Saturday, February 11, 2006

Opening Salvos Fired in Round One

The mighty Hurricanes down the woeful Blues outfit that simply failed to turn up for the second half. After what was a fairly promising beginning, Auckland slumped to a shameful defeat on Eden Park following allowing five easy tries to be scored against them by a hungry Hurricanes side. Can the 'canes go on from here and maintain their first good win for 2006. And what of the Blues? Should they pack up and move the franchise to Hokitika? Seems like there may be a few too many players in that franchise that take their positions and status as New Zealand's top team for granted.

But well done to the 'canes, they've started with a hiss and a roar getting maximum points and I hope that they continue for the rest of the season. They proven once again that a good big man, will beat a good small man every time. Daniel Braid really needs to get on teh protein powder or something. It was good to see the North Harbgour number 8 stand up and be counted, failing to be intimidated by the reputation of Jerry Collins. Read here for a full match report and here for comment from the Dominion Post out of Wellington, NZ for what they have to say about it.

The Brumbies weather the Force and with a couple of tries in the second half, spoil the new franchises dreams. No doubt there will be plenty of comment over the next few days praising John Mitchell's analysis of his team, however they came up short against a team that must be on the way down if international performances are anything to go by. A predictable match, possibly a little closer than expected. The Brumbies were never going to lose and have posted their first win of the season, although they couldn'tget the bonus point. Read here for a full match report and here for comment from New Zealand.

The Bulls whom we read earlier were carrying the hopes of the nation do not disappoint in their opening match against the new comers to the competition, the Cheetahs. Not much of a game, too much kicking, and too much of that was inaccurate to say the least. The Bulls, if they are to do well will need to lift their game when they come up against some serious opposition. Cheetahs look like they will be fighting it out for the wooden spoon with the Force. Read here for a full match report.

For a complete wrap of the scores so far, check it out here. 2 predicatble results so far, with the exception of the highly rated Blues slumping to a woeful defeat on Eden Park. Does this vindicate the decision of Mills to head to the Chiefs? Who knows, it is still early days yet and if any of the first round losers can turn it around, the Blues should be able to do it. The problem is, that in past season when an early loss is suffered they tend to do poorly.

Well, that's it for now. Watch for more comment on today's matches later on. Enjoy the weekend, and isn't great to be able to watch some high class, good quality Ruby again?!!! Bring it on, can't get enough!

No comments: