Smith's money on Waratahs
May 27 2008
Brumbies captain George Smith has boldly predicted that the Waratahs will break through and claim their first Super 14 title, although his coach is not so certain.
The Waratahs will become only the second Australian franchise to clinch a Super Rugby crown if they can overcome the powerful Crusaders outfit in Christchurch on Saturday.
And Smith, who helped the Brumbies take out the 2001 and 2004 titles, believes destructive Waratah's number eight Wycliff Palu - a childhood friend of his - holds the key to victory.
"I think the Waratahs will win this one," Smith told Sportal.
"They've definitely got the players to play well and beat the Crusaders over there in Christchurch."
"Their line-out's going particularly well and the way Wycliff Palu has been playing this year is sensational."
"He's playing above his weight and matured as a player."
Smith and Palu grew up together on Sydney's northern beaches and have a very strong bond.
"He definitely has the potential to be an outstanding player in the future. He's an outstanding player at the moment," Smith said of Palu.
"He can lock down that number eight position (for Australia) if he chooses."
"He could be the difference against the Brumbies."
But former Brumbies coach Laurie Fisher disagrees with Smith's assessment of the Final.
He thinks the home advantage gives the Crusaders a crucial edge.
"I think in a two-horse race you've got to be a good chance, but being away from home the Waratahs have got to go in as underdogs," said Fisher.
The Waratahs have expressed their desire to take a more attacking game plan into Saturday's final, a tactic Fisher disagrees with.
"I'd suggest that's an absolute smokescreen," said Fisher.
"I think the Sharks got punished on the weekend for going away from probably what served them well all year, which is a good kicking game and good chase.
"I think for the Waratahs to move away from what's served them well all year would be absolute suicide and I can't see (coach) Ewen (McKenzie) doing that."
Fisher believes the fact that Saturday's decider will be the last in charge for both coaches will have little impact.
"I think players are out there playing the game and in a final I can't see any additional motivation that is going to get anything different out of your performance," Fisher said.
"It's about (achieving) best execution on the night and that's what will determine the game."