It seems that Wallabies James O’Connor is poised to begin the Super Rugby season in the five-eighth position for the Western Force after yet another impressive performance at No.10.
The final practice match for both teams before next week’s opening round saw the Waratahs recover from a lackluster start, achieving an impressive 38-22 win at Shoalhaven Rugby Park located on the NSW south coast in Nowra.
Drew Mitchell, the test winger, netted two tries in the second half for the Waratahs, while fullback Kurtley Beale demonstrated flashes of brilliance with a stunning pass that set up Mitchell’s first try.
However, with Waratahs playmaker Berrick Barnes withdrawing late due to a minor quadriceps issue, it might have been the Force that benefitted more from the encounter, as O’Connor – who previously played five-eighth in last week’s trial against the Barbarians – got another 60 minutes at first receiver, with Cameron Shepherd returning to the fullback position.
During most of the 2010 season, O’Connor was positioned at No.15 for the Force, but it seems that new coach Richard Graham is keen to get him more involved in the play, as the 20-year-old displayed a promising eagerness to carry the ball from deep within his own half.
Though Western Force coach Richard Graham did not confirm O’Connor would take on the No.10 role for the season-opener against the Reds, he acknowledged that the young talent had once again demonstrated his capacity to manage the added responsibility.
“He’s quite a good footballer, isn’t he? I don’t think it matters where he plays; he’s going to pose many challenges,” Graham stated.
“Tonight’s performance will provide him with significant insights into areas for improvement if he is to become a regular in the frontline.”
The strategic move proved successful, as notable winger Nick Cummins and Shepherd both scored early tries, establishing a 12-7 advantage by the end of the first quarter before the Waratahs found their rhythm with replacement five-eighth Daniel Halangahu integrating into the game.
Before halftime, centre Tom Carter and Wycliff Palu both crossed the line, allowing NSW to secure a solid 21-12 lead, while Mitchell’s two tries expanded their lead to a dominating 33-12.
Winger Lachie Turner left the field after 30 minutes with a suspected left knee injury, yet there was positive news as centre Rob Horne made a quicker-than-anticipated return from an elbow injury, playing 20 minutes for the Junior Waratahs in the curtain-raiser.
Waratahs coach Chris Hickey expressed contentment with his team’s preparation ahead of their inaugural match against the new Melbourne Rebels.
“We have players who have clocked 60-70 minutes of match fitness, which is crucial, and we’ve evaluated different options and combinations that we will further consider,” Hickey remarked.
“Our performance was where we aimed to be, but we must elevate our game against the Rebels next week.”
by Buford Balony
