- Video
-
Club Roar
Captured a great grassroots sporting moment? We want to see it!Content Collections
The Roar Community
- Join
- Login
With a resurgent Matt Giteau leading the way, 2011 might just be the year for the ACT Brumbies. Giteau looked to be back to his sparkling best in the Brumbies 28-15 win over the Waikato Chiefs.
Playing in the number 10 jersey, something he hasn’t done for a few seasons, Giteau looked comfortable and like he was enjoying the role.
Whether it’s the realisation that it’s his last chance with the Brumbies, as he’s heading to France at the end of the Super Rugby season, or that 2010 wasn’t up to his usual high standards, Giteau seems intent on making the most of this year.
And he certainly impressed in the opening game, especially in the first half, though he wasn’t the only one among the Brumbies. Sevens star Robbie Coleman showed his elusive ability with a sparkling try in the first half.
Flanker Julian Salvi made an impression, while Stephen Moore and the front row of Dan Palmer and Ben Alexander were mostly dominant.
There were many player highlights for the Brumbies although they did drop off somewhat in the second half, allowing the Chiefs back into the match, and Wallaby captain Rocky Elsom is yet to return from injury.
The Brumbies have a deep and talented squad with the likes of Huia Edmonds, Stephen Hoiles, Tyrone Smith, Selesi Maafu and young guns Colby Fainga’a and Michael Hooper on the bench.
Granted the Chiefs were not the toughest opposition, and were very poor in the opening 40 minutes. And playing at home is an easier proposition. But most critics have written off the Brumbies chances this year.
Most of the praise has gone to the Waratahs and the Reds, with those teams tipped to be the best of the Australian provinces. Last year the Brumbies were hyped to the max and failed to deliver.
It’s too early to tell, and they still have a lot of work to do. But, I think the Brumbies will surprise some teams this year. I wouldn’t write them off and I think they will still be in contention come finals time.
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.