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Brisbane Global Tens a learning experience for eliminated Waratahs, says Israel Folau

Tom Decent

Israel Folau says the inaugural Brisbane Global Tens event was a great learning experience for the Waratahs despite their failure to progress from their pool. 

After going down to the Wild Knights and the Chiefs on Saturday, the Waratahs salvaged some pride by narrowly beating the Melbourne Rebels 14-12 at Suncorp Stadium. 

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The Wild Knights were the day one surprise package at Suncorp as some former stars, including Andrew Walker and Radike Samo, showed they've still got it.

But it was so nearly three losses from as many matches for the Waratahs but for a knock-on from Rebels halfback Ben Meehan when he was over the try line on the last play of the game. 

Folau was rested again from the Waratahs' only match on Sunday, a disappointing result for fans who were looking forward to seeing the one of the tournament's major drawcards in action. 

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"Izzy had a run yesterday and he had a massive spring tour last year," said Waratahs assistant coach Nathan Grey. "It's just smarts from everyone in terms of making sure those [Wallabies] guys get some quality time in terms of their preparation so we can build up the Wallaby guys so they're right for Super Rugby to go."

From the limited game time he got under his belt, Folau praised the Tens concept but admitted NSW had plenty to work on. 

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"I was pretty keen for a run but obviously [I was] listening to what the coaching staff advise... they're looking out for what's best for me," Folau said. "The mindset is looking forward to that Super Rugby season which is what is really important for us.

"It was a great learning experience. That first game against Panasonic [Wild Knights], we kind of tried to feel our way through the game and were a little bit too structured in terms of trying to play a 15-man game. In terms of the Tens format, I think we could play a little bit more of what we see in front of us in terms of space and getting the ball to width and I think that was a key thing. That's what the guys learned over yesterday and today.  

"It's a great appetiser leading into the season, not only for the players but the fans as well. As the years go on hopefully the Tens tournament can go to another level which I guess is what they're trying to do. Hopefully it grows each year." 

Grey said the Waratahs lacked the ability to execute under pressure. 

"We wanted to put the opposition under a bit more pressure with our defence," Grey said. "We were able to create some opportunities. We played smart field position which we're learning on the run around that and we were able to convert that into some points. 

"In terms of getting the guys a hit-out in tough conditions and good preparation for Super Rugby, we'll certainly take the positives out of that perspective from the weekend." 

The Waratahs will return to Sydney to prepare for their trial match on Thursday against the Highlanders at Brookvale Oval on Thursday in which most of their Wallabies stars will be eligible for selection. 

Gibson confirmed before the Tens that Folau would get some game time in the trial, while the likes of Michael Hooper, Bernard Foley and Nick Phipps would almost certainly get their first hit-out of the year. 

Grey said there were no significant injuries to come out of the weekend, while Rob Horne (shoulder) and Cam Clark (ankle) will be assessed during the week but both are unlikely to feature on Thursday. 

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