some might think he punches above his weight.....I don't. Joe is a talented and a skilled rugga boytjie with a rugby brain to boot. Arguably the most natural of Fullbacks in the country with a big heart.....he is fearless. He offers so much, stability, secure under the high ball, good in contact, knows when to link with the backline, good with the boot and reasonably quick.
and oh,I feel comfortable with him as the last line of defence.
Weight wise he is a borderline case at 88 kg . Silky skills and nice turn of pace and good boot.
Good test for him against crusties and carter.
Fact is we can't have to many of these small guys - one perhaps two is a risk, three is a no, no.
I note Alistair expressed this very concern prior to the season commencing and said he may have to use van der Heever to give the back three more substance. Also in the previews I posted a similar concern was voiced.
If I were the Crusaders Coach, I would ensure we did not kick any balls to Joe and I would ensure endless waves of attack down Joe's channel forcing him to tackle and tiring him out to even think of attacking because we all know what happens when he has lots of room and energy to move.
Joe has had one good game. He is a good player, fit for S15 rugby, not physical enough for test rugby - no way in hell
