Slow Start in 2014 For New Zealand Teams

In New Zealand, we are an odd bunch. More people can name the captain of the All Blacks than the leader of the Labour party. It’s David Cunliffe by the way. We are very unforgiving when our rugby teams lose. International, Super 15, ITM Cup, it doesn’t matter the level. So I can’t imagine we’re all too happy with the way our Super Rugby teams have started this year. I know I’m personally a touch worried about my beloved Crusaders- we’ll be sweet though! However for the talent we have in this country, we should be winning more.

The defending champion Chiefs, have drawn their last two matches in South Africa and lost to the Force in Perth. The Blues, they must be one of the more frustrating teams to support. A couple of really encouraging home wins, yet as soon as they hit the road, they get swept off the park. The Highlanders and Hurricanes though have always been very hot and cold- admittedly the ‘Canes have had two big wins in their last two matches against the Crusaders and Bulls, but the Hurricanes have undeniable talent in their squad. Beauden Barrett has to be the best first five in the country at the moment (remember Dan’s on a sabbatical). Julian Savea can make plays out of nothing. Yet they can’t put consistent performances on the park. The Crusaders are expected to win every weekend. That’s what comes with seven titles. But lately their attack has seemed out of sorts. Is it because there’s no Dan? Potentially, but with the amount of talent in their squad they should be producing more complete performances.

So with all these poor performances, what can we put it down to? Coaches? Individual players? On field effort? Surely on field effort can’t be questioned but I’m sure that if these performances don’t pick up then there will be some very concerned coaches around New Zealand. Lets start with Todd Blackadder at the Crusaders. Every year when the new Super Rugby season commences, the Crusaders go in as one of the favourites. Do not mistake that they have fully earned that right. However since Blackadder took over in 2009, their best finish has been 2^nd. Yes, they have made the semi finals every year since he took over, but the people of Christchurch and the Crusaders region are demanding a title, and if Blackadder can’t give them that then it may be time to look elsewhere. Likewise at the Hurricanes and the Highlanders. Neither team has really threatened to even contest a playoff spot in recent years, and it doesn’t look like that’s about to change so maybe it’s time for some restructuring there as well.

Whatever way you look at it, it has been a very slow start to the season for the New Zealand Super Rugby teams. Looking ahead to the international season, I’m not worried. But for now, teams need to step up or that silverware may end up in Australia or South Africa.