2025 Bledisloe Cup Series

[rugbyAU]

We need to change the headline of this thread, as due to the moronic way this trophy is played for, the Perth Test is not for the Bledisloe

Yeah, can we just dump the bledisloe it’s the most one sided trophy in sporting history

 

[rugbyAU]

Foketi was in at 12 for a while but where is he now?

Off to Chiefs

 

[rugbyAU]

According to Doran, JOC (James O'Connor) is likely off to the UK this week

 

[Brumby Runner]

True, they have to start better, not always chase the game.

There seems to be that early period of 20 to 30 minutes where we don't get hands on the ball. In yesterday's match there were some instances in that early period where another ref would/might have awarded a turnover penalty but not Piardi. So, the refereeing decisions in most games have an impact early on, but the Wallabies could usually be more accurate and treasure possession better early on too. Missing touch from a penalty deep into AB's territory early on gave unnecessary possession to the opposition this game but it seems that the go to play in all matches is to kick possession away. This only seems to change when late in the game they are chasing scores to try to get the win.

 

[Yoda]

According to Doran, JOC (James O'Connor) (James O'Connor) is likely off to the UK this week

Where did you read that?

 

[rugbyAU]

Where did you read that?

https://www.theroar.com.au/2025/09/...oung-forwards-step-up-in-bledisloe-heartache/

 

[Brumby Runner]

Can Jorgo or JAS kick for touch?

JAS really can't do much yet. After Ikitau left the field and JAS moved to 12, he was utterly lost. I wouldn't want to trust him to take kicks.

When he's in the game, Lonergan has a decent boot. JOC (James O'Connor)'s goal kicking otoh has been good.

 

[fatprop]

JOC (James O'Connor) (James O'Connor) Just kick the ball out FFS!

He looked to be running out of juice, but he was still our best option

 

[Brumby Runner]

Pretty much agree but thought Lonergan was fine - give him a crack at 9 with Gordon on the bench.

Lynagh to start with O'Connor on the bench

I think JOC (James O'Connor) retains the 10 spot but relieve him of penalty shots for touch. Otherwise I think JAS has done his dash. He was very poor in both attack and defence after Ikitau left the field. As much as I am not a fan of Paisami his combination with Len in the centres is way more effective.

 

[Where's the beef]

Foketi was in at 12 for a while but where is he now?

I would have Hunter over Foketi any day. At least Hunter breaks a tackle. I don't like Hunter very much.

 

[Where's the beef]

I have noted that our backline against both NZ and the Argi's seemed to have little time, yet, both NZ and the Argis had plenty. We cannot eep on giving a 'free 20m' before we engage.

 

[rugbyAU]

Joe mentioned a few players had a virus in the week, and Len was one of them, no injury

 

[LookLongPlayShort]

He looked to be running out of juice, but he was still our best option

True.

 

[waiopehu oldboy]

I have noted that our backline against both NZ and the Argi's seemed to have little time, yet, both NZ and the Argis had plenty. We cannot eep on giving a 'free 20m' before we engage.

Yeah your linespeed was noticeably slower than Pumas & boks & it cost you dearly at times. Conversely AB got up fairly quickly most of the time which made life difficult for Ikitau & JAS.

 

[waiopehu oldboy]

Beaugan (AC issue) & DeGroot (concussion) confirmed casualties for Perth. ScoBar, Vaa'i & Clarke traveling but doubtful starters.

 

[Where's the beef]

Is barret going or is he out. NZ far less impactful with him not there.

 

[waiopehu oldboy]

Unclear if Beaugan boarded the plane but Jason Ryan said he & EDG are both definitely out for Perth.

 

[rugbyAU]

Is barret going or is he out. NZ far less impactful with him not there.

TBC

 

[Strewthcobber]

Joe mentioned a few players had a virus in the week, and Len was one of them, no injury

So Schmidt went into the match knowing Ikitau was sick and likely to be subbed, and he was happy with no real 12 sub option?

Doesn't seem like much of a plan

 

[rugbyAU]

So Schmidt went into the match knowing Ikitau was sick and likely to be subbed, and he was happy with no real 12 sub option?

Doesn't seem like much of a plan

He could have had Hunter at 23