Super12 2002 - Semifinal

Brumbies 51 defeated Waratahs 10 (Sydney)

It was, on reflection, a slim hope at best. After a record flogging at the hands of the Crusaders, the Waratahs were massive underdogs in their semifinal against the ACT Brumbies. But all would have been forgiven if they had at least gone down fighting. They didn't.

And it isn't so much that they weren't trying - well, in the first half, at least. Who knows what the problem was?!? Lineouts - yes. Kicking - yes. Confidence - yes. But how does a team that triumphed against the Highlanders and Brumbies not four weeks ago - playing some robust, if not always spectacular, rugby in the process - capitulate so completely at the so-called "business end" of the season? Coach Bob Dwyer is as experienced as they come - he's seen it all - and he seems as baffled as the rest of us.

So back to the drawing board, I suppose - reinventing the forwards' play being the first order of business.

But - in the second half - the Brumbies were as impressive as the Waratahs were wretched. As against the Blues the week before, they increased the pace and precision of their game, but will need to produce a full 80 minutes of that level of play to have any chance against the unbeaten Crusaders.

Graeme Bond produced an impressive performance, which may have edged him in front of Scott Staniforth in the race for the vacant left wing position in the Wallabies. Jeremy Paul, Justin Harrison and Owen Finegan led the way in the forwards.

As has been noted previously, Bob Dwyer has always maintained that his was a four year plan. His expectation was that the Waratahs would be genuine title contenders in 2003, but - prior to the Crusaders game - commented that they seemed to be ahead of schedule. The Brumbies and the Crusaders both have shown that the Waratahs have much to do to be considered amongst the top tier of teams. They are a competitive side, certainly, but they have too many deficiencies at present to entertain any serious thoughts of taking out the title. Maybe next year.

As for the Brumbies, it's back to Jade Stadium to play out the next chapter in their ongoing battle with the Crusaders. And i'll be cheering them all the way.

- Dan Fowell