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2014 Super Rugby: Highlanders v Blues (Round 2)
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<blockquote data-quote="ABs2011" data-source="post: 625444" data-attributes="member: 57663"><p>Sorry mate I just can't agree there.</p><p> </p><p>To an extent I agree with what you're saying re "stars" my point was really thinking how would they look if A Smith went down. I don't think they would cope at all. I like Tanaka, but without getting into details I don't think he is a good starting option at this level, Frae Wilson is certainly not.</p><p> </p><p>Re squad depth I can't agree and think there is quite a big difference between the starters and their potential replacements. </p><p></p><p>Buckman on the wing as a result of Buxton being out is a prime example (would have to be one of the worst starting wings in the comp wouldn't he? certainly in the NZ conference anyway!) </p><p></p><p>Other than half back I would be very worried should Sopoaga go down as I think Parker and Ripia (and Renata) would be massive down grades.</p><p></p><p>Actually looking at their entire backline, I'm not that confident in any of their replacements other than Emery who I really like. Winston Stanley, Phil Burleigh, Kurt Baker are all below par super rugby players IMHO.</p><p></p><p>I really like their loose forward trio (particularly happy Christie is getting a start) but outside their starters and I think there is a big step down. TJ for me isnt a Super Rugby level starter, Dixon is not yet either (although has potential) and Hardie is OK. Point is though the starting three for me are significantly better than their potential replacements.</p><p> </p><p>The tight five (of which I am far less comfortable talking about) is arguably the only area where I think the Highlanders would have adequate depth not to lose a huge amount should injury bother them.</p><p> </p><p>Always happy to be put in my place though should anyone disagree with my take on things J</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="ABs2011, post: 625444, member: 57663"] Sorry mate I just can’t agree there. To an extent I agree with what you’re saying re “stars” my point was really thinking how would they look if A Smith went down. I don’t think they would cope at all. I like Tanaka, but without getting into details I don’t think he is a good starting option at this level, Frae Wilson is certainly not. Re squad depth I can’t agree and think there is quite a big difference between the starters and their potential replacements. Buckman on the wing as a result of Buxton being out is a prime example (would have to be one of the worst starting wings in the comp wouldn’t he? certainly in the NZ conference anyway!) Other than half back I would be very worried should Sopoaga go down as I think Parker and Ripia (and Renata) would be massive down grades. Actually looking at their entire backline, I’m not that confident in any of their replacements other than Emery who I really like. Winston Stanley, Phil Burleigh, Kurt Baker are all below par super rugby players IMHO. I really like their loose forward trio (particularly happy Christie is getting a start) but outside their starters and I think there is a big step down. TJ for me isnt a Super Rugby level starter, Dixon is not yet either (although has potential) and Hardie is OK. Point is though the starting three for me are significantly better than their potential replacements. The tight five (of which I am far less comfortable talking about) is arguably the only area where I think the Highlanders would have adequate depth not to lose a huge amount should injury bother them. Always happy to be put in my place though should anyone disagree with my take on things J [/QUOTE]
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2014 Super Rugby: Highlanders v Blues (Round 2)
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