Brighton Renault Dewar Shield Match of the Round Preview - Round 2

Fri, May 3, 2019, 4:00 AM
Rugby Vic Media
by Rugby Vic Media

The Brighton Renault Dewar Shield moves into Round 2 this week with Power House and Harlequins set to battle it out in the Match of the Round.

This match will see the 2018 Preliminary Finalist Power House looking to bounce back from a Round 1 defeat to Box Hill. While Harlequins are looking to go 2 from 2 after a convincing win over Endeavour Hills.

We caught up with both sides before their Round 2 clash to hear their thoughts on their sides preparations and what they believe the opposition will bring game day.

Power House Director of Rugby - Ellis Meachen

How was the teams pre-season preparations?

Somewhat messy. We had to move grounds a few times due to the Grand Prix and Daylight savings but we handled it a lot better this year than previous years and it should be the last time we deal with it due to our new clubhouse being built later in the year.

How does the team taking the field this weekend look compared to the one that took to the field in the 2018 Semi Finals?

Quite different in some respects with some of our more experienced players focussed elsewhere or still working their way back. There is a core group of players that remain from last year which is helpful with consistency.

Any new key recruits we should look out for this weekend?

Our players are all threats when fit an defensively focused.

How do you feel your side performed Round 1?

We played below our best last week looking to hit individual targets and team targets this week. It was a very disappointing display.

Making it to the Grand Final in 2018, what do you think Harlequins will bring to the match-up in Round 2 of the 2019 competition?

They will bring a lot of energy and repeat effort. Consistent line speed and hard on the breakdown. Always strong in every area their set piece already looks like a threat and stands out.

Which players do you expect to fire for Harlequins this weekend?

Tighthead Angus Arundel is a consistent contributor but they are strong across the entire team. We look forward to the test a team like Quin’s will provide and testing ourselves against the one of the top clubs in Australia. 

Harlequins First XV Head Coach - Chris Allen

How was the teams pre-season preparations?

As with most Dewar Shield sides we started pre-season in January, so it’s fair to say we’re all excited the season has finally commenced. The focus was on getting the players right physically so that they can successfully implement the way we want to play in 2019.

How does the team taking the field this weekend look compared to the one that took to the field in the 2018 Grand Final?

In the starting 15 there are 8 players from the 2018 side, with another 6 players on our bench who were part of the 2018 squad. The big change is obviously with the coaching team, David Usu & Andrew Whiteman joined myself as the new first grade coaching team which I feel has been refreshing for the group to have some different voices at training and eyes on the team and how we play.

Any new key recruits we should look out for this weekend?

Justin Masters at fullback returns home to Quins after a couple of seasons playing away in Sydney, Turi Uini has returned to Melbourne and impressed at loosehead whilst Brandon Payn is new to Melbourne from North Harbour and one to watch at blind side flanker.

How do you feel your side performed Round 1?

Scratchy first 40 minutes where we blew off some rust but the boys took direction at half time very well and got the job done in the second half.

Making it to the Semi Finals in 2018, what do you think Power House will bring to the match-up in Round 2 of the 2019 competition?

Solid set piece, well-structured and are always physical so this will be a real test for us in back to back away games.

Which players do you expect to fire for Power House this weekend?

All of them!

The Brighton Renault Dewar Shield Match of the Round will be held at Albert Park, K/O 3:15pm. Tune into Rugby Victoria's Facebook page from 3pm to catch the Live-Stream of the Match and tune into Channel 31 on Wednesday 8pm and Saturday from 1pm to catch the free-to-air TV Replay.

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