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The NSW Waratahs are once bitten, twice wary as they brace themselves for an attacking backlash from the unpredictable Blues in Saturday night’s Super Rugby clash at Allianz Stadium.
The Blues are sitting dead last on the competition table, winless after six rounds and 11 points adrift of the top six.
But the Aucklanders have still managed four bonus points, their average margin for five defeats has been just five points and last outing they again fell narrowly – 30-23 – to the table-topping Hurricanes.
Most important, the Waratahs learnt in a 21-13 loss last year that when the Blues turn on the razzle-dazzle, it can spell trouble for any opposition.
“They’re a dangerous side any day of the week. They’ve got so much talent in the backs,” Waratahs winger Rob Horne said.
Adopting a similarly aggressive and expansive style, the Highlanders punished the Waratahs on counterattack two weeks ago, and NSW defence coach Nathan Grey says minimising one-on-one missed tackles is imperative.
“We’ve certainly highlighted where the Blues are dangerous,” Grey said.
“That transition ball and providing opportunities for guys one-on-one are things that they are very good at. They’ve got a lot of great ball carriers and guys who can create something from nothing.”
Head coach Michael Cheika is demanding the champions retain the physical and mental edge they rediscovered in last week’s impressive win over the Brumbies, and that shouldn’t be a problem after the fiery mentor let rip at his charges during training on Thursday.
Cheika let the Tahs know in no uncertain terms that nothing less than their full focus would be good enough.
Grey said Cheika’s blast was routine and indicated the Waratahs were in a good space as they chase another home triumph that would catapult the titleholders to within two points of the Brumbies on the Australian conference ladder.
Tolu Latu has been rewarded for his excellent scrummaging against the Brumbies with another start at hooker for the Waratahs.
Cheika has yet to decide if regular rake Tatafu Polota-Nau has recovered sufficiently from a head knock to make his return via the bench, bracketing him with Hugh Roach.
Waratahs: Israel Folau, Taqele Naiyaravoro, Matt Carraro, Kurtley Beale, Rob Horne, Benard Foley, Nick Phipps, Wycliff Palu, Michael Hooper, Jacques Potgieter, Dave Dennis (capt), Will Skelton, Sekope Kepu, Tolu Latu, Benn Robinson. Reserves: Hugh Roach or Tatafu Polota-Nau, Jeremy Tilse, Sam Lousi, Mitch Chapman, Stephen Hoiles, Brendan McKibbon, Jono Lance or Peter Betham.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.