Dan Palmer, the forwards coach for the NSW Waratahs, believes that Taniela Tupou still has significant potential to showcase, especially after the team’s disappointing performance during their first defeat of the Super Rugby Pacific season against the Queensland Reds. The Waratahs fell to a 35-15 loss at Suncorp Stadium, with one particularly egregious moment occurring when Reds hooker Richie Asiata scored from a rolling maul that the Waratahs’ forwards failed to stop.
Palmer pointed out that the Waratahs were slow and ineffective, failing to fulfil their roles during the match. Reflecting on the lesson learnt, he stated that the coaching staff tackled the issue head-on in training, expecting an improved performance in their upcoming game against the ACT Brumbies at Allianz Stadium in Sydney.
Despite criticism, Tupou remains in the starting line-up as tighthead prop, with Palmer advocating for patience as he adapts to the team’s dynamics and system. Palmer noted Tupou’s gradual development since joining the squad, highlighting that he is adjusting to a new environment and getting his fitness back on track.
Palmer emphasised that while Tupou is working diligently and showing promising signs, consistency and continued effort are essential for his growth throughout the season. He indicated that not only Tupou but several players are adjusting to new demands, making it a collective effort to facilitate improvement.
The Waratahs look to bounce back against the Brumbies, aiming to rectify their previous mistakes and uphold a stronger performance in front of their home fans.