Super Rugby AU is nearly at the halfway point and in round four some big on-field statements were made.
The Rebels and Brumbies ran out big winners but who stood out the most?
1. Cameron Orr - Rebels
The Rebels scrum was right on top against the Waratahs and Orr was a major part of that. Melbourne's pack is coming along very nicely and it's in large part because of a front row surprising a few people.
2. Folau Fainga’a - Brumbies
Fainga'a didn't manage to score a seventh try in as many games but the Brumbies hooker continued his strong run of form against the Force. The Brumbies lineout looked solid after some wobbles last week and Fainga'a is playing well around the ground too.
3. Allan Alaalatoa - Brumbies
Alaalatoa was his usual impressive self for the ACT side against the Force. The Brumbies scrum really turned the screws on the Force pack and Alaalatoa is an anchor in that pack.
4. Matt Philip - Rebels
The Rebels set piece was destructive against the Waratahs and Philip lead the way again. The 27-year-old had plenty of involvements, with 16 carries for the match and he imposed himself physically as welll.
5. Trevor Hosea - Rebels
Hosea stepped up into his first start with ease, playing a key role in a big Rebels win over the Waratahs. Was the main target at lineout time and was strong around the field as well. Former Rebels analyst Eoin Toolan was pumping up Hosea's potential as a future Test player and though that might seem somewhat premature, this kid certainly appears to be going places.
6. Rob Valetini - Brumbies
Valetini is finally starting to build on the potential he has always shown. Was influential for the Brumbies against the Force, carrying strongly and an imposing figure in defence.
7. Tevin Ferris - Force
Ferris is one of the hardest workers in Super Rugby AU and was a beast in defence for the WA side on a tough night against the Brumbies. Finished with 16 tackles and two turnovers in the clash.
8. Pete Samu - Brumbies
Pete Samu is back. The no. 8 has had a quiet start to Super Rugby AU but made an emphatic return to some of his best rugby at Leichhardt Oval. A deft offload set up the Brumbies' second try of the night and he finished with 44 run metres from nine carries in attack. A timely reminder of what he can do.
9. Ryan Louwrens - Rebels
Louwrens teamed up with Matt To'omua seamlessly against the Waratahs, providing the perfect link between forwards and backs.
10. Matt To’omua - Rebels
To'omua stood up against the Waratahs, showing young Will Harrison the value of experience. The incumbent Wallabies 10 controlled proceedings at the SCG. Was effective with both ball in hand and in foot.
11. Tom Wright - Brumbies
Wright's stocks are rising every week and the winger was superb against the Force. Scored the opening try and had a major hand in the second for the Brumbies, looming as a threat with almost every touch of the ball. Has found his niche on the wing after some time as a utility and his specialisation is paying off.
12. Irae Simone - Brumbies
Simone was among the Brumbies' best against the Force, continuing an ultra consistent Super Rugby AU campaign to this point. Scored a try and had 11 carries agains the Force, making nine tackles on the other side of the play too.
13. Tevita Kuridrani - Brumbies
Kuridrani is working his way into the Super Rugby AU season nicely and had a strong game for the Brumbies against the Force. Had seven carries for 21 metres and made seven tackles.
14. Marika Koroibete – Rebels
Koroibete had another stellar game for the Rebels on Friday night. Scored a brilliant try and loomed as an attacking threat all night.
15. Tom Banks - Brumbies
Banks is working his way back into form in Super Rugby AU. Hasn't been a standout for the Brumbies but was an important contributor against the Force with his kicking to the corner particularly.
