The Wallabies proved conclusively on the weekend they won’t win games of any importance unless Will Genia is on duty.
Not only was the 29-year-old halfback the tearaway man of the match against Wales at Cardiff, but his leadership was vital.
There was no better example when captain Michael Hooper was binned for repeatedly being penalised with 13 minutes to go.
Only minutes earlier, referee Glen Jackson had warned both captains the next penalty was a yellow.
Hooper was stupid enough to be the next, and departed.
The Wallabies were leading 29-16 at the time. but Wales were hammering with plenty of possession. They were camped in Wallaby territory.
Two converted tries for a one-point win was a distinct possibility, especially with the Wallabies a man short.
But Genia’s generalship denied them.
Not only did he read the play so superbly, he pulled off many telling tackles all over the park.
In short, Genia saved the Wallaby bacon.
The (AAP Image/Richard Wainwright)
Even though both Gena and Bernard Foley had (vc) after their name on the team sheet, it was crystal clear who was the senior when Hooper departed – Genia.
The gobful he gave Foley during the Hooper binning didn’t miss.
Why coach Michael Cheika nominates two vice-captains makes no sense, even moreso when both are backs and play side by side.
It’s no secret I’ve never rated Hooper as a captain.
But Genia comprehensively proved his worth by leading a man-short Wallabies to defend against wave after wave of Welshmen during those vital ten minutes.
Sure, Wales scored at the death, but Genia had safely seen the Wallabies home by then.
There are two other aspects of Hooper’s rugby that don’t cut the mustard.
He’s the captain, and must set the standard for the squad, but he’s penalised more than most.
And he’s the only Wallaby who plays with his socks down, a shabby example for his coveted position.
Importantly, he’s a hog in possession, rarely looking for support, and rarely passing – constantly seeking the hero play.
In the 41st minute yesterday he took on three defenders from five metres out with Reece Hodge unmarked outside him.
Hooper never looked to his right, he just put his head down and plunged for the line.
Luckily he landed on the line, going within centimetres of bombing a certain try.
But to be binned late in the game after a warning was inexcusable.
But Cheika will stick with Hooper. Hopefully Will Genia will be around to keep picking up the pieces.
Harry Jones
Expert
I will not defend Hooper's risky keeper try nor his Cheika-influenced relationship with referees ... But I will defend socks-down. It makes you faster (Creevy, Coles, Whiteley, Hooper) and better. Socks are for soccer. Let's play with no socks!
ScrumJunkie
Guest
I judge a man by his character... everything else is story telling.
Adam
Roar Guru
Anything worse than socks down? urgh
piru
Roar Rookie
I shall begin supporting my local super team.. oh wait
Fionn
Guest
You're now learning how to be a good Australian rugby fan, Piru :)
piru
Roar Rookie
Well is SMH says so, who cares what facts, figures, observation and achievement says?
Fionn
Guest
DC is nothing compared to Foley. Paul Cully SMH told me he is world class and up there with Beauden Barrett, Piru.
piru
Roar Rookie
I wouldn't blame him - he's not going to get a look ahead of Phipps with Cheika in charge
eeds
Guest
It's not about me mate. You're right I'm a big boy and can cop it on the chin. It's just absolutely amazing that when things start looking up for Australian rugby with what was a good victory on the weekend and a great NRC final you glass half empty types still find the most petty stuff to argue and complain about come Monday morning...
piru
Roar Rookie
DC always pulls his socks up
piru
Roar Rookie
Those are important attributes too, but a halfback's number 1,2 and 3 jobs is to pass the ball.
Marto
Guest
^ There There rainy face. Its Ok. No ones pickin on you anymore. Your`e a big boy now. Suck it up and you'll be fine!
Marto
Guest
Those extra thumbs on Cynical is a result of Chekko Clown Syndrome or Trisomy 21 which is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of all or part of an extra 28th chromosome & gravel for a brain. Often CCS " Chekko Clown Syndrome ", and especially in Cynicals case, is associated with some impairment of cognitive ability (a big tick in his box) and physical growth (ie. Extra fingers & thumbs) as well as facial appearance (simple)... Chekko Clown Syndrome is usually identified at birth but with Mr Play it`s definitely late onset….
JK
Guest
awwwww boo hoooo Reverse ..
Timbo (L)
Roar Guru
Until recently, no. no-kick Cheikaball has no use for it. Probably why Phipps gets picked. But in an evolved game plan, it is another tool to have at your disposal to spread the defense.
Fionn
Guest
Not sure the box kick is such an important skill right now.
eeds
Guest
This comment thread is a joke! Tattoos, socks down?!? What's next? Hair cuts? You people need a reality check... that Australia played a decent game, came away with the win should be the only talking point from the weekend. What we can improve on, another topic... but If you want to judge people based on their appearance I hear the thought police are hiring over in Iran, North Korea and Afghanistan.
Grandslamfan
Guest
I agree with Hoy in with his observation that when fit and in-form Will Genia is a world class player. When Genia is not fit, in a form slump or simply despondent,as I believe he was for some time leading into this current purple patch there are other half-backs that should be given a chance. The other question is how long can Will Genia sustain his current form in the lead-up to the RWC in 2019? I have observed Nick Stirzaker play rugby since he was 11 and sincerely believe that he deserves a chance at the next level. Stirz seems to have lost some of his support base in favour of a batch of younger players and is possibly considering a contract overseas?
ChrisG
Roar Rookie
I agree with you on this David. It's about pride in the jersey and looking the part. The Captain needs to set the standard and Hooper doesn't do this.
cinque
Guest
Can't see it changing .... Cheika: Michael, pull your socks up. That look is inappropriate for a wallaby captain. Hooper: Come back when you've shaved.