Brumby Runner
Jason Little (69)
I thought the whole team played ok to good. The best included Folau and DHP. Why would we even want to consider moving either or both of them from the spots they just dominated in?
Some problems were uncovered - Scott Sio in the scrum just didn't get a fair crack from the ref, but for next week, especially if that poor example of a referee is reappointed, then Slipper must start. Kepu to start would also be a consideration. The service from the No 9 and 10 was very slow at times. Phipps is the best we have available at present, but he was slower than usual to many breakdowns and his passing, which is seen a strength, was delayed just sufficiently to put the whole backline under immense defensive pressure before the ball even got beyond Foley. Foley's inability to counter the rush defense with properly executed short kicks behind the line is also a problem. Otherwise, he again is the best we have and imo outplayed the much hyped Farrell inthe No 10 spot.
All in all, I think the Wallabies put in a good effort for the first test of the year, and mostly should be persevered with. Fix the front row, the slower than normal service to the backline and devise a plan to counter the rush defense, and they will give England a much harder task next week.
Some problems were uncovered - Scott Sio in the scrum just didn't get a fair crack from the ref, but for next week, especially if that poor example of a referee is reappointed, then Slipper must start. Kepu to start would also be a consideration. The service from the No 9 and 10 was very slow at times. Phipps is the best we have available at present, but he was slower than usual to many breakdowns and his passing, which is seen a strength, was delayed just sufficiently to put the whole backline under immense defensive pressure before the ball even got beyond Foley. Foley's inability to counter the rush defense with properly executed short kicks behind the line is also a problem. Otherwise, he again is the best we have and imo outplayed the much hyped Farrell inthe No 10 spot.
All in all, I think the Wallabies put in a good effort for the first test of the year, and mostly should be persevered with. Fix the front row, the slower than normal service to the backline and devise a plan to counter the rush defense, and they will give England a much harder task next week.