Saturday, June 19, 2010
All Blacks run over Wales with second half blitz
By TOBY ROBSON at Carisbrook - Stuff
Last updated 2All Blacks back Richard Kahui:
http://static.stuff.co.nz/1276943901/915/3831915.jpg1:20 19/06/2010
Wing Cory Jane puts a fend on his opposite on the way to the All Blacks first try at Carisbrook.
All Blacks first-five Dan Carter out-paces the Welsh cover defence to score his second try.
All Blacks skipper Richie McCaw congratulates wing Cory Jane after scoring the team's first of five tries against Wales.
The All Blacks during the rarely-seen Kapa O Pango haka.
Second half substitute Richard Kahui sprints away for a try.
The All Blacks, with captain Richie McCaw and Keven Mealamu at front, start the Kapa O Pango haka.
The All Blacks finish the Kapo O Pango haka before taking on Wales at Carisbrook.
All Blacks first-time starter at No 6, Victor Vito, carries a Welsh defender on his back in the first half.
Hooker Keven Mealamu dives over for the All Blacks first try, after a penalty quick-tap from halfback Jimmy Cowan.
With captain Richie McCaw (left) and prop Ben Franks in support, Keven Mealamu sprints downfield for the All Blacks.
Wales first-five Stephen Jones attempts an unsuccessful drop-goal in the second half.
All Blacks first-five Dan Carter runs into the Wales defence in New Zealand's 42-9 win at Carisbrook.
Wales winger Leigh Halfpenny loses the ball as he is tackled by All Blacks first-five Daniel Carter.
Black-and-white face-painted All Blacks fans arrived early at Carisbrook for the test against Wales.
All Blacks fans arrived early for the final test at Carisbrook between the All Blacks and Wales.
All quiet before the sell-out crowd arrives, Dunedin's Carisbrook before its final test between the All Blacks and Wales.
All Blacks No 6 Victor Vito steps off the team bus at Carisbrook ahead of the test against Wales.
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All Blacks vs Wales in Dunedin All Blacks experience key against Wales Wales win a better measure of All Blacks Wales coach Gatland struggles for positives
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Substantial challenge awaits All Blacks All Blacks-Wales test rivalry creates sparks Kieran Read determined to reign as No8 Hooker de Malmanche has no regrets Quiet Welsh have All Blacks on edge Eden Park sold out for Boks test All Blacks keen to send Carisbrook out in style Israel Dagg out to avoid second game jitters All Blacks ready for 'blitz' from Wales Welsh will be watching Dan Carter
Ball in hand trumped kick and chase as the All Blacks ran up five tries against Wales to farewell an old friend in fashion with a 42-9 win at Carisbrook tonight.
The visitor's squandered a wealth of first half possession and territory to trail 15-9 at the break and then felt the full brunt of the All Blacks ability to off load and counter attack.
First five Dan Carter was the standout with two brilliant individual tries in the second half for an individual haul of 27 points.
Ever-green hooker Keven Mealamu was the pick of the pack, while other All Blacks to shine were flawless wing/fullback Cory Jane, ever present openside Richie McCaw and replacement wing Richard Kahui.
Wales missed their cue from Ireland a week earlier and rather than hold the ball put their hopes in a barrage of high kicks.
They discovered the power of the All Blacks counter attack as the home backs diffused bombs with ease all night.
Tries to Mealamu and wing Jane cancelled out two penalties and a drop goal to Wales' first five Stephen Jones in the first half, but there was a feeling the home side were a sleeping giant.
And so it proved as Carter ran riot on the back of his increasingly dominant pack, including prop Tony Woodcock, who replaced Ben Franks shortly after the break.
Carter's double were gems.
Wing Joe Rokocoko countered, halfback Jimmy Cowan off loaded and Kahui surged down the right before Carter and Jane produced a memorable moment.
Carter passed inside to Jane, then back up to step past three Welsh defenders to dive over and extend the lead to 25-9.
His second was a weaving 50 metre run that proved too much for a flailing Welsh defence.
A speedy looking Kahui added the finishing touches when he simply carved through the middle on the counter attack with 8 minutes to play.
Dagg was replaced at halftime with Kahui returning from his long injury break and Jane dropping back to fullback.
It was not a reflection of a poor match from Dagg, who took the numerous high balls that came his way with ease, but he was guilty of pushing the pass on a couple of occasions and some inaccurate kicking.
Blindside flanker Victor Vito, the only change to the starting side that beat Ireland, had a solid match carrying the ball strongly and growing in confidence.
If Wales' intention was to play running rugby it wasn't evident in the opening 25 minutes as Jones led an aerial assault on the All Blacks' back three.
It was understandable to a point, but when just one of the first 10 reaped any real reward, wing Leigh Halfpenny beating Rokocoko in the air, it should have been shelved.
Wales' were at their best with ball in hand and led 6-0 after 15 minutes, but lacked the penetration to capitalise.
Mealamu got the All Blacks' first try after Cowan's kick gave his side a rare attacking opportunity.
Lock Brad Thorn won the All Blacks' only lineout throw of the half and after several surges Cowan quick tapped a penalty to go close before Mealamu burrowed over to steal a 7-5 lead.
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Wales continued to probe, but lacked the penetration to capitalise on their possession and when lock Alun-Wyn Jones was crunched in the 32nd minute the All Blacks pounced.
Centre Conrad Smith seized the bobbling ball and shuffled it through his legs to an unmarked Jane, who sprinted 70 metres, stepping inside Tom Prydie and Stephen Jones before dotting down for his third test try.
Jones landed a second penalty before the break, but the writing was on the wall.
New Zealand 42 (Dan Carter 2, Keven Mealamu, Cory Jane, Richard Kahui tries; Carter 3 pen, 4 con) Wales 9 (Stephen Jones, pen, dropped goal, Leigh Halfpenny pen).
Last updated 2All Blacks back Richard Kahui:
http://static.stuff.co.nz/1276943901/915/3831915.jpg1:20 19/06/2010
Wing Cory Jane puts a fend on his opposite on the way to the All Blacks first try at Carisbrook.
All Blacks first-five Dan Carter out-paces the Welsh cover defence to score his second try.
All Blacks skipper Richie McCaw congratulates wing Cory Jane after scoring the team's first of five tries against Wales.
The All Blacks during the rarely-seen Kapa O Pango haka.
Second half substitute Richard Kahui sprints away for a try.
The All Blacks, with captain Richie McCaw and Keven Mealamu at front, start the Kapa O Pango haka.
The All Blacks finish the Kapo O Pango haka before taking on Wales at Carisbrook.
All Blacks first-time starter at No 6, Victor Vito, carries a Welsh defender on his back in the first half.
Hooker Keven Mealamu dives over for the All Blacks first try, after a penalty quick-tap from halfback Jimmy Cowan.
With captain Richie McCaw (left) and prop Ben Franks in support, Keven Mealamu sprints downfield for the All Blacks.
Wales first-five Stephen Jones attempts an unsuccessful drop-goal in the second half.
All Blacks first-five Dan Carter runs into the Wales defence in New Zealand's 42-9 win at Carisbrook.
Wales winger Leigh Halfpenny loses the ball as he is tackled by All Blacks first-five Daniel Carter.
Black-and-white face-painted All Blacks fans arrived early at Carisbrook for the test against Wales.
All Blacks fans arrived early for the final test at Carisbrook between the All Blacks and Wales.
All quiet before the sell-out crowd arrives, Dunedin's Carisbrook before its final test between the All Blacks and Wales.
All Blacks No 6 Victor Vito steps off the team bus at Carisbrook ahead of the test against Wales.
« Previous« PreviousNext »Next »
Related Links
All Blacks vs Wales in Dunedin All Blacks experience key against Wales Wales win a better measure of All Blacks Wales coach Gatland struggles for positives
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All Blacks
Substantial challenge awaits All Blacks All Blacks-Wales test rivalry creates sparks Kieran Read determined to reign as No8 Hooker de Malmanche has no regrets Quiet Welsh have All Blacks on edge Eden Park sold out for Boks test All Blacks keen to send Carisbrook out in style Israel Dagg out to avoid second game jitters All Blacks ready for 'blitz' from Wales Welsh will be watching Dan Carter
Ball in hand trumped kick and chase as the All Blacks ran up five tries against Wales to farewell an old friend in fashion with a 42-9 win at Carisbrook tonight.
The visitor's squandered a wealth of first half possession and territory to trail 15-9 at the break and then felt the full brunt of the All Blacks ability to off load and counter attack.
First five Dan Carter was the standout with two brilliant individual tries in the second half for an individual haul of 27 points.
Ever-green hooker Keven Mealamu was the pick of the pack, while other All Blacks to shine were flawless wing/fullback Cory Jane, ever present openside Richie McCaw and replacement wing Richard Kahui.
Wales missed their cue from Ireland a week earlier and rather than hold the ball put their hopes in a barrage of high kicks.
They discovered the power of the All Blacks counter attack as the home backs diffused bombs with ease all night.
Tries to Mealamu and wing Jane cancelled out two penalties and a drop goal to Wales' first five Stephen Jones in the first half, but there was a feeling the home side were a sleeping giant.
And so it proved as Carter ran riot on the back of his increasingly dominant pack, including prop Tony Woodcock, who replaced Ben Franks shortly after the break.
Carter's double were gems.
Wing Joe Rokocoko countered, halfback Jimmy Cowan off loaded and Kahui surged down the right before Carter and Jane produced a memorable moment.
Carter passed inside to Jane, then back up to step past three Welsh defenders to dive over and extend the lead to 25-9.
His second was a weaving 50 metre run that proved too much for a flailing Welsh defence.
A speedy looking Kahui added the finishing touches when he simply carved through the middle on the counter attack with 8 minutes to play.
Dagg was replaced at halftime with Kahui returning from his long injury break and Jane dropping back to fullback.
It was not a reflection of a poor match from Dagg, who took the numerous high balls that came his way with ease, but he was guilty of pushing the pass on a couple of occasions and some inaccurate kicking.
Blindside flanker Victor Vito, the only change to the starting side that beat Ireland, had a solid match carrying the ball strongly and growing in confidence.
If Wales' intention was to play running rugby it wasn't evident in the opening 25 minutes as Jones led an aerial assault on the All Blacks' back three.
It was understandable to a point, but when just one of the first 10 reaped any real reward, wing Leigh Halfpenny beating Rokocoko in the air, it should have been shelved.
Wales' were at their best with ball in hand and led 6-0 after 15 minutes, but lacked the penetration to capitalise.
Mealamu got the All Blacks' first try after Cowan's kick gave his side a rare attacking opportunity.
Lock Brad Thorn won the All Blacks' only lineout throw of the half and after several surges Cowan quick tapped a penalty to go close before Mealamu burrowed over to steal a 7-5 lead.
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Wales continued to probe, but lacked the penetration to capitalise on their possession and when lock Alun-Wyn Jones was crunched in the 32nd minute the All Blacks pounced.
Centre Conrad Smith seized the bobbling ball and shuffled it through his legs to an unmarked Jane, who sprinted 70 metres, stepping inside Tom Prydie and Stephen Jones before dotting down for his third test try.
Jones landed a second penalty before the break, but the writing was on the wall.
New Zealand 42 (Dan Carter 2, Keven Mealamu, Cory Jane, Richard Kahui tries; Carter 3 pen, 4 con) Wales 9 (Stephen Jones, pen, dropped goal, Leigh Halfpenny pen).
All Blacks experience key against Wales
By MARC HINTON - Stuff
Last updated 22:09 19/06/2010
Last week it was the fresh-faced rookies who hogged the All Black headlines. This one, against a legitimate Welsh challenge in Carisbrook's final hurrah, some experienced old warhorses took their turn to bask in the limelight.
Dan Carter was simply superb, illuminating a great occasion with one of those top-drawer displays of his that only he seems capable of delivering. After an indifferent Super 14, this was the Cantab well and truly back in world's-best-No 10 mode as the All Blacks positively strode to a 42-9 victory.
Last week Carter had very much launched the return to form; but last night it exploded into the stratosphere. This was a hugely influential display from a man who was near perfect - he chose his options brilliantly, and at times inspirationally. His change of pace and footwork were sublime and the Welsh will surely long remember this night that Carter tormented them at nearly ever opportunity, before he left the field with 10 minutes remaining, and 27 points to his name.
But this wasn't just the Dan Carter Show as the All Blacks eventually showed they can take apart 15 men just as emphatically as they can 14, or even 13. Not far behind the maestro were some other experienced All Blacks, men like skipper Richie McCaw, locks Brad Thorn and Anthony Boric, hooker Keven Mealamu and wing Joe Rokocoko who all thrived as the New Zealand game went up a gear or two.
Theirs were telling contributions all and should be lauded every bit as much as the six debutants' efforts were last week in New Plymouth.
But it didn't end there. Off the bench Tony Woodcock finally awoke from his seemingly season-long slumber to remind us of his quality, while Richard Kahui came in for 40 minutes of quality football to reinforce why he was such a highly-rated All Black before injury set him back a little.
It's going to be interesting next week if Graham Henry can find room for him somewhere in his starting lineup.
Though the final difference ended up being of a similar nature to last week's romp over the Irish; this was a much more meritorious victory against a Welsh side who gave this thing a good shake in the first half.
The All Blacks faced long periods of pressure, but worked their way out of it splendidly. And then they lit up a famous night for this southern citadel of rugby by producing some scintillating attacking rugby when it counted.
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In the second half when Carter, twice, and Kahui blitzed the tiring Welsh defence with brilliant runs to the tryline, mixing exquisite changes of pace with dashing footwork, the 28,000 who packed the ground started their night-long celebrations early.
They came to party, and apparently so had the All Blacks.
It wasn't all the old hands, of course, even though they very much set the tone. Victor Vito came through his first test start pretty damn well, Israel Dagg absorbed a testing first half mostly safely before staggering off at the break with a head knock, and Benson Stanley did all that was asked of him, and only blotted his copybook with a couple of handling errors.
But really, this was more like it after the folly of New Plymouth when Ireland self-destructed early.. A real rugby test. A fitting way to say bye-bye to the old ground and a much more telling measure of these rejigged All Blacks. We even had Kapa o Pango to add a bit of spice before things kicked off.
The Welsh certainly accepted the All Blacks' challenge early on after an appropriate - and rare - unleashing of the team's personalised haka. They say they only use it on special occasions these days, and this was certainly one of those as Carisbrook hosted its final rugby test after 102 years as an international venue.
It was appropriate, too, for it was here back in 2005 that this stylised haka - complete with its controversial throat-slitting gesture - was unveiled for the first time. The Welsh last night stood and respected it - as they do - and then answered in the appropriate fashion.
With a ton of pressure. Yes, this was test rugby as we know and love it, 15 against 15, tight, tense and at times terrific. The All Blacks may have eventually broken the shackles, but make no mistake they spent much of the first half under the blowtorch.
Wales dominated the opening quarter and stretched their hosts to the limit on occasions. But this side featuring so many newcomers to this level held firm and produced a classic half of All Black rugby - they scored from their only two forays deep into enemy territory, and kept their own line intact with some committed and systematic defence.
It was past the quarter-hour mark before the All Blacks fashioned their first foray into the Welsh red zone, though they did score from it beautifully when Jimmy Cowan took a quick tap and Mealamu's trademark low body position and leg drive saw him score his second try on this ground.
Later Cory Jane punished the Welsh just past the half-hour mark when he dashed, and then jigged, across after Conrad Smith had fashioned a clever ruck turnover from deep. That made it 15-6 after it had had been practically all Wales in the first 40.
And then they did what quality All Blacks sides have done through the ages. They came out after the break and turned this match on its head. Suddenly it was the men in black applying the pressure, asking the questions.
Carter's dazzling individual try early in the second spell - from a 95m move that the maestro launched from near his own line when he elected to feed Joe Rokocoko rather than relieve pressure via the boot - started the ball rolling and as the Welsh finally tired, the All Blacks made them pay with withering efficiency.
On a night when an old ground said goodbye, surely some old All Black faces reminded us all that they remain class acts of the highest order. Fitting really.
KEY FEATURES
Defining moment: Carter's first try early in the second spell. That well and truly turned the tide
Star man: Carter. Simply sublime. What slump?
What the ABs did well: Defended. And attacked. OK, they played bloody well all-round
What the ABs need to do better: Um, maybe start a little better. But that's being picky, and their first-half defence was very, very good
Who's smiling: Graham Henry. Good call to keep this outfit intact another week, and they delivered for their coach
Who's nervous: Maybe Ben Franks. Woodcock looked a man keen on winning back his starting jersey
Last updated 22:09 19/06/2010
Last week it was the fresh-faced rookies who hogged the All Black headlines. This one, against a legitimate Welsh challenge in Carisbrook's final hurrah, some experienced old warhorses took their turn to bask in the limelight.
Dan Carter was simply superb, illuminating a great occasion with one of those top-drawer displays of his that only he seems capable of delivering. After an indifferent Super 14, this was the Cantab well and truly back in world's-best-No 10 mode as the All Blacks positively strode to a 42-9 victory.
Last week Carter had very much launched the return to form; but last night it exploded into the stratosphere. This was a hugely influential display from a man who was near perfect - he chose his options brilliantly, and at times inspirationally. His change of pace and footwork were sublime and the Welsh will surely long remember this night that Carter tormented them at nearly ever opportunity, before he left the field with 10 minutes remaining, and 27 points to his name.
But this wasn't just the Dan Carter Show as the All Blacks eventually showed they can take apart 15 men just as emphatically as they can 14, or even 13. Not far behind the maestro were some other experienced All Blacks, men like skipper Richie McCaw, locks Brad Thorn and Anthony Boric, hooker Keven Mealamu and wing Joe Rokocoko who all thrived as the New Zealand game went up a gear or two.
Theirs were telling contributions all and should be lauded every bit as much as the six debutants' efforts were last week in New Plymouth.
But it didn't end there. Off the bench Tony Woodcock finally awoke from his seemingly season-long slumber to remind us of his quality, while Richard Kahui came in for 40 minutes of quality football to reinforce why he was such a highly-rated All Black before injury set him back a little.
It's going to be interesting next week if Graham Henry can find room for him somewhere in his starting lineup.
Though the final difference ended up being of a similar nature to last week's romp over the Irish; this was a much more meritorious victory against a Welsh side who gave this thing a good shake in the first half.
The All Blacks faced long periods of pressure, but worked their way out of it splendidly. And then they lit up a famous night for this southern citadel of rugby by producing some scintillating attacking rugby when it counted.
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In the second half when Carter, twice, and Kahui blitzed the tiring Welsh defence with brilliant runs to the tryline, mixing exquisite changes of pace with dashing footwork, the 28,000 who packed the ground started their night-long celebrations early.
They came to party, and apparently so had the All Blacks.
It wasn't all the old hands, of course, even though they very much set the tone. Victor Vito came through his first test start pretty damn well, Israel Dagg absorbed a testing first half mostly safely before staggering off at the break with a head knock, and Benson Stanley did all that was asked of him, and only blotted his copybook with a couple of handling errors.
But really, this was more like it after the folly of New Plymouth when Ireland self-destructed early.. A real rugby test. A fitting way to say bye-bye to the old ground and a much more telling measure of these rejigged All Blacks. We even had Kapa o Pango to add a bit of spice before things kicked off.
The Welsh certainly accepted the All Blacks' challenge early on after an appropriate - and rare - unleashing of the team's personalised haka. They say they only use it on special occasions these days, and this was certainly one of those as Carisbrook hosted its final rugby test after 102 years as an international venue.
It was appropriate, too, for it was here back in 2005 that this stylised haka - complete with its controversial throat-slitting gesture - was unveiled for the first time. The Welsh last night stood and respected it - as they do - and then answered in the appropriate fashion.
With a ton of pressure. Yes, this was test rugby as we know and love it, 15 against 15, tight, tense and at times terrific. The All Blacks may have eventually broken the shackles, but make no mistake they spent much of the first half under the blowtorch.
Wales dominated the opening quarter and stretched their hosts to the limit on occasions. But this side featuring so many newcomers to this level held firm and produced a classic half of All Black rugby - they scored from their only two forays deep into enemy territory, and kept their own line intact with some committed and systematic defence.
It was past the quarter-hour mark before the All Blacks fashioned their first foray into the Welsh red zone, though they did score from it beautifully when Jimmy Cowan took a quick tap and Mealamu's trademark low body position and leg drive saw him score his second try on this ground.
Later Cory Jane punished the Welsh just past the half-hour mark when he dashed, and then jigged, across after Conrad Smith had fashioned a clever ruck turnover from deep. That made it 15-6 after it had had been practically all Wales in the first 40.
And then they did what quality All Blacks sides have done through the ages. They came out after the break and turned this match on its head. Suddenly it was the men in black applying the pressure, asking the questions.
Carter's dazzling individual try early in the second spell - from a 95m move that the maestro launched from near his own line when he elected to feed Joe Rokocoko rather than relieve pressure via the boot - started the ball rolling and as the Welsh finally tired, the All Blacks made them pay with withering efficiency.
On a night when an old ground said goodbye, surely some old All Black faces reminded us all that they remain class acts of the highest order. Fitting really.
KEY FEATURES
Defining moment: Carter's first try early in the second spell. That well and truly turned the tide
Star man: Carter. Simply sublime. What slump?
What the ABs did well: Defended. And attacked. OK, they played bloody well all-round
What the ABs need to do better: Um, maybe start a little better. But that's being picky, and their first-half defence was very, very good
Who's smiling: Graham Henry. Good call to keep this outfit intact another week, and they delivered for their coach
Who's nervous: Maybe Ben Franks. Woodcock looked a man keen on winning back his starting jersey
Friday, June 18, 2010
Quiet Welsh have All Blacks on edge
Quiet Welsh have All Blacks on edge
By MARC HINTON - Stuff
There has been no bluster, no bravado from the Welsh this week ahead of the first of two cracks at the All Blacks. And that has Richie McCaw just a little worried.
As the All Blacks captain spoke to the media following Friday's Captain's Run at Carisbrook, he was asked about the lack of verbal jousts coming from the Welsh camp this week ahead of Saturday night's historic test bringing the curtain down on the Dunedin ground as a test venue.
Given that this is a Warren Gatland team they're facing, and the Kiwi is rather renowned for using the media in the buildup to play a few mind games, it's been noticeable that the Welsh have been playing with rather a straight bat ahead of this test.
No suggestions of lost auras, no accusations of questionable tactics, favourable treatment, no brave predictions that this is going to be the one, when a 57-year run of All Black defeats is going to come to an end. Instead just respect, determination and acknowledgement that it's a massive task they face.
So, what has McCaw made of that?
"We don't usually take too much notice of that sort of stuff," shrugged the skipper. "Sometimes teams just come and put a performance out on the field and say nothing. They're the ones who perform best.
"If you read anything into it, they're obviously ready to play. We've got to make sure we are too."
It's a valid point from McCaw. The Welsh may be missing a key bod or two - top performers like James Hook, Shane Williams, Martyn Williams and Gethin Jenkins especially - but the quiet determination they've exhibited since their arrival suggests they're steeled for the task.
McCaw says his men are anticipating a tough challenge - certainly more testing that the ill-disciplined Irish could muster.
"They always play with a fair bit of passion and it's always a physical challenge against them. I've always enjoyed the matches we've had and they've never been easy," he said.
As far as the Carisbrook factor - and the end of 102 years of test rugby at the iconic ground - McCaw said it had been something his men had looked to embrace this week.
"It's the last time we probably get to play here, and there's a bit of significance in the history that's gone on. But you can't make it a huge deal. It's a game we've got to go out and perform on a rugby field."
McCaw admitted he didn't know a lot about his opposite number, Dragons flanker Gavin Thomas, though had received a bit of 'intel' from the Kiwi contingent playing in Wales.
But his suggestion that the Welsh No 7 was a "young fella" with "some ability" contrasted with Gatland's description of his new loosie as "an experienced flanker who knows all about what it takes to perform at international level".
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The All Black captain said he's expecting an open game - conditions permitting - as Wales had pretty much nailed their colours to that mast and the key for the All Blacks was to try to limit their opponents' opportunities while maximising their own.
McCaw wasn't too bothered by the four tries allowed last week against Ireland, describing them as "extenuating" circumstances.
Then he was asked about whether there remained any residual fedeling around the great 2008 haka standoff at the Millennium Stadium.
If you recall the Welsh team indulged in a stare-down with the All Blacks which lasted what seemed an age before an anxious referee was finally able to persuade the two groups to disperse.
But McCaw's response suggested no affront was taken, then or since.
"I think what happened in '08 was actually pretty good. It certainly upped the ante right from the word go. [But] the guys haven't talked too much about it."
McCaw said the All Blacks would stand their ground if the Welsh were similarly staunch tomorrow night
"You've got to start at some point and you don't want to get silly about it. [But] I guess anything to get everyone excited and the crowd certainly got into it that day."
Which brings us to the All Blacks' kapa o pango haka. It hasn't been seen for the best part of a couple of years, but might it be unleashed on this historic occasion?
"We've been working on it," said McCaw with a hint of a smile. "You'll have to wait and see."
Should be fun. The rugby too.
By MARC HINTON - Stuff
There has been no bluster, no bravado from the Welsh this week ahead of the first of two cracks at the All Blacks. And that has Richie McCaw just a little worried.
As the All Blacks captain spoke to the media following Friday's Captain's Run at Carisbrook, he was asked about the lack of verbal jousts coming from the Welsh camp this week ahead of Saturday night's historic test bringing the curtain down on the Dunedin ground as a test venue.
Given that this is a Warren Gatland team they're facing, and the Kiwi is rather renowned for using the media in the buildup to play a few mind games, it's been noticeable that the Welsh have been playing with rather a straight bat ahead of this test.
No suggestions of lost auras, no accusations of questionable tactics, favourable treatment, no brave predictions that this is going to be the one, when a 57-year run of All Black defeats is going to come to an end. Instead just respect, determination and acknowledgement that it's a massive task they face.
So, what has McCaw made of that?
"We don't usually take too much notice of that sort of stuff," shrugged the skipper. "Sometimes teams just come and put a performance out on the field and say nothing. They're the ones who perform best.
"If you read anything into it, they're obviously ready to play. We've got to make sure we are too."
It's a valid point from McCaw. The Welsh may be missing a key bod or two - top performers like James Hook, Shane Williams, Martyn Williams and Gethin Jenkins especially - but the quiet determination they've exhibited since their arrival suggests they're steeled for the task.
McCaw says his men are anticipating a tough challenge - certainly more testing that the ill-disciplined Irish could muster.
"They always play with a fair bit of passion and it's always a physical challenge against them. I've always enjoyed the matches we've had and they've never been easy," he said.
As far as the Carisbrook factor - and the end of 102 years of test rugby at the iconic ground - McCaw said it had been something his men had looked to embrace this week.
"It's the last time we probably get to play here, and there's a bit of significance in the history that's gone on. But you can't make it a huge deal. It's a game we've got to go out and perform on a rugby field."
McCaw admitted he didn't know a lot about his opposite number, Dragons flanker Gavin Thomas, though had received a bit of 'intel' from the Kiwi contingent playing in Wales.
But his suggestion that the Welsh No 7 was a "young fella" with "some ability" contrasted with Gatland's description of his new loosie as "an experienced flanker who knows all about what it takes to perform at international level".
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The All Black captain said he's expecting an open game - conditions permitting - as Wales had pretty much nailed their colours to that mast and the key for the All Blacks was to try to limit their opponents' opportunities while maximising their own.
McCaw wasn't too bothered by the four tries allowed last week against Ireland, describing them as "extenuating" circumstances.
Then he was asked about whether there remained any residual fedeling around the great 2008 haka standoff at the Millennium Stadium.
If you recall the Welsh team indulged in a stare-down with the All Blacks which lasted what seemed an age before an anxious referee was finally able to persuade the two groups to disperse.
But McCaw's response suggested no affront was taken, then or since.
"I think what happened in '08 was actually pretty good. It certainly upped the ante right from the word go. [But] the guys haven't talked too much about it."
McCaw said the All Blacks would stand their ground if the Welsh were similarly staunch tomorrow night
"You've got to start at some point and you don't want to get silly about it. [But] I guess anything to get everyone excited and the crowd certainly got into it that day."
Which brings us to the All Blacks' kapa o pango haka. It hasn't been seen for the best part of a couple of years, but might it be unleashed on this historic occasion?
"We've been working on it," said McCaw with a hint of a smile. "You'll have to wait and see."
Should be fun. The rugby too.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
All Blacks score nine tries in Ireland rout
By MARK GEENTY - NZPA
Last updated 21:20 12/06/2010
The All Blacks roared into life for 2010 with a 66-28 demolition of a 14-man Ireland in just the second rugby test held at Yarrows Stadium in New Plymouth.
Two years after they posted a century of points against Samoa here, New Plymouth fans were treated to another scoring feast as the All Blacks raced in nine tries to four.
Standout centre Conrad Smith, halfback Jimmy Cowan and debut lock Sam Whitelock each scored two tries while 22-year-old fullback Israel Dagg was a star on debut, with a hand in three of the All Blacks' five first half tries.
It was a record score against Ireland - beating their 63-15 in Dublin in 1997 - but was short of the record margin of 59-6 in Wellington in 1992 thanks to a late Irish fightback with three second half tries.
First five-eighth Dan Carter kicked eight from eight for a 17-point haul - bringing up 1000 points in his 67th test - before he made way for debutant Aaron Cruden in the 54th minute with the match in the bag.
The contest was virtually over when one of Ireland's best players - No 8 Jamie Heaslip - was red carded by English referee Wayne Barnes in the 15th minute for an apparent knee to captain Richie McCaw's head.
Then, Irish pivot Ronan O'Gara was sinbinned by Barnes in the 24th minute when he held back another All Blacks standout Cory Jane at a chip and chase near the line.
With 13 opponents, the All Blacks were dominant up front and raced in for three tries. By the time O'Gara returned it was 38-0 just before halftime.
On a pitch dampened by heavy rain it was a huge contrast from the All Blacks' jittery season-opening defeat to France a year ago, although Ireland offered little resistance and their defence had plenty of holes.
The three All Blacks debutants were impressive, with Dagg making an arrival akin to Christian Cullen's against Samoa 14 years ago.
Prop Ben Franks was excellent as he crossed for a try on debut and offered some big defence while Benson Stanley was solid in the midfield in between generals Carter and Smith.
Coach Graham Henry was able to empty his bench early with the result beyond doubt.
Flanker Victor Vito, Whitelock and five-eighth Cruden had their debuts either side of halftime, with Crusaders giant Whitelock crossing for a try with his first touch in the 51st minute.
It was always going to be an uphill battle for Ireland who hadn't beaten the All Blacks in 22 tests spread over 105 years, and made their 30-hour journey less than a week ago.
There was another pre-test setback when 102-test veteran prop John Hayes withdrew due to illness, and was replaced by Tony Buckley.
Playing in his home town, Smith crossed first 10 minutes in when Irish hooker Sean Cronin knocked on, the All Blacks swept on to counter attack and Smith kicked through and beat a fumbling Rob Kearney to the ball.
Ireland went close to replying when midfielder Gordon D'Arcy was held up, but the wind went out of the tourists' sails as soon as Barnes spotted Heaslip's indiscretion at the ruck.
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The debutants combined for New Zealand's second when Stanley's in-pass sent Dagg away and the impressive Kieran Read crossed out wide.
Dagg created the All Blacks' next two tries to Ben Franks and Cowan with strong running and slick offloads, before Cowan crossed for his second from a Carter break.
When O'Gara returned, Ireland stunned the All Blacks with a try from nowhere to reserve Dan Tuohy, who darted through a ruck to make it 38-7 at the break.
Smith's second and Whitelock's debut touchdown made it 52-7 but the Irish heads didn't drop, with captain Brian O'Driscoll and Tommy Bowe crossing in the space of five minutes.
But normal transmission resumed with the entire All Blacks bench on the field, with reserve prop Neemia Tialata diving over to halt any thought of an Irish fightback.
New Zealand 66 (Conrad Smith 2, Jimmy Cowan 2, Sam Whitelock 2, Kieran Read, Ben Franks, Neemia Tialata tries; Dan Carter pen, 7 con; Piri Weepu 2 con)
Ireland 28 (Dan Tuohy, Brian O'Driscoll, Tommy Bowe, Gordon D'Arcy tries; Ronan O'Gara 4 con).
Halftime: 38-7.
Last updated 21:20 12/06/2010
The All Blacks roared into life for 2010 with a 66-28 demolition of a 14-man Ireland in just the second rugby test held at Yarrows Stadium in New Plymouth.
Two years after they posted a century of points against Samoa here, New Plymouth fans were treated to another scoring feast as the All Blacks raced in nine tries to four.
Standout centre Conrad Smith, halfback Jimmy Cowan and debut lock Sam Whitelock each scored two tries while 22-year-old fullback Israel Dagg was a star on debut, with a hand in three of the All Blacks' five first half tries.
It was a record score against Ireland - beating their 63-15 in Dublin in 1997 - but was short of the record margin of 59-6 in Wellington in 1992 thanks to a late Irish fightback with three second half tries.
First five-eighth Dan Carter kicked eight from eight for a 17-point haul - bringing up 1000 points in his 67th test - before he made way for debutant Aaron Cruden in the 54th minute with the match in the bag.
The contest was virtually over when one of Ireland's best players - No 8 Jamie Heaslip - was red carded by English referee Wayne Barnes in the 15th minute for an apparent knee to captain Richie McCaw's head.
Then, Irish pivot Ronan O'Gara was sinbinned by Barnes in the 24th minute when he held back another All Blacks standout Cory Jane at a chip and chase near the line.
With 13 opponents, the All Blacks were dominant up front and raced in for three tries. By the time O'Gara returned it was 38-0 just before halftime.
On a pitch dampened by heavy rain it was a huge contrast from the All Blacks' jittery season-opening defeat to France a year ago, although Ireland offered little resistance and their defence had plenty of holes.
The three All Blacks debutants were impressive, with Dagg making an arrival akin to Christian Cullen's against Samoa 14 years ago.
Prop Ben Franks was excellent as he crossed for a try on debut and offered some big defence while Benson Stanley was solid in the midfield in between generals Carter and Smith.
Coach Graham Henry was able to empty his bench early with the result beyond doubt.
Flanker Victor Vito, Whitelock and five-eighth Cruden had their debuts either side of halftime, with Crusaders giant Whitelock crossing for a try with his first touch in the 51st minute.
It was always going to be an uphill battle for Ireland who hadn't beaten the All Blacks in 22 tests spread over 105 years, and made their 30-hour journey less than a week ago.
There was another pre-test setback when 102-test veteran prop John Hayes withdrew due to illness, and was replaced by Tony Buckley.
Playing in his home town, Smith crossed first 10 minutes in when Irish hooker Sean Cronin knocked on, the All Blacks swept on to counter attack and Smith kicked through and beat a fumbling Rob Kearney to the ball.
Ireland went close to replying when midfielder Gordon D'Arcy was held up, but the wind went out of the tourists' sails as soon as Barnes spotted Heaslip's indiscretion at the ruck.
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The debutants combined for New Zealand's second when Stanley's in-pass sent Dagg away and the impressive Kieran Read crossed out wide.
Dagg created the All Blacks' next two tries to Ben Franks and Cowan with strong running and slick offloads, before Cowan crossed for his second from a Carter break.
When O'Gara returned, Ireland stunned the All Blacks with a try from nowhere to reserve Dan Tuohy, who darted through a ruck to make it 38-7 at the break.
Smith's second and Whitelock's debut touchdown made it 52-7 but the Irish heads didn't drop, with captain Brian O'Driscoll and Tommy Bowe crossing in the space of five minutes.
But normal transmission resumed with the entire All Blacks bench on the field, with reserve prop Neemia Tialata diving over to halt any thought of an Irish fightback.
New Zealand 66 (Conrad Smith 2, Jimmy Cowan 2, Sam Whitelock 2, Kieran Read, Ben Franks, Neemia Tialata tries; Dan Carter pen, 7 con; Piri Weepu 2 con)
Ireland 28 (Dan Tuohy, Brian O'Driscoll, Tommy Bowe, Gordon D'Arcy tries; Ronan O'Gara 4 con).
Halftime: 38-7.
Ireland never had a chance after cards
By DUNCAN JOHNSTONE - Stuff
Last updated 23:28 12/06/2010
Irish No 8 Jamie Heaslip was facing a searching examination from his management and an IRB judiciary after being sent off for kneeing All Blacks captain Richie McCaw.
The Irish admitted that with Heaslip gone after just 14 minutes and Ronan O'Gara sin-binned soon after they had no chance against a rampant All Blacks side in New Plymouth on Saturday night.
The All Blacks showed no mercy to jump out to a 29-nil lead and eventually a comfortable 66-28 win.
"The All Blacks were in mid-stride at that stage and it didn't help matters. It's difficult enough against them with 15 players," a disappointed Irish skipper Brian O'Driscoll lamented.
O'Driscoll hadn't seen a replay of the Heaslip incident and coach Declan Kidney had only had a brief look at it by the time they fronted the media after the match. Neither wanted to comment until they had run over the tape with a microscope.
With injuries compounding their problems Kidney said they faced a long night.
Heaslip will front the judiciary in New Plymouth at noon on Sunday.
McCaw was similarly reluctant to comment but did confirm he had been kneed.
"He got sent off for a knee. It's before the judiciary and I've been told not to talk too much about it. The issue was dealt with by what the ref saw," McCaw said.
"I guess the disappointing part is it put them under pressure. When they were down to 14 the game was over after that really. But I guess that's what happens - it makes it hard on your team when ill-discipline gets in the way."
O'Driscoll said the Irish had to take the yellow card on the chin after O'Gara had a brain explosion and impeded Cory Jane's chase for a ball with the try line open.
"There can't be any complaints on the yellow card. He pulled Cory Jane back and probably stopped a try. I don't want to get into the fairness of them (the decisions) ... you have to deal with the cards you are dealt."
Ireland are left searching for the first win over New Zealand after 23 attempts. They never looked like it at Yarrow Stadium although they did present some problems to the All Blacks in the second half when Graham Henry emptied his bench.
"It was a bad defeat. But I'm ever positive and you have to take some good things out of this. We showed some bottle in the second half," O'Driscoll said.
Kidney was more concerned with the general discipline of his team, particularly with their defensive systems, than Heaslip's act of thuggery.
"We had to work our way through it the best we could but I think we lost discipline in what we wanted to try to do when we were down a man. Our discipline in our defensive shape wasn't good.
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"We let ourselves down and we will have to take a good look at that."
Kidney was angry with the first half and seemed only slightly happier with the second half revival.
He spoke highly of O'Driscoll's stirring talk at halftime that he believed lifted the team to try to gain some respectability from a forgettable night.
"We were in a fairly dark place. So yes I was pleased with the second half but I wouldn't be running away from the damage we did to ourselves in the first half," Kidney said.
Ireland's night was complicated by a broken arm to blindside flanker John Muldoon.
Kidney said it was likely they would seek a replacement, especially with the back row likely to be reduced further after Heaslip appears before the judiciary.
Ireland have to play New Zealand Maori in Rotorua on Friday night and the Wallabies in Brisbane the following weekend.
Last updated 23:28 12/06/2010
Irish No 8 Jamie Heaslip was facing a searching examination from his management and an IRB judiciary after being sent off for kneeing All Blacks captain Richie McCaw.
The Irish admitted that with Heaslip gone after just 14 minutes and Ronan O'Gara sin-binned soon after they had no chance against a rampant All Blacks side in New Plymouth on Saturday night.
The All Blacks showed no mercy to jump out to a 29-nil lead and eventually a comfortable 66-28 win.
"The All Blacks were in mid-stride at that stage and it didn't help matters. It's difficult enough against them with 15 players," a disappointed Irish skipper Brian O'Driscoll lamented.
O'Driscoll hadn't seen a replay of the Heaslip incident and coach Declan Kidney had only had a brief look at it by the time they fronted the media after the match. Neither wanted to comment until they had run over the tape with a microscope.
With injuries compounding their problems Kidney said they faced a long night.
Heaslip will front the judiciary in New Plymouth at noon on Sunday.
McCaw was similarly reluctant to comment but did confirm he had been kneed.
"He got sent off for a knee. It's before the judiciary and I've been told not to talk too much about it. The issue was dealt with by what the ref saw," McCaw said.
"I guess the disappointing part is it put them under pressure. When they were down to 14 the game was over after that really. But I guess that's what happens - it makes it hard on your team when ill-discipline gets in the way."
O'Driscoll said the Irish had to take the yellow card on the chin after O'Gara had a brain explosion and impeded Cory Jane's chase for a ball with the try line open.
"There can't be any complaints on the yellow card. He pulled Cory Jane back and probably stopped a try. I don't want to get into the fairness of them (the decisions) ... you have to deal with the cards you are dealt."
Ireland are left searching for the first win over New Zealand after 23 attempts. They never looked like it at Yarrow Stadium although they did present some problems to the All Blacks in the second half when Graham Henry emptied his bench.
"It was a bad defeat. But I'm ever positive and you have to take some good things out of this. We showed some bottle in the second half," O'Driscoll said.
Kidney was more concerned with the general discipline of his team, particularly with their defensive systems, than Heaslip's act of thuggery.
"We had to work our way through it the best we could but I think we lost discipline in what we wanted to try to do when we were down a man. Our discipline in our defensive shape wasn't good.
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"We let ourselves down and we will have to take a good look at that."
Kidney was angry with the first half and seemed only slightly happier with the second half revival.
He spoke highly of O'Driscoll's stirring talk at halftime that he believed lifted the team to try to gain some respectability from a forgettable night.
"We were in a fairly dark place. So yes I was pleased with the second half but I wouldn't be running away from the damage we did to ourselves in the first half," Kidney said.
Ireland's night was complicated by a broken arm to blindside flanker John Muldoon.
Kidney said it was likely they would seek a replacement, especially with the back row likely to be reduced further after Heaslip appears before the judiciary.
Ireland have to play New Zealand Maori in Rotorua on Friday night and the Wallabies in Brisbane the following weekend.
Monday, June 14, 2010
The stuff of Graham Henry's nightmares
By MARC HINTON - Sunday Star Times
Last updated 05:00 02/05/2010
NIGHTMARES: There are times when the All Blacks coach's lot must be an unhappy one.
OPINION: There are times when the All Blacks coach's lot must be a happy one. Wins eight times out of 10. Nice seats on the plane. Best suites at the hotel. And the holidays aren't half bad.
Then there are times when your life must get so complicated and so darn worrying that, gee, that long, hot summer swanning round your slice of paradise on Waiheke must seem like an eternity ago.
It's hard to see how right now Graham Henry isn't veering more towards the latter category than the former. That his job isn't living up to its reputation as the most demanding in New Zealand.
The All Blacks coach, like the Prime Minister, is paid to worry. A lot. That is to say, he's paid a lot, but he also gets to worry a lot. No other sporting figure in New Zealand faces more pressure to win, or more expectation to do so in style. More so, Henry knows better than anyone that history will judge him on one thing and one thing only -- whether his team lifts that shiny gold trophy in just under 500 days' time.
He's had one crack, and failed. That's simply not an option this time round.
Thus the worrying. Henry is coming up to his last full international campaign before World Cup year rolls round, and must settle on his squad makeup and make the call on any fresh talent that may, or may not, be worth including. It's a time when he must arrive at some fairly important conclusions, both in terms of personnel and playing style.
And right now if Henry was the superstitious type, he might be a little concerned with how his moons are aligning. Certainly by the dark clouds that seem to be gathering in his crystal ball.
Jeepers, there are times that this job weighs heavily on good old Uncle Ted. It strains his normally delightful sense of humour and cheery disposition. Sometimes it can even make him grumpy.
Like now. It's hard to see how the All Blacks coach isn't lying awake at night wondering if he isn't observing some sort of ugly trend that's going to see the biggest party this country has ever known ending in tears.
Not to be a party-poor or anything. But Henry's year hasn't exactly started rip-roaringly.
His Super 14 teams are struggling to put together quality performances from one week to next. A fortnight out from the end of the round-robin there's the distinct possibility that there will be no New Zealand semifinalists.
Not in itself a killer blow. But certainly a disturbing trend. Who's setting the pulses racing in this competition? The Stormers. The Bulls. The Reds. That's who. Certainly not our lot, all of whom appear off the pace at the sharp end of things.
Then there's injuries. The opposition to consider. And a few problem positions cropping up.
So, for what it's worth, here's my stab at the top 10 things keeping Graham Henry awake at night:
1 Injuries. He's already lost Ali Williams, Jason Eaton, Corey Flynn and Sitiveni Sivivatu for the year, and has Mils Muliaina and Tom Donnelly not due back till close to June. At a time when All Black depth is more paddling pool than diving well, these are worrying defections. Plus, Williams now requires a third surgery on his Achilles, further delaying any potential return date. Sivivatu must also be a worry given a) his importance; and b) the serial nature of his afflictions. Injuries are part of the deal in this sport, but Henry does not need any more of his heavy-hitters going down long-term.
2 The Crusaders. The old reliables are in full wobble mode and this can't be a good sign. They could still sneak into the semis, but have their work cut out now and there are some strange goings-on in their midst. Dan Carter is awful, Richie McCaw is ineffective and even the tight five is struggling to impose its will on people. They're playing with little discipline and are getting badly beaten at the breakdown. Plus their basics are letting them down. The All Black axis comes from this team, and right now it's a less than rigid one.
3 The South Africans. The Bulls, Stormers and latterly Sharks are all playing outstanding, winning rugby. We all figured the Boks didn't have four more years in them after peaking in '07. Could we be wrong? Certainly the way Andries Bekker, Fourie du Preez, Schalk Burger, Victor Matfield, Jaque Fourie and many, many others are playing, Peter de Villiers is going to have an embarrassment of riches at his disposal next year. More so they play a consistent brand that they believe in, is established and they execute beautifully.
4 The young Wallabies. Will Genia could be the most exciting young player in world rugby but there's a lot more than a classy, X-factor halfback on Robbie Deans' list. Quade Cooper could be the No 10 he's been looking for, allowing Matt Giteau to operate where he's most effective, they have a cast of improving loose forwards coming through, some big second-rowers playing well and a loosehead prop being touted as the best in the business. The TAB believes in Deans' new wave, and they could start paying dividends this year.
5 Halfback. The rivals may have the best in the business, but right now New Zealand's No 9s are not setting the world on fire. Jimmy Cowan is top option, but remains a flawed player who relies more on grit than greatness. Three ABs from last year -- Piri Weepu, Andy Ellis and Brendon Leonard -- can't even get starts for their Super 14 sides and the form guy is Alby Mathewson, who has yet to play a test.
6 Tighthead prop. The coaches wanted Carl Hayman. Badly. But they didn't get him, and won't bend their rules to allow him to play from offshore. That leaves Neemia Tialata's dodgy knees, Owen Franks' inexperience and John Afoa's suspect scrummaging. Hayman they ain't.
7 No 8. Kieran Read has played well there for the All Blacks. But who else is there? Er, the ageing Rodney So'oialo. A real concern.
8 Backup options. There's a reason Daniel Braid has just agreed to come back. The plan to find a successor/backup to McCaw has not worked. Same with Dan Carter, except last I heard Nick Evans hasn't signed anything with Steve Tew's signature on it. Does anybody remember Cardiff?
9 The forwards. Let's be honest. There's no collective menace about the All Black pack as it shapes now. That has to be found over this season. And with Steve Hansen back in charge.
10 Dad's Army. Brad Thorn, Rodney So'oialo, Andrew Hore, Keven Mealamu and Mils Muliaina are all the other side of 30. Do they have two more big campaigns in them? Others in the national squad have a lot of miles on the clock. At the very least workloads must be managed.
Last updated 05:00 02/05/2010
NIGHTMARES: There are times when the All Blacks coach's lot must be an unhappy one.
OPINION: There are times when the All Blacks coach's lot must be a happy one. Wins eight times out of 10. Nice seats on the plane. Best suites at the hotel. And the holidays aren't half bad.
Then there are times when your life must get so complicated and so darn worrying that, gee, that long, hot summer swanning round your slice of paradise on Waiheke must seem like an eternity ago.
It's hard to see how right now Graham Henry isn't veering more towards the latter category than the former. That his job isn't living up to its reputation as the most demanding in New Zealand.
The All Blacks coach, like the Prime Minister, is paid to worry. A lot. That is to say, he's paid a lot, but he also gets to worry a lot. No other sporting figure in New Zealand faces more pressure to win, or more expectation to do so in style. More so, Henry knows better than anyone that history will judge him on one thing and one thing only -- whether his team lifts that shiny gold trophy in just under 500 days' time.
He's had one crack, and failed. That's simply not an option this time round.
Thus the worrying. Henry is coming up to his last full international campaign before World Cup year rolls round, and must settle on his squad makeup and make the call on any fresh talent that may, or may not, be worth including. It's a time when he must arrive at some fairly important conclusions, both in terms of personnel and playing style.
And right now if Henry was the superstitious type, he might be a little concerned with how his moons are aligning. Certainly by the dark clouds that seem to be gathering in his crystal ball.
Jeepers, there are times that this job weighs heavily on good old Uncle Ted. It strains his normally delightful sense of humour and cheery disposition. Sometimes it can even make him grumpy.
Like now. It's hard to see how the All Blacks coach isn't lying awake at night wondering if he isn't observing some sort of ugly trend that's going to see the biggest party this country has ever known ending in tears.
Not to be a party-poor or anything. But Henry's year hasn't exactly started rip-roaringly.
His Super 14 teams are struggling to put together quality performances from one week to next. A fortnight out from the end of the round-robin there's the distinct possibility that there will be no New Zealand semifinalists.
Not in itself a killer blow. But certainly a disturbing trend. Who's setting the pulses racing in this competition? The Stormers. The Bulls. The Reds. That's who. Certainly not our lot, all of whom appear off the pace at the sharp end of things.
Then there's injuries. The opposition to consider. And a few problem positions cropping up.
So, for what it's worth, here's my stab at the top 10 things keeping Graham Henry awake at night:
1 Injuries. He's already lost Ali Williams, Jason Eaton, Corey Flynn and Sitiveni Sivivatu for the year, and has Mils Muliaina and Tom Donnelly not due back till close to June. At a time when All Black depth is more paddling pool than diving well, these are worrying defections. Plus, Williams now requires a third surgery on his Achilles, further delaying any potential return date. Sivivatu must also be a worry given a) his importance; and b) the serial nature of his afflictions. Injuries are part of the deal in this sport, but Henry does not need any more of his heavy-hitters going down long-term.
2 The Crusaders. The old reliables are in full wobble mode and this can't be a good sign. They could still sneak into the semis, but have their work cut out now and there are some strange goings-on in their midst. Dan Carter is awful, Richie McCaw is ineffective and even the tight five is struggling to impose its will on people. They're playing with little discipline and are getting badly beaten at the breakdown. Plus their basics are letting them down. The All Black axis comes from this team, and right now it's a less than rigid one.
3 The South Africans. The Bulls, Stormers and latterly Sharks are all playing outstanding, winning rugby. We all figured the Boks didn't have four more years in them after peaking in '07. Could we be wrong? Certainly the way Andries Bekker, Fourie du Preez, Schalk Burger, Victor Matfield, Jaque Fourie and many, many others are playing, Peter de Villiers is going to have an embarrassment of riches at his disposal next year. More so they play a consistent brand that they believe in, is established and they execute beautifully.
4 The young Wallabies. Will Genia could be the most exciting young player in world rugby but there's a lot more than a classy, X-factor halfback on Robbie Deans' list. Quade Cooper could be the No 10 he's been looking for, allowing Matt Giteau to operate where he's most effective, they have a cast of improving loose forwards coming through, some big second-rowers playing well and a loosehead prop being touted as the best in the business. The TAB believes in Deans' new wave, and they could start paying dividends this year.
5 Halfback. The rivals may have the best in the business, but right now New Zealand's No 9s are not setting the world on fire. Jimmy Cowan is top option, but remains a flawed player who relies more on grit than greatness. Three ABs from last year -- Piri Weepu, Andy Ellis and Brendon Leonard -- can't even get starts for their Super 14 sides and the form guy is Alby Mathewson, who has yet to play a test.
6 Tighthead prop. The coaches wanted Carl Hayman. Badly. But they didn't get him, and won't bend their rules to allow him to play from offshore. That leaves Neemia Tialata's dodgy knees, Owen Franks' inexperience and John Afoa's suspect scrummaging. Hayman they ain't.
7 No 8. Kieran Read has played well there for the All Blacks. But who else is there? Er, the ageing Rodney So'oialo. A real concern.
8 Backup options. There's a reason Daniel Braid has just agreed to come back. The plan to find a successor/backup to McCaw has not worked. Same with Dan Carter, except last I heard Nick Evans hasn't signed anything with Steve Tew's signature on it. Does anybody remember Cardiff?
9 The forwards. Let's be honest. There's no collective menace about the All Black pack as it shapes now. That has to be found over this season. And with Steve Hansen back in charge.
10 Dad's Army. Brad Thorn, Rodney So'oialo, Andrew Hore, Keven Mealamu and Mils Muliaina are all the other side of 30. Do they have two more big campaigns in them? Others in the national squad have a lot of miles on the clock. At the very least workloads must be managed.
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