Super Rugby 2011 Power Rankings: Round 1

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Over the weekend we were treated to Round One of a revamped Super Rugby system. The rounds seven games saw six local derbies, the first look at a new franchise, two upsets and a further three looking on the cards.

Oh, and I lost $360 virtual dollars in a forum tipping competition because Will Chambers knocked on a clear chance for a try.

In all, it was an entertaining weekend of rugby. Now that the dust has cleared, which sides are looking the strongest? I analyzed several points of data for the round to try and answer that question. What follows are the results.

And I can promise that some selections will surprise you.

No. 14: Rebels

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After a promising preseason, the new boys were thrashed 44-0 by the Waratahs. What can you say? Two yellows didn’t help, but the ‘Tahs really did run through them.

They get to host the Brumbies next week to prove that getting last spot was a mere fluke. But I can't see that happening.

No. 13: Chiefs

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Too many handling errors against the Brumbies, and if they’d been a bit more structured on attack and removed Stephen Donald they’d be a fair bit higher.

Their next chance for redemption is away to the Highlanders.

No. 12: Highlanders

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It does seem odd that the Highlanders beat the Hurricanes and get a lower rank, but they weren’t particularly brilliant on attack and rookie Lima Sopoaga’s goal kicking did them no favors (honestly, I thought he was thrown in the deep end a bit).

Their next fixture is at home to the Chiefs.

No. 11: Cheetahs

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Their kicking game was fairly decent and their forward pack seems alright, but ultimately they made too many mistakes.

Next week they host the Bulls.

No. 10: Hurricanes

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An error-ridden ‘Canes outfit did their best to get out of jail after a Ma’a Nonu sending off, but they weren’t quite good enough, going down 14-9 to the Highlanders.

The next game calls for a big improvement with the Crusaders coming to town.

No. 9: Force

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The Force were unlucky not to cause a major upset in Brisbane, but I think their defense needs tightening if they want to climb the rankings.

They have a week’s holiday to look forwards to.

No. 8: Lions

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Losing 24-20 wasn't a bad effort from the Lions side tipped to inflict a few upsets this year. They were very well disciplined, but need to work on getting up the field.

They’ll need another solid effort next week, away to the Stormers, but don't rule out the possibility. The Lions are my (very) dark horse tip this year.

No. 7: Reds

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A disappointing Reds side did well to claw their way back into the game against the Force, and defended well at critical times. I think they might have missed Daniel Braid.

Their next match is in Sydney against a confident Waratahs outfit.

No. 6: Crusaders

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The Crusaders were looking very well oiled, and Israel Dagg looks like a nice investment. Like the Force, they need to tighten up on defense to get a higher ranking.

Next week it’s a trip to Wellington against the Hurricanes with both sides looking to rebound from a disappointing result.

No. 5: Sharks

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The Sharks defended very well, making almost every tackle they attempted. They kicked well and didn’t give away many stupid penalties.

Next week they host the Blues, so they could be in for an interesting test.

No. 4: Bulls

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After being tested by the Lions, the Bulls should be reasonably happy with the win. Their kicking game continues to impress, as they were the only team to clock up over a kilometer of kicking metres.

Things don’t get harder with an away fixture against the Cheetahs awaiting.

No. 3: Blues

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Leaving it late, the Blues had a nice running game and were a very well disciplined team. If they can keep playing like this and keep injuries low, they’ll be confident of a playoff berth.

It’s off to South Africa and a game against the Sharks next round.

No. 2: Waratahs

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Having pulverised the Rebels, the Waratahs could have made the No. 1 spot. Sadly, their discipline let them down and they missed too many tackles. Their forward pack was solid and they ran well though.

Next week they play host to the (as yet) underwhelming Reds.

No. 1: Brumbies

The Brumbies celebrate their surprise #1 berth
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The Brumbies will be happy with a win against the Chiefs. They could have been more clinical, but their pack was solid and they did alright on defense.

Things look to get better for the ACT-based side, with a trip to Melbourne to face the hapless Rebels.