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Isn't this exactly the point of difference between the Sunwolves and the Jaguares? Apparently the Japan players on the pitch on Scotland had played an average of 90 mins of Super Rugby each, whereas the Argentinians had averages 900 mins. Because Jamie Joseph has ultimate control he rested the players and totally structured their appearances and playing appearances, whereas the Jaguares went all out. They got to the final, which is great, but they look shot in this world cup.
I don't follow you're argument re the Japanese - I'm not saying they'll beat SA, but if they don't I can't imagine it will be because of exhaustion following the Super Rugby season!
owl-
I didn't know about the average minutes played, that is good to know! Maybe this system will prove to be a good recipe then!!
My comment with SA was that IMO they had a more comfortable schedule with playing NZ first and after having only lower-tier teams to play, whereas Japan had the opening on their country (lowert tier team in front but game under pressure), and two top tier team (Ireland and Scotland) team to play, which lead me to think that they might not be as fresh as they should to play SA.
But it is a WC quarter final in the end, not much of the past matters and it is a direct elimination game so anything can happen. This will be an exciting week-end!!
paulbiche
I do not fully agree with you, because the Sunwolves system has its limits.
Playing with the same players all year, then add to that a world cup preparation, some very exhausting and under pressure games (Opening game at home, Ireland, and then Ireland) against opposition much topher than club rugby, also with the same players, is definitely IMO leading to a collapsing moment around quarter or semi-finals, and I believe South Africa should be in much better shape after playing their tophest game of the pool stage for opening.
Hear me well, I don't wish it as I very much enjoy the rugby they produce, the Japanese spirit, and they very well deserve the qualification considering their efforts, progression and the games they performed (even more after 3 wins and no qualifying last world cup) but it is just my personal point of view on their system.
Same with the Jaguares, perfomed well all season of super rugby, argentina collapsed during championship being exhausted showing an incredible poor rate for tackling of around 50% of tackles missed against NZ