While the ACT Brumbies' mass player clean-out has many writing off their chances in 2012, prop Ben Alexander believes the side is better off than the same time last year.
One of just three Wallabies remaining following the departures of Matt Giteau, Stephen Hoiles, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Salesi Ma'afu and three former internationals, Alexander is adamant the rookie Brumbies under the guidance of World Cup-winning coach Jake White are in better condition, physically and mentally than in 2011.
''I just feel personally that we are in a much better space than we were this time last year in regards to a lot of stuff,'' said Alexander, who played 50 minutes of the Brumbies' 25-0 defeat of the Western Force in Saturday's trial. ''Compared to where we were last year, we are in a much better position.
''After last year, obviously there were quite a few changes to be made and obviously the experience of Jake in South Africa and winning the World Cup plus Laurie Fisher's experience as former coach of the Brumbies, they've rectified a lot of the ruts at training we were doing and last weekend was a big step in the right direction.
''We're fitter than we were last year. Dean Benton and our head strength and conditioning guy have had the guys working hard but there's been a good balance.
''They've got the boys in good shape running-wise and we're also really strong, doing a lot of contact but not overdoing it. We're fresh.''
And despite only a handful of recognised players on their books, including hooker Stephen Moore and injured Wallaby Pat McCabe, Alexander insisted the players don't care what the critics say.
''People can say whatever they want about us. It doesn't worry us one bit,'' Alexander said. ''All we're doing is worrying about what we need to do and you know, we might surprise a few people.
''It feels like a new beginning. From when I first started here there is only one staff member left and at least half the playing squad is gone from last year.
''It's like playing for a new team but it still has a lot of those qualities that makes the Brumbies - everyone lives close to each other and spends a lot of time together outside of training. That's what makes the Brumbies so special.''
With a star roster for three years but with nothing to show for it, Alexander admitted the team had become stale and frustrated, something NSW recruit Adam Ashley-Cooper suggested last month.
He said mounting pressure from the public and within had led to a horror season for the dual Super Rugby premiers. But he doesn't expect that to be the case this year.
The Brumbies are relishing the underdog tag. ''There mightn't be any expectations on us from outside but as a group, there's still that expectance from within,'' Alexander said.
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