Highlanders - The season so far
A third of the way through the season. what is the good and what is the bad?
The Good
Some decent attacking opportunities
Not saying we are anything close to the top couple of teams in the Chiefs and Hurricanes, but certainly generally an improvement from 2023. We are a different team without Tele'a. But, with him we can straighten out point of attack, and the back three does threaten.
Ajay Faleafaga
Started the season as our no3 10. I feel like he will finish the year as our top first five. Whether he starts there or remains on the bench. Will be up to the coaching staff. His development has been fairly swift and he has shown he can run a team at this level.
Fabian Holland
Looks like he is now settled t this level. Handles the collisions well, a strong ball carrier and enjoys putting on some big hits on D.
Fakatava improving with game time
This is the first year of his career he has had consistent game time. He is looking better, and is especially getting more confidence on attack. Kicking and defence still needs a lot of work.
Harmon
Hands down our best player.
Jack Taylor and Henry Bell
Both hugely inexperienced at this level, but, have looked competitive against other some top notch hookers. Not there yet, on the right trajectory though.
The Bad:
Sam Gilbert
A bit of a poor man's Jordie Barrett. Struggles in D. Can't move laterally at pace. Not running the cutter well from 12. Has all the physical attributes, just doesn't seem to put it together.
Rhys Patchell
Looed great in the first couple of games. Seems teams are reading him more easily now, especially his flat balls at the line.
Loosie mix
Withy, Harmon and small no8s just isn't working. Looks like we need a big boy back at six. Withy is one of our best players, just doesn't suit the make up. I'd like to see us show some faith in Will Stodart as well.
Cam Millar
I had my doubts around Millar. Seems they were founded. I hope be can make the necessary improvements in his game, as he doesn't have two more years as a contracted player. Will be interested to see how Byron Smith goes for Southland.
Pari Pari Parkinson
Looks like he is gooone. Is currently fit to play and running around in club rugby. Obviously something up with the big fella.
Should get four more wins, if things go really well, may be sneak six. Then get flogged in the first round of the play offs.