Frazzled Kings slump to heavy loss in Pro14 opener

The Southern Kings, perhaps rather predictably, struggled on their Pro14 debut as they slumped to a 57-10 defeat against Wales’ Llanelli Scarlets.

It was always going to be a daunting introduction for the men from Port Elizabeth, who were tasked with resisting the defending champions.

After some initial bright moments on attack, the Kings collapsed in the second half and at times showed that they are a side with precious little continuity after a solid Super Rugby campaign.

Who was the star in this match?

It’s pretty much a toss up between Scarlets centre Hadleigh Parkes – who played for the Kings in 2013’s Super Rugby campaign – and winger Johnny McNicoll.

But it was former Crusaders flyer McNicoll who probably deserved it more. He was constantly a danger as he carried the ball with impunity and found space with the greatest of ease.

He ended with two tries.

Key moments and themes

• The Kings’ biggest failing in this match was that they weren’t able to play a bit tighter. That doesn’t mean they would’ve won but they could’ve limited the damage. Instead, they continued to play attacking rugby that played right into the Scarlets’ hands, who themselves don’t really creep into their shells.
• Deon Davids will need to place a bigger emphasis on defence. The Kings at times scrambled well but overall their defensive shape looks leaky. Against opposition of this quality, they’ll need to keep runners at bay in a far more organised way.
• Despite the Scarlets also struggling in that regard, the Kings’ set-pieces were iffy. It was a problem initially in Super Rugby too but improved gradually. In European conditions though, that will need to improve rapidly.
• Kurt Coleman, the Stormers flyhalf who’s been loaned to the Kings, might just follow in the same footsteps of Lionel Cronje in reviving his career. He didn’t start all that well but then settled. There was a fine break from a dummy plus a beautifully weighted kick for wing Yaw Penxe’s try. The Kings will hope this is a sign of things to come.

Point scorers

Scarlets – Tries: Johnny McNicoll (2), Leigh Halfpenny, Rhys Patchell, Jake Ball, Emyr Phillips, Hadleigh Parkes, Steff Evans. Conversions: Patchell (4), Halfpenny (3). Penalty: Halfpenny.

Kings – Try: Yaw Penxe. Conversion: Kurt Coleman. Penalty: Coleman.