Almanac Rugby: Super Rugby Pacific Round 5
Brumbies 16 v Reds 12
Force 20 v Drua 18
Chiefs 59 v Moana Pasifika 12
Waratahs 24 v Rebels 19
Scheduling chaos is still the order of the day in New Zealand. Their one fixture was cobbled together at the last moment. MOANA PASIFIKA never looked in the contest against a very good CHIEFS side.
On this side of the Tasman, the first run-through of head-to-head matches was completed.
BRUMBIES fought off a determined REDS outfit in Canberra on Friday night to remain the only undefeated team. It was clear that either of these sides could challenge for the title on a good night.
On Saturday afternoon, the DRUA showed lots of endeavour and moments of high-wire rugby to catch the FORCE off guard. In this clash, both teams showed that they are firmly mid-table teams that can produce a little bit of razzle-dazzle.
The round was capped off with the TAHS hosting the REBELS at the SCG on Saturday night. In their garish pink guernseys, the Melburnians put up much more fight in this game and made it a real contest. The hosts are gelling well as a unit now so were able to shut down proceedings late to ensure the win.
The local round-robin continues for a few more weeks as the Kiwis get their house in order. I’m not really salivating at any of the match-ups, to be honest, and hope the NZR agrees to relocate the NZ teams here so we can get some decent hit outs.
In the Six Nations, France took out the grand slam to win their first title in twelve years. They are building nicely to a home Rugby World Cup next year. The feelgood story of the last weekend of competition was the Azzurri winning their first match in seven years. Wales had to suffer that ignominy but took it well.
Once SR Pacific is done, the French tour of New Zealand in July is one to put in the calendar. Les Bleus may very well put down their marker on how badly they want the Webb Ellis Trophy.
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Grew up playing the rugby codes in suburban Sydney. Moved to Melbourne during the Carey era so becoming a Shinboner was the natural call. Still love the game they play in heaven. Took an interest in MLB a few years back and have become infatuated with America’s pastime.
Got a little ahead of myself by stating the French will play the All Blacks in July. While that is a match-up pretty much every rugby fan would want to see, alas, it is not to be.
The French will play a three Test series against the Japanese, while it is the Irish who’ll take on the ABs. But that is certainly not one to sneeze at. The men in green had to wait 111 years before getting their first scalp in 2016 but have gone onto win 3 of the last 5. Much better record than the Wallabies in recent times!!!!