Almanac Rugby: Super Rugby Pacific Round 3

Crusaders 33 v Moana Pasifika 12

Drua 31 v Rebels 26

Reds 29 v Force 16

Blues 24 v Chiefs 22

Hurricanes 21 v Highlanders 14

Brumbies 27 v Waratahs 20

 

 

MOANA PASIFIKA finally got their chance to take the field in Super Rugby Pacific. Up against the benchmark team of the past decade or so, they put up a gallant effort. The CRUSADERS pulled away late in the second half but the newcomers hold their heads high.

 

The REBELS, on the other hand, hang their heads in shame after another piss-weak effort. Good on the DRUA for registering their first SR win, but it really is time now to ask whether the venture to prop up a team just because they hail from the sporting capital is worth it any longer. No heart. No passion. This rabble got nuttin’.

 

Fortunately, rugby fans had some faith restored before going to bed on Friday night as the FORCE got to host their first game in Perth since Covid-19 hit. They provided fans with moments of joy but the REDS looked in control from the outset. James O’Connor was superb and asserted his claim to the Wallabies number 10 jersey.

 

At Eden Park on Saturday afternoon, the BLUES fought off a determined CHIEFS. A last-minute onslaught from the visitors had the hosts wondering if they were going to see a repeat of the Canes’ snatching it at the death last weekend. They held on and look like they may go deep this season.

 

The hapless HIGHLANDERS never quite looked up to the job against a workmanlike HURRICANES.

 

To finish off the round, the TAHS went to Canberra and duly got beaten by the BRUMBIES, as has been the case pretty much every year of Super Rugby. There is no doubt the Sydney lads are a far more competitive unit with Donaldson developing as the next best 10 after JOC. However, the pride of the ACT is building momentum and pose the greatest threat among the Australian teams, along with the Reds.

 

Those two local frontrunners have very winnable games next week and the all conquering Crusaders should be able to get the job done next round so all three can keep their clean sheets. The Sunday game in Sydney between the Tahs and Force should be worth a look too.

 

 

 

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