Times Up For the Dreadlock Boys
Nonu and So'iaolo have to go for this test against Aussie. In Nonu's case its not so much that McAlister is demanding inclusion as it is about Nonu's lack of form. Another kicking option is sorely needed in this side and overall the balance is missing. Nonu appeals as an impact player in any event.
Read however has made a compelling case for inclusion against the indifferent incumbent. Its his time to stand aside, I'm afraid. Read is mobile, does the basics well and adds a touch more height in the lineout.
Corey Jane is widely expected to take Joe's place but I'm one for persevering with him if his form seems close. The coaches will be much better positioned to determine that. I won't mind either way.
Otherwise, this side picks itself.
5 comments:
I was hoping for a post on rugby. I am with you, for once. I feel bad for So'iaolo and maybe he will regain form. But I never got behind Nonu as an individual. He's just not very likeable (think of his "disrespectful" comments after the Welsh haka staredown, when it was evident the rest of the team thought it was great).
I'd give Joe one more shot, he was impressive for Auckland. I'd have a couple of concerns going with Jane. One is, our backline starts to look full of smaller men (with McAlister in as well). Smith isn't a tack breaker either so we lack a bit of impact. Trade off for tactical nous I suppose. But also, I'm alwasy weary of converted players. Janes is a fullback, and he doesn't have the blinding pace of a classic wing. If Joe doesn't get there, use Gear or Masaga, I say.
I don't know what to say:
Mils Muliaina, Joe Rokocoko, Conrad Smith, Luke McAlister, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Daniel Carter, Jimmy Cowan, Kieran Read, Richie McCaw (captain), Jerome Kaino, Isaac Ross, Brad Thorn, Owen Franks, Andrew Hore, Tony Woodcock.
Reserves: Aled de Malmanche, John Afoa, Jason Eaton, Rodney So'oialo, Brendon Leonard, Stephen Donald, Ma'a Nonu
Did you also read the Herald article early yesterday suggestion Nonu and So'iaolo were on the outter? ;-)
Just saw Tialata on the news totally dissing Hansen for publicising what he needs to work on through the media! All is not well you'd think. I didn't pick this one, mainly because Tialata is a handy reserve in that he can play both sides. The shift to tighthead hasn't worked for him that well. In my mind he should be the backup loosehead, but Crockett is clearly past him now in the eyes of the selectors. I am a little surprised that Donald makes the bench. I'd have had Jane in there as cover for fullback/outside backs with McAllister the 1st V cover.
For me, Tialata's size covers a lack of skills. I think Owen Franks is more in the mold of a Carl Hayman (speaking of which... can't wait til he returns). And Crocket looks pretty mobile doesn't he? How were those angles he ran for his try last weekend!
As for Tialata's comment, fair cop to feel agrieved if that's how it went down, but you'd think for the sake of professionalism and making it back to the AB's he would have kept his gob shut.
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