Keys to unlock success for Blues
Bryn Gatland has to be really good
The loss of Stephen Perofeta (hand fracture) for at least the first four matches is a massive blow, on top of the defection of new signing Otere Black for the season.
That leaves rookie Gatland the No 10 by default. The first four games are fraught with difficulty, and just how well Gatland copes in the faster pace and intensity of Super Rugby could make or break this campaign. He hinted at his abilities against his dad’s Lions in Whangarei last year, but this shapes as an even bigger challenge.
Time for Akira Ioane to come of age
With Steven Luatua gone and Jerome Kaino on his farewell tour, the Blues desperately need some X-factor in the loose. The older Ioane brother looks just the man to provide it.
Rieko has already revealed himself as a world-class back, but big bro’ has thus far struggled to marry workrate, consistency and performances to the undoubted potential he possesses.
Coach Tana Umaga makes it clear they are expecting big things from him this year. ‘‘We don’t want to put too much pressure on Aki, but we know what he’s able to do and we know his potential.’’ It is time to deliver on it.
Sonny Bill Williams and Rieko Ioane to set the tone
The Blues need their best players to establish a standard that will inspire their team-mates in 2018. Avoiding injury will also be crucial, because this pair need to be on the field as much as possible.
Umaga has a young group with an unproven history in big moments. Seeing their world-class backline stars lead the way will be a massive step in the right direction.
Stop shrinking when games go on the line
The Blues failed to win a Kiwi derby last year, with five defeats and a draw. They were right there in five of the six matchups, but could not apply the finishing touches when required.
It’s been their major focus this preseason.
Rally behind the new skipper
It was a bold call by Umaga to make fiery halfback Augustine Pulu his captain, but the coach believes a necessary one. Umaga wants him to be aggressive, but not too aggressive in his leadership.
How the new skipper manages that balance, and how his troops rally behind him, will be vital for the Blues.