British & Irish Lions - Weekly Wallaby Watch (Ioane & McCabe out of series, Barnes out of 2nd test:)

First topic message reminder :

Inevitably, there's been a ma-hoosive over-focus on these boards about whom the tourists are likely to be and little, if anything, on who the Australian test team are likely to be.

The point of this thread is to report week to week upon the players which the Sydney Morning Herald believes are the best Aussie players in each round of the Super 15, to discuss how this changes and to comment in light of these performances who the form test starters are likely to be for the Wallabies.

The Wallaby squad will be removed for all Super 15 matches on 7, 8 and 9 June in order to be 'quarantined' for 3 weeks leading up to the first test on June 22nd.

SUPER 15 MATCHES REMAINING FOR WALLABIES SQUAD UNTIL THE FIRST TEST: 0

A. WALLABIES SQUAD:

Ben Alexander	Prop	Brumbies	28	48
Adam Ashley-Cooper	Fullback-Wing-Midfield	NSW Waratahs	29	77
Berrick Barnes	Flyhalf/Inside Centre/Fullback	NSW Waratahs	27	50
Nick Cummins	Wing	Western Force	25	6
Dave Dennis	Loose Forward	NSW Waratahs	27	15
Kane Douglas	Lock	NSW Waratah	27	6
Saia Fainga’a	Hooker	Queensland Reds	26	18
Israel Folau	Fullback-Wing	NSW Waratahs	23	Uncapped
Will Genia	Halfback	Queensland Reds	25	41
Liam Gill	Flanker	Queensland Reds	20	8
Michael Hooper	Flanker	NSW Waratahs	21	13
Rob Horne	Inside Centre	NSW Waratahs	23	14
James Horwill	Lock	Queensland Reds	27	35
Sekope Kepu	Prop	NSW Waratahs	27	23
Christian Leali’ifano	Flyhalf/Inside Centre	Brumbies	25	Uncapped
Ben McCalman	Loose Forward	Western Force	25	21
Stephen Moore	Hooker	Brumbies	30	76
Ben Mowen	Loose Forward	Brumbies	28	Uncapped
James O’Connor	Flyhalf/Wing	Melbourne Rebels	22	37
Wycliff Palu	No 8	NSW Waratahs	30	46
Nick Phipps	Halfback	Melbourne Rebels	24	12
Benn Robinson	Prop	NSW Waratahs	28	56
Rob Simmons	Lock	Queensland Reds	24	23
James Slipper	Prop	Queensland Reds	23	34
Luke Morahan	Wing	Reds	23	1

B. CURRENT S15 TEAM STANDINGS (AUSTRALIA)
TeamPWLDBFA /-BnsPts

1. Brumbies	14	9	3	2	2	376	257	119	6	54
2. Reds	15	9	4	2	1	307	284	23	6	50
3. Waratahs	14	7	7	0	2	371	344	27	4	40
4. Rebels	14	4	10	0	2	327	439	-112	8	32
5. Force	14	3	10	1	2	233	323	-90	5	27

c. AUSSIE TEAM S15 RESULTS

Round 16
Crusaders v Waratahs, Full Time 23-22
Brumbies v Hurricanes, Full Time 30-23
Reds v Rebels, Full Time 33-20

Round 15
Rebels v Waratahs, Full Time 24-22
Blues v Brumbies, Full Time 13-20
Force v Highlanders, Full Time 19-18
Stormers v Reds, Full Time 20-15

Round 14
Rebels v Stormers, Full Time 30-21
Force v Sharks, Full Time 13-23
Waratahs v Brumbies, Full Time 28-22
Cheetahs v Reds, Full Time 27-13

Round 13
Chiefs v Force, Full Time 22-21
Reds v Sharks, Full Time 32-17
Blues v Rebels, Full Time 36-32
Waratahs v Stormers, Full Time 21-15

Round 12
Rebels v Chiefs, Full Time 33-39
Force v Reds, Full Time 11-11
Kings v Waratahs, Full Time 10-72
Brumbies v Crusaders, Full Time 23-30

Round 11
Reds v Blues, Full Time 12-11
Brumbies v Force, Full Time 41-7
Bulls v Waratahs, Full Time 30-19
Crusaders v Rebels, Full Time 30-26

Round 10
Hurricanes v Force, Full Time 22-16
Waratahs v Chiefs, Full Time 25-20
Reds v Brumbies, Full Time 17-17

Round 9
Highlanders v Brumbies, Full Time 19-30
Chiefs v Reds, Full Time 23-31
Rebels v Kings, Full Time 27-30
Force v Crusaders, Full Time 16-14

Round 8
Brumbies v Kings, Full Time 28-28
Hurricanes v Waratahs, Full Time 41-29
Force v Rebels, Full Time 23-30

Round 7
Highlanders v Reds, Full Time 33-34
Brumbies v Bulls, Full Time 23-20
Cheetahs v Rebels, Full Time 34-16
Waratahs v Force, Full Time 23-19

Round 6
Reds v Bulls, Full Time 23-18
Force v Cheetahs, Full Time 10-19
Sharks v Rebels, Full Time 64-7
Stormers v Brumbies, Full Time 35-22
Waratahs v Blues, Full Time 30-27

Round 5
Waratahs v Cheetahs, Full Time 26-27
Reds v Force, Full Time 12-19
Sharks v Brumbies, Full Time 10-29

Round 4
Rebels v Reds, Full Time 13-23
Brumbies v Waratahs, Full Time 35-6

Round 3
Waratahs v Rebels, Full Time 31-26
Reds v Hurricanes, Full Time 18-12
Bulls v Force, Full Time 36-26

Round 2
Rebels v Brumbies, Full Time 13-30
Reds v Waratahs, Full Time 25-17

Round 1
Rebels v Force, Full Time 30-23
Brumbies v Reds, Full Time 24-6

D. AUSSIE TEAMS OF THE WEEK

27 February 2013
1. Ben Alexander (Brumbies)
2. Stephen Moore (Brumbies)
3. James Slipper (Reds)
4. Scott Fardy (Brumbies)
5. Rob Simmons (Reds)
6. Ed Quirk (Reds)
7. Liam Gill (Reds)
8. Ben Mowen (Brumbies)
9. Nic White (Brumbies)
10. Matt Toomua (Brumbies)
11. Digby Ioane (Reds)
12. Christian Lealifaano (Brumbies)
13. Ben Tapuai (Reds)
14. Dom Shipperley (Reds)
15. Jesse Mogg (Brumbies)

7 March 2013
1. Benn Robinson (Waratahs)
2. Nathan Charles (Force)
3. James Slipper (Reds)
4. Hugh McMeniman (Force)
5. Rob Simmons (Reds)
6. Angus Cottrell (Force)
7. Liam Gill (Reds)
8. Scott Higginbotham (Rebels)
9. Nick Phipps (Rebels)
10. James O'Connor (Rebels)
11. Digby Ioane (Reds)
12. Ben Tapuai (Reds)
13. Mitch Inman (Rebels)
14. Nick Cummins (Force)
15. Ben Volavola (Waratahs)

11 March 2013
1. Ben Alexander (Brumbies)
2. Stephen Moore (Brumbies)
3. Dan Palmer (Brumbies)
4. Scott Fardy (Brumbies)
5. Rob Simmons (Reds)
6. Ben Mowen (Brumbies)
7. George Smith (Brumbies)
8. Jake Schatz (Reds)
9. Nic White (Brumbies)
10. Matt Toomua (Brumbies)
11. Digby Ioane (Reds)
12. Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies)
13. Anthony Faingaa (Reds)
14. Henry Speight (Brumbies)
15. Jesse Mogg (Brumbies)

17 March 2013
1. Scott Sio (Brumbies)
2. Stephen Moore (Brumbies)
3. Ben Alexander (Brumbies)
4. Peter Kimlin (Brumbies)
5. Hugh McMeniman (Force)
6. Ben Mowen (Brumbies)
7. Liam Gill (Reds)
8. Fotu Auelua (Brumbies)
9. Alby Mathewson (Force)
10. Matt Toomua (Brumbies)
11. Joe Tomane (Brumbies)
12. Christian Lealifaano (Brumbies)
13. Tevita Kuridrani (Brumbies)
14. Henry Speight (Brumbies)
15. Jesse Mogg (Brumbies)

24 March 2013
1. Benn Robinson (Waratahs)
2. James Hanson (Reds)
3. Paddy Ryan (Waratahs)
4. James Horwill (Reds)
5. Hugh McMeniman (Force)
6. Dave Dennis (Waratahs)
7. George Smith (Brumbies)
8. Richard Brown (Force)
9. Will Genia (Reds)
10. Quade Cooper (Reds)
11. Digby Ioane (Reds)
12. Kyle Godwin (Force)
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper (Waratahs)
14. Drew Mitchell (Waratahs)
15. Israel Folau (Waratahs)

31 March 2013
1. Scott Sio (Brumbies)
2. James Hanson (Reds)
3. Dan Palmer (Brumbies)
4. James Horwill (Reds)
5. Hugh McMeniman (Force)
6. Peter Kimlin (Brumbies)
7. Michael Hooper (Waratahs)
8. Jake Schatz (Reds)
9. Will Genia (Reds)
10. Bernard Foley (Waratahs)
11. Henry Speight (Brumbies)
12. Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies)
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper (Waratahs)
14. Dom Shipperley (Reds)
15. Israel Folau (Waratahs)

9 April 2013
1. Sekope Kepu (Waratahs)
2. Ged Robinson (Rebels)
3. Ben Alexander (Brumbies)
4. Hugh Pyle (Rebels)
5. Luke Jones (Rebels)
6. Ben Mowen (Brumbies)
7. Michael Hooper (Waratahs)
8. Scott Higginbotham (Rebels)
9. Nic White (Brumbies)
10. Bernard Foley (Waratahs)
11. Joe Tomane (Brumbies)
12. Kyle Godwin (Force)
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper (Waratahs)
14. Jason Woodward (Rebels)
15. Richard Kingi (Rebels)

14 April 2013
1. Ben Alexander (Brumbies)
2. Stephen Moore (Brumbies)
3. James Slipper (Reds)
4. Rob Simmons (Reds)
5. James Horwill (Reds)
6. George Smith (Brumbies)
7. Liam Gill (Reds)
8. Richard Brown (Force)
9. Will Genia (Reds)
10. Quade Cooper (Reds)
11. Rod Davies (Reds)
12. Kyle Godwin (Force)
13. Junior Rasolea (Force)
14. Henry Speight (Brumbies)
15. Jayden Hayward (Force)

21 April 2013
1. Benn Robinson (Waratahs)
2. Heath Tessman (Force)
3. Dan Palmer (Brumbies)
4. Kane Douglas (Waratahs)
5. Rob Simmons (Reds)
6. Liam Gill (Reds)
7. Michael Hooper (Waratahs)
8. Ben Mowen (Brumbies)
9. Will Genia (Reds)
10. Quade Cooper (Reds)
11. Digby Ioane (Reds)
12. Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies)
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper (Waratahs)
14. Israel Folau (Waratahs)
15. Jesse Mogg (Brumbies)

28 April 2013
1. Benn Robinson (Waratahs)
2. Saia Faingaa (Reds)
3. James Slipper (Reds)
4. Hugh Pyle (Rebels)
5. Sam Carter (Brumbies)
6. Jarrod Saffy (Rebels)
7. George Smith (Brumbies)
8. Scott Higginbotham (Rebels)
9. Will Genia (Reds)
10. Matt Toomua (Brumbies)
11. Joe Tomane (Brumbies)
12. Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies)
13. Mitch Inman (Rebels)
14. Henry Speight (Brumbies)
15. Israel Folau (Waratahs)

05 May 2013
1. Benn Robinson (Waratahs)
2. Tatafu Polota-Nau (Waratahs)
3. Sekope Kepu (Waratahs)
4. Hugh Pyle (Rebels)
5. Rob Simmons (Reds)
6. Dave Dennis (Waratahs)
7. Chris Alcock (Force)
8. Wycliff Palu (Waratahs)
9. Brendan McKibbin (Waratahs)
10. Bernard Foley (Waratahs)
11. Digby Ioane (Reds)
12. Kyle Godwin (Force)
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper (Waratahs)
14. Cam Crawford (Waratahs)
15. Israel Folau (Waratahs)

13 May 2013
1. Benn Robinson (Waratahs)
2. Saia Fainga'a (Reds)
3. James Slipper (Reds)
4. Sitaleki Timani (Waratahs)
5. Kane Douglas (Waratahs)
6. Dave Dennis (Waratahs)
7. Scott Fuglistaller (Rebels)
8. Scott Higginbotham (Rebels)
9. Will Genia (Reds)
10. Quade Cooper (Reds)
11. Digby Ioane (Reds)
12. Kyle Godwin (Force)
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper (Waratahs)
14. Rod Davies (Reds)
15. Israel Folau (Waratahs)

20 May 2013
1. Benn Robinson (Waratahs)
2. Stephen Moore (Brumbies)
3. Laurie Weeks (Rebels)
4. Hugh Pyle (Rebels)
5. Cadeyrn Neville (Rebels)
6. Ben Mowen (Brumbies)
7. George Smith (Brumbies)
8. Scott Higginbotham (Rebels)
9. Alby Mathewson (Force)
10. Berrick Barnes (Waratahs)
11. Digby Ioane (Reds)
12. Kyle Godwin (Force)
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper (Waratahs)
14. Peter Betham (Waratahs)
15. Luke Morahan (Reds)

27 May 2013
1. Nic Henderson (Rebels)
2. Stephen Moore (Brumbies)
3. Ben Alexander (Brumbies)
4. Scott Fardy (Brumbies)
5. Peter Kimlin (Brumbies)
6. Chris Alcock (Force)
7. Scott Fuglistaller (Rebels)
8. Scott Higginbotham (Rebels)
9. Nic White (Brumbies)
10. Matt Toomua (Brumbies)
11. Joe Tomane (Brumbies)
12. Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies)
13. Mitch Inman (Rebels)
14. Tom English (Rebels)
15. Jason Woodward (Rebels)

E. SELECTED AQ PLAYER STATS TO DATE

Most Points
1. Morne Steyn (Bulls) 181
2. Gareth Anscombe (Chiefs) 163
3. Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies) 158
4. Patrick Lambie (Sharks) 150
5. Beauden Barrett (Hurricanes) 142
6. Joe Pietersen (Stormers) 140
7. Quade Cooper (Reds) 138
8. Demetri Catrakilis (Kings) 122
9. Brendan McKibbin (Waratahs) 120
10. James O'Connor (Rebels) 106
11. Colin Slade (Highlanders) 85
12. Chris Noakes (Blues) 76
13. Daniel Carter (Crusaders) 70
14. Sias Ebersohn (Force) 63
15. Burton Francis (Cheetahs) 62
16. Jayden Hayward (Force) 60
17. Tyler Bleyendaal (Crusaders) 58
18. Tom Taylor (Crusaders) 52
19. Jason Woodward (Rebels) 51
20. Aaron Cruden (Chiefs) 50

Most Tries
1. Frank Halai (Blues) 8
1. Israel Folau (Waratahs) 8
3. Henry Speight (Brumbies) 7
4. Scott Higginbotham (Rebels) 6
4. Tim Nanai-Williams (Chiefs) 6
6. Alfie Mafi (Force) 5
6. Cam Crawford (Waratahs) 5
6. Gareth Anscombe (Chiefs) 5
6. Hugh Pyle (Rebels) 5
6. Jesse Mogg (Brumbies) 5
6. Julian Savea (Hurricanes) 5
6. Raymond Rhule (Cheetahs) 5
6. Rod Davies (Reds) 5
6. TJ Perenara (Hurricanes) 5
6. Willie le Roux (Cheetahs) 5
16. Akona Ndungane (Bulls) 4
16. Ged Robinson (Rebels) 4
16. Hosea Gear (Highlanders) 4
16. Jean de Villiers (Stormers) 4
16. Peter Betham (Waratahs) 4

Most Tackles Made
1. Pieter Labuschagne (Cheetahs) 214
2. Wimpie van der Walt (Kings) 198
3. Michael Hooper (Waratahs) 179
4. Ed Quirk (Reds) 176
5. Phillip van der Walt (Cheetahs) 174
6. Matt Todd (Crusaders) 167
7. Sam Cane (Chiefs) 163
8. John Hardie (Highlanders) 161
9. Heinrich Brussow (Cheetahs) 160
9. Matthew Hodgson (Force) 160
9. Robert Ebersohn (Cheetahs) 160
9. Scott Fuglistaller (Rebels) 160
13. Brodie Retallick (Chiefs) 156
13. Siyamthanda Kolisi (Stormers) 156
15. Liam Gill (Reds) 153
16. Francois Uys (Cheetahs) 152
17. Marcell Coetzee (Sharks) 146
18. Cornell du Preez (Kings) 145
19. George Smith (Brumbies) 144
20. Hugh Pyle (Rebels) 142

Most Runs
1. Israel Folau (Waratahs) 126
2. Charles Piutau (Blues) 119
3. Digby Ioane (Reds) 114
4. Peter Saili (Blues) 107
5. Luke Braid (Blues) 106
6. Phillip van der Walt (Cheetahs) 105
7. Hosea Gear (Highlanders) 104
7. John Hardie (Highlanders) 104
9. Matthew Hodgson (Force) 101
9. TJ Ioane (Highlanders) 101
11. Liam Messam (Chiefs) 100
11. Tom Marshall (Crusaders) 100
13. Ben McCalman (Force) 96
14. Jake Schatz (Reds) 95
15. Adam Ashley-Cooper (Waratahs) 93
15. George Whitelock (Crusaders) 93
17. Alapati Leiua (Hurricanes) 92
17. Hugh Pyle (Rebels) 92
17. Marcell Coetzee (Sharks) 92
17. Steven Luatua (Blues) 92

Most Try Assists
1. Bernard Foley (Waratahs) 11
2. Aaron Cruden (Chiefs) 7
3. Beauden Barrett (Hurricanes) 5
3. James O'Connor (Rebels) 5
3. Quade Cooper (Reds) 5
3. Rene Ranger (Blues) 5
3. Will Genia (Reds) 5
8. Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies) 4
8. Patrick Lambie (Sharks) 4
8. Willie le Roux (Cheetahs) 4
11. Elton Jantjies (Stormers) 3
11. Francis Saili (Blues) 3
11. Gareth Anscombe (Chiefs) 3
11. Israel Folau (Waratahs) 3
11. Johann Sadie (Cheetahs) 3
11. Matt Toomua (Brumbies) 3
11. Morne Steyn (Bulls) 3
11. Nic White (Brumbies) 3
11. Nick Phipps (Rebels) 3
11. Winston Stanley (Force) 3

Most Offloads
1. Quade Cooper (Reds) 37
2. Israel Folau (Waratahs) 30
3. Luke Braid (Blues) 22
4. Rene Ranger (Blues) 21
5. Ben Smith (Highlanders) 20
6. Meyer Bosman (Sharks) 17
6. Robert Fruean (Crusaders) 17
8. Aaron Cruden (Chiefs) 16
8. Francois Steyn (Sharks) 16
10. Wycliff Palu (Waratahs) 15
11. Digby Ioane (Reds) 14
11. Hosea Gear (Highlanders) 14
11. James O'Connor (Rebels) 14
14. Bernard Foley (Waratahs) 13
14. Charles Piutau (Blues) 13
14. Julian Savea (Hurricanes) 13
14. Kyle Godwin (Force) 13
14. Phillip van der Walt (Cheetahs) 13
19. John Hardie (Highlanders) 12
19. Ryan Crotty (Crusaders) 12

Most Pilfers Made
1. Liam Gill (Reds) 9
2. Rene Ranger (Blues) 8
2. Sam Cane (Chiefs) 8
4. George Smith (Brumbies) 7
5. Chris Alcock (Force) 6
5. Robert Ebersohn (Cheetahs) 6
7. John Hardie (Highlanders) 5
7. Luke Braid (Blues) 5
7. Michael Hooper (Waratahs) 5
7. Scott Higginbotham (Rebels) 5
11. Alby Mathewson (Force) 4
11. Coenrad Oosthuizen (Cheetahs) 4
11. Deon Fourie (Stormers) 4
11. Jacques Botes (Sharks) 4
11. Nick Phipps (Rebels) 4
11. Pieter Labuschagne (Cheetahs) 4
11. Tatafu Polota-Nau (Waratahs) 4
18. Meyer Bosman (Sharks) 3
18. Michael Fitzgerald (Chiefs) 3
18. Saia Faingaa (Reds) 3

Most Penalties Conceded
1. Wyatt Crockett (Crusaders) 26
2. Ben Mowen (Brumbies) 20
2. Greg Holmes (Reds) 20
4. Matthew Hodgson (Force) 19
5. Ben Alexander (Brumbies) 18
6. Ali Williams (Blues) 17
6. Ben Franks (Hurricanes) 17
6. Steven Kitshoff (Stormers) 17
9. Michael Hooper (Waratahs) 16
10. Schalk Ferreira (Kings) 15
10. Scott Higginbotham (Rebels) 15
12. Ben Tameifuna (Chiefs) 14
12. Coenrad Oosthuizen (Cheetahs) 14
12. Laurie Weeks (Rebels) 14
12. Pieter Labuschagne (Cheetahs) 14
12. Sam Carter (Brumbies) 14
12. Scott Fuglistaller (Rebels) 14
18. Angus Ta'avao (Blues) 13
19. Deon Stegmann (Bulls) 12
19. Liam Messam (Chiefs) 12

Most Turnovers Conceded
1. Quade Cooper (Reds) 37
2. Stephen Moore (Brumbies) 34
3. Adriaan Strauss (Cheetahs) 29
4. Deon Fourie (Stormers) 28
5. Raymond Rhule (Cheetahs) 27
6. Charles Piutau (Blues) 25
7. Heath Tessmann (Force) 24
7. Rene Ranger (Blues) 24
9. Asaeli Tikoirotuma (Chiefs) 23
9. Bernard Foley (Waratahs) 23
11. Digby Ioane (Reds) 22
12. Brendan McKibbin (Waratahs) 21
12. Ged Robinson (Rebels) 21
12. Hikawera Elliot (Chiefs) 21
12. Israel Folau (Waratahs) 21
12. Julian Savea (Hurricanes) 21
12. Liam Messam (Chiefs) 21
12. Nathan Charles (Force) 21
12. Scott Higginbotham (Rebels) 21
12. Willie le Roux (Cheetahs) 21

Most Missed Tackles
1. Chris Noakes (Blues) 31
1. Robert Ebersohn (Cheetahs) 31
3. Raymond Rhule (Cheetahs) 30
4. Michael Hooper (Waratahs) 29
5. Beauden Barrett (Hurricanes) 27
6. Mitch Inman (Rebels) 25
7. Demetri Catrakilis (Kings) 23
7. Matthew Hodgson (Force) 23
7. Pierre Spies (Bulls) 23
10. Asaeli Tikoirotuma (Chiefs) 22
10. Brad Shields (Hurricanes) 22
10. Kyle Godwin (Force) 22
10. Sergeal Petersen (Kings) 22
10. Siyamthanda Kolisi (Stormers) 22
15. Alapati Leiua (Hurricanes) 21
15. Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies) 21
15. JJ Engelbrecht (Bulls) 21
15. Lodewyk de Jager (Cheetahs) 21
15. Phillip van der Walt (Cheetahs) 21
15. Ronnie Cooke (Kings) 21

The score line flattered the Reds. The Lions threatened the Reds line a lot more. Three TMO decisions went against the Lions while the Reds literally only threatened the Lions line twice and converted both times with the help of multiple forward passes. For all the Reds endeavour I don't think the win was ever in doubt.

As one Australian paper commented the Lions were strong in most departments except they were very unstructured in attack. I believe that this is because Gatland is saving all his best attacking moves for the test series.

For a side to be completely inept at the lineout I've never seen a team to compete so well. it just didn't phase them.

The problem with attacking play is that it takes an awful long time to develop and lions teams tend to have only basic attacking strategies... That's going on past tours anyhow.

Defences are more easy to build and therefore that's what most lions tours have been built around. I doubt the lions will have the attacking prowess of let's say a full strength Ireland backline.

The backline looks like it won't be dominated by any one nation will would help attacking strategies.... Although Wales' backline attacking platforms have never been complex anyhow (affective yes against the right opposition mind).

Don't expect to be blown away.... We will be predictable in our attack... That's just the nature of strangers having little time together to formulate plans.

FA - do you think it's possible that reports of the Lions being leaden and single plan in attack might be a little overstated? That was the accusation in 2009 too but Roberts and O'Driscoll proved to be a midfield of creativity as well as strength. Surely far fewer people are willing to brand players like North as just a bosher after the Reds match?

Luke Morahan's been called into the squad and deservedly so. http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/22853049

He could make the bench given he can cover a few positions, and not to mention his scintillating form!

littlejohn wrote:Luke Morahan's been called into the squad and deservedly so. http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/22853049

He could make the bench given he can cover a few positions, and not to mention his scintillating form!

Certainly looked the part on the weekend.

Hmm - I would rather Tomane had played against us than Morahan to be honest. Although I would have chosen Mafi before either of them.

So out of this current set of backs:
Adam Ashley-Cooper, Berrick Barnes, Kurtley Beale, Nick Cummins, Israel Folau, Will Genia, Rob Horne, Digby Ioane, Christian Leali'ifano, Pat McCabe, James O'Connor, Nick Phipps, Luke Morahan,

what are we really looking at as a backline for the first test?

09 Genia
10 Barnes
11 O'Connor (assuming Ioane won't make the first test)
12 Leali'ifano
13 Ashley-Cooper
14 Morahan/Cummins
15 Beale

From a Lions perspective it would be amazing if Deans chose Horne and McCabe but if he does that then he's losing a bit of sparkle.

Given the 9-15 mentioned above, I would think that the bench has to be 21. Phipps 22. Horne 23. Folau.

What do people think (a) it should be, given the current squad and (b) Deans will actually choose?

George Carlin wrote:FA - do you think it's possible that reports of the Lions being leaden and single plan in attack might be a little overstated? That was the accusation in 2009 too but Roberts and O'Driscoll proved to be a midfield of creativity as well as strength. Surely far fewer people are willing to brand players like North as just a bosher after the Reds match?

Gatland is saving all his backs moves and creativity for the tests and rightly so.

George Carlin wrote:So out of this current set of backs:
Adam Ashley-Cooper, Berrick Barnes, Kurtley Beale, Nick Cummins, Israel Folau, Will Genia, Rob Horne, Digby Ioane, Christian Leali'ifano, Pat McCabe, James O'Connor, Nick Phipps, Luke Morahan,

what are we really looking at as a backline for the first test?

09 Genia
10 Barnes
11 O'Connor (assuming Ioane won't make the first test)
12 Leali'ifano
13 Ashley-Cooper
14 Morahan/Cummins
15 Beale

From a Lions perspective it would be amazing if Deans chose Horne and McCabe but if he does that then he's losing a bit of sparkle.

Given the 9-15 mentioned above, I would think that the bench has to be 21. Phipps 22. Horne 23. Folau.

What do people think (a) it should be, given the current squad and (b) Deans will actually choose?

I suspect He may swap Beale and Barnes, or may have Folau on a wing and JOC at 12 and Lealiifano on the bench

True Chequered - trying to work out who would be principal goalkicker if LLF doesn't start. JC probably but he's not as accurate as the Brumbies centre.

He has experience making the really clutch ones for his country though, Barnes is the other option

George Carlin wrote:True Chequered - trying to work out who would be principal goalkicker if LLF doesn't start. JC probably but he's not as accurate as the Brumbies centre.

Barnes surely?

Not sure if Barnes has actually been doing the kicking this year.

If you take a look at the current S15 kicking stats, then the best marksman for the Wallabies this year is LLF:

[th]Most Penalty Goals[/th]

1. Morne Steyn (Bulls)	45
2. Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies)	44
3. Joe Pietersen (Stormers)	40
4. Patrick Lambie (Sharks)	39
5. Beauden Barrett (Hurricanes)	36
6. Brendan McKibbin (Waratahs)	33
7. Quade Cooper (Reds)	32
8. Demetri Catrakilis (Kings)	31
9. Gareth Anscombe (Chiefs)	26
10. James O'Connor (Rebels)	23
11. Colin Slade (Highlanders)	22
12. Jayden Hayward (Force)	17
13. Burton Francis (Cheetahs)	15
13. Chris Noakes (Blues)	15
13. Tyler Bleyendaal (Crusaders)	15
16. Daniel Carter (Crusaders)	14
16. Sias Ebersohn (Force)	14
18. Aaron Cruden (Chiefs)	13
18. Tom Taylor (Crusaders)	13
20. Johan Goosen (Cheetahs)	9

[th]Most Conversions[/th]

1. Gareth Anscombe (Chiefs)	30
2. Morne Steyn (Bulls)	24
3. Beauden Barrett (Hurricanes)	21
3. James O'Connor (Rebels)	21
5. Quade Cooper (Reds)	20
6. Brendan McKibbin (Waratahs)	19
7. Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies)	18
7. Daniel Carter (Crusaders)	18
9. Joe Pietersen (Stormers)	17
10. Patrick Lambie (Sharks)	15
11. Chris Noakes (Blues)	13
11. Demetri Catrakilis (Kings)	13
13. Colin Slade (Highlanders)	12
14. Baden Kerr (Blues)	9
15. Jason Woodward (Rebels)	8
15. Johan Goosen (Cheetahs)	8
17. Burton Francis (Cheetahs)	7
17. Elgar Watts (Cheetahs)	7
19. George Whitehead (Kings)	6
19. Jayden Hayward (Force)	6

What are the percentages? Those are the only stats that really tell you what is going on

Don't know - if anyone can find those, I'd be grateful.

Have a look at this site. 

Lots of interesting Aussie analysis on possible Lions players and tactics

http://www.greenandgoldrugby.com/

Yeah he does a great job at analysing the Wallabies and other teams too

Right! 9 days till Wallabies destroy the Cat cats, here's the team I would select...

1. Alexander
2. Moore
3. Robinson
4. Horwill
5. Simmons
6. Dennis
7. Hooper
8. Palu
9. Genia
10. Barnes
11. Cummins
12. Horne
13. AAC
14. JOC
15. Folau 

I think Deans won't pick Folau, he is too conservative to do so in my opinion, so maybe he'll have Morahan on a wing with JOC at 10 and Barnes at fb? Shame Beale has gone down the gutter a bit, his form a few years ago would have been really good just now. I'm hopeful Mogg gets a call up at some point, he has been playing well. 

Really looking forward to the North vs Cummins battle and the backrow battle too. 

What are other Wallabies fans thoughts on the first test? And the Tahs game this weekend?

maestegmafia wrote:Have a look at this site. 

Lots of interesting Aussie analysis on possible Lions players and tactics

http://www.greenandgoldrugby.com/

I swiched off when the analyst said Sexton cant attack the line and offers little threat in attack.

bsando wrote:Yeah he does a great job at analysing the Wallabies and other teams too

Right! 9 days till Wallabies destroy the Cat cats, here's the team I would select...

1. Alexander
2. Moore
3. Robinson
4. Horwill
5. Simmons
6. Dennis
7. Hooper
8. Palu
9. Genia
10. Barnes
11. Cummins
12. Horne
13. AAC
14. JOC
15. Folau 

I think Deans won't pick Folau, he is too conservative to do so in my opinion, so maybe he'll have Morahan on a wing with JOC at 10 and Barnes at fb? Shame Beale has gone down the gutter a bit, his form a few years ago would have been really good just now. I'm hopeful Mogg gets a call up at some point, he has been playing well. 

Really looking forward to the North vs Cummins battle and the backrow battle too. 

What are other Wallabies fans thoughts on the first test? And the Tahs game this weekend?

North v Cummins will be class. I enjoy watching Cummins play and like his interviews almost as much. He really is quite an odd man.

GunsGerms wrote:

bsando wrote:Yeah he does a great job at analysing the Wallabies and other teams too

Right! 9 days till Wallabies destroy the Cat cats, here's the team I would select...

1. Alexander
2. Moore
3. Robinson
4. Horwill
5. Simmons
6. Dennis
7. Hooper
8. Palu
9. Genia
10. Barnes
11. Cummins
12. Horne
13. AAC
14. JOC
15. Folau 

I think Deans won't pick Folau, he is too conservative to do so in my opinion, so maybe he'll have Morahan on a wing with JOC at 10 and Barnes at fb? Shame Beale has gone down the gutter a bit, his form a few years ago would have been really good just now. I'm hopeful Mogg gets a call up at some point, he has been playing well. 

Really looking forward to the North vs Cummins battle and the backrow battle too. 

What are other Wallabies fans thoughts on the first test? And the Tahs game this weekend?

North v Cummins will be class. I enjoy watching Cummins play and like his interviews almost as much. He really is quite an odd man.

Totally. I have watched the 'treeful of galahs' Cummins interview a couple of times and it make me laugh without fail every time.

Cummins is a much bigger man than Moraghan and was in the squad first, so I would think that he'll be the man to try and match North's physicality.

Bsando you young scamp. Deans has shown every indication that Beale's leg would have to be hanging off for him not to get the 15 shirt and all of the interviews I've seen suggest that he will. Would you really not start with Liam Gill? And Dennis instead of Mowen? I also hope Dingo picks Horne (who I'm not afraid of) rather than LLF (who I definitely am). What's your bench going to be? I would think MMM, Faingaa, Phipps and Folau pick themselves but who else would you have?

George Carlin wrote:

GunsGerms wrote:

bsando wrote:Yeah he does a great job at analysing the Wallabies and other teams too

Right! 9 days till Wallabies destroy the Cat cats, here's the team I would select...

1. Alexander
2. Moore
3. Robinson
4. Horwill
5. Simmons
6. Dennis
7. Hooper
8. Palu
9. Genia
10. Barnes
11. Cummins
12. Horne
13. AAC
14. JOC
15. Folau 

I think Deans won't pick Folau, he is too conservative to do so in my opinion, so maybe he'll have Morahan on a wing with JOC at 10 and Barnes at fb? Shame Beale has gone down the gutter a bit, his form a few years ago would have been really good just now. I'm hopeful Mogg gets a call up at some point, he has been playing well. 

Really looking forward to the North vs Cummins battle and the backrow battle too. 

What are other Wallabies fans thoughts on the first test? And the Tahs game this weekend?

North v Cummins will be class. I enjoy watching Cummins play and like his interviews almost as much. He really is quite an odd man.

Totally. I have watched the 'treeful of galahs' Cummins interview a couple of times and it make me laugh without fail every time.

Cummins is a much bigger man than Moraghan and was in the squad first, so I would think that he'll be the man to try and match North's physicality.

Bsando you young scamp. Deans has shown every indication that Beale's leg would have to be hanging off for him not to get the 15 shirt and all of the interviews I've seen suggest that he will. Would you really not start with Liam Gill? And Dennis instead of Mowen? I also hope Dingo picks Horne (who I'm not afraid of) rather than LLF (who I definitely am). What's your bench going to be? I would think MMM, Faingaa, Phipps and Folau pick themselves but who else would you have?

Haha! No you're right GC, Beale will probably start but wouldn't be surprised if Folau gets the nod ahead of him though. Gill is good but I prefer Hooper, I think he'll perform better against such formidable opposition. Dennis is a sturdy, safe set of hands who will match the Lions bulky backrow and keep the phases rolling by offloading from the floor when tackled and presenting the ball well. If need be, he can try Mowen out for the second test if Dennis under performs. LLF would be an interesting choice, one I would like. But I still think first test should be about keeping it familiar and not trying to put out a team that lacks experience. Add the less experienced players in for the second test or off the bench. Therefore, I would probably have LLF and Gill or Mowen on the bench. So my bench would probably be the following, assuming Beale starts at 15 ...

16. Kepu 17. Fainga'a 18. Slipper 19. Timani 20. Gill or Mowen 21. Phipps 22. LLF 23. Folau

I really feel Wallabies have the edge and need to win this first test to get a grip of the series. If they lose, then the Lions may well look to play a more defensively tight game for the second test to try and grind out a 2nd win and essentially a famous tour victory. Wallabies therefore need to go out there to win and really put the pressure on Gatland's men. By having a young bench, with some untested and dangerous individuals, it could well seal the deal. Then Dingo may well look to start them next match to really hammer the series home and seal the deal. 

And yes all of cummins interviews are pretty hilarious, bringing back the classic aussie lingo.

Also, 1/2p looked pretty shakey when he came on the other day. If he has another bad game this weekend he could well be a target. Wallabies may well look to put pressure on him and see how he reacts. same goes for Cuthbert who I also feel may well be targeted, or at least his wing.

Bsando, with Barnes at 10 and Horne at 12, where isthe impetus of your backline attack going to come from? That backline is pretty tasty out wide but without someone to take it to the line at 10-12 they'll never get to use their outside backs in space!

I really hope Deans does do that though, it would be completely the wrong way to test this Lions side

GunsGerms wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:Have a look at this site. 

Lots of interesting Aussie analysis on possible Lions players and tactics

http://www.greenandgoldrugby.com/

I swiched off when the analyst said Sexton cant attack the line and offers little threat in attack.

That's not actually what he says, IIRC, hevsaysvthat Sexton tends to play his outside players in and not run the ball himself.

ChequeredJersey wrote:

GunsGerms wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:Have a look at this site. 

Lots of interesting Aussie analysis on possible Lions players and tactics

http://www.greenandgoldrugby.com/

I swiched off when the analyst said Sexton cant attack the line and offers little threat in attack.

That's not actually what he says, IIRC, hevsaysvthat Sexton tends to play his outside players in and not run the ball himself.

I think the analysis in general is a bit repetitive, but it shows a different tangent on analysing our players from the oppositions perspective.

In general the ground work is pretty astute.

Anyhow, who will be the Ozzie XV...?

ChequeredJersey wrote:Bsando, with Barnes at 10 and Horne at 12, where isthe impetus of your backline attack going to come from? That backline is pretty tasty out wide but without someone to take it to the line at 10-12 they'll never get to use their outside backs in space!

If thats the picks...I'm backing the Lions:king:

Horne and Dennis have been released from the Wallaby squad to play for the Tahs against the Lions. Unless they have blinders it would be safe to assume they're out of the run-on team for the 1st test. I saw KB interviewed last night and match fitness aside, he's ready to go. Tomane is out with a fractured toe so Folau has been training on the wing. And apparently George Smith is almost back to full fitness so he and Ioane will be back for the 2nd test. I reckon the wallaby starting XV will be:
1. Alexander
2. Moore
3. Robinson
4. Horwill
5. Simmons
6. Mowen
7. Hooper
8. Palu
9. Genia
10. O'Connor
11. Cummins
12. Christian L
13. AAC
14. Folau
15. KB / Barnes


I wouldn't be surprised to see KB start at 10 though and O'Connor starting either on the wing or at fullback

If Smith and Ioane might be back for the second test, it make it all the more imperative that we win the first one.

I'm expecting Deans to pick beale at 10 now and I can see him doing pretty well there. Am certain McCabe will start at 12. So that would leave Barnes possibly FB with cummins and JOC on wings. I dont think he'll start with folau but will likely bringnhim on 55-60 mins in.

Note thats what I think Deans will go for rather than my backline:

Genia
Beale
Cummins
Lealifano
AAC
Folau
JOC

How good is that! 

From Cully at the SMH:

Folau to make Wallabies debut against Lions
Date: June 19, 2013 - 4:13PM

Israel Folau's stunning rise in his third code is complete, with the Waratahs fullback set to be named on the right wing against the British and Irish Lions on Saturday.
 
Folau will be one of three Wallabies debutants, with Christian Lealiifano and Brumbies teammate Ben Mowen also getting the nod when the side is officially unveiled on Thursday.
 
Berrick Barnes has been given first crack at the No.15 jersey to provide voice and direction to the back three. Kurtley Beale's return to the Wallabies is likely to come from the bench.

The Waratahs' Kane Douglas has nailed down another contentious position to partner James Horwill in the second row, and Wycliff Palu has overcome his injury doubts to take his place in the back row alongside Michael Hooper and Mowen.
 
The inclusion of Lealiifano ahead of Pat McCabe signals the Wallabies intent to play with width and pace, while his kicking game will also alleviate the pressure on No.10 James O'Connor.
 
But it is the inclusion of Folau after less than one full season of Super Rugby that will be a major talking point. Just five months after a tentative Super Rugby debut against the Reds at Suncorp Stadium, Folau's form and line-breaking ability has made him impossible to ignore for Wallabies coach Robbie Deans. Folau's diligence in absorbing information away from the paddock has also impressed the Wallabies coach, who backs his temperament in the big occasion.

Folau will link with Ioane in potentially devastating combination down the flanks, providing the Wallabies can win enough ball and secure quick possession at the breakdown. Fine weather has increased hopes it will be a quick game, although some rain is forecast before Saturday.
 
Douglas has been included to provide more grunt at the scrum, winning a place ahead of Rob Simmons, while Ben Alexander and Benn Robinson will bookend Stephen Moore in the set piece.
 
Moore will also be hoping Mowen's presence at the lineout will provide the clean ball the backs need, and their understanding will be critical. Mowen, the leading lineout taker in Super Rugby, will call the set-piece.
 
Wallabies XV: Benn Robinson, Stephen Moore, Ben Alexander, James Horwill (c), Kane Douglas, Ben Mowen, Michael Hooper, Wycliff Palu,Will Genia, James O'Connor, Digby Ioane, Christian Lealiifano, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Israel Folau, Berrick Barnes. Reserves: Saia Faingaa, James Slipper, Sekope Kepu, Rob Simmons, Liam Gill, Nick Phipps, Kurtley Beale, Pat McCabe.

littlejohn wrote:I'm expecting Deans to pick beale at 10 now and I can see him doing pretty well there. Am certain McCabe will start at 12. So that would leave Barnes possibly FB with cummins and JOC on wings. I dont think he'll start with folau but will likely bringnhim on 55-60 mins in.

Note thats what I think Deans will go for rather than my backline:

Genia
Beale
Cummins
Lealifano
AAC
Folau
JOC

How good is that! 

You really think Deans will select two debutants in his backs lineup v the Lions? Cummins also only has a few caps. Throw Beale or JOC at 10 and it would be a pretty inexperienced back line.

Well, that's a good Aussie team. Beale on the bench. Still think Cooper will play a part in the series

Not sure they will need Cooper unless they get maimed on Saturday. If they lose by lets say 20+ points and O'Connor is having a mare then Cooper may... just may have a sniff of a chance.

He's the master of nothing to lose, unpredictable rugby which AUS would have to play in the above scenario... I don't see it happening though.

fa0019 wrote:Not sure they will need Cooper unless they get maimed on Saturday. If they lose by lets say 20+ points and O'Connor is having a mare then Cooper may... just may have a sniff of a chance.

He's the master of nothing to lose, unpredictable rugby which AUS would have to play in the above scenario... I don't see it happening though.

+1

GunsGerms wrote:

littlejohn wrote:I'm expecting Deans to pick beale at 10 now and I can see him doing pretty well there. Am certain McCabe will start at 12. So that would leave Barnes possibly FB with cummins and JOC on wings. I dont think he'll start with folau but will likely bringnhim on 55-60 mins in.

Note thats what I think Deans will go for rather than my backline:

Genia
Beale
Cummins
Lealifano
AAC
Folau
JOC

How good is that! 

You really think Deans will select two debutants in his backs lineup v the Lions? Cummins also only has a few caps. Throw Beale or JOC at 10 and it would be a pretty inexperienced back line.

Well I had assumed Digby was out hence Cummins - Now he's back I'm pretty close with the lineup, with JOC outhalf (I still think Beale would offer a more rounded game at 10).

If the rumors are true Deans is taking some gamble on Folau, JOC at 10, Lealifano and even Barnes hasn't played much at 15. Maybe he's realised he needs to be more ambitious to beat the Lions. Personally from an entertainment perspective I'm glad McCabe is playing nor is Barnes starting at 10.

Ben Mowen in the back row would also be a debutant too of course.

True - its finally dawned on Deans to shake things up to save his job!

George Carlin wrote:Don't know - if anyone can find those, I'd be grateful.

http://www.statbunker.com/rugby/btb/index.php?PL=competition&CompID=423&statType=ksr

LLF leads but Cooper, Barnes and JOC are all pretty close behind. All in the mid 70s%, which is pretty good but Halfpenny will be kicking better than that

Very good article this - esp the bit at the end about the other ball players (see Barnes and LLF)

http://www.greenandgoldrugby.com/baby-baby-baby-oooh-what-oconnor-at-10-means-for-the-wallabies/

If JOC's at 10 then the Lions will have their work cut out for them on defence because that says one thing...attack. And with two kickers at 10 and 12 theyll be sure to arial Folau's way once the defence is sucked in.

Am i correct in thinking then that Izzy will be marking North?

or...<gulp> Maitland...

has either side been named yet? Have seen 'likely' sides so far...

Confirmed Australia team:

Berrick Barnes 
Israel Folau
Adam Ashley-Cooper
Christian Leali'ifano
Digby Ioane
James O'Connor
Will Genia
Benn Robinson
Stephen Moore
Ben Alexander
James Horwill (Capt)
Kane Douglas 
Ben Mowen
Michael Hooper
 Wycliff Palu


Replacements: Saia Fainga'a, James Slipper, S Kepu,Rob Simmons, Liam Gill, Nick Phipps, Pat McCabe, Kurtley Beale.

6oldenbhoy wrote:Confirmed Australia team:

Berrick Barnes 
Israel Folau
Adam Ashley-Cooper
Christian Leali'ifano
Digby Ioane
James O'Connor
Will Genia
Benn Robinson
Stephen Moore
Ben Alexander
James Horwill (Capt)
Kane Douglas 
Ben Mowen
Michael Hooper
 Wycliff Palu


Replacements: Saia Fainga'a, James Slipper, S Kepu,Rob Simmons, Liam Gill, Nick Phipps, Pat McCabe, Kurtley Beale.

Cheers, pretty solid and a good mix of youth and experience, the newbies just have to step up. At least theres a blend right through the side.
If theres a real weakness it might be in the loosies. Mowen's debuting and Hooper hasnt been there long, Palu coming off a knee injury- At 120kg he could come off early. Strong bench though and in looking at this side, I'm going back to a Wallabies win.

I think the Lions will be exposed out wide too often with JOC and Genia running havoc on the inside,

Taylorman wrote:If JOC's at 10 then the Lions will have their work cut out for them on defence because that says one thing...attack. And with two kickers at 10 and 12 theyll be sure to arial Folau's way once the defence is sucked in.

For sure. They'd stupid not to use Folau's superiority in the air, especially against the Lions fullback who is under 6ft i believe. Even against the Lions wingers (who both look around 6ft+), I'd back Folau to come out on top 9/10 times. Lots of cross-field kicks and up-and-unders straight from the NRL playbook.

Yes part of selecting the two big winers will be because of the Folau threat. They'll need to support 1/2p in that respect though as big and talented as Folau is Halfpenny's just as secure at the back, much more so than Barnes for example. He's a class act no doubt about that.

Sure its his first test but big game wise, Folau's played some pretty big ones.

Okay, so we know what the Lions team is now:

Leigh Halfpenny (Wales), Alex Cuthbert (Wales), Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland), Jonathan Davies (Wales), George North (Wales), Jonathan Sexton (Ireland), Mike Phillips (Wales); Alex Corbisiero (England), Tom Youngs (England), Adam Jones (Wales), Alun Wyn Jones (Wales), Paul O'Connell (Ireland), Tom Croft (England), Sam Warburton (Wales, capt), Jamie Heaslip (Ireland).

Replacements:
Richard Hibbard (Wales), Mako Vunipola (England), Dan Cole (England), Geoff Parling (England), Dan Lydiate (Wales), Ben Youngs (England), Owen Farrell (England), Sean Maitland (Scotland).

Some interesting match ups. I can completely understand Barnes at 15 as Deans considers him to be tried and tested although I would still have Mogg every time if you're going to have a kicking duel.

Am very excited about Folau - what a rise for that young man. Temperamentally, I have no worries about him and he should at least be confident that there's nobody in Australia that deserves the shirt more on current form. Going up against two big 105kg lumps in North and Cuthbert, he will be looking to get them running around and out of alignment as he's the most natural runner on the pitch.

Aussie pack is interesting. I can only assume that when Palu goes off Gill will drop to 6 with Mowen to 8. The danger is therefore surely if Mowen picks up a knock as Simmons is one-note only and can only play lock. Is Palu really fit in any event? 120kg is a lot to drag around if you have a bad knee.

Are Wallaby fans happy with JOC at 10?

Taylorman wrote:

6oldenbhoy wrote:Confirmed Australia team:

Berrick Barnes 
Israel Folau
Adam Ashley-Cooper
Christian Leali'ifano
Digby Ioane
James O'Connor
Will Genia
Benn Robinson
Stephen Moore
Ben Alexander
James Horwill (Capt)
Kane Douglas 
Ben Mowen
Michael Hooper
 Wycliff Palu


Replacements: Saia Fainga'a, James Slipper, S Kepu,Rob Simmons, Liam Gill, Nick Phipps, Pat McCabe, Kurtley Beale.

Cheers, pretty solid and a good mix of youth and experience, the newbies just have to step up. At least theres a blend right through the side.
If theres a real weakness it might be in the loosies. Mowen's debuting and Hooper hasnt been there long, Palu coming off a knee injury- At 120kg he could come off early. Strong bench though and in looking at this side, I'm going back to a Wallabies win.

I think the Lions will be exposed out wide too often with JOC and Genia running havoc on the inside,

Thanks to a couple of cr@p decisions by Gatland (Lydiate and Parling instead of Tipuric and Gray), I completely agree with you Taylorman that Deans has a stronger bench. Gill could be the key man for the Wallabies with 20 minutes to go.