Wristman
Alfred Walker (16)
Agree @JPR. Newington have not yet failed to score any fewer than 4 tries in any match so far, win or lose, so clearly it ain't their offense that's put them mid-table at the turn. That they've leaked an average of 31pts per game across the first 5 matches says much, but they have started to sharpen up that defensive average in their two most recent games. Hence my Round 2 'smokey' call on them.
New will be dependent on the right conditions to cause an upset against the top 3.
Heavy rain and a game played in the forwards and they could steal a win against anyone.
A dry pitch and conditions that suit running rugby and they will struggle.
Having seen all the sides now they have the heaviest but least mobile pack. Some beefy boys that are carrying a few spare rolls.
They tired against Scots in the dry conditions and gave away 3 late tries.
The fitter sides align their forwards quickly across the paddock.
Late in the game some of the New forwards were slow to their feet into the defensive line so the gaps opened up.
But Round 2 matches and coming into the heart of winter we may well see the rain and mud again....it's still wide open.