Graham Henry's fine tuning to New Zealand's World Cup squad seems to be nearing perfection.
The All Black volcano that slowly bubbled earlier in the season, suddenly erupted to stunning effect - and softened the pride and arrogance of the French with a devastating 39-12 win.
Buy Barbarians v New Zealand tickets
In a somewhat forgetful trip down memory lane, France did all in their power to agitate the New Zealanders in an unashamed attempt at a ‘Part II’ synopsis of the fateful grey World Cup 2007 strip saga.
Unfortunately for the Paris faithful, and the fact that Les Bleus cheekily reverted to their original lighter shade at the last minute, this time their act of desperation didn’t work.
The All Blacks jogged out in their white jerseys feeling 10ft tall - and it was plain for all to see that a ruthless ‘spirit’ lurking beneath was ready to rumble.
Once again, two-time IRB Player of the Year Richie McCaw led irresistibly from the front as he so often does.
He started by leading another typically passionate rendition of the Haka and with the alternate strip standing out like powerful white tigers, the French knew they were inescapably in for fiery treatment.
They bravely took on the strength of the New Zealand scrum and from the very first engagement took the honours – being awarded a remarkable penalty from the All Blacks scrum feed.
You could understand the pure excitement of burly props Fabien Barcella and Sylvain Marconnet clashing their own heads to celebrate the miracle of a personal victory over the much-vaunted pairing of Tony Woodcock and Neemia Tialata.
Little did they know that Woodcock and Tialata were merely warming up and quietly had a chuckle with a wink of the eye in the background.
The beasts of the All Blacks scrum machine suddenly came alive as the sorry Les Tricolores were taken back to school and had no idea what had hit them.
Blindside flanker Jerome Kaino, who had a sensational game, ignited the demolition with an All Blacks try just before half-time.
It was like a rampaging herd of elephants scattering startled roosters and continued as the renowned natural flair of the New Zealand game finally arrived with exceptionally pleasing results.
Yet, as much as the French are renowned for their flamboyance, they often squandered possession and inexplicably wasted golden opportunities to crack the white line code. Not to mention some big hits that were felt in the stands.
On top of the All Black scrum dominance, France also had no answer to the brilliance of the multi-talented New Zealand backline, standing back in awe as an unbelievable exhibition unfolded before their eyes.
Dan Carter had an excellent game and Conrad Smith, Mils Muliaina and Sitiveni Sivivatu were all heavily involved with able support from Ma’a Nonu and Jimmy Cowan.
Cory Jane could be excused for not seeing much ball, but with limited chances he made the most of an awkward pass and set sail for the line and a spectacular individual try.
The ‘fine-tuning’ of the All Blacks’ all-round display was an understatement, as this polished performance will go down as one of the best during Graham Henry’s tenure.
Unfortunately, when tempers boil and frustrations become apparent, France - along with South Africa - are the worst teams in terms of sportsmanship and restraint on the field.
When things don’t go their way, they will bring out the ugliness and thuggery of their game in order to get their own back if they cannot match the scoreboard and that is very disappointing.
Dirty tactics have no place in the game and it is so not surprising that an alleged eye-gouging committed from a French player marred a fantastic physical contest.
It is a brutal reminder that when the All Blacks are on song, no other team can produce the same sublime razzle-dazzle, helter-skelter rugby that we have seen so many times from the world’s most famous sports team.
There are at least half a dozen All Blacks who could arguably be rated as the best in the world in their given positions - openside McCaw and five-eighths Carter, loosehead prop Woodcock, fullback Muliaina, winger Sivivatu, and also perhaps injured lock Ali Williams and hooker Keven Mealamu.
A further frightening aspect for any opponent is the potentially world-class credentials of other players such as centre Conrad Smith, Cowan, Nonu, Luke McAlister, Andrew Hore, veteran lock Brad Thorn, prop Tialata, impressive No.6 Kaino and even forgotten halfback Piri Weepu and another injured player, Richard Kahui.
I still rate powerhouse Sione Lauaki and hope he finds his rhythm to be considered again for the top squad.
Then you have a scary collection of future stars reigned in by future captain Kieran Read, the explosive Jane, excitement machine Zac Guildford, strong-man Owen Franks, sniping Brendon Leonard, elusive Tamati Ellison, the fearless Liam Messam and workaholic Tanerau Latimer.
Most, if not all of these players are in the reckoning for Graham Henry’s World Cup camp, given the fact he had already declared that this was a crucial tour to find out who has what it takes to handle the cauldron of the main event in two years’ time.
For their efforts against England, my own 3-2-1 points system gave the honours to McCaw, Muliaina and Sivivatu respectively
It’s a close call this time after a great team performance, with the points going to Carter (3), McCaw (2), Smith and Muliaina (1 each).
Bring on the Barbarians!
Friday, December 4, 2009
All Blacks restore the faith
LAWRENCE SMITH/Fairfax Media
THANKS BOYS: The All Blacks prepare to face France at the Velodrome Stadium in Marseille.
All Black v France
Test rugby has the smile back on its face, and it has the All Blacks to thank for that.
As Graham Henry's New Zealand side ran in five tries to finally unleash its attacking arsenal at the Stade Velodrome yesterday, the stunning 39-12 victory over France not only rounded off the autumn test programme in style, but made an emphatic statement about the quality of the fare being served up in the international arena.
Yes, the laws of the game may be deeply flawed, and the match officials given way too much leeway to stamp their mark on proceedings. And, yes, it's deeply ironic that northern hemisphere unions now appear to be backtracking on the much-maligned ELVs, many of which they gave short shift to without even bothering to trial them.
But the All Blacks showed yesterday, with a little help from the French, that if your intent is positive, your skills are at the sharp end of the spectrum and the opposition plays ball, then test rugby can still be a beautiful thing to watch.
The All Blacks were at times poetry in motion as they mercilessly punished les Bleus for their failings. At a juncture when the test game has come under the microscope for its one dimensional and - frankly - boring style, and pundits in this part of the world have been wringing their hands in angst over the diminishing entertainment value, this was just what the doctor ordered.
It's too early to tell whether it's an elixir, or just a temporary tonic, but there was a hefty element of the altruistic about an All Black performance that put the ultimate exclamation point on their season. They finished with six straight test victories, another unbeaten run through the north and their tryline intact for the second straight sweep through Europe.
The All Blacks touched perfection as their forwards laid on a splendid platform up front -- once their scrum steadied from an early French onslaught -- owned the breakdown with the world's best player Richie McCaw in imperious form, and finally unleashed the backline's full fury. Some of their handling was simply sublime.
By the end even the passionate French had been won over, the capacity crowd at the Stade Velodrome rising as one to applaud the white-shirted All Blacks as they trudged off the field. Was it possible rugby was an even bigger winner than les Blacks?
When even a born optimist like Graham Henry admits "there's been some pretty boring stuff over the last year", you know the game has an issue. "It was just good to see two teams wanting to play some attacking rugby," noted the All Blacks coach in a fairly unsubtle dig at what many of his side's opponents brought to the table in 2009.
"I think everyone needed that performance," added standout All Black wing Cory Jane who scored a fine individual try in the second half. "The rugby was pretty flat all year, with not many tries. Everyone loves to see tries, and I guess it was getting pretty boring and everyone was commenting on it.
"To go out there and put in that kind of display, hopefully that's put the spirits up in the rugby world."
Fullback Mils Muliaina, who with his 82nd test cap passed Justin Marshall as second on the all-time appearance list, reckoned it was a sort of rugby perfect storm.
"Everything was just perfect -- the weather, the field, the occasion and leaving the changing-room you just knew something was going to happen tonight. You could see it on the boys' faces.
"We pride ourselves as New Zealanders in ensuring the rugby is healthy, and there had been a little negativity about the whole thing. Hopefully we erased that for the year."
Added the maestro Dan Carter, whose vivacious touches in the pivot contributed mightily to the spectacle: "There's been a lot of tough rugby this year, some reasonably low scores and not many tries, and we've been part of that. As a player it's very satisfying to back yourself that you can play that style of rugby, and for it to come off, we're very pleased.
"It just shows it's possible to go out and score tries which we've been trying to do for a while now."
Ironically the French may have contributed to the comprehensive nature of the defeat by buying into the open style. It is probably not the best way to play the All Blacks. But maybe this was one of those times when there was a greater cause to consider.
The All Blacks' testing tour:
Played 5, won 5, scored 129 points, conceded 55; 10 tries scored; 1 conceded
Best performance: Marseille, by a country mile. The best came last as the balls stuck, the holes were hit and the opposition played their part with some pretty positive intent. A treat to watch.
Best player: Richie McCaw. Nonpareil. Dan Carter may be the most stylish player on the planet, but the All Black No 7 is the most valuable. Never lowered his standards from go to whoa. A living legend.
Biggest improver: Kieran Read. If there was doubt before this trip, there can be none now. Rodney So'oialo's time is over and this skilful Cantab has assumed the No 8 mantle. Seems to be growing with every test and a fine complement to McCaw.
Best stat: Nil. As in tries conceded, for a second straight four-test swing through the north. It may have taken till the very end for the attack to be unshackled, but these guys defended as though their lives depended on it the whole trip. Gutsy.
Best young prospect: Cory Jane. Never has a bad game, has a great attitude and always gets the best out of whatever situation he finds himself in. A modern day Jeff Wilson.
Braveheart: Big Brad Thorn. Before Italy had played every minute of every test. Worn out by tour's end, but kept going till he was finally subbed late against France. There's talk he may retire. Let's hope not.
Best try: No contest. Mils Muliaina's against France. Started from deep. Great hands, vision and pace put Sitiveni Sivivatu away on the left and his inpass found the fullback for the perfect finish. Exhilarating.
Coachwatch: A triumph on several fronts. The job reshuffle worked a treat. The forwards thrived under Henry's old-school approach, Hansen found his calling with the backs and the professor kept the defensive standards sky high. Maybe now they can relax and enjoy themselves a bit more.
THANKS BOYS: The All Blacks prepare to face France at the Velodrome Stadium in Marseille.
All Black v France
Test rugby has the smile back on its face, and it has the All Blacks to thank for that.
As Graham Henry's New Zealand side ran in five tries to finally unleash its attacking arsenal at the Stade Velodrome yesterday, the stunning 39-12 victory over France not only rounded off the autumn test programme in style, but made an emphatic statement about the quality of the fare being served up in the international arena.
Yes, the laws of the game may be deeply flawed, and the match officials given way too much leeway to stamp their mark on proceedings. And, yes, it's deeply ironic that northern hemisphere unions now appear to be backtracking on the much-maligned ELVs, many of which they gave short shift to without even bothering to trial them.
But the All Blacks showed yesterday, with a little help from the French, that if your intent is positive, your skills are at the sharp end of the spectrum and the opposition plays ball, then test rugby can still be a beautiful thing to watch.
The All Blacks were at times poetry in motion as they mercilessly punished les Bleus for their failings. At a juncture when the test game has come under the microscope for its one dimensional and - frankly - boring style, and pundits in this part of the world have been wringing their hands in angst over the diminishing entertainment value, this was just what the doctor ordered.
It's too early to tell whether it's an elixir, or just a temporary tonic, but there was a hefty element of the altruistic about an All Black performance that put the ultimate exclamation point on their season. They finished with six straight test victories, another unbeaten run through the north and their tryline intact for the second straight sweep through Europe.
The All Blacks touched perfection as their forwards laid on a splendid platform up front -- once their scrum steadied from an early French onslaught -- owned the breakdown with the world's best player Richie McCaw in imperious form, and finally unleashed the backline's full fury. Some of their handling was simply sublime.
By the end even the passionate French had been won over, the capacity crowd at the Stade Velodrome rising as one to applaud the white-shirted All Blacks as they trudged off the field. Was it possible rugby was an even bigger winner than les Blacks?
When even a born optimist like Graham Henry admits "there's been some pretty boring stuff over the last year", you know the game has an issue. "It was just good to see two teams wanting to play some attacking rugby," noted the All Blacks coach in a fairly unsubtle dig at what many of his side's opponents brought to the table in 2009.
"I think everyone needed that performance," added standout All Black wing Cory Jane who scored a fine individual try in the second half. "The rugby was pretty flat all year, with not many tries. Everyone loves to see tries, and I guess it was getting pretty boring and everyone was commenting on it.
"To go out there and put in that kind of display, hopefully that's put the spirits up in the rugby world."
Fullback Mils Muliaina, who with his 82nd test cap passed Justin Marshall as second on the all-time appearance list, reckoned it was a sort of rugby perfect storm.
"Everything was just perfect -- the weather, the field, the occasion and leaving the changing-room you just knew something was going to happen tonight. You could see it on the boys' faces.
"We pride ourselves as New Zealanders in ensuring the rugby is healthy, and there had been a little negativity about the whole thing. Hopefully we erased that for the year."
Added the maestro Dan Carter, whose vivacious touches in the pivot contributed mightily to the spectacle: "There's been a lot of tough rugby this year, some reasonably low scores and not many tries, and we've been part of that. As a player it's very satisfying to back yourself that you can play that style of rugby, and for it to come off, we're very pleased.
"It just shows it's possible to go out and score tries which we've been trying to do for a while now."
Ironically the French may have contributed to the comprehensive nature of the defeat by buying into the open style. It is probably not the best way to play the All Blacks. But maybe this was one of those times when there was a greater cause to consider.
The All Blacks' testing tour:
Played 5, won 5, scored 129 points, conceded 55; 10 tries scored; 1 conceded
Best performance: Marseille, by a country mile. The best came last as the balls stuck, the holes were hit and the opposition played their part with some pretty positive intent. A treat to watch.
Best player: Richie McCaw. Nonpareil. Dan Carter may be the most stylish player on the planet, but the All Black No 7 is the most valuable. Never lowered his standards from go to whoa. A living legend.
Biggest improver: Kieran Read. If there was doubt before this trip, there can be none now. Rodney So'oialo's time is over and this skilful Cantab has assumed the No 8 mantle. Seems to be growing with every test and a fine complement to McCaw.
Best stat: Nil. As in tries conceded, for a second straight four-test swing through the north. It may have taken till the very end for the attack to be unshackled, but these guys defended as though their lives depended on it the whole trip. Gutsy.
Best young prospect: Cory Jane. Never has a bad game, has a great attitude and always gets the best out of whatever situation he finds himself in. A modern day Jeff Wilson.
Braveheart: Big Brad Thorn. Before Italy had played every minute of every test. Worn out by tour's end, but kept going till he was finally subbed late against France. There's talk he may retire. Let's hope not.
Best try: No contest. Mils Muliaina's against France. Started from deep. Great hands, vision and pace put Sitiveni Sivivatu away on the left and his inpass found the fullback for the perfect finish. Exhilarating.
Coachwatch: A triumph on several fronts. The job reshuffle worked a treat. The forwards thrived under Henry's old-school approach, Hansen found his calling with the backs and the professor kept the defensive standards sky high. Maybe now they can relax and enjoy themselves a bit more.
Performance of the year from All Blacks
By TOBY ROBSON at Stade Velodrome - Stuff.co.nz
Last updated 10:41 29/11/2009
Stripped in white, the men in black lifted the darkness that has cast a shadow over rugby union this season with a 39-12 win against France at Stade Velodrome in Marseille.
Just when we thought the brilliance of yesteryear had been lost in a sea of rule changes and negative play, along comes the performance of the year.
This was the All Blacks as they sit in our collective memories, their imperious best.
The pace of the ball, the angle of the runners and the speed of the support play had France grasping for breath from the kickoff.
It is hard to remember the last time the All Blacks produced such a complete performance. They didn't drop a ball in the warm ups and it was hard to remember an unforced fumble in the match.
France were reduced to spectators as Richie McCaw and his men thumbed their noses at those who say rugby can no longer be won with ball in hand.
They had spoken of their tiredness before the match, but with the knowledge that the beach towels are a week away they cranked up a gear and surged to the finish line.
If there were two keys to this effort it was first-five Dan Carter's vision and the urgency of the All Blacks attack.
They had talked about their slow reload, the speed with which they set up their next attack, after the England match.
Against France it would have made Billy the Kid proud as players queued up to carry the ball like impatient commuters.
There were four All Blacks lurking as Cory Jane scored their fourth try, the first time they have crossed so many times in a test this season.
Confidence soared as the passes stuck.
Mils Muliaina scored the try of the tour on 24 minutes when France first-five Francois Trinh-Duc's grubber was swept wide by halfback Jimmy Cowan.
Conrad Smith surged, Sitiveni Sivivatu skipped outside David Marty and Muliaina trailed up on the inside to run to the line.
The doubt that blunted Muliaina's instincts earlier in the season was gone, replaced by the certainty of a man who knows where he is going and how he will get there.
The shackles that had gripped the All Blacks all year had been gloriously cast aside.
As his opposite struggled, Carter upped his game to freakish levels. His peripheral vision was putting his teammates into holes.
It was going to take a comeback of 1999 semifinal proportions for the French to escape this vice.
Richie McCaw was immense, Kieran Read was not far behind.
Smith's defensive decision making was impeccable as he came off his line time and again to snuff out the French backs. It was fitting that he scored the final try.
Lock Tom Donnelly must be close to the find of the season, a provincial battler who has more than meets the eye.
If this test was about how far the All Blacks have come this season the first try was a prime example of their progress.
The previously skittery lineout had the faith to throw long to Jerome Kaino and it set up Ma'a Nonu's break and then Sivivatu's try.
The All Blacks were being given yet another stern examination at scrum time, but even there the All Blacks struck the biggest blow.
Kaino got the second try, but Tony Woodcock would have got equal satisfaction after wheeling the French scrum off their own ball.
Random trumpets were blowing from all corners and drum kits were as common as a scarf. The All Blacks all but silenced them all.
France were fishing for a spark, emptying the substitutions with 25 minutes to play.
But today it was no use. Twenty Frenchman would have been powerless to stop this All Blacks side.
By shear will, skill and excellence they breathed life into the international game with a performance that will have restored the faith of even the most jaded New Zealand rugby fan...
Last updated 10:41 29/11/2009
Stripped in white, the men in black lifted the darkness that has cast a shadow over rugby union this season with a 39-12 win against France at Stade Velodrome in Marseille.
Just when we thought the brilliance of yesteryear had been lost in a sea of rule changes and negative play, along comes the performance of the year.
This was the All Blacks as they sit in our collective memories, their imperious best.
The pace of the ball, the angle of the runners and the speed of the support play had France grasping for breath from the kickoff.
It is hard to remember the last time the All Blacks produced such a complete performance. They didn't drop a ball in the warm ups and it was hard to remember an unforced fumble in the match.
France were reduced to spectators as Richie McCaw and his men thumbed their noses at those who say rugby can no longer be won with ball in hand.
They had spoken of their tiredness before the match, but with the knowledge that the beach towels are a week away they cranked up a gear and surged to the finish line.
If there were two keys to this effort it was first-five Dan Carter's vision and the urgency of the All Blacks attack.
They had talked about their slow reload, the speed with which they set up their next attack, after the England match.
Against France it would have made Billy the Kid proud as players queued up to carry the ball like impatient commuters.
There were four All Blacks lurking as Cory Jane scored their fourth try, the first time they have crossed so many times in a test this season.
Confidence soared as the passes stuck.
Mils Muliaina scored the try of the tour on 24 minutes when France first-five Francois Trinh-Duc's grubber was swept wide by halfback Jimmy Cowan.
Conrad Smith surged, Sitiveni Sivivatu skipped outside David Marty and Muliaina trailed up on the inside to run to the line.
The doubt that blunted Muliaina's instincts earlier in the season was gone, replaced by the certainty of a man who knows where he is going and how he will get there.
The shackles that had gripped the All Blacks all year had been gloriously cast aside.
As his opposite struggled, Carter upped his game to freakish levels. His peripheral vision was putting his teammates into holes.
It was going to take a comeback of 1999 semifinal proportions for the French to escape this vice.
Richie McCaw was immense, Kieran Read was not far behind.
Smith's defensive decision making was impeccable as he came off his line time and again to snuff out the French backs. It was fitting that he scored the final try.
Lock Tom Donnelly must be close to the find of the season, a provincial battler who has more than meets the eye.
If this test was about how far the All Blacks have come this season the first try was a prime example of their progress.
The previously skittery lineout had the faith to throw long to Jerome Kaino and it set up Ma'a Nonu's break and then Sivivatu's try.
The All Blacks were being given yet another stern examination at scrum time, but even there the All Blacks struck the biggest blow.
Kaino got the second try, but Tony Woodcock would have got equal satisfaction after wheeling the French scrum off their own ball.
Random trumpets were blowing from all corners and drum kits were as common as a scarf. The All Blacks all but silenced them all.
France were fishing for a spark, emptying the substitutions with 25 minutes to play.
But today it was no use. Twenty Frenchman would have been powerless to stop this All Blacks side.
By shear will, skill and excellence they breathed life into the international game with a performance that will have restored the faith of even the most jaded New Zealand rugby fan...
France not a grudge match say All Blacks
By MARC HINTON in Marseille - Stuff.co.nz
Last updated 13:44 23/11/2009
All Blacks trounce England
LAWRENCE SMITH/Fairfax Media
NO GRUDGE: Assistant coach Steve Hansen says there is no extra edge to Saturday night's final test of the year.
Related Links
Slideshow: All Blacks v England All Blacks not yet complete package
The All Blacks have arrived in Marseille and have immediately hosed down talk of Saturday's test at the Stade Velodrome being a "grudge match".
Assistant coach Steve Hansen spoke to the New Zealand media shortly after arriving at their hotel on Sunday evening (local time) and told us there was no extra edge to Saturday night's final test of the year, despite the rather compelling storylines.
"They're one of the top sides in the world, and anybody involved in the game likes to play the top teams. But, no [it's not a grudge match], it's just another good side to play. The venues you normally play them in are outstanding, and it's just an enjoyable occasion."
But Hansen is probably just looking to avoid hyping the clash any more than it already will be, with media billing it the "Battle of the Hemispheres" as the form - and unbeaten -- teams from north and south clash on the final weekend of the autumn test series.
Key senior All Blacks Dan Carter and Mils Muliaina have both labelled the showdown the side's "defining" test of the year. In other words, win and the New Zealanders can reflect on a pretty satisfying conclusion to a tough year. Lose, and a fifth defeat for the annum doesn't bear thinking about.
Let's face it, when the All Blacks meet the French there's always a bit on it. They were, after all, the team who sent them crashing out of the World Cup in 1999 and 2007.
Marc Lievremont's side also split a highly competitive June series with the All Blacks, inflicting a rare home defeat in Dunedin.
Hansen said that June stalemate, rather that fanciful notions of World Cup revenge, were the main motivating factors for the All Blacks this weekend.
"We see it as we've played them twice already this year and it's one-all," said the All Blacks backs coach. "We know it's going to be a big occasion, they're playing well, they beat South Africa a couple of weeks ago and now it's our turn to front up. Marseille will be pumping and hopefully so will we."
But Hansen hinted at the excitement in the camp when he said it wouldn't be difficult to cajole one last big effort in their final test of the year.
"There are not too many times you get the opportunity to play an opponent that's beaten you during the year... it is the last test match of what's been a long year, but we've got the opportunity to do something other southern hemisphere teams haven't done, and try to go undefeated."
In terms of the twin June matchups, Hansen said: "They put a lot of pressure on us. Their line speed was very good and they were very physical in Dunedin. But as you remember we probably had about eight or nine leaders out that game, and it was a shock for some of the guys coming out of Super 14 into test rugby.
"Those guys have gone away and learnt, and they're more experienced now. Plus, we've got a lot of the leaders back, so it will be a different kettle of fish here."
It was also interesting to hear Hansen's theory on the All Blacks' continuing attacking struggles, and whether they had to lift their game there. They've managed just one try in each of their last three tests.
"I don't know if we have to lift it, we've just got to get more reward from it," he said, very much adopting the glass half-full view. "Our attacking game at the weekend was as good as it's been for a long time, we just didn't get any reward, and we haven't had many rewards the whole tour.
"I don't know how many times they've gone upstairs and we've not been given the nod there or we've just been one pass short of scoring. That will come though. If you keep knocking on the door somebody's going to eventually let you in."
There was also a not so subtle attempt to put some pressure on the French when Hansen was asked whether he though Lievremont was building something special.
"They've certainly got some quality players, but as we've found out it's not about building something, it's about what you've got right at the moment. So the expectation is we play well, and I guess the same is on them now."
The All Blacks arrived into Marseille with a fully fit squad, with no major strains picked up out of the bruising encounter against England, won 19-6.
Selection wise it will be the strongest possible team sent out on Saturday, befitting the test's billing. That will see Neemia Tialata return at tighthead prop and possibly Cory Jane for Zac Guildford on the right wing.
But as Hansen spoke about the "experienced" guys getting another run and not dismissing "one or two changes" he indicated that the wing was one of their chief puzzlers. "
"Who's our top two wingers?" he asked. "The two boys on Saturday played really well, and there have been guys who played well prior to that. There are some headaches there selection wise but they're good headaches."
Last updated 13:44 23/11/2009
All Blacks trounce England
LAWRENCE SMITH/Fairfax Media
NO GRUDGE: Assistant coach Steve Hansen says there is no extra edge to Saturday night's final test of the year.
Related Links
Slideshow: All Blacks v England All Blacks not yet complete package
The All Blacks have arrived in Marseille and have immediately hosed down talk of Saturday's test at the Stade Velodrome being a "grudge match".
Assistant coach Steve Hansen spoke to the New Zealand media shortly after arriving at their hotel on Sunday evening (local time) and told us there was no extra edge to Saturday night's final test of the year, despite the rather compelling storylines.
"They're one of the top sides in the world, and anybody involved in the game likes to play the top teams. But, no [it's not a grudge match], it's just another good side to play. The venues you normally play them in are outstanding, and it's just an enjoyable occasion."
But Hansen is probably just looking to avoid hyping the clash any more than it already will be, with media billing it the "Battle of the Hemispheres" as the form - and unbeaten -- teams from north and south clash on the final weekend of the autumn test series.
Key senior All Blacks Dan Carter and Mils Muliaina have both labelled the showdown the side's "defining" test of the year. In other words, win and the New Zealanders can reflect on a pretty satisfying conclusion to a tough year. Lose, and a fifth defeat for the annum doesn't bear thinking about.
Let's face it, when the All Blacks meet the French there's always a bit on it. They were, after all, the team who sent them crashing out of the World Cup in 1999 and 2007.
Marc Lievremont's side also split a highly competitive June series with the All Blacks, inflicting a rare home defeat in Dunedin.
Hansen said that June stalemate, rather that fanciful notions of World Cup revenge, were the main motivating factors for the All Blacks this weekend.
"We see it as we've played them twice already this year and it's one-all," said the All Blacks backs coach. "We know it's going to be a big occasion, they're playing well, they beat South Africa a couple of weeks ago and now it's our turn to front up. Marseille will be pumping and hopefully so will we."
But Hansen hinted at the excitement in the camp when he said it wouldn't be difficult to cajole one last big effort in their final test of the year.
"There are not too many times you get the opportunity to play an opponent that's beaten you during the year... it is the last test match of what's been a long year, but we've got the opportunity to do something other southern hemisphere teams haven't done, and try to go undefeated."
In terms of the twin June matchups, Hansen said: "They put a lot of pressure on us. Their line speed was very good and they were very physical in Dunedin. But as you remember we probably had about eight or nine leaders out that game, and it was a shock for some of the guys coming out of Super 14 into test rugby.
"Those guys have gone away and learnt, and they're more experienced now. Plus, we've got a lot of the leaders back, so it will be a different kettle of fish here."
It was also interesting to hear Hansen's theory on the All Blacks' continuing attacking struggles, and whether they had to lift their game there. They've managed just one try in each of their last three tests.
"I don't know if we have to lift it, we've just got to get more reward from it," he said, very much adopting the glass half-full view. "Our attacking game at the weekend was as good as it's been for a long time, we just didn't get any reward, and we haven't had many rewards the whole tour.
"I don't know how many times they've gone upstairs and we've not been given the nod there or we've just been one pass short of scoring. That will come though. If you keep knocking on the door somebody's going to eventually let you in."
There was also a not so subtle attempt to put some pressure on the French when Hansen was asked whether he though Lievremont was building something special.
"They've certainly got some quality players, but as we've found out it's not about building something, it's about what you've got right at the moment. So the expectation is we play well, and I guess the same is on them now."
The All Blacks arrived into Marseille with a fully fit squad, with no major strains picked up out of the bruising encounter against England, won 19-6.
Selection wise it will be the strongest possible team sent out on Saturday, befitting the test's billing. That will see Neemia Tialata return at tighthead prop and possibly Cory Jane for Zac Guildford on the right wing.
But as Hansen spoke about the "experienced" guys getting another run and not dismissing "one or two changes" he indicated that the wing was one of their chief puzzlers. "
"Who's our top two wingers?" he asked. "The two boys on Saturday played really well, and there have been guys who played well prior to that. There are some headaches there selection wise but they're good headaches."
All Blacks not yet complete package
By TOBY ROBSON in London - Stuff.co.nz
Last updated 05:00 23/11/2009
LAWRENCE SMITH/Stuff.co.nz
DOTTING DOWN: The All Blacks created several try-scoring chances but halfback Jimmy Cowan was the only one to touch down against England.
At last the All Blacks are creating tries, but in order to gain the redemption they crave, the class of 2009 must start scoring them.
They have become a very good team. They have a great defence. Yet as they trudged off Twickenham yesterday they reflected again on the missing link.
This side lacks the killer blow of a truly world-class side and it knows it. It is why a subdued mood prevailed in the team changing room after its 19-6 win over England.
"We're not far away. We're not quite over the hump, but we can feel it coming," halfback Jimmy Cowan said before succumbing to one of his brutally honest appraisals.
"It's not a happy changing-room at the moment. We thought we could play a lot better. We'll move forward and put this behind us and look forward to Marseille.
"But I tend to be saying the same thing week-in week-out to you guys, saying we are close but not quite reaching it."
It was another solid effort, perhaps a step up from Wales, but All Blacks captain Richie McCaw and his men know they again failed to deliver the killer blow.
Great sides go for the jugular when they sense they are on top. Tries are scored when on offer, line breaks are turned into tries.
England, like Wales in Cardiff, should have been put away.
Mils Muliaina should have finished in the corner. Zac Guildford should have turned the pass inside after catching Carter's crosskick and Conrad Smith likewise, after Muliaina's electric second-half break.
The All Blacks will not be considered, or consider themselves, a complete team till they convert their opportunities.
There were positives and negatives to come out of their latest effort. Most encouraging was a renewed confidence to counter-attack.
The back three of Muliaina, Sitiveni Sivivatu and Guildford had their best tests of the year. Kick high and hope was replaced by a willingness to move the ball to the space and back up, and it blunted the effectiveness of England's kicking game.
This test was no thrill-fest, but it boded well for the future of the game as a spectacle. There were also signs the All Blacks have the ability to change their game plan within a test match.
Against England they did it several times. The attack was widened after an early assault round the fringes failed, and in the second half they went to the pick and go when England fanned their defence against their width.
The negatives were the inability to get clean ball. Cowan often had unwanted attention from the English pack as he tried to pass and too much ball continues to bobble from the back of rucks.
It should be noted that England fronted physically to their challenge and even attempted to play some rugby in the first half.
But ultimately, they simply lacked the creativity to threaten the All Blacks line and never looked like winning.
France will not carry such lowly ambition this weekend in Marseille. Nor will the All Blacks.
For them it will be the last chance to put their frustrations to rest.
They can gain revenge for the early season loss in Christchurch and keep their unbeaten tour record intact.
More importantly though, they might walk off the field without the nagging feeling they have played well, but not to their true potential.
The Big Questions
WHERE WAS IT WON? The All Blacks simply shut England out of the match, while they had more imagination on attack. Only one try, but plenty of chances created meant it never really felt like England were a chance.
WHERE WAS IT LOST? England lacked ideas on attack. For all their bulk they had the subtlety of a sledgehammer and were easy pickings for the All Blacks defensive line. Kiwi hooker Dylan Hartley didn't help his side with lineout throwing that would have made a pretzel look straight.
WHO PLAYED WELL? The All Blacks' back three of Mils Muliaina, Zac Guildford and Sitiveni Sivivatu were a constant threat and made England reluctant to kick. Richie McCaw had a big match at the breakdown, No8 Kieran Read was heavily involved early in the match and Brad Thorn tackled his heart out. Special mention for referee Jonathan Kaplan, who controlled the match with aplomb. Hardly a scrum was reset.
WHO NEEDS TO IMPROVE? Loosehead prop Tony Woodcock had a quiet match round the field and there were also a couple of shaky scrums from the All Blacks. Jimmy Cowan scored the only try of the match, but will be disappointed he got caught with the ball around the rucks at times and with some of his clearing kicks.
Last updated 05:00 23/11/2009
LAWRENCE SMITH/Stuff.co.nz
DOTTING DOWN: The All Blacks created several try-scoring chances but halfback Jimmy Cowan was the only one to touch down against England.
At last the All Blacks are creating tries, but in order to gain the redemption they crave, the class of 2009 must start scoring them.
They have become a very good team. They have a great defence. Yet as they trudged off Twickenham yesterday they reflected again on the missing link.
This side lacks the killer blow of a truly world-class side and it knows it. It is why a subdued mood prevailed in the team changing room after its 19-6 win over England.
"We're not far away. We're not quite over the hump, but we can feel it coming," halfback Jimmy Cowan said before succumbing to one of his brutally honest appraisals.
"It's not a happy changing-room at the moment. We thought we could play a lot better. We'll move forward and put this behind us and look forward to Marseille.
"But I tend to be saying the same thing week-in week-out to you guys, saying we are close but not quite reaching it."
It was another solid effort, perhaps a step up from Wales, but All Blacks captain Richie McCaw and his men know they again failed to deliver the killer blow.
Great sides go for the jugular when they sense they are on top. Tries are scored when on offer, line breaks are turned into tries.
England, like Wales in Cardiff, should have been put away.
Mils Muliaina should have finished in the corner. Zac Guildford should have turned the pass inside after catching Carter's crosskick and Conrad Smith likewise, after Muliaina's electric second-half break.
The All Blacks will not be considered, or consider themselves, a complete team till they convert their opportunities.
There were positives and negatives to come out of their latest effort. Most encouraging was a renewed confidence to counter-attack.
The back three of Muliaina, Sitiveni Sivivatu and Guildford had their best tests of the year. Kick high and hope was replaced by a willingness to move the ball to the space and back up, and it blunted the effectiveness of England's kicking game.
This test was no thrill-fest, but it boded well for the future of the game as a spectacle. There were also signs the All Blacks have the ability to change their game plan within a test match.
Against England they did it several times. The attack was widened after an early assault round the fringes failed, and in the second half they went to the pick and go when England fanned their defence against their width.
The negatives were the inability to get clean ball. Cowan often had unwanted attention from the English pack as he tried to pass and too much ball continues to bobble from the back of rucks.
It should be noted that England fronted physically to their challenge and even attempted to play some rugby in the first half.
But ultimately, they simply lacked the creativity to threaten the All Blacks line and never looked like winning.
France will not carry such lowly ambition this weekend in Marseille. Nor will the All Blacks.
For them it will be the last chance to put their frustrations to rest.
They can gain revenge for the early season loss in Christchurch and keep their unbeaten tour record intact.
More importantly though, they might walk off the field without the nagging feeling they have played well, but not to their true potential.
The Big Questions
WHERE WAS IT WON? The All Blacks simply shut England out of the match, while they had more imagination on attack. Only one try, but plenty of chances created meant it never really felt like England were a chance.
WHERE WAS IT LOST? England lacked ideas on attack. For all their bulk they had the subtlety of a sledgehammer and were easy pickings for the All Blacks defensive line. Kiwi hooker Dylan Hartley didn't help his side with lineout throwing that would have made a pretzel look straight.
WHO PLAYED WELL? The All Blacks' back three of Mils Muliaina, Zac Guildford and Sitiveni Sivivatu were a constant threat and made England reluctant to kick. Richie McCaw had a big match at the breakdown, No8 Kieran Read was heavily involved early in the match and Brad Thorn tackled his heart out. Special mention for referee Jonathan Kaplan, who controlled the match with aplomb. Hardly a scrum was reset.
WHO NEEDS TO IMPROVE? Loosehead prop Tony Woodcock had a quiet match round the field and there were also a couple of shaky scrums from the All Blacks. Jimmy Cowan scored the only try of the match, but will be disappointed he got caught with the ball around the rucks at times and with some of his clearing kicks.
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