By Tim Mosey

GPS sit on top of the QLD Premier Rugby ladder and are the only undefeated side after two rounds but there isn’t much separating teams in the early stages of the season.

All four matches on Saturday were decided by just eight points or less, with just one match so far this year decided by more than two tries.

Round two results: GPS 36-31 Bond University; Sunnybank 22-19 Wests; Souths 39-31 Easts; Brothers 24-19 UQ.

Quade stars in Premier Rugby return

Quade Cooper’s ability to assess where opportunity exists on a rugby field is unrivalled at club level. Cooper’s understanding of how to manipulate a defence in order to create space in the next two or three phases will ensure Souths will be thereabouts come finals time.

Attack trumps defence early on

Teams made the most of the dry conditions and quality fields early in the season with a told of 255 points scored across the four matches. Enterprising attack seems to be favoured over staunch defence at the point of the year.

Decision making crucial

A late penalty gave Wests an opportunity to lock up their match with Sunnybank. They opted to go for victory instead and keeping inline with the back and forth nature of the game, gave away a penalty of their own. Teams who can adapt to the flow of the game, will do well in tight matches.

Home crowd advantage plays a part

The GPS rugby club know how to put on a home fixture. A family friendly atmosphere, coupled with healthy support against the travelling Bond University helped the home side to a late win. GPS edged in front with three minutes remaining and then held on against a post siren surge from the visitors.

Whistle happy referees or undisciplined players?

The tendency to blow late penalties was again noticeable in round two. Is it over zealousness from officials, or a lack of player awareness that punctuates this? The fresh crop of players and officials across QLD Premier Rugby will be keen to impress but we hope match results are being discussed on Monday for the right reasons – exceptional attacking moments or ironclad defensive efforts.