Super Rugby 2013 Round 2 – team of the week

Round 2 of the 2013 Super Rugby tournament marked the competition kicking into full gear, as the New Zealand and South African teams entered the fray. This resulted in some epic local derbies and cross-country battles that produced some outstanding individual performances.

The following players make Rugby Informer’s Super Rugby team of the week.

Super Rugby Round 2 team of the week:

1. Steven Kitshoff – the young Stormers prop held his own against the Bulls in the scrum, and made defenders work hard in the close encounters.

2. Saia Faingaa – the Reds hooker proved his worth once again as he was solid in the scrum and lineout, throwing direct and accurately.

3. Jannie du Plessis – Jannie’s 2013 Super Rugby start was as good as expected, as the doctor showed his strength in the scrums and in defence too.

4. Craig Clarke – the Chiefs captain led his team to their first victory in the team’s 2013 Super Rugby campaign. Clarke showed his usual hard work in the scrums, mauls and loose play, appearing at nearly every ruck available.

5. Rob Simmons – the Reds captain had a great 50^th cap in Super Rugby led by example in defence and having some impressive hands alongside the backs.

6. Eddie Quirk – Eddie Quirk has adapted into the Reds setup with ease, and the flanker showed his dangerous attacking abilities against the Waratahs.

7. Sam Cane – the young All Black showed exactly why he deserves the black jersey, as he worked tirelessly in another victorious Chiefs performance.

8. Philip van der Walt – the Cheetahs’ eighth-man showed his dynamic skill, grabbing a try for himself, and setting up another.

9. Francois Hougaard – never did anything particularly noteworthy, but his little dabs through and slick passing made everyone around him a possible danger.

10. Bernard Foley – despite the result, the Waratahs’ shining light was Foley. He took the ball very flat and through very direct passes, which allows the ‘Tahs backline to pierce the Reds’ defence.

11. Lwazi Mvovo – Mvovo’s increased work rate  was evident over the weekend, and his sharp hands and fast reactions led to a great try.

12. Ben Tapuai – the Reds vice-captain impressed in defence and attack, and read every situation well, with his 2-tries as fair reward.

13. Tim Nanai-Williams – The young wing-turned-centre bagged himself two tries, both in spectacular fashion; but his first showed pure brilliance.

14. Sergeal Petersen – the teenage winger stood out over the weekend, picking up 2 tries in his debut game.

15. Jessie Mogg – Mogg continued to impress following his great Round 1 performance. His well-weighted kick and quick chase rewarded Mogg with a pivotal try.

Who was your team of the week? Which players stood out to you?