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'It's a challenge and it's hard': Rob Simmons offers reassurance as winless Waratahs look to overturn worst-ever Super Rugby start
By Online Editors
New Waratahs captain Rob Simmons admits he has found his first few weeks in the job tough, but insists his struggling side are "staying connected" as they bid to recover from their worst ever Super Rugby start.
The Tahs have never previously lost their first two Super games of a campaign and go into their bye this week at 0-3.
Having lost all of their games by at least 14 points, their -52 points differential is twice as bad as any other team in the competition.
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"We're 0-3. If that doesn't ring alarm bells then I'm probably not doing my job," Wallabies lock Simmons said.
"Realistically, we need to get our attack going a bit better, hold on to the ball to start with (so we can) really unleash some good attacking individuals through some space."
Simmons said he was enjoying the captaincy after taking over as leader of a new-look side from openside flanker Michael Hooper.
"It's a challenge and it's hard, but if it was easy it probably wouldn't be so satisfying," Simmons said.
"It's tough, we're 0-3. But speaking to guys who have been there before, getting a win would help a lot. It would bring the confidence of the group up."
"That connected part is really what keeps confidence going, and talking it out," Simmons said,
"We all bring that to the table and we find out where our issues lie."
The Waratahs returned to training on Friday after a few days off.
They get back into competitive action next Friday against the Lions at Sydney's Bankwest Stadium, one of six home venues NSW are using this season while the Sydney Football Stadium is being rebuilt.
- AAP
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Latest Comments
Willie will always be the most missed player for me once he retires. He wasn't interested in scoring tries. The ultimate team player. Has the most assists in tries in the Bok team, and his kicks always spot on, at least 95% of the time. He reads the game like no other player can. He wasn't flashy, and people didn't notice him because of that. Great rugby head and knowledge. He should be catapulted into an assistant coach in the rugby system. He should really consider coaching.
Damian Willemse is an excellent fullback and he is the number 1 fullback. He can play the entire backline positions, except maybe 9, but I'm sure he would be able too if he wanted. No one is taking that away from him, only stand in while he is injured. He is world class and you don't swap that out. He also got wicked dancing feet, great eye for openings, and reads a game like few can, like Willie Le Roux. Also very strong on his feet, with absolute great hands and his kicking game is just as good.
As for Aphelele Fassi. What a great find and he has exceptional talent that Rassie will mould into a world class player. Yet.... He is nowhere even close to Damien Willemse. He has a long way to go to get there, but he is surrounded by great team mates from who he will gain lots of advice and support. He can play wing and fullback and Rassie may just try him out as a flyhalf or centre too. He has the abilities to expand his game. He is for sure a future star, but not yet at the stage to take away Damien Willemse's spot. However, DW start and AF on the bench, that is an awesome replacement. Between the 2 they cover all positions in the backline once AF gets that training. The Boks could go 6/2 permanently if they wanted. 6 forwards, a scrumhalf and AF. I may be wrong, but Rassie will spread AF around.
Go to commentsGood grief
Beauden was his usual industrious self mixing deft touches with mindless kicks
6 or 7 max!!
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