Back to the games on Saturday and some random thoughts on the games.
St. Aloysius v Barker
Probably the match of the round. At home Aloys will be tough, and though they went down to Trinity last week will put on a spirited match against Barker. As in other years their depth will be problematic, but the core of the team has good experience. Barker had a good turn around from round 1 and they weren’t that poor against Knox. The game will be free flowing as both sides like using their backs. Both sides are traditionally well coached and can play smart rugby. The forwards of both sides may be on the small side but are full of running.
My tip? No idea, so I lean towards the home side.
Cranbrook v Waverley
Cranbrook has come down a long way from last year. But their season does seem to be unsettled due to injuries and the like. They are last on the ladder, but it is still early and in terms of for and against aren’t the worse. One would think that the residual quality from last year should come through. Waverley suffered a bit of a beating last week, but played quite well. They are a competitive side and are not short of quality players and plenty of depth. Though soundly defeated last week it was by Knox and in round 1 they accounted for Trinity. On current form I think Cranbrook will remain languishing at the bottom of the table winless after 3 rounds. Cranbrook’s relative strength may be in the forwards and discipline, but Waverley with too much flair. The result will be only tempered by Waverley’s penchant for giving away penalties and by how much Knox took out of them last week. Waverley by 20.
Knox v Trinity
In theory a lay-down-misere but in recent years Knox rugby times main fragility appear to be mental. Either lacking a killing edge or trying too hard and losing finish and composure. This side is different: clinical, well drilled, ruthless and powerful. But they will be against a Trinity team buoyed by victory last week. And I believe they will welcome back a few key players. They will be strong in the forwards and may be up against a side that are mentally relaxed after their ‘grand final’ last week. However Knox has too much class and far more depth than Trinity. At home, Knox by 35+ (though this could be the game where the margin could surprise).