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2011 has shaped up to be one of the most unusual years in sport with under-performing teams rising in the latest tournaments. This means there could be more tight contests or a greater number of upsets.
The Highlanders.
The Super Rugby team won their opening three fixtures with upsets over the Hurricanes, Chiefs and last year’s winners, the Bulls. Though a setback saw the Highlanders go to their usual form: shocking.
The Aussie Cricket team.
Known as the best, now known as absolutely appalling. Their loss to Pakistan came as their first in World Cup cricket in 34 matches and all the captain had to say was: “That’s one out of 34 games.”
He also said: “I think I was hitting it better.” Newsflash Punter: you scored 19.
The Newcastle Knights.
The Knights have surprised many with two convincing wins against the Panthers and the Cowboys. Now, they are in first position for the first time in over five years.
Meanwhile, last year’s semi-finalists, the Gold Coast Titans, are at the bottom of the table.
The recent examples of the upsets mostly occured this weekend.
The Aussies losing by six wickets, Ireland beating England in the Six Nations, the ‘Tahs’ shocking defeat to the Cheetahs, and many more.
I went to the ‘Tahs’ game on Saturday and they played awful. People were saying the first 20 minutes were the Waratahs’ best, but they were losing 3-0 the whole time.
Meanwhile, the Cheetahs didn’t play any differently. In fact, the ‘Tahs were just tired in the end after trying too hard.
In the end, these upsets have blended nicely.
Starting in 2007, when South Africa won the RWC, when New Zealand were clear favourites; to 2008, when Australia lost their first ever World Cup to New Zealand; to 2009, when Parramatta made it to the Grand Final; to 2010, when France and Italy were knocked out of the World Cup; Geelong or Storm didn’t make the Grand Final; and the Reds came fifth in the Super 14; to now.
Now, what does the future hold?
Richmond and Gold Coast to meet in the AFL Grand Final? The Highlanders to win the Super 15? Ireland or Romania to win the Rugby World Cup? The Sharks to win the NRL Grand Final?
Maybe or maybe not?
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