Darwin
AKA Dingo_Darwin
- Joined
- May 30, 2007
- Messages
- 6,155
- Country Flag
- Club or Nation
With the 2013 Super Rugby season to start soon, TRF_darwin, TRF_nickdnz and TRF_Ezequiel are trying to break down the strengths and weaknesses of the 15 teams. Today, TRF_darwin takes care of the Australian conference. Last season this was the weakest conference and with the British and Irish Lions touring the land down-under, only time will tell if this gives them some advantage.
2012 Record: 4 Wins, 12 losses (32 points) – 13th Overall
2012 was a difficult season for the Melbourne Rebels with the side finishing 13th overall. Though this represented an improvement on their debut season in 2011, they will have felt disappointed with their performance given the high profile recruits they obtained for the 2012 season. The highlight of the Rebels season was undoubtedly their 28-18 upset win over the Crusaders in round 12, which showed they clearly have the potential to match any team on their day. Consistency was a major issue for the Rebels in 2012 - just as it was in their debut season - especially during the early part of the year. However their consistency did improve as the season progressed, which is could be a positive sign for this season. The Rebels attacking play showed clear signs of improvement in 2012, with the team scoring almost 100 points more during the season than they did in the previous year. However the Rebels continued to struggle defensively, conceding almost 4 tries per game (59 tries in 16 matches).
The retirement of a number of experienced players may see the Rebels light on experience this season, but the addition of several quality players, as well as the increasing chemistry among the established players should see the Rebels continue to develop as a franchise in 2013.
Additions / losses:
For the second consecutive season there has been a substantial turnover of players at the Rebels franchise during the off-season. Enigmatic first-five Danny Cipriani has returned to England to play for the Sale Sharks, and while the Rebels will miss his ability to break a game open with his elusive running his limited defensive skills and off-field antics will not be missed. The retirement of Stirling Mortlock leaves a massive hole in the Rebels midfield. His leadership qualities will especially be missed, particularly with the Rebels also losing veterans Alister Campbell (retired), Adam Frier (retired), Michael Lipman (retired), and Julian Huxley (to Narbonne).
The major off-season addition to the Rebels roster is Wallabies loose-forward Scott Higginbotham. Higginbotham's wide ranging game should suit the expansive style of the Rebels, and he should complement the hard-working Jarrod Saffy and Gareth Delve in the loose trio. Japanese international hooker Shota Horie is another good addition, though will likely start the season on the bench behind the established Ged Robinson. Horie is a livewire hooker who loves to get the ball in his hand, and could be valuable as an impact substitute in the final 20 minutes of matches. Other new players that may feature include talented outside backs Alex Rokobaro (from Stade Francais), Jason Woodward (from Wellington), Kimami Sitauti (from the Brumbies), lock Chris Thomson (from Narbonne), and openside flanker Scott Fugistaller (from Wellington).
Strengths:
· Electric backs
· Good goalkicker
· Strong locking options
· Exciting loose forwards
Weaknesses:
· Lack of a genuine openside flanker
· Average front row
· Woeful defense
2013 Squad:
Props: Laurie Weeks, Nic Henderson, Paul Alo-Emile, Eddie Aholelei
Hookers: Ged Robinson, Shota Horie
Locks: Hugh Pyle, Luke Jones, James King, Caderyn Neville, Chris Thomson
Loose-forwards: Jarrod Saffy, Gareth Delve ©, Tim Davidson, Scott Fugistaller, Scott Higginbotham
Halfbacks: Richard Kingi, Nick Phipps, Nick Stirzaker
First-five eighths: James O'Connor, Kurtley Beale
Centres: Mitch Inman, Rory Sidey
Wings: Lachie Mitchell, Cooper Vuna, Kimami Sitauti
Fullbacks: Angus Roberts, Alex Rokobaro, Jason Woodward
Top XV:
1. Nic Henderson, 2. Ged Robinson, 3. Laurie Weeks, 4. Caderyn Neville, 5. Hugh Pyle, 6. Scott Higginbotham, 7. Jarrod Saffy, 8. Gareth Delve ©, 9. Nick Phipps, 10. Kurtley Beale, 11. Lachie Mitchell, 12. James O'Connor, 13. Mitch Inman, 14. Cooper Vuna, 15. Jason Woodward
The bottom line:
Expect to see improved consistency from the Rebels in 2013, though defence may still be an issue. A playoff spot looks unlikely, but a mid-table finish would represent a good season for them. Predicted finish in 2012: 14th
2012 Record: 10 Wins, 6 losses (58 points) – 7th Overall
After a series of disappointing seasons - culminating in the disastrous 2011 season - the 2012 season was a revelation for the Brumbies. A combination of hard working players, a solid game-plan, and the emergence of new stars contributed to a far better season than many would have predicted. Mid-season injuries to key players somewhat halted the Brumbies outstanding early season form, but they still remained odds-on favourites to secure a playoff spot until a disappointing loss to the lowly Blues in the final round saw them just miss out.
South Africa's World Cup wining coach Jake White remains in charge of a stable Brumbies squad that will be pushing for bigger things in 2013.
Major additions / losses:
The Brumbies enter 2013 with a largely settled squad. The only major loss is outstanding young openside Michael Hooper, who has moved to the Waratahs this season. His loss, however, is compensated for by the addition of Wallabies captain David Pocock from the Western Force. Pocock is very much a 'like-for-like' replacement, though he may take some time to fully settle in to the Brumbies game-plan. There are few other losses of note, though the departures of Ben Hand, Kimami Sitauti, and Jerry Yanuyanutawa has slightly lessened the Brumbies depth.
David Pocock is the only major addition to the Brumbies, though many will be watching how Clyde Rathbone goes this season. The former international, who previously worked alongside Jake White as a member of South Africa under-21 side in 2002, is coming out of retirement after a 3 year break from the game. Though reports suggest he is in the best physical condition of his career, how he will cope after a number of years out of the game is yet to be seen. Another South African born player, 20 year old former Lions lock Etienne Oosthuizen, is another interesting addition. He may struggle to get game time this season but with his youth and size he could develop into a good contributor in seasons to come.
Strengths:
· Strong front-row
· Quality loose-forwards
· Exciting outside backs
· Settled team
Weaknesses:
· Many key players only just returning from injury
· Inexperienced backline
· Questionable defence in the outside backs
2013 Squad:
Props: Ben Alexander, Scott Sio, Dan Palmer, Ruaidhri Murphy
Hookers: Stephen Moore, Siliva Siliva
Locks: Sam Carter, Scott Fardy, Peter Kimlin, Leon Power, Etienne Oosthuizen
Loose forwards: Fotu Auelua, Colby Faingaa, David Pocock, Ben Mowen ©, Ita Vaea
Halfbacks: Ian Prior, Nick White
First-five eighths: Christian Lealiifano, Matt Toomua, Zack Holmes
Centres: Robbie Coleman, Pat McCabe, Andrew Smith, Tevita Kuridrani, Clyde Rathbone
Wings: Tom Cox, Henry Speight, Joseph Tomane
Fullbacks: Jesse Mogg
Top XV:
1. Ben Alexander, 2. Stephen Moore, 3. Dan Palmer, 4. Scott Fardy, 5. Sam Carter, 6. Ben Mowen ©, 7. David Pocock, 8. Fotu Auelua, 9. Nick White, 10. Christian Lealiifano, 11. Joseph Tomane, 12. Pat McCabe, 13. Andrew Smith, 14. Henry Speight, 15. Jessie Mogg
The bottom line:
The Brumbies have a settled squad in 2013, and will look to build on their strong 2012 season. If they are able to remain relatively injury free their uncomplicated – yet undoubtedly effective – game plan should see them pushing hard for a playoff spot again this season. Predicted finish in 2013: 8th
2012 Record: 3 Wins, 13 losses (27 points) – 14th Overall
2012 was another season of disappointment for the Western Force, winning only 3 matches and finishing 14th on the table. The Force's lack of a quality playmaker was particularly apparent, with side often lacking direction on attack. As a result try scoring proved difficult, with the side scoring less than 2 tries per game (30 tries in 16 matches). The highlight of the season was undoubtedly 45-19 thumping of the defending champion Reds in round 6, but they were unable to repeat that performance during the rest of the season.
Former Waratahs coach Michael Foley has been confirmed as the new head coach for the Force after Richard Graham was let go in the middle of last season. He will be tasked with rebuilding the Western Force from scratch after the departure/retirement of a number of key players in the off-season. The one advantage Foley has is that of low expectations, so he should be given some leeway while he looks to create a new winning culture at the Force.
Major additions / losses:
There has been a massive turnover of players yet again for the Force this season. The two biggest losses for the 2012 season are undoubtedly former captains Nathan Sharpe and David Pocock. Sharpe's retirement after seven seasons with the Force came as no surprise, but the Force will miss his lineout prowess, ball running, and most importantly his outstanding 'follow-me' leadership. Pocock's move to the Brumbies was far more of a shock, and there is no doubt the Force will miss his outstanding work on defence and unparalleled ability at the breakdown. Other major losses include speedster Napolioni Nalaga (to Clermont), injury prone outside back Cameron Shepherd (to the Sale Sharks), midfield back Rory Sidey (to the Melbourne Rebels) and versatile playmaker James Stannard (to Toyota Shokki Shuttles).
A total of ten new faces have been included in the main Force squad for 2013. Ex-Wallaby Hugh McMeniman has returned from Japan and could add some valuable grunt to the forward pack whether at blindside flanker or lock. Ex-Waratahs flanker Chris Alcock will compete for a spot in the loose trio, though may find himself playing as an impact sub from the bench in the early part of the season. Experienced Blues halfback Alby Mathewson is another good addition to the squad, with Mathewson competing with Brett Sheehan for Force 9 jersey. South African first-five Sias Ebersohn has also been included in the squad, and should get the first crack at the 10 jersey. Ebersohn is a talented young player but has struggled to deliver on this talent in recent seasons, so it is hoped a chance of scenery will help. Hurricanes centre Jayden Hayward could help bring some creativity to the midfield, while the versatile Sam-Norton Knight should bring some much needed experience to backline.
Strengths:
· Experienced loose-forward trio
· Talented new recruits
· Solid front-row
Weaknesses:
· No star players
· Few established combinations
· Limited backline depth
· Lack of attacking flair
2013 Squad:
Props: Pekahou Cowan, Kieran Longbottom, Tetera Faulkner, Salesi Ma'afu
Hookers: Nathan Charles, Ben Whittaker
Locks: Sam Wykes, Toby Lynn, Hugh McMeniman, Phoenix Battye
Loose forwards: Richard Brown, Angus Cottrell, Matt Hodgson ©, Lachlan McCaffery, Ben McCalman, Chris Alcock
Halfbacks: Alby Mathewson, Brett Sheehan
First-five eighths: Kyle Godwin, Sias Ebersohn
Centres: Patrick Dellitt, Jayden Hayward, Winston Stanley, Will Tupou, Chris Tuatara-Morrison, Solomoni Rasolea
Wings: Nick Cummins, Ed Stubbs
Fullbacks: Sam Norton-Knight, Alfi Mafi
Top XV:
1. Pekahou Cowan, 2. Nathan Charles, 3. Salesi Ma'afu, 4. Sam Wykes, 5. Hugh McMeniman, 6. Ben McCalman, 7. Matt Hodgson ©, 8. Richard Brown, 9. Brett Sheehan, 10. Sias Ebersohn, 11. Alfi Mafi, 12. Jayden Hayward, 13. Winston Stanley, 14. Nick Cummins, 15. Sam Norton-Knight
The bottom line:
After a disappointing 2012 expectations will be low for the Force in 2013, with their task this season not made any easier with the loss of undoubtedly their two best players (Nathan Sharpe and David Pocock). Though the injection of a raft of new players may provide the Force with a glimmer of hope this season, expect them to be battling to avoid the wooden spoon. Predicted finish in 2013: 14th
2012 Record: 4 Wins, 12 losses (35 points) – 11th Overall
2012 was a major disappointment for the Waratahs, with their 11th placed finish representing their second worst finish in history of Super Rugby. There were a number of factors that contributed to the Waratahs poor season, namely a heavy injury toll, lack of creativity on attack, and surprising poor defence. The Waratahs secured an incredible 8 losing bonus points in 2012 (for losing within 7 points) – if they had been able to convert some of these close loses into wins it would have put different complexion on their season.
Former Leinster and State Francais coach Michael Cheika replaces Michael Foley as head coach of the Waratahs in 2013, after Foley quit the position at the end of the 2012 season. Cheika has a top-class squad full of Wallabies so will be under-pressure to not only get the side winning again, but also playing an attractive brand of rugby.
Major additions / losses:
As a result of the poor 2012 season there has been a huge squad turnover for 2013. Former Wallabies lock Dan Vickermann has retired due to injury, while Rocky Elsom left to play in Japan (though a failed subsequent fitness test leaves his current situation unclear). Experienced lock/blindside Dean Mumm has moved to the Exeter Chiefs, and first choice openside Chris Alcock has been picked up by the Western Force. Livewire halfback Sarel Pretorius has returned to the Cheetahs after failing to live up to expectation with the Waratahs last season, while experienced first-five Daniel Halangahu has signed with Zebre in Italy. Outside backs Brackin Karauria-Henry (to NTT Shining Arcs) and Atieli Pakalani (released) are also no longer with the side.
The major addition to the 2013 Waratahs is the exceptional young openside Michael Hooper. Despite his youth Hooper had a phenomenal 2012 season, both at Super Rugby and test level, and is sure to add another dimension to the Waratahs loose trio with his ability at the breakdown and powerful ball running. The experienced and versatile Mitchell Chapman will be a valuable addition to the squad after returning to Australia from two years in Japan. Israel Folau's introduction to rugby union will be keenly watched by many. An undoubted star of the 13-man code, Folau made a dramatic switch to AFL in 2011. After two largely unsuccessful seasons in AFL it was announced in December that Folau would make the switch to Rugby Union. With his size, pace, and aerial ability he could be a real threat, though may struggle to find a spot in the starting XV at the beginning of the season. Lightening quick wing/fullback Peter Betham has also been added to the Waratahs roster, and could turn a few heads if given a chance after lighting it up for Tasman during the last ITM Cup season.
Strengths:
· Excellent tight-five
· Strong loose-forward trio
· Experienced backline
· Exciting attacking options out wide
Weaknesses:
· Key players are injury prone
· Lack of mid-field creativity
· Inability to score tries
· Consistent failure to live up to expectations
2013 Squad:
Props: Sekope Kepu, Benn Robinson, Paddy Ryan, Jeremy Tilse
Hookers: Tatafu Polota-Nau, John Ulugia
Locks: Kane Douglas, Ollie Atkins, Greg Peterson, Sitaleki Timani,
Loose forwards: Mitch Chapman, Dave Dennis, Michael Hooper, Lopeti Timani, Pat McCutcheon, Wycliff Palu
Halfbacks: Brendan McKibbin, Grayson Hart
First-five eighths: Berrick Barnes, Bernard Foley
Centres: Tom Carter, Rob Horne, Tom Kingston, Michael Hodge
Wings: Drew Mitchell, Peter Betham, Lachie Turner, Israel Folau
Fullbacks: Adam Ashley-Cooper, Cam Crawford
Top XV:
1. Benn Robinson, 2. Tatafu Polota-Nau, 3. Sekope Kepu, 4. Kane Douglas, 5. Sitaleki Timani, 6. Dave Dennis, 7. Michael Hooper, 8. Wycliff Palu, 9. Brendan McKibbin, 10. Berrick Barnes, 11. Drew Mitchell, 12. Tom Carter, 13. Rob Horne, 14. Lachie Turner, 15. Adam Ashley-Cooper
The bottom line:
The Waratahs again have a squad packed full of talent, but whether they are able to perform to their potential is yet to be seen. If they do not suffer too many injuries they could push the Reds and the Brumbies for the top spot in the Australian conference. Predicted finish in 2012: 10th
2012 Record: 11 Wins, 5 losses (58 points) – 3rd Overall
Beaten in Qualifying final
After winning the ***le for the first time in 2011, the Reds had a mixed season in 2012. After wins in their first three games poor mid-season form saw them all but drop out of playoff contention, before a run of six successive wins to finish the regular season saw them pip the Brumbies for a playoff spot. They were unable to continue this form into the playoffs, suffering a disappointing home loss to the Sharks in the qualifying final.
There have been changes at the top for the Reds during the off-season, with Ewan McKenzie shifting from Head Coach to Director of Rugby, and Western Force coach Richard Graham taking over the Head Coach role. Force management will be delighted that Quade Cooper re-signed with the Australian Rugby Union in December after he had initially threated to quit Australian rugby and take up a multi-million dollar deal in France. With a largely settled side there will be big things expected from the Reds in 2013.
Major additions / losses:
Unlike the majority of the Australian franchises the Reds have had a very quiet off-season in terms of player departures and recruitment. The only major loss from the 2012 season is that of explosive loose-forward Scott Higginbotham to the Rebels. Higginbotham's ability to pop up all over the park will certainly be missed, as it was an important part of the Reds game-plan. Experienced outside back Peter Hynes has been released after failing to recover from a serious injury, as have veteran tight forwards Van Humphries and Guy Shepherdson.
The only addition to the Reds 2013 squad is tighthead prop Jono Owen, who will add valuable depth to the Reds prop rotation. Rather than add new players the Reds will be hoping youngsters such as Albert Anae, David McDuling, Ed Quirk, Nick Frisby, Aidan Toua, and Chris Feauai-Sautia step up when given a chance.
Strengths:
· Will Genia
· Very good goal-kicker
· Pace and flair out wide
· Established combinations
· Quade Cooper
Weaknesses:
· Lack of a dominant scrum
· Heavy reliance on Will Genia
· Quade Cooper
2013 Squad:
Props: Ben Daley, Greg Holmes, Jono Owen, James Slipper
Hookers: James Hanson, Saia Fainga'a, Albert Anae
Locks: James Horwill ©, David McDuling, Rob Simmons, Adam Wallace-Harrison
Loose forwards: Liam Gill, Ed Quirk, Beau Robinson, Radike Samo, Jake Schatz
Halfbacks: Will Genia, Ben Lucus, Nick Frisby
First-five eighths: Quade Cooper
Centres: Anthony Fainga'a, Ben Tapuai, Mike Harris
Wings: Rod Davies, Chris Feauai-Sautia, Digby Ioane, Aidan Toua, Dom Shipperley
Fullbacks: Luke Morahan, Jono Lance
Top XV:
1. Greg Holmes, 2. Saia Fainga'a, 3. James Slipper, 4. James Horwill ©, 5. Rob Simmons, 6. Jake Schatz, 7. Liam Gill, 8. Radike Samo, 9. Will Genia, 10. Quade Cooper, 11. Digby Ioane, 12. Mike Harris, 13. Ben Tapuai, 14. Dom Shipperly, 15. Luke Morahan
The bottom line:
With a settled squad the Reds will be looking to break into the playoffs again this season. However the Reds need their forward pack to step up and deliver quality ball to their backline brimming with attacking talent. As always a lot will depend on the performance of Quade Cooper. Predicted finish in 2013: 3rd.
