The reasons I rate that performance tonight are numerous:
#1 We got over and controlled a big aggresive opposition forward pack
#2 We got over and controlled a fast, skillful backline that smashed us to smitherines only 2 months ago
#3 Our ball handling was superb in very greasey conditions
#4 We defended our line against back to back sets a couple of times
#5 Our short kicking game was faultless…3 tries off 3 of the best grubbers you will ever see - at pace!
#6 All of our guns played well. It wasnt just the Benji and Robbie show (even though both were excellent)
#7 Our discipline was much improved
#8 Our completed sets were high...no stupid passes or mistakes.
#9 We were patient in attack. We forced many drop outs.
#10 We were always in control...without resorting to cocky trick plays. We played football.
#11 We were away from home...Canberra can be a difficult place to score victories.
#12 Our young 5/8 stood up and showed great promise.
#13 We played the full 80 minutes...no slacking off.
#14 We scored 40 points in poor weather
#15 We allowed no points against in poor weather...it only took one misplaced step in defence in those conditions to allow a try yet everyone covered for each other.
#16 We had an obvious game plan and followed it all game and to a tee.
#17 We havent been in that good of a form even though we have been winning
#18 Gareth Ellis wasnt out there.
It wasnt our greatest victory, to me that is still the 05 semi v Dragons...however that was a professional, polished performance that was quite unexpected. I was expecting a dour, close scoring slugfest in the wet but we ran them around and kicked behind them with precision which is the perfect way to play in those conditions. It has taken 13 weeks but finally I fully believe we can win this comp. I have always believed, but now I'm certain. I know Canberra gave us a number of leg ups with their poor handling and Ill discipline but the way we played they were never in the contest. My confidence has been restored to pre round one levels....