Holding that thought, think about how effective the these two have been for the Highlanders, where they might not be able to combine so easily. Now in an environment where they can focus on their core roles, we could see some ridiculously vicious shit go down in Hamilton.
Combinations are important to winning and some are saying that Ma’a and Fekitoa are too similar. That’s bullshit. Yeah they’re both big physical guys. But look at the progression of Ma’a Nonu’s maturity. He now has a formidable kicking option and a much better concept of game control. Fekitoa has outstanding work ethic and an ability to hold defensive lines while he searches for a gap. England have touted their line speed as something that they can use against this combo. Be very, very careful England. Very careful.
Imagine this. Nonu being rushed by an English defence with little space and time. He’s able to take the contact and offload. Who’s got the work rate to be in position to receive the off load? Malaki, who also holds his feet and offloads to Ben Smith who’s screaming through on his shoulder. We’ve got two midfielders who can hold their feet and a full back who runs arguably the best lines in NZ rugby. A rush defence can therefore be held to leave masses of space in behind. So once you’re through, you’re through.
Malaki Fekitoa has Nonu’s physicality and Conrad’s work rate. He’s playing for an emerging franchise and talks more about preparation than anything. He’s been on the radar for a while and now he’s arrived. He is being tutored by two masters, one of the most experienced centre combinations ever.
Welcome young Jedi, to the dark side.