So how do we read the tea leaves after Saturday?
I know, "they're only trials", so it's hard to be too definitive. In particular, Joeys are notorious for playing experimental combinations in trials, so while a win over Joeys is always enjoyable and never easy, it may not be quite as meaningful as it might seem (I remember the year when Tane Edmed's Trinity side beat Joeys and went on to win only one of five Associated Schools games). Even so, it was a good result for Knox. Barker also look as though they're title contenders again.
Waverley's game is harder to assess. They had players out, and maybe Newington is under-rated, but if I were a Waverley supporter I'd be a bit concerned. It's rare for Waverley to cop a heavy defeat in a trial, even against GPS opposition. And the results also suggest that there's not all that much between Trinity and Cranbrook, who have both now gone down to St Augustine's by similar margins.
Hi Snort!
I watched the New v Waves game last sat, a few observations.
1. Newington well deserved to win, they are a polished side and very fit. Whilst early days, I think they will definitely be a threat in the GPS comp.
2. Waves did have 2 key forwards and 2 key backs out, the backline had a number of year 11 boys in fly half and the centres, the Newington backline was terrific and won that battle. The Waves forwards dominated the 1st 10-15 mins and could easily have scored a couple of tries but didn't and Newington snagged a great backline try almost against the run of play. A few of the Waves forwards were clearly not match fit, as they did not go on the Japan tour and as the game progressed the New forwards came into their own.
3. We will see if the boys missing last week join the team this week v View, and if so, I would expect a far stronger performance.
Given that View only lost by a couple of tries v a strong Barker side last weekend then I think it's safe to assume View will be hard to beat at
View this Sat.
All will be revealed after this Thursdays training.
Also, unlike last Sat, the weather forecast is excellent so it should allow all schools to show their full potential.