Former Wallabies coach recommends resting Quade Cooper and James Horwill from Russian encounter
Former Wallabies coach, Bob Dwyer, has stated that the current Australian coach, Robbie Deans, should take the bold decision of resting Quade Cooper and skipper James Horwill from their upcoming clash of the Rugby World Cup 2011 on October 1. Dwyer stated
that Deans’ current team combination is not working at the moment and he needs changes to gain better results. Dwyer expressed these thoughts while talking to media on September 28.
Dwyer previously lead the Wallabies to their first Rugby World Cup title in 1991 to become the second team to do so after the All Blacks. Dwyer required two terms before he finally paid back his country with results. He argued that the experienced duo has
failed to perform consistently in the current show piece and it was the right time to replace them with some new prospectus.
James Horwill had already missed a couple of matches due to a hamstring injury. However, Further rest might make him out of practice for the knock-out stages.
Meanwhile, Quade Cooper is already under immense pressure since the upset defeat at the hands of Ireland. Cooper missed a number of chances to score penalties goals for his team and faced stern criticism.
Dwyer further said that, “The best starting XV has looked pretty settled for some weeks now, but a decline in the most recent form of some players, and some very positive signs from others returning from injury, have provided plenty of options. Too late
for changes? It’s never too late for the right changes.”
Meanwhile he appreciated the leadership qualities of Will Genia who led the Wallabies to an impressive victory against the United States. He added that, “(Will) Genia as captain ... I actually saw some leadership on Friday night. Barnes for Cooper. Cooper
needs to get his head right -- dare I say again. We don’t need the all-or-nothing plays, all of the time. Barnes looks our best kicker, both for goal and out-of-hand.”
Wallabies are taking on Russia in their final pool match on October 1 in Nelson.
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