Super12 2002 - Round Two

All-in-all a good start by all three Aussie teams in Round One. The Waratahs won away from home for the first time since April 2002, and the Brumbies defeated a fairly impressive Queensland Reds. However, it was the Auckland Blues who produced the most emphatic performance of the first round, and they're next on the Reds' dance card.

Brumbies v Cats

The Brumbies face a 2001 semifinalist for the second week in a row, though fortunately again at Canberra Stadium, formerly Bruce Stadium. The Cats were an extremely well drilled unit last year under the guidance of New Zealander (and crusty old bugger) Laurie Mains, who has since taken control of the Highlanders. It remains to be seen whether that will be the case this year under new coach, Frans Ludeke. Further complicating matters for the Cats are a number of injuries, and a woeful away record. That said, they're an excellent defensive unit and the Brumbies will need to be playing at their peak to prevail. The Brumbies will also have to be wary of giving away any careless penalties, as Louis Koen is a super boot, and will inevitably clock up the points. Keep an eye out for the Cats' new centre (formerly a backrower) Gcobani Bobo, who played brilliantly last week, and who has a truly magnificent name.

Brumbies by 12.

Reds v Blues

The battle of the primary colours. The Blues seem to be back to their best, and produced some awesome rugby in thrashing the much maligned Hurricanes last week. The Reds looked good against the Brumbies, but will have to produce something very special to win against Blues, even with home ground advantage. Expect to see Wendell Sailor fielding a number of bombs throughout the match as the Blues endeavour to expose that particular weakness in his game, and his current lack of instinct for field position. This could be very close, but I think the Blues are riding a wave of good form and confidence at the moment, and will be just a little too strong on the day. The Reds may have the misfortune of playing good rugby in defeat against the best two teams in the competition.

Blues by 7.

Stormers v Waratahs

Anyone got a coin? This really is a toss-up. The Waratahs are traditionally awful away from home, particularly in South Africa, but they often start the season particularly strongly. They looked great against the Chiefs, but I have a sneaking suspicion that the Wahroonga Under 9s would have given the Chiefs a run for their money last week. On the other hand, the Stormers - like the Waratahs - have for so long promised so much but delivered so little. They are an entertaining team, particularly when playing at Newlands, but consistency has generally eluded them. They will be buoyed by an unexpected victory over the Sharks last week, but nevertheless are still missing key players to injury, including Breyton Paulse and Bob Skinstad. The Waratahs have nothing to lose and will be empowered to throw the ball around. This, I think, will give them the edge. Just.

Waratahs by 5.

- Dan Fowell