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Sydney University and Randwick played in the Shute Shield grand final in Sydney on Saturday. While Randwick fielded an impressive list of Super 14 players and Wallabies, University had a few notable players of their own.
In unusually warm September conditions, University quickly took charge and by the end of the first half dominated the match.
The player that stood out on the day was young flyhalf Daniel Halangahu for Sydney University. Halangahu’s decision-making was lucid and well executed. He seems to have really come of age as a flyhalf.
He positioned himself well, giving himself time to either kick or run, and directed University’s backs with clear confident communication that had University going forward.
Fellow team-mate Kurtley Beale will have to good fight on his hands to secure the Waratahs flyhalf starting jersey next season now that Halangahu is showing signs of maturing as a player with vision. Whilst ‘Tahs coach Chris Hickey is searching the globe for locks, he now knows at least he has the keys, two true flyhalf choices for next year’s Super 14.
Halangahu missed most of the 2008 Super 14 season due to injury, and I secretly suspect that his time on the sidelines was spent in the ‘Tahs library studying every Daniel Carter play on tape.
He never looked rushed, his manner was controlled and he set the pace of the match.
While Randwick on paper looked like the superior team they lacked dominance in the two most important match-winning positions: at flyhalf and open-side flanker.
University were fortunate to have the return of Wallabies Phil Waugh at 7, however, Halangahu was the real difference. In a post-match interview, Waratahs captain Phil Waugh praised Halangahu’s control of the game that delivered University’s fourth consecutive Shute Shield.
It seems Halangahu has emerged from University this season with a degree in Flyhalf Rugby. Now can he apply his newfound self-assurance to the Waratahs next year?
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.