Wallabies coach Robbie Deans talks to the team during the Wallabies Captain's run in Sydney on Friday, July 25, 2008. AAP Image/Jenny Evans
There has been a lot of talk about the Australian forwards lacking mongrel, and while I would love to see a Wallaby pig who could inspire fear in the opposition, I don’t think it’s essential.
What I do believe we need are forwards who put in across 80 minutes (or even 60 minutes for those being ‘tactically’ replaced).
My reasoning is based on analysis of some of the great forwards we have had.
Players such as Toutai Kefu and Willie O were not known for their mean streak, but for their big defence and consistent work around the park. They wanted to plow in and make a difference.
Of course, the obvious role model for a hard working, but super clean player, was the great John Eales. He worked tirelessly and never gave up.
I believe the current Wallabies are suffering because certain players go missing at crucial times. Surely this is not a physical thing, as modern players are fitter than ever.
So it must be mental.
We can’t entirely forget the coach in all of this. I would be gobsmacked if Deans instructs his forwards to abandon the breakdown in favour of clogging up the midfield. But you have to ask why (with the exception of the last game against the Boks), this seams to be the modus operandi.
It seems to me that many of the Wallaby forwards just don’t want it enough.
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.
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