No half measures - Deans trusts instincts

No half measures - Deans trusts instincts
By GREG GROWDEN - SMH | Tuesday, 10 June 2008


The prospect of fielding a new test halves combination that includes a rookie at No 9 - such as Luke Burgess and Matt Giteau - does not faze Wallabies coach Robbie Deans.

Although Deans will not name his team to play Ireland in Melbourne on Saturday night until Wednesday, the hopes of Waratahs halfback Burgess making his test debut have been boosted by Deans saying he has a soft spot for adventurous players who trust their instincts.

Burgess is such a player, and his selection in the Waratahs' starting lineup midway through the Super 14 tournament had the desired effect of revitalising NSW, primarily through his aggression, unpredictability and resourcefulness. Burgess often tried to do something new, often with success.

The major sticking point is that Burgess and Giteau have not played together as a halves combination, which could cause indecision. Deans has to choose between Burgess and the more experienced Sam Cordingley for the No 9 spot, but he does not appear to worry about pairing.....

The full story: No half measures - Deans trusts instincts - New Zealand's source for sport, rugby, cricket & league news on Stuff.co.nz

Good, hopefully he will continue to get rid of the rubbish we have been producing the last few years....a strong run up to 2011 with experienced but young players instead of experienced, over the hill, and/or ineffective players like last world cup (I'm looking at you front row)

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by BLR

(I'm looking at you front row)

---

Poor frontrow, he hasn't been on for weeks! ;)

If it's a choice between Cordingley and Burgess then it's a no brainer.
I don't understand how Gregan was described as being over the hill and well past it (although highly respected outside of Australia) while Cordingley, at 32, is being considered as part of the future.

I'm with Burgs here. Until Burgess put his hand up at the 'Tahs there really wasn't a standout scrummie in Australia. If you don't use him, you may as well go for Chucky or Chrisso, because at least you have the combination thing in their favour. I'd suggest the standings finished, Burgess first, Daylight Second the rest of them in a bunch after that!