The opening weekend of Super Rugby action was a great one and indicated that this year will be an open race for the Crusaders’ title.
With it being a World Cup year and players going all out to prove to their respective coaches that they must be included in the touring party to Japan, we saw some brilliant rugby and close-fought encounters this past weekend.
It all started on Friday when the Highlanders beat the Chiefs in what was a thrilling contest.
Even the Aussie sides seemed to have upped their game, with the first Australia derby of the year looking much better than what it did in the past.
And once again, it was Dave Wessels’ Rebels that didn’t fail to entertain.
With forgotten Wallaby pivot Quade Cooper in their team, the Rebels beat the Brumbies 34-27.
Then on Saturday, it was the return to Super Rugby of All Blacks legend Ma’a Nonu when he ran out for the Blues against defending champions the Crusaders.
The Blues are usually exciting to watch and will be satisfied with their outing against the holders - narrowly going down 24-22.
But it was good to see them challenging the team that has ruled the roost in the southern hemisphere for so long.
As for the Aussie teams, they look like they are on the up again this year, which is a good sign for the competition.
And after Friday’s derby, it was the Waratahs that pushed the Hurricanes to the end of their match at Brookvale Oval, eventually going down 20-19.
So while it wasn’t the best of weekend’s for the Stormers, the opening round of Super Rugby games was enough to suggest that the tournament this year will be well contested.