ANALYSIS: The shocking numbers from URC Round One
STAT ATTACK: It is early days yet, but statistics from the United Rugby Championship’s opening round make for intriguing reading.
While attack statistics suggest that some teams are more predisposed to an expansive game, the most provocative numbers come from defensive and disciplinary aspects.
The Bulls, with their nine-try (53-40) victory over the Ospreys, are ranked second among the best attacking teams.
They are the best of the South African franchises, followed by the Stormers (fifth), Sharks (10th) and Lions (15th).
It is even more surprising that the latter two, Sharks are Lions, ranked higher in terms of defence.
The Sharks, at seventh, with a 79 percent tackle success rate, are the best from the Republic.
They are followed by the Lions (10th), Bulls (13th), with, shock and horror, the Stormers (who did not concede a single point against defending champions Leinster), were the worst defensive team of Round One.
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Another shocker is the discipline stats.
The Sharks, as reflected in their (19-35) loss to Glasgow Warriors, were the worst of the South African teams in terms of discipline, third overall.
They are followed by the Stormers (eighth), Lions (10th) and Bulls (11th).
The big shocker is the Stormers’ scrum. Of their nine penalties conceded, there were six scrum offences.
The Sharks and Lions (both three) were also heavily penalised in the set pieces.
It all makes for some interesting reading and great debate!
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