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Wednesday, 20 October 2004
NSWRU Media Unit
Waratah lineout ready to launch in Tucuman
Waratah lineout ready to launch in Tucuman
Tim Clark ready to face Tucuman's cauldron
Tim Clark ready to face Tucuman's cauldron
The most famous province of Argentine Rugby remains an icon in South America even in this professional era.
Waratahs head coach Ewen McKenzie played here in 1991 for the Waratahs and according to him, it hasn't changed a bit.
It is truly one of the most fascinating venues in world sport. The Tucuman home ground is a concrete cauldron of white and blue which has claimed many mighty touring teams over the years.
The New South Wales side of 1991 was undefeated all year but the one victory that eluded the Waratahs was here in Tucuman.
That match was drawn and McKenzie's memory is long.
"The players may have changed but the ground, atmosphere and the Tucuman style certainly hasn't,' said McKenzie.
"It will be great experience for our side, the crowd is right on top of you and it will be intense on the field."Although only two squad members will be making their debut on Thursday morning Sydney time the Waratahs will field a side of limited provincial experience.
Leading the side for the first time will be tour captain Adam Freier who will throw to a number of lineout options including Will Caldwell, Marty Wilson, Dwayne Haare and Wycliff Palu.
The scrum will be tested with Super 12 rookies Gareth Hardy and Aaron Broughton-Rouse packing down with Freier.
"They love a scrum here in Tucuman and our young pack will benefit enormously from the experience."
The game will kick-off at 9.30pm local time on Wednesday night which is 10.30am Thursday in Sydney.