Super Rugby team of the week – Round One

The opening round of the 2013 Super Rugby tournament saw an all-Australian affair, as the Melbourne Rebels clashed with the Western Force, while the Reds met with the Brumbies; but which players stood out?

With the Rebels and Brumbies coming out on top in their respective matches, there were a number of standout performers from either side, however, the losing sides weren’t absent of some interesting talents.

Team of the week for Super Rugby 2013 – Round One

1. Ben Alexander (Brumbies) – Alexander once again proved his class with some solid scrummaging that made life difficult for the Reds.
2. Ged Robinson  (Rebels) – The Kiwi-born front rower had an impressive game for the Rebels, having a few cracks at the defence and even picking up a try for himself.
3. James Slipper (Reds) – While the Reds were underwhelming, Slipper did lead from the front and provided some grunt in defence and set-pieces.
4. Hugh Pyle (Rebels) – Pyle had a strong game against the Force, as he had some strong ball carries and his persistent support gifted him a try.
5. Rob Simmons (Reds) – Simmons was another of the bright lights in a rather dreary Reds performance, making himself a menace for the opposition at every breakdown.
6. Peter Kimlin (Brumbies) – The red-headed loose forward make a strong impact in the game, and outshined Higginbotham, whose discipline wasn’t the best.
7. David Pocock (Brumbies) – Pocock’s presence was immediately felt, as the Wallaby flanker added some brute force and turnover capabilities to the team.
8. Gareth Delve  (Rebels) – Delve’s captaincy skills are immediately apparent and the Welshman led by example throughout the game.
9. Nic White (Brumbies) – Nic White had a strong game for the Brumbies, also getting to exhibit his goal kicking skills.
10. Kurtley Beale (Rebels) – As expected, Beale continued his fine form from the end-of-year tour and was sublime.
11. Alfie Mafi (Western Force) – Mafi bagged two tries to start off the year, following his strong season in 2012.
12. Kyle Godwin (Western Force) – Kyle Godwin had a strong impact on the game, making half-breaks every time he took the ball to the line, and delivering some great offloads.
13. Aidan Toua (Reds) – The new man on the Reds’ scene never got to stretch his legs in attack, but was solid on defence.
14. Lachlan Mitchell (Rebels) – An unsung hero of the Rebels. Mitchell didn’t do anything outstanding, but fulfilled his defensive and attacking role well.
15. Jesse Mogg (Brumbies) – Mogg had an all-round performance. Getting two tries and also impressing with the boot was the perfect start to his season.