In a warning shot for the NSW Waratahs, a ruthless ACT Brumbies want to be even more clinical when they take on their arch rivals at Canberra Stadium.
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Their attack looked slick against the Western Force, but Brumbies attack coach Rod Seib said - while they were happy with the start - they'll look to be even more polished with the ball second time around.
That means a backline guided by young gun Noah Lolesio could be even more potent as his combinations with centre pairing Irae Simone and Len Ikitau continue to build.
They produced three tries in their 27-11 victory over the Force, but Seib felt they let a few opportunities slip.
"Our game-plan adherence was excellent - we played in the right parts of the field," he said.
"Certainly around our skill execution, we created a lot of opportunities through our shape and execution, but we probably didn't capitalise as many times as we would've liked so that's something to work on for us this week.
"Just to make sure we recognise when the opportunities do arise and we execute under pressure."
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Lolesio scored a try running a nice line and then Simone crossed after combining well with Ikitau - Seib felt the two centres would be "good on the dance floor" with their "fancy feet".
Seib said Lolesio was "kicking goals" - literally as well, converting all five of his chances from the kicking tee.
"His goal kicking's fantastic and I think that's a reflection on how he feels out on the field," Seib said.
"That first try where he just saw the opportunity to run off [Brumbies scrumhalf Nic White] and went through the gap, that's in Noah's game.
"He's just got that ability to read a defence and see when an opportunity comes up.
"He doesn't sit in the pocket and protect himself like you can see some 10s do.
"He's very aggressive and at the line when those opportunities exist."
Many have written the Waratahs off after their opening round demolition at the hands of the Queensland Reds, going down 41-7 in Brisbane.
But Seib said there was no need to guard against complacency against their arch rivals.
"Certainly shouldn't have to. The guys in the squad have played the Waratahs enough to know that they'll be up against a strong opposition this week," he said.
SUPER RUGBY AU ROUND TWO
Saturday: ACT Brumbies v NSW Waratahs at Canberra Stadium, 7.45pm.
David Polkinghorne
Covering the Raiders, Cavalry, cycling and racing, plus everything else that involves sport in the ACT, for The Canberra Times. Basically I love sport and watching it is a full-time job. Email: david.polkinghorne@canberratimes.com.au
Covering the Raiders, Cavalry, cycling and racing, plus everything else that involves sport in the ACT, for The Canberra Times. Basically I love sport and watching it is a full-time job. Email: david.polkinghorne@canberratimes.com.au
