There were reports (from Cheika, perhaps) for the Tahs to lift their game a notch for yesterday's match leading into the finals. And they did, but their pressing play led to a few worrying handling errors early in the match. TBH I don't think there's much more the Tahs have to do to keep on winning other than what they do now, perhaps polish their plays and execute them that tiny bit better. One thing was outstanding yesterday, their defence against the vaunted Clan backs; the Tahs play here was magnificent. Once again the only way through for an opposition backline was via the boot, a delicate little chip kick led to the Clan's only try.
The Tahs backs looked very good and I'm sure many here will award them numerous points in the MotM stakes. However, as is usual in games like this victory was built on an outstanding display from the blue forwards, Kepu, JacPot, Hooper, Robbo and Hoiles in particular, HMs to TPN, Palu and Douglas. Big Willie did his job well and I liked the few bits Chapman contributed late in the game. The Tahs' backs really did get an armchair ride, and they took full advantage of it. Beale was back to his best attacking the line and backed up multiple times (has anyone noticed the understanding developing between Kurtley and Izzy?), Foley played nice and straight, AAC (Adam Ashley-Cooper) and Horne gave their opponents no time or space, Phipps's quick ruck ball was a major part in the time and space his backs had, and Alofa contributed wonderfully with his dazzling twinkletoes.
This Clan side are no mugs, they aren't sitting fourth on the table with 8 wins for no reason. I saw them play in the Newcastle trial in February and commented at the time, "Highlanders: typical New Zealand side which competes ferociously at the breakdown, Vic Kavanagh would've been proud of them. They also worked quite hard keeping their field structure intact, in both attack and defence. The Clan'll cause quite a few problems for other sides this year." They should, and deserve to, be playing in the finals.