Sam Harris - challenging assignment

This says it all: unavailable for selection are Andre Pretorius (hamstring, season), David Pocock (finger, 6 weeks), Richard Brown (shoulder, 6 weeks), Cameron Shepherd (thigh, 6 weeks), Nick Cummins (foot, 3-4 weeks), Mark Bartholomeusz (neck, 1-2 weeks), Ryan Cross (shoulder).

That’s taken so much experience and talent out of this side that the Force will be huge underdogs at the Cake Tin. It’ll be like the gunfight at the O.K. Corral with the Force the Clantons and the Hurricanes Wyatt Earp. 

In fact, the side named today for Saturday’s match is one of the most inexperienced you’d ever see at this level, packed full of near schoolboys like Luke Jones and Stefano Hunt.

It’s not their fault that they’re in this situation and most unfortunate but Wellington could potentially be the Force’s Tombstone.

The coach hasn’t listened to critics of his recent flyhalf selection and left Sam Harris at 10 and Rabbit O’Connor at 15.        

Neither Sam Harris, Josh Tatupu or Ryan Cross – the 10, 12 and 13 combination from last week, would hardly be described as ball players.

The resultant stodge, expected to some extent by the makeshift nature of this lineup, failed to fire up the backline. Their kicking game was less than adequate as well.

Harris was completely out of his depth (thrown into the deep end through no fault of his own) and it seems a tactical ‘no-brainer’ to me to slot O’Connor into 10.

He wouldn’t die wondering and has the maturity and capacity to create opportunities for the backline.

Against the Brumbies they didn’t even look like scoring a meat pie, but with O’Connor directing play they’d certainly have more potential to do that.

Dane Haylett-Petty and Haig Sare have played fullback previously, so why wouldn’t you use one of them at 15?

A couple of positives for the Force is that they were in the game right up until the last 10 minutes or so last week and they appear to perform best away from home.

Mitch Inman will start at outside centre after Ryan Cross was declared unfit following a shoulder injury sustained last week. 

Ben McCalman joins a new look back row at 6, Matt Hodgson wears the no. 7 jersey for the first time since 2008 with Sam Wykes shifting to Number 8.

A change in the front row will see Tim Fairbrother start at tighthead prop against the province he played for 58 times, with Matt Dunning shifting to the loosehead side and Nic Henderson reverting to the bench.

The un-capped Ryan Tyrrell replaces Ben Whittaker on the bench as the alternate hooker.

Lock Tom Hockings wins a starting role in the second row alongside captain Nathan Sharpe, with Richard Stanford and Luke Jones providing cover for the back and second row.

Tyrrell, Jones, Hunt and Rapana would make their Super 14 debuts if used as substitutes.

Coach John Mitchell said “We’ll give it a good shake. The disappointing thing from the Brumbies match was that we didn’t get through a lot of attack and didn’t throw a lot at them.  That’s where we’d like to get a lot better this week”.

 ”We were hugely impressed by the commitment and length of time that we stayed in the match to possibly have a chance to win considering the circumstances.

“We’d really like to have a real dig and throw a lot more at the Hurricanes in attack this weekend.”

The Hurricanes see the return of Rodney So’oialo to the side (bench) and have plenty of key players in Andrew Hore, Neemia Tialata, Scott Waldron, Piri Weepu, Ma’a Nonu, Conrad Smith and Cory Jane.

The Hurricanes are without Hosea Gear due to a knee injury and Jason Eaton, who has been stood down for disciplinary reasons.

The weather forecast in this god forsaken place is going to be surprisingly mild, which will probably facilitate some expansive play from the Hurricanes impressive backline. 

Unfortunately, I’m expecting the inexperienced Force to be delivered to Boot Hill by the Earp Brothers and Doc Holliday, and can’t really foresee any other outcome.   

Western Force v Hurricanes (kick-off: 2.35pm AWST) 

Force: 1. Matt Dunning 2. Pek Cowan 3. Tim Fairbrother 4. Tom Hockings 5. Nathan Sharpe (c) 6. Ben McCalman 7. Matt Hodgson 8. Sam Wykes 9. Brett Sheehan 10. Sam Harris 11. Haig Sare 12. Josh Tatupu 13. Mitch Inman 14. Dane Haylett-Petty 15. James O’Connor

Reserves: 16. Ryan Tyrrell 17. Nic Henderson 18. Richard Stanford 19. Luke Jones 20. Chris O’Young 21. Stefano Hunt 22. Joelin Rapana

Hurricanes: 1. John Schwalger 2. Andrew Hore 3. Neemia Tialata 4. Bryn Evans 5. James Broadhurst 6. Michael Paterson 7. Scott Waldrom 8. Victor Vito 9. Piri Weepu 10. Willie Ripia 11. David Smith 12. Ma’a Nonu 13. Conrad Smith 14. Tamati Ellison 15. Cory Jane (capt)

Reserves: 16 Dane Coles 17 Jacob Ellison 18 Rodney So’oialo 19 Karl Lowe 20 Tyson Keats 21 Aaron Cruden 22 Andre Taylow

Line & length. Gladstone Small?

Barbarians 25 All Blacks 18

You get what you deserve when you treat a game like this as a ‘development’ match and turn up with your 2nd XV expecting to easily roll a scratch Baa Baas side.

It wasn’t always like this. The history of All Blacks v Barbarians end of tour matches goes back to 1954 and there have been many occasions since where prolific running rugby skills, commitment and elan were on display.

The match in 1973 and Gareth Edward’s ‘best ever’ try is the classic example. In the days when front rowers only scrummed, even England hooker John Pullin played his part and actually passed the ball in ‘that try’.

Sadly, in the professional era it has now become a money making venture for the NZRFU. I’m not sure there’s any point in turning up if you’re not going to put your top players on display.

Still, not a bad crowd of 65,000 turned up at HQ to watch the ‘B’ team get taught a lesson by some very talented footy players. If anybody thought this wasn’t going to be a serious match, they were mistaken, especially in the 2nd half when the Baa Baas had a sniff of victory.

Did you see the way their players and coach reacted after they won – absolutely ecstatic?

The All Black  team selection for this game was obviously planned before the tour. Maybe the contract said ‘at least Richie McCaw and half a dozen First XV players’ had to be on the park at some stage – the latter duly trudged out in the last 20 minutes to meet their contractual obligation.

The All Blacks should arrange mid week fixtures like the Wallabies and Springboks instead of using iconic Baa Baas matches as cannon fodder.

The good news was that the All Black dirties entered into the spirit of the occasion and tried to play running rugby like their weekend cousins. I suppose they’re playing for their futures so it isn’t surprising they gave it a lash.

Crikey, wasn’t it a bad hair day? First up Drew ‘Schmoo’ Mitchell. What was that on his head? A dead rat? Or even Rocky Racoon? Drew……David Beckham you ain’t…..leave the hair bear stuff to Gits.

Andy Powell. He of the Messiah locks with the Cymru Dragons. Cut off, like Delilah’s Sampson…..or Tom Jones’ anyway. He’s gone and done a George!

Justin Marshall on the commentary team. Dunny brush bleached Warnie. And like Warnie, he’s way too old for that sort of look. Mate, if that’s what you have to do to pull those two birds, can’t wait to see the photos?

That was the first time I’ve heard the NZ national anthem turned into muzak, coming to an elevator near you. And as for God Save the Queen, not one Baa Baas player was singing it except maybe Nigel Owens, if he was there in an official capacity?

Didn’t Bryan Habana play well? Three tries to gain Man of the Match honours. Two of them were set up by Australian boys. The first one Schmoo scooped up in his own 22m and ran a good 30m before an overhead pass to Habana as the defence closed in.  Bryan’s jet shoes did the rest.

His second try was from an intercept of a Stephen Donald cut-out pass – more on him soon. Habana went for his trade mark intercept, juggled the ball a few times and miraculously held on. He powered away from Richie McCaw to score just before the break to make it 14-20 to the Baa Baas, after Git’s conversion.

Earlier on Luke McAlister, who had a powerful game, made a great break which eventually led to Ben Smith scoring his first All Black try.

Habana’s third try was in the second half after Anthony Boric had scored for the All Blacks from a sweeping movement downfield and a TMO call. The Baa Baas were hot on attack and Gits fooled the defence for Steyn to put Habana over in the corner.

The game was generally entertaining and free flowing with the second half pretty intense. The Baa Baas were deserved winners. As for the Wallaby players, Gits was outstanding for the second week in a row. His positional kicking was exceptional and he was dangerous whenever he touched the ball.

Rocky was tireless, muscular throughout with a high workrate. George Smith was kept on for the entire match and was into everything. He effected numerous turnovers at the breakdown and created that link between forwards and backs. Disappointed I didn’t see a grubber kick though….

Schmoo Mitchell had an up and down match, doing some really good stuff mixed with a bit of indecision. Squeeky Moore came on at halftime and immediately lost his first two lineout throws. He settled down after that and worked hard.

Of the others Welshman Jamie Roberts and Jacques Fourie looked like they’d been playing together for years, and Victor and Schalk Burger were towers of strength. I also liked the look of their uncapped prop WP ‘Wilhelm Bunter’ Nel.

For the All Blacks, Stephen Donald started OK but it went downhill from there. I think he may have played his last match for the All Blacks. Richie was immense in the first half, especially when he was onside, and Corey Flynn and Rodney So’oialo were everywhere.

The Baa Baas were a scratch side, although loaded with talent. It just goes to show that cream really does rise to the top.

Click here to view the embedded video.

And so the year has drawn to a close.  The Spring Tour has been a disapointing expedition for the Wallabies.   As for the players? We have seen the emergence of some wonderful young players this tour. Quade Cooper, Digby Ioane, Dean Mumm, Benn Robinson, Will Genia, David Pocock and Ben Alexander all showed tremendous class.

How will they fair in the final component of our Green & Gold Rugby Wallaby Player of the Year? Let’s jump into it and see.

Match Ten: Wallabies v New Zealand @ Olympic Stadium, Tokyo (31 October).

Australia:  James O’Connor, Peter Hynes, Ryan Cross, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Digby Ioane, Matt Giteau, Will Genia, Wycliff Palu, David Pocock, Rocky Elsom [c], Mark Chisholm, James Horwill, Ben Alexander, Stephen Moore, Benn Robinson. Replacements: Tatafu Polota-Nau, Dean Mumm, George Smith.

New Zealand: Mils Muliaina, Corey Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Dan Carter, Jimmy Cowan, Rodney So’oialo, Richie McCaw [c], Adam Thomson, Tom Donnelly, Brad Thorn, Neemia Tialata, Andrew Hore, Tony Woodcock. Replacements: Joe Afoa, Jason Eaton, Kieran Read, Stephen Donald.

New Zealand 32 (Sitivenu Sivivatu, Conrad Smith tries; Dan Carter 2 conv, 6 pg) defeated Australia 19 (Peter Hynes try; Matt Giteau conv, 4 pg)

G&GR Points:

3 – Adam Ashley-Cooper
2 – Will Genia
1 – David Pocock

Adam Ashley-Cooper - G&GR Man of the Match v New Zealand (Tokyo)

Match Eleven: Wallabies v England @ Twickenham, London (7 November).

Australia:  Adam Ashley-Cooper, Peter Hynes, Digby Ioane, Quade Cooper, Drew Mitchell, Matt Giteau, Will Genia, Wycliff Palu, George Smith, Rocky Elsom [c], Mark Chisholm, James Horwill, Ben Alexander, Stephen Moore, Benn Robinson. Replacements: Tatafu Polota-Nau, Matt Dunning, Dean Mumm, Ryan Cross, David Pocock.

England: Ugo Monye, Mark Cueto, Dan Hipkiss, Shane Geraghty, Matt Banahan, Jonny Wilkinson, Danny Care, Jordan Crane, Lewis Moody, Tom Croft, Louis Deacon, Steve Borthwick [c], David Wilson, Steve Thompson, Tim Payne. Replacements: Dylan Hartley, Duncan Bell, Courtney Lawes, James Haskell, Paul Hodgson, Ayoole Erinle.

Australia 18 (Will Genia, Adam Ashley-Cooper tries; Matt Giteau conv, 2 pg) defeated England 9 (Jonny Wilkinson 2 pg, dg)

G&GR Points:

3 – Will Genia
2 – Wycliff Palu
1 – Quade Cooper

Will Genia - G&GR Man of the Match v England (London)

Match Twelve: Wallabies v Ireland @ Croke Park, Dublin (15 November).

Australia:  Adam Ashley-Cooper, Peter Hynes, Digby Ioane, Quade Cooper, Drew Mitchell, Matt Giteau, Will Genia, Wycliff Palu, David Pocock, Rocky Elsom [c], Mark Chisholm, James Horwill, Ben Alexander, Stephen Moore, Benn Robinson. Replacements: Tatafu Polota-Nau, George Smith, James O’Connor.

Ireland: Robert Kearney, Tommy Bowe, Brian O’Driscoll (c), Paddy Wallace, Luke Fitzgerald, Ronan O’Gara, Tomas O’Leary, Jamie Heaslip, David Wallace, Stephen Ferris, Paul O’Connell, Donncha O’Callaghan, John Hayes, Jerry Flannery, Cian Healy. Replacements: Denis Leamy, Kieth Earls.

Australia 20 (Drew Mitchell, Rocky Elsom tries; Matt Giteau 2 conv, 2 pg) drew with Ireland 20 (Tommy Bowe, Brian O’Driscoll tries; Ronan O’Gara 2 conv, 2 pg)

G&GR Points:

3 – David Pocock
2 – Wycliffe Palu
1 – Rocky Elsom

David Pocock - G&GR Man of the Match v Ireland (Dublin)

Match Thirteen: Wallabies v Scotland @ Murrayfield, Edinburgh (21 November).

Australia:  Adam Ashley-Cooper, Peter Hynes, Ryan Cross,Quade Cooper, Drew Mitchell, Matt Giteau, Will Genia, Wycliff Palu, George Smith, Rocky Elsom [c], Mark Chisholm, James Horwill, Ben Alexander, Stephen Moore, Benn Robinson. Replacements: Tatafu Polota-Nau, Sekope Kepu, Dean Mumm, Richard Brown, Luke Burgess, James O’Connor.

Scotland: Rory Lamont, Sean Lamont, Alex Grove, Graeme Morrison, Simon Danielli, Phil Goodman, Chris Cusiter [c], Johnnie Beattie, John Barclay, Alasdair Strokosch, Alastair Kellock, Nathan Hines, Moray Low, Ross Ford, Allan Jacobsen. Replacements: Dougie Hall, Kyle Traynor, Jason White, Richie Vernon, Mike Blair, Chris Paterson, Nick De Luca.

Scotland 9 (Phil Goodman 2 pg, Chris Paterson dg) defeated Australia 8 (Ryan Cross try; Matt Giteau  pg)

G&GR Points:

3 – Wycliff Palu
2 – Adam Ashley-Cooper
1 – George Smith

Wycliff Palu - G&GR Man of the Match v Scotland (Edinburgh)

Match Fourteen: Wallabies v Wales @ Millennium Stadium, Cardiff (28 November).

Australia:  Adam Ashley-Cooper, Peter Hynes, Digby Ioane, Quade Cooper, Drew Mitchell, Matt Giteau, Will Genia, Wycliff Palu, David Pocock, Rocky Elsom [c], Dean Mumm, James Horwill, Ben Alexander, Stephen Moore, Benn Robinson. Replacements: Tatafu Polota-Nau, Matt Dunning, Mark Chisholm, George Smithn, Luke Burgess, James O’Connor, Kurtley Beale.

Wales: James Hook, Leigh Halfpenny, Jamie Roberts, Jonathan Davies, Shane Williams, Stephen Jones, Dwayne Peel, Andy Powell [c], Martyn Williams, Dan Lydiate, Luke Charteris, Alun-Wyn Jones, Paul James, Matthew Rees, Gethin Jenkins. Replacements: Huw Bennett, Duncan Jones, Jonathan Thomas, Sam Warburton, Martin Roberts, Andrew Bishop, Tom James.

Australia 33 (Digby Ioane, James Horwill, David Pocock, Tatafu Polota-Nau tries; Matt Giteau 2 conv, 3 pg) defeated Wales 12 (Stephen Jones 3, Leigh Halfpenny pg)

G&GR Points:

3 – David Pocock
2 – Matt Giteau
1 – George Smith

David Pocock - G&GR Man of the Match v Wales (Cardiff)

The Welsh test sees us come to the end of the voting period for the G&GR Wallaby Player of the Year. But before we name that illustrious winner, we have one penultimate award. The G&GR Wallaby Player of the Spring Tour. And to the table…

And so we have a tie at the top, but we like to make the hard decisions here at Green & Gold Rugby, so therefore the winner by count back (two “Man of the Match” awards rather than one) is…

Dave - thrilled with his award.

… David Pocock!

Now the winner of the whole shebang? We’ll you will just have to stay tuned for a very special post tomorrow to announce it.  Now now, stop your whinging. This one is worth the wait!!! Who’s your pick?

Too easy

So far this season the Wallabies have let themselves down in just one, sometimes two facets of the game. Tonight, they fucked every single one. The scrum, lineout, breakdown, kicking, discipline, running, passing; all sucked. It was only an average defensive performance that kept them anywhere near the match.

The heroics in Brisbane were catalysed by some towering leadership performances, where men went out to make the difference – like Polota-Nau with his tackling. This week they sat back and seemed to hope “the pattern” would do it all for them. It’s a simple lesson, when will they learn it?

Most disappointing was the lack of will to compete. No challenging at the line-out. No challenging at the ruck. The scrum was soft and the only guy who can run straight in the entire team is Adam Ashley-Cooper. The result of everyone sitting back waiting for someone else to “do something”.

It’s a disturbing mental fragility that was epitomised by James O’Connor. There’s a very strange thing going on in his gelled teenage head when he plays the All Blacks and tonight it translated into a simply shocking performance. You can only think for the sake of the kids confidence Dingo didn’t end it early. However, if this is true, what does it say to the team (and supporters)? O’Connor’s ego is more important than winning?

Again Joubert was happy for the All Blacks to pretty much do anything at the breakdown. But you have to say that at least they were there and putting in an effort, rather than fanned out as decoy runners in front of backs who continue to throw bullet passes above and behind players at head height. One thing tonight proved was that the backline’s problems have nothing to do with Burgess’ or Ginea’s service from 9. They go way deeper than that.

A lot has been written this week about the great position the Wallabies are for the 2011 world cup, with a an average age of 24, yadda yadda. At this point in time, all we have is a team of young chokers. Best demonstrated, when at somehow still only 19-6 down in the 70th minute, camped on the NZ line with an opportunity to pull a rabbit out of the hat, they came away with nothing.

Deans rightly pointed out that in Wellington it was down to the Wallabies to prove whether they have developed and grown, or whether Brisbane was purely a blip. Tonight we got the answer.

Final Score: New Zealand 33 – Australia 6

The scorers:

For New Zealand:
Tries: Jane, Nonu, Rokocoko
Cons: Carter 2
Pens: Carter 4

For Australia:
Pen: Giteau
Drop: Barnes

Yellow card: Toeava (NZ – 29th min – High tackle)

New Zealand: 15 Mils Muliaina, 14 Cory Jane, 13 Isaia Toeava, 12 Ma’a Nonu, 11 Joe Rokocoko, 10 Dan Carter, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Kieran Read, 7 Richie McCaw (c), 6 Adam Thomson, 5 Tom Donnelly, 4 Brad Thorn, 3 Neemia Tialata, 2 Andrew Hore, 1 Tony Woodcock.
Replacements: 16 Aled de Malmanche, 17 John Afoa, 18 Jason Eaton, 19 Rodney So’oialo, 20 Brendon Leonard, 21 Stephen Donald, 22 Hosea Gear.

Australia:15 James O’Connor, 14 Lachie Turner, 13 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 12 Berrick Barnes, 11 Drew Mitchell, 10 Matt Giteau, 9 Will Genia, 8 George Smith (c), 7 David Pocock, 6 Rocky Elsom, 5 Mark Chisholm, 4 James Horwill, 3 Ben Alexander, 2 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 1 Benn Robinson.
Replacements: 16 Stephen Moore, 17 Pek Cowan, 18 Dean Mumm, 19 Wycliff Palu, 20 Luke Burgess, 21 Quade Cooper, 22 Peter Hynes.

Venue: Westpac Stadium, Wellington
Weather: Clear skies, still 10°C
Referee: Craig Joubert (South Africa)
Assistant referees: Wayne Barnes (England), Cobus Wessels (South Africa)
TMO: Shaun Veldsman (South Africa)

'Stephen you're my bitch'

The big question on everyone’s lips in the crunch Tri-Nation’s test in Hamilton on Saturday is whether South Africa will revert to type by employing their successful aerial game last seen in Capetown a couple of tests ago.

This successful strategy which contributed mightily to them winning their three home tests is likely to be adopted in a game that will probably be played in wet and greasy conditions. The recall of Frans Steyn at fullback who was a major contributor to those wins suggests that this may be the case.

The fact of the matter is that the All Blacks have to win this game to have any hope of retaining the Trophy, preferably with a bonus point and in the process denying the Springboks one. This is a big ask against the World Champions. Sure, the Boks are not renowned for away wins in this competition but this is not an average Springbok team. This side is a cut above any we’ve seen in recent times, certainly better than their last team that won this competition.

The All Blacks have not really performed that well this year despite two wins against a largely inexperienced Wallaby team that will in all likelihood finish on the bottom of the ladder. Despite a defeat last week against this side, the Springboks will be looking to bounce back in their quest for Tri-Nations glory.

Apart from traditional All Black strengths at the breakdown and the set piece, they have always had an ability to exert extreme pressure on the opposition and over recent years been renowned for their counter attack. We actually haven’t seen too much of that this year and the conditions underfoot this weekend will probably mitigate against free flowing rugby and a four try bonus point.

Stephen Donald has been selected for his first ever big game at 2nd five eighths, outside Dan Carter. Most would have predicted Carter at 12 and Donald at 10. This selection was a little ‘left field’ and a risk but with injuries to Conrad Smith, Luke McAlister and Richard Kahui they are running out of options. Donald’s inexperience in the role and Nonu’s defensive frailties will be targeted like Ashley-Cooper and Cross were in the Perth test. There’s every chance Jacque Fourie, Jean de Villiers and Brian Habana will be testing out this channel.

As we all know, the Springboks have the best lineout in the Tri-Nations and the All Blacks the worst. Matfield and Botha (and Smith and Spies) will inevitably be attacking this weakness. Rolling mauls from the lineout have also proven to be an effective weapon.

There’s been a lot of talk about Smit’s vulnerabilities at tighthead which were cruelly exposed by the Wallaby scrum. Tony Woodcock is a world class loosehead (of mythical proportions) and will find out any weaknesses in Smit’s technique. The All Black scrum has looked very solid against all-comers this year.

Three games in three weeks may leave the Springboks a little leg weary; however, this is a game they desperately want to win. If successful, they would complete their third Tri-Nations Trophy success following wins in 1998 and 2004. In reality, to claim credibility as an ‘extra special’ side they need to defeat the All Blacks in New Zealand, not just gain a losing bonus point.

This game is a tough ask for the Springboks as the All Blacks will be desperate to remain in the competition. They have the big guns to pull it off but will need every ounce of focus to succeed.

Springboks by 4.

South Africa: 15 Frans Steyn, 14 Odwa Ndungane, 13 Jaque Fourie, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Morné Steyn, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pierre Spies, 7 Juan Smith, 6 Heinrich Brüssow, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 John Smit (captain), 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17 Jannie du Plessis, 18 Danie Rossouw, 19 Schalk Burger, 20 Ricky Januarie, 21 Adi Jacobs, 22 Ruan Pienaar.

New Zealand: 15 Mils Muliaina, 14 Josevata Rokocoko, 13 Ma’a Nonu, 12 Stephen Donald, 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu, 10 Dan Carter, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Kieran Read, 7 Richie McCaw (c), 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Isaac Ross, 4 Brad Thorn, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Andrew Hore, 1 Tony Woodcock.
Replacements: 16 Aled de Malmanche, 17 John Afoa, 18 Adam Thomson, 19 Rodney So’oialo, 20 Brendon Leonard, 21 Isaia Toeava, 22 Cory Jane.

Venue: Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

Referee: Nigel Owens (Wales)

Assistant referees: Wayne Barnes (England), Stuart Dickinson (Australia)

Nigel: 'But Owen, I'm the only gay in the village'

Ladies and Gentlemen, let’s get ready to RRRUUUMMMBBBLLLE.

This is a 10 round heavyweight contest featuring, in the black corner and weighing in with serious intent, former World No 1 and World Cup Chokers Champions, the All Blacks. In the green corner, with the weight of a rainbow nation on it’s shoulders, the current World No 1 and reigning Champion of the World, the Springboks.

And it is a heavyweight contest between the two top-rated teams in the world. This match could determine the Tri-Nations outcome. A win away by any team is such a valuable commodity in this competition it is the determinant (to a lesser extent bonus points). Not that too many people are predicting an All Black win on Saturday.

The good news for the All Blacks is that it is in Durban, a venue at sea level. This may help them at the back end of the game considering they have played three matches in three weekends. They were looking very ragged in the first half last week making uncharacteristic errors all over the park. The sort of basic errors you just wouldn’t see a composed NZ side make. They’ve been a bit this way since the start of the season and are really not on top of their game.

They have made a couple of changes, one enforced the other tactical. Tialata was dropped from the squad altogether and is replaced by the new boy Owen Franks. This is his first run-on test and what a challenge it’ll be for him packing down against The Beast. The other is bringing back Cowan. He was replaced by Leonard last week despite having a very tidy game against the Wallabies. Leonard wasn’t able to get his running game going due to the pressure his pack was under. Cowan’s box kicking game was much superior and that’s what will probably be one of the tactics I’d expect. Afoa is on the bench to cover both sides of the scrum.

The Bokke have made three replacements from last week’s winning team. Pienaar is injured and replaced by Morné Steyn at ten. He is a more than adequate substitute and has been on form. Andries Bekker is fit again and comes onto the bench in place of Kankowski, Roussow retaining his reserve loose forward position. Adi Jacobs has recovered from his injuries and takes Steyn’s spot in the reserves.

The Springboks are deserved favourites and will be looking at a very rare double win against their historic No 1 foe. I can’t imagine too much variation from last weeks tactics by either side with the ball in the air a fair bit of the time. The kicking game of Steyn, Steyn and Donald (sounds like a law firm) will be of some importance. It would be nice to see a more expansive game from both sides but unlikely. In my view the Bokke are starting to peak and are looking the most confident and dangerous team. I think they’ll win by a greater margin than last week.  Bokke by 15.

South Africa: 15 Frans Steyn, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Jaque Fourie, 12 Jean de Villiers, 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Morné Steyn, 9 Fourie du Preez, 8 Pierre Spies, 7Juan Smith, 6 Heinrich Brüssow, 5 Victor Matfield, 4 Bakkies Botha, 3 John Smit (c), 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.

Replacements: 16 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17 Jannie du Plessis, 18 Andries Bekker, 19 Danie Rossouw, 20 Ricky Januarie, 21 Adi Jacobs, 22 Wynand Olivier.

New Zealand: 15 Mils Muliaina, 14 Joe Rokocoko, 13 Conrad Smith, 12 Ma’a Nonu, 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu, 10 Stephen Donald, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Rodney So’oialo, 7 Richie McCaw (capt), 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Isaac Ross, 4 Brad Thorn, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Andrew Hore, 1 Tony Woodcock.

Replacements: 16 Keven Mealamu, 17 John Afoa, 18 Jason Eaton, 19 Kieran Read, 20 Piri Weepu, 21 Luke McAlister, 22 Cory Jane.

Date: Saturday, 1 August

Venue: Absa Stadium, Durban

Kick-off: 17:00 (15:00 GMT)

Referee: Nigel Owens (Wales – the only gay in the village)

Assistant referees: Alain Rolland (Ireland), Tim Hayes (Wales)

TMO: Shaun Veldsman (South Africa)

Who's Kevin Skinner?

This game is the first in a heavyweight encounter between South Africa and New Zealand in Bloemfontein. For the All Blacks to retain their Tri-Nations title a win here would be a huge step in the right direction.

In addition to being a Tri-Nations match, this game will determine who tops the IRB rankings. South Africa are coming into the match after a series win against the British & Irish Lions. The Lions provided very stern opposition against the Bokke and should have them firing. The All Blacks win last weekend against the Wallabies was scratchy and they’ll be looking for an improved performance.
The teams: 
South Africa:

15 Frans Steyn,

14 JP Pietersen,

13 Jaque Fourie,

12 Jean de Villiers,

11 Bryan Habana,

10 Ruan Pienaar,

9 Fourie du Preez,

8 Pierre Spies,

7 Juan Smith,

6 Heinrich Brussow,

5 Victor Matfield,

4 Bakkies Botha,

3 John Smit (c),

2 Bismarck du Plessis,

1 Beast Mtawarira.

Replacements: 16 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17 Jannie du Plessis, 18 Danie Rossouw, 19 Ryan Kankowski, 20 Ricky Januarie, 21 Morne Steyn, 22 Wynand Olivier.

New Zealand:

15 Mils Muliaina,

14 Joe Rokocoko ,

13 Conrad Smith,

12 Ma’a Nonu,

11 Sitiveni Sivivatu,

10 Stephen Donald,

9 Brendon Leonard,

8 Rodney So’oialo,

7 Richie McCaw (c),

6 Jerome Kaino,

5 Isaac Ross,

4 Brad Thorn,

3 Neemia Tialata,

2 Andrew Hore,

1 Tony Woodcock.

Replacements: 16 Keven Mealamu, 17 Owen Franks, 18 Jason Eaton, 19 Kieran Read, 20 Piri Weepu, 21 Luke McAlister, 22 Cory Jane .

Venue: Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein

Kick-off: 17:00 (15:00 GMT)

Weather: Clear but cool.

Referee: Alain Rolland (Ireland)

Assistant referees: Nigel Owens (Wales), Tim Hayes (Wales)

TMO: Johann Meuwesen (South Africa)

Key - Gits and Barnes

For a Wallaby supporter this is a vicious tease of a match. Standing defiantly is the wily 23 year old Eden Park minx, and laid out like a string of Bacardi Breezers before her is the key to melting this ice maidens defences.

It’s only fitting that the French and Italians – ‘masters of seduction’ – gave facets of the gameplan a trial run.

What the Ities demonstrated is just how uncomfortable the ABs look chasing the ball in their own half, especially the back 3. Acknowledging it, the New Zealanders have drafted in another fullback – Corey Jane to shore things up. With the All Blacks infamous (at least around my armchair) for giving away penalties rather than continuity, should the Wallabies attain such field position, a steady flow of points with the odd yellow card will follow. Australia also has a try scoring strike capability that the Italians sorely missed.
No prizes then for appreciating just how important the cultured left/right foot combination of Giteau and Barnes will be to pin the Blackness back into their 22. This combo was deadly against the BaaBaas and Italians, but suspect when it came to the better organised French. The time and space to execute the “check-side” punts that cause Marto to auto-ejaculate therefore depend on the quality of ball that’s delivered by the pack.

This is how the French bulldozed their way into Miss Dunedin’s frosty knickers; winning the battle of the breakdown and the advantage-line nearby. For the Wallabies however, this is still a sore point that they openly admit, and it won’t be lost on the Kiwis. After McCaw has cheated is arse off at the tackle, the rest of them will flood and flop over every ruck they can find, searching for turnovers, or at least to to force those 9ft high passes from Burgess to Barnes and Giteau.

Simply put, if the Wallabies want to bang the prom-queen, they have to man up at the breakdown.

Much has been made of the 3 open-sides Dingo’s selected in the 22. Rather than a high risk tactical experiment, I believe it’s more a case of him picking the best back-row talent at his disposal, rather than lesser ‘conventional’ specialists. Had Rocky been fit, he would have no doubt been starting. As it is, we’ll probably see an experiment that just could pay off. Assuming McCaw doesn’t make the full 80, there could be three high class Wallaby fetchers pressurising breakdowns during a crucial period of the match, virtually unopposed.

That’s the method for how the Green and Gold could do it, but what of the consequences should they succeed or fail in breaking the drought? For the first match in a tournament away from home, I believe they’re unusually high. So much of the AntipoDeans mantra is about “Belief” and “Growth”. These players have known for 12 months now what Robbie wants, and should they take a convincing defeat on Saturday, these two buzzwords will be look pretty hollow, and remain as a question mark regardless of what comes through the rest of the year.

However, should by any margin or style the Wallabies win, then this will be a sea change in trans-Tasman rugby and the strongest possible endorsement that a new Australian rugby era is dawning. My sense is that both sides know this, and we could well be in for a classic Bledisloe.

Gagger says: How much is wishful thinking, and how much rational belief in a more complete Wallabies offering? Wallabies by 3

New Zealand: Mils Muliaina; Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Ma’a Nonu; Stephen Donald, Jimmy Cowan; Rodney So’oialo, Richie McCaw (captain), Jerome Kaino; Isaac Ross, Brad Thorn; Neemia Tialata, Andrew Hore, Tony Woodcock. Replacements: Keven Mealamu, Owen Franks, Jason Eaton, Kieran Read, Piri Weepu, Luke McAlister, Joe Rokocoko.

Australia: Adam Ashley-Cooper; Lachie Turner, Stirling Mortlock, Berrick Barnes, Drew Mitchell; Matt Giteau, Luke Burgess; Wycliff Palu, George Smith, Richard Brown; Nathan Sharpe, James Horwill; Al Baxter, Stephen Moore, Benn Robinson. Replacements: Tatafu Polota-Nau, Ben Alexander, Dean Mumm, Phil Waugh, David Pocock, Will Genia, James O’Connor.

Eaton. Less hair=selection

The Aotearoans are asking themselves just where is the depth after the 2009 All Black Tri-Nations squad was announced by Graham Henry earlier this week. There are plenty of names in it that just don’t run off the tongue like de Malmanche, Crockett, Franks, Evans and Ross.

It’d be true to say that Kiwi rugby fans and the media are speculating that this 30 man squad is one of the weakest in recent years with a significant lack of experience in key positions. The domestic lead-up matches against Les Bleus and the Azzurri were unconvincing with a series loss against the former, although the actual result was one test all, and a poor showing against the Eyeties.

There has been a loss of confidence in the coach with a recent poll in a national newspaper (over 8,000 respondents) finding 56% to 43% against Henry on whether he should be kept on. The NZRFU has just reappointed him through to the next World Cup but it’s obviously not met with universal approval. The rugby public in the Shaky Isles are very much used to the ABs winning, remembering that they’ve won the last four Tri-Nations trophies and six Bledisloe’s, and any sign of a weakening in traditional All Black power is generally met with a collective hysteria.

Where is the depth you might ask? Well, it’s not hard to work out, they’ve all buggered off overseas to earn some real dosh. Couldn’t you form a pretty solid outfit with some of these blokes in it? Carl Hayman, Greg Somerville, Clark Dermody, Campbell Johnstone, Chris Jack,  Greg Rawlinson, Jerry Collins, Chris Masoe, Marty Holah, Craig Newby, Mose Tuiali’i, Byron Kelleher, Nick Evans, Carlos Spencer, Rico Gear, Doug Howlett,  Isa Nacewa, Sam Tuitupou and Scott Hamilton.

There are an estimated 250 Kiwi professional rugby players plying their trade in Europe and Japan including second tier competitions in Romania, Spain and Portugal. Wouldn’t you just love to play footy for such exotic teams as Cetransa El Salvador, Jeep Alcobendas Rugby or Universitat de Barcelona……’qué, eez Siberian ‘ampster’?

The AB squad is looking a fair bit healthier now that Richie McCaw, Rodney So’oialo, Andrew Hore, Conrad Smith and Sitiveni Sivivatu have recovered from injury. They’d be up shite creek without them. Richie and Rodders were seriously missed in those lead-up matches, with glaring weaknesses exposed in the loose forward department. Richie is their talisman, a world class player with loads of mana.

Of note is the return from a three year exile of Jason Eaton. It’s not surprising he wasn’t selected over recent years, the ZZ Top whiskers and mullet were just not a good look. His form in the Super 14 wasn’t anything to write home about either but it looks like there’s not too many other options now that Ali Williams is out for the season. Eaton is a backup No 6 as well.

Five eighth. Now there’s a conundrum. First cab off the rank has been Stephen Donald in lieu of the injured Dan Carter (latest reports suggest he wont be back until November). NZ have been spoiled for choice in the past 15 years or so having world class players in that position, namely Mehrts and Carter. It’s early days for Shakin’ Stephen and he’s probably destined to only ever be the loyal backup to Carter; ’splinters’….à la Magilla to Warnie. He’s had very mixed reviews but is currently injured so he won’t be starting in the first match.

That leaves Luke McAlister as now first choice bro’ with Piri Weepu as the reserve. McAlister has only just returned from Europe and was fast tracked into the team. He was playing in the centres for Sale so is taking some time to adapt back to his old position. He’s probably not the long term answer but can be a devastating inside centre on his day. I can sniff a bit of panic in the air with some commentators even suggesting that U20 All Black Aaron Cruden, who is yet to play Super 14, be selected. Talented player that he undoubtedly is, Cruden bravely recovered from cancer last year but he’d need a miracle to survive in this company so early in his career.

Who’s missed out? Apart from the injured crew (Carter, Kahui, Thompson etc) Leila Masaga and Liam Messam were the prime casualties. Masaga was replaced by Hosea Gear who has done well for the Junior All Blacks in the Pacific Nations Cup. Masaga’s pretty green and will get another chance down the track. Messam was just not up to it according to the coach who dumped on him big time and it’s unlikely we’ll see him again. A shade unfair as he was played out of position.

The positives are obviously having Richie and the other experienced campaigners back. I’m picking Brendon Leonard around the scrumbase will be a standout, now that he’s back to full fitness . Kieran Read and Isaac ‘Jock’ Ross have been better for the experience of the domestic series and Brad Thorn has been the ironman in the pack. You just can’t take these guys lightly but you’d have to say that they’re probably a little bit more vulnerable this year than they’ve been for a while. Their First XV look capable but it’s more about depth in this tournament.

The highlight for me will be The Myth v John Smit and Y Ffiws (Le Fuse), and the battle of the breakdown between McCaw, Smith and Brussow.

All Blacks squad

Backs: Mils Muliaina, Cory Jane, Joe Rokocoko, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Hosea Gear, Isaia Toeava, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Luke McAlister, Stephen Donald, Piri Weepu, Jimmy Cowan, Brendon Leonard

Forwards Rodney So’oialo, Richie McCaw (captain), Tanerau Latimer, Kieran Read, Jerome Kaino, Jason Eaton, Isaac Ross, Bryn Evans, Brad Thorn, John Afoa, Neemia Tialata, Owen Franks, Tony Woodcock, Wyatt Crockett, Andrew Hore, Keven Mealamu, Aled de Malmanche.

But can he tackle a TimTam?

Is it too early to call a side’s hopes for the season ‘on the line’ in round one? Probably, but this game will tell a fair bit about how the rest of the season will pan out for both of them.

Each team has had major overhauls during the off-season and would approach this game with a fair degree of nervousness considering the burden of expectation that both will carry this year.

Key to the ‘Tahs chances in this game will be the ability to get the ball quickly to the outside backs and let them work the under-strength ‘Canes over. Wellington have named Hosea Gear and Piri Weepu out of position at no’s 12 and 10 respectively, this to me speaks volumes about a potential lack of cohesion in the back-line.

Although one is at no 12 and the other at 13, Timana Tahu v Ma’a Nonu will be a key battle. I expect the ‘Tahs to give Timtam plenty of space in which to try and expose Nonu’s lack of lateral movement in defence and general lack of combination with Gear. On the flip-side, Timtam is no rocket scientist in defence either – despite during the off-season passing the only exam he has ever sat, that of rugby theory – I would think the ‘Canes have roughly the same plan for him. They will send plenty of decoy runners at Timtam, who when faced with defensive choices in recent times, has generally made the wrong one.

Kurtley Beale will need a strong performance to get his confidence back after spending the summer kicking stones and eating KFC. The world lay at Beale’s feet at the end of last Super 14 season, until he broke one of them that is, and he now finds himself the third choice no. 10 behind Gits and Cooper at the national level. If Beale can get things on track early then Timtam, Rob Horne, Lote, Lachie Turner et al should be too much for the ‘Canes to handle.

The forward battle will be a fairly even one, but if the ‘Tahs front row suffers an injury or two the reserves are rookies, as Freir looks set to be ruled out, and this could be problematic. Even with the loss of Vickerman, Lyons and Elsom, the ‘Tahs piggies look surprising good and should shade the ‘Canes who were victims of a similar flight of quality at last season’s end.

Wellington are on the second line of betting to win the Super 14, I can’t see why as I don’t think they look like a settled or cohesive unit. I expect it to be tight early however the ‘Canes over reliance on Nonu and Rodney So’oialo, plus injuries to a few prized players, should mean the ‘Tahs will be able to see off the threat and sneak away with the game in the last 20 minutes.

Cote says ‘Tahs by 6.

Hurricanes v Waratahs
Venue:Westpac Stadium, Wellington
Kick off: Saturday 14 February, 7.35pm (local), 5.35pm AEST
Referee: Stuart Dickinson

Hurricanes
Zac Guildford, Andre Taylor, Jason Kawau, Tamati Ellison, David Smith, Willie Ripia, Alby Mathewson, Victor Vito, Scott Waldrom, Karl Lowe, Bryn Evans, Api Naikatini, Tim Fairbrother, Dane Coles, John Schwalger. Replacements: Ged Robinson, Neemia Tialata, Jason Eaton, Ma’a Nonu, Piri Weepu, Daniel Kirkpatrick, Cory Jane, Nick Crosswell, Hosea Gear, Faifili Levave, Jacob Ellison.

Waratahs
Sam Norton-Knight, Lachie Turner, Rob Horne, Timana Tahu, Lote Tuqiri, Kurtley Beale, Luke Burgess, Scott Fava, Phil Waugh, Ben Mowen, Will Caldwell, Dean Mumm, AL Baxter, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Benn Robinson. Replacements: Adam Freier/Damien Fitzpatrick, Jeremy Tilse/Dan Palmer, Chris Thomson, Wycliff Palu, Brett Sheehan, Tom Carter, Daniel Halangahu.