1. Brumbies Light on Bonus Points?
A lot has been said on the ACT Brumbies failing to get a four try bonus point in their comfortable win over the Cheetahs.
While having a swag of possession (58%) they were unable to cross the try line more than twice, with both tries coming at the start of each half. This is despite having eight line breaks and nearly double the number of run metres of the Cheetahs (622 v 331)
I think the Brumbies would be disappointed in that return but there are some very promising aspects to the win that should be highlighted.
They only conceded three points, the Cheetahs aren’t among the best Super Rugby teams but keeping any team to three is impressive. In fact they are the best defensive team in the competition (conceding only 83) and are level with the white hot Hurricanes in point difference.
The win means that the Brumbies have 11 on the trot at home, one more and they will equal the 1996-98 record. Establishing a fortress at home goes a long way to getting a title, although finishing on top means you can use that advantage when it really counts.
At this stage of the season the Brumbies have as many bonus points as any team with four from seven games. The only team with more are the Auckland Blues with five, but they are yet to win a game and the unbeaten Hurricanes have only three. Winning is the main thing.
