Following Otago's opening ITM Cup win against North Harbour, ODT Online rugby writer Jeff Cheshire expands on his five key points from the game.
Slick set-moves
Good set-moves were a feature of Otago's game last year and if this game was any indication, this year they may be even better in this department. Their set-plays were intelligent, well-organized and slickly executed. When you operate a good set-move well, it can be near impossible to defend, particularly the first time it is done. The best was the one which led to the first try, where a one-two cut wrong-footed the defenders and allowed a gap to open up for Fa'asiu Fuatai to go through.
It was executed with perfect timing, a well-delivered pass from Collins and Fuatai hitting the line at just the right time. The result was seven points. Executing these moves well can be a way to break a strong defence and will be important against the likes of Canterbury later in the season.
Strong set-piece
One of the questions heading into the season was how the set-piece would hold up. After the first game it can be said that it held up just fine and even gained an edge up front. The scrum was impressive, with a strong shove pushing the North Harbour pack backwards. Through this they were able to apply pressure and got some good ball to work with. Their lineout was equally efficient, with Liam Coltman's throwing being far more accurate than during the Super Rugby season. Tom Franklin was a safe target towards the back, while James Lentjes and Joe Latta both provided good options closer to the front and middle.
Should have won by more
You should never complain with a win and this one was more than just an average one. There were plenty of positives to take from it and some good rugby played. But it should have been by more. It was hard to believe when the team trailed by 7-3 after 15 minutes. Otago had played all of the rugby and North Harbour had turned the ball over every time they had it bar the one time they scored.
It was just a case of Otago needing to turn their dominance into points. They had the better of the territory and possession stakes and had North Harbour under pressure. Eventually this told, but it would have been nice to come away with a try in the early stages after going so close. Likewise, late in the game Marshall Suckling made a nice break but did not find the man inside him which would have secured a bonus point. These are just little things to iron out as the season progresses, but for now you have to be happy with the win.
Young players stepping up
With a handful of top players leaving from last year's team, some younger ones were going to have to step up. The signs are encouraging. Michael Collins, Tei Walden and Fa'asiu Fuatai all had good games in the backs and showed why they are so highly touted. Collins showed huge improvement, looking faster, stronger and more dangerous with ball in hand, capable of breaking the line and offloading. Defensively he was sound too, an area he was shaky in last year. Walden gave a heady performance at second five-eighth, while Fuatai worked hard on the wing and picked his moments well to come into the line. Nick Ealey too had an impressive debut, providing good service and quick ball during the 20 minutes he was on the field.
In the forwards Joe Latta was the stand out of the new players. He got through plenty of work both on attack and defence, providing physicality and was fairly mobile. Aki Seiuli continued the good form he showed late last year, as did Lee Allan. Charlie O'Connell too impressed, looking more comfortable back at No. 8, while James Lentjes was busy at openside flanker.
Shield challenge next week
It is hard not to think about next week's Ranfurly Shield challenge. This game showed Otago will compete well and have the ability to beat Counties-Manukau next week. The forward pack is full of hard-workers, along with a few dynamic players to add some aggression. While the backline lacks the big names, they can still pose a threat as long as they are well organised and continue to pass at the high level they did this week.
Do not read too much into Counties-Manukau's 9-9 draw with Taranaki on Thursday. It was played in horrible conditions that did not suit their team at all. They have a dangerous backline with flair in abundance, along with some strong ball-carrying forwards. No doubt they will be tough to contain on a dry day at Pukekohe. You have to give Otago every chance of winning though. Last year they got monkey off their back, surely that must give them some extra belief and will have them under less pressure.
