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| Captain Richie McCaw hoists the Bledisloe Cup |
For the 9th year running, New Zealand retained the Bledisloe Cup after a gritty 30-14 win over Australia in their Tri-Nations encounter last Saturday.
New Zealand didn't look as impressive on offense like they did during their 40-7 thrashing of an under-strength South Africa team, but they more than made up on the defensive end; thwarting the Wallabies on several occasions where they seemed certain to score. Australia may have had the advantage in time of possession and territory, but couldn't turn that pressure into points.
Not only could they not cross the line, but wing James O'Connor fired wide on each of his 3 penalty attempts at goal; turning a potentially close game into a blowout win for their rivals. Australia still showed how dangerous they could be, with their two tries (scored by Digby Ioane and team captain Rocky Elsom) coming from quick counter attacks after turnovers in possession.
The All Blacks' biggest enemy though proved to be themselves, turning the ball over when they could have probably put the game out of contention very early. Their turnovers also gifted Australia their points in the match. With a rock solid defense however, they played smart, taking whatever the Wallabies could give them.
My "man of the match" award certainly goes to flyhalf Daniel Carter. It's amazing to think that he holds the record for most points scored in test rugby, yet he's only converted 3 drop goals during this feat. After an odd "off night" against South Africa, he seemed to have regained his kicking touch, converting on the 3 tries and 2 more penalties. His best work though was on defense, covering end to end, and helping keeping his opponents off the scoreboard.
New Zealand coach Graham Henry made 7 changes to the starting lineup prior to this game, but it was still a very competitive squad. With the World Cup looming (New Zealand are the hosts), it's important for every player available to make a case for the final roster spots before the tournament.
The All Blacks will have the weekend off as South Africa and Australia battle it out, and will resume play against South Africa in fortnight.
New Zealand didn't look as impressive on offense like they did during their 40-7 thrashing of an under-strength South Africa team, but they more than made up on the defensive end; thwarting the Wallabies on several occasions where they seemed certain to score. Australia may have had the advantage in time of possession and territory, but couldn't turn that pressure into points.
Not only could they not cross the line, but wing James O'Connor fired wide on each of his 3 penalty attempts at goal; turning a potentially close game into a blowout win for their rivals. Australia still showed how dangerous they could be, with their two tries (scored by Digby Ioane and team captain Rocky Elsom) coming from quick counter attacks after turnovers in possession.
The All Blacks' biggest enemy though proved to be themselves, turning the ball over when they could have probably put the game out of contention very early. Their turnovers also gifted Australia their points in the match. With a rock solid defense however, they played smart, taking whatever the Wallabies could give them.
My "man of the match" award certainly goes to flyhalf Daniel Carter. It's amazing to think that he holds the record for most points scored in test rugby, yet he's only converted 3 drop goals during this feat. After an odd "off night" against South Africa, he seemed to have regained his kicking touch, converting on the 3 tries and 2 more penalties. His best work though was on defense, covering end to end, and helping keeping his opponents off the scoreboard.
New Zealand coach Graham Henry made 7 changes to the starting lineup prior to this game, but it was still a very competitive squad. With the World Cup looming (New Zealand are the hosts), it's important for every player available to make a case for the final roster spots before the tournament.
The All Blacks will have the weekend off as South Africa and Australia battle it out, and will resume play against South Africa in fortnight.
