The hits and misses of another Super season
Best match
Take your pick of either of the southern derbies between the Highlanders and Crusaders. There’s something about these two teams which inevitably produce classics. Under the roof in Dunedin, the Highlanders led 27-6, with Waisake Naholo laying on one try and scoring two. The Crusaders stormed back to score two of their own — Seta Tamanivalu the match-winner — in the final five minutes. In their second meeting in Christchurch, who could forget Mitchell Hunt’s dramatic dropped kick which stole victory for the Crusaders?
Biggest upset
Before beating the Blues 48-21, the Sunwolves had won two games in two years — against the Bulls and Jaguares. The Blues were widely expected to cruise through, and farewell departing All Blacks despite extreme heat. Instead, Tana Umaga’s men conceded 34 unanswered second half points to end the season on an embarrassing note.
Big mover
Ngani Laumape was named Hurricanes Player of the Year, and deservedly so. He is much more than destructive power. His footwork at the line, offloading, pace and support play were all to the fore. His transition from league has some way to go, particularly on defence, but he showed in his starting test debut in the third Lions test he is more than capable of handling the step up. Should only get better.
Under pressure
The squeeze appears to be coming for Julian Savea. Left on the bench once again at the business end of the season with
the Hurricanes, his place in the All Blacks is also tenuous, with Nehe Milner-Skudder expected to return. Jerome Kaino may be another looking over his shoulder. Highlanders enforcer Liam Squire missed the Lions series with a broken thumb but will provide pressure for the blindside role.
Biggest defection
Where to start? James Lowe, Steven Luatua, Charlie Faumuina, Aaron Cruden, Tawera KerrBarlow, Malakai Fekitoa. . . the list goes on. New Zealand’s talent continues to be susceptible to offshore raids. But possibly
the biggest void will be left by Chiefs coach Dave Rennie. The pathway to the All Blacks now seemingly requires overseas experience but after delivering the Chiefs their first two titles, Rennie could prove a big loss.
Coach killer
It is still hard to fathom that not one Australian side could beat a Kiwi team this season. Not one. The 0-26 record is truly dire for all involved, highlighting the plight of Australian rugby.
New kid on the block
Crusaders wing George Bridge and Hurricanes fullback Jordie Barrett made strong cases but Highlanders lock Jackson Hemopo gets the nod for his fashionably late impression. He summed up the Highlanders pack — emerged from nowhere to well exceed expectations.
Surprise package
Bryn Hall. The North Harbour halfback never really kicked on at the Blues. It was not through lack of dedication or desire but something didn’t quite click. Moving south to the Crusaders and playing behind a pack of All
Blacks has done wonders for his game. Hall’s delivery, organisation and speed from the base saw him surpass Mitchell Drummond and prove he deserves respect at this level. A nod also to the Southern Kings, who produced some stunning rugby to win six matches and finish above the Cheetahs and Bulls in their final season before joining the expanded Pro 14.
Captain fantastic
This year’s Crusade had many driving forces but, through it all, Sam Whitelock was a central figure.
Biggest PR blunder
The Blues in Apia. Excuses aside, pricing locals out of the ticket market left the Blues with a half full (at best) stadium and egg on their faces. Don’t bother going if you can’t embrace local supporters.
Wish for next season
Sanzaar magically discovers some form of leadership and embarks on the process of recovering credibility. Moving the disruptive June test window can’t come soon enough, but whether it is 15 or 16 teams next year, the big focus must start with establishing a fair and equitable draw and finals series that rewards the best. This season has been one shambles to the next.