort of like it's been since the beginning of time.

Never any guesswork needed so it becomes a battle of 1) do the boks execute it weel vs 20 how well can you defend it.

every so often the Boks start running and passing and destroy us

 

[tigerland12]

I don't think McCalman is a good option off the bench, Samo would provide so much more punch in the last 20. We have to remember with Tatafu, Slipper, Mitchell, Horne and Barnes all likely/possible to return, our bench will strengthen by the time the WC comes around.

 

[Beefcake]

Considering there hasn't been any glaring physical presence in this squad vs SA, I expect the springbok to absolutely smash the wallabies forwards and run through the backs like a wet paperbag... Dont see anything new even they revise all there systems. Springboks by 18.

 

[Lance Free]

Here's the team: Higgers & Sharpe in the run-on, Ma'afu, Timani & Samo with McCalman in the reserves. 5-2 split. Going for bulk...

15. Kurtley Beale (NSW Waratahs)
14. James O’Connor (Western Force)
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper (Brumbies)
12. Pat McCabe (Brumbies)
11. Digby Ioane (Queensland Reds)
10. Quade Cooper (Queensland Reds)
9. Will Genia (Queensland Reds)
8. Scott Higginbotham (Queensland Reds)
7. David Pocock (Western Force)
6. Rocky Elsom (Brumbies, captain)
5. James Horwill (Queensland Reds)
4. Nathan Sharpe (Western Force)
3. Ben Alexander (Brumbies)
2. Stephen Moore (Brumbies)
1. Sekope Kepu (NSW Waratahs)

Reserves:

16. Saia Fainga’a (Queensland Reds)
17. Salesi Ma’afu (Brumbies)
18. Sitaleki Timani (NSW Waratahs)
19. Ben McCalman (Western Force)
20. Radike Samo (Queensland Reds)
21. Luke Burgess (NSW Waratahs)
22. Anthony Fainga’a (Queensland Reds

 

[Richo]

The starting line-up looks good but the bench is more concerning. 16-19 do not inspire me with confidence as they may well wilt if the Bokke pigs bring their A-game. Stoked to see Samo getting a run - let's hope Deans actually plays him for more than 8 minutes.

 

[Joe Blow]

Samo has to be given a chance this week. Deans would be crazy not to have a look at him with Palu a mediocre chance at best to be ready for the RWC.
The inclusion of Sharpe, Higgers and Samo in the starting side would stiffen up the pack considerably. That is a bit of a pipe dream with Elsom certain to hold his spot. However there is no reason why Sharpie and one of the others shouldn't start with the other getting a good 20-30 minutes to see what they can do.
Samo has had a great year and despite his age can definitely pick himself up for a shot at the RWC.

Come on Dingo....you know it makes sense!

P.S. Whoops. Didn't see the team.

Well done Robbie!!

 

[Joe Blow]

Why would you have both McCalman and Samo on the same bench with no back-up for 7 with a 5:2 split?
We have seen McCalman over the last few tests and know what he can do.
Should have been Hodgo or another back there instead of McC.

 

[Braveheart.]

I think Dean's has taken a step forward with the selection of this team.

Higgers for McCalman was a natural move (and one in the right direction). It gives us another ball running forward.

Sharpie for Simmons is also a good move.

Overall, pretty happy - but not jumping-out-of-my skin excited.