Sanjay's Rugby World

The All Blacks beat the Springboks 29-22 in Soweto because they were fitter, hungrier for victory and backed their ability.

Springboks 22

Try: Schalk Burger
Conversion: Morne Steyn
Penalties: Morne Steyn (5)

All Blacks 29

Tries: Tony Woodcock, Richie McCaw, Israel Dagg
Conversion: Dan Carter
Penalties: Dan Carter (4)

Springbok player ratings:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp – 5

Lost a crucial ball early on and largely annonymous for much of the game. His game is going backwards in a sid struggling to establish a collective forward platform.

2. John Smit (c) – 3

Warning bells rang out for me when Smit achieved his milestone as it seems that whenever a South African player reaches a milestone, it always ends poorly for the side.

Did not do his job. Missed his first 2 lineout throws, and missed a crucial tackle at the end that contributed to the All Blacks victory.

It’s time for Tiaan Liebenberg and Bismarck du Plessis. Smit is no longer the man to lead us at the World Cup. I feel sorry for Smit, he has been a great captain, but his time is up.

3. Jannie du Plessis – 5

Made a great tackle on one of the All Blacks that stopped his momentum. Unfortuntely these sorts of moments are too far and few between. We desperately need a decent tighthead.

4. Flip van der Merwe – 7

A strong work rate, carried the ball strongly and made numerous tackles. Showed great intelligence to get Burger over the line for the try.

Why would you sub one of your best players? The Boks looked much weaker when he left the field.

5. Victor Matfield – 4

Needs a rest. Matfield is not on his game. An average Matfield is still better than most International locks and he makes plenty of tackles and works hard.

However he took 2 very bad options. 1 at the base of the ruck when letting Hougaard clear the ball right should have resulted in a try, and secondly getting caught at an attaking ruck late in the second half turned the ball over. These sorts of mistakes are rare when Matfield is fully fit.

6. Schalk Burger – 7

Tried valiantly in a losing side. Unfortuntely with no openside flank he needed to play towards the ball more, and create more steals. The Boks often make good tackles, but lack the right body position to effect turnovers. Needs to bring that back to his game rather than standing wide all the time.

7. Juan Smith – 8

The strongman of the Bok pack. Goes forward tirelessly, makes tackle after tackle and boosted the Bok pack immensely. Made 1 error losing the ball in contact in a great attacking position early in the second half.

Like Flip van der Merwe should never have been subbed. Too valuable to the Boks on the sidelines.

8. Pierre Spies – 3

Not sure what has happened to Spies. Appears reluctant to tackle, and needs to learn how to help effect turnovers.

Reduced to making 1 or 2 average runs per game. Has been completely overshadowed by Kieran Read and needs to be dropped. Burger at 8 or an eighthman in the mould of Duane Vermeulen would be so much better.

9. Francois Hougaard – 8

A brilliant game from the youngster. Defensively brilliant and backed himself and ran the ball at the All Blacks. Hooray! Someone in the side gets it!

Needs a bit more polish in his kicking and needs to clear the ball quickly every time.

10. Morne Steyn – 3

Was great with his kicking at poles, but a letdown in general play.
Missed kicks at touch and poor passes gifted the ball back to the AB’s and he failed to get his side moving forward.

11. Bryan Habana – 4

A busy game, made his tackles and caught the ball well at kickoffs. All his opportunities seem to come from the opposition giving him possession rather than from his own team. What a waste.

12. Jean de Villiers – 7

A strong presence in the midfield, and carried the ball strongly. Just didn’t have enough ball to work with.

13. Juan de Jongh – 8

The kid can tackle. Was brilliant on defence, even when faced with All Blacks in space and a full head of steam. Hopefully the coaches now never question his defensive ability.

Had barely no say on attack as the ball was never presented to him in space.

14. JP Pietersen – 6

Defensively a great winger as he showed when catching Carter, however never used as an attacking weapon from the Boks.

15. Gio Aplon – 6

Brilliant running the ball, just glides past defenders. Was solid in defence too, but where he needs work is positional play and kicking the ball back, a strength of Kirchner’s. I’d still favour Kirchner at 15, and Aplon on the right wing.

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle -

Not used.

17. CJ van der Linde – 3

No impact other than to give away a crucial penalty. Silly silly stuff.

18. Danie Rossouw – 4

Minimal impact when he subbed Flip van der Merwe and like most of the Bulls has lost form since being with the Boks. Surely tht is a big concern?

19. Francois Louw – 4

Anonymous when he came on the field. Just hasn’t adapted to the step up of Tri-Nations rugby. Heinrich Brussouw will be the opensider at the World Cup.

20. Ricky Januarie – 4

Needed to help protect the ball when setting up for the drop goal. I’ve always been prepared to optimistically believe he’ll come right, but if I was coach he’d be axed.

21. Butch James -

Not used.

22. Wynand Olivier –

Not used.

The Springboks were beaten 29-22 by a fitter, more determined All Blacks side in a historic night at FNB Stadium, Soweto.

Springboks 22

Try: Schalk Burger
Conversion: Morne Steyn
Penalties: Morne Steyn (5)

All Blacks 29

Tries: Tony Woodcock, Richie McCaw, Israel Dagg
Conversion: Dan Carter
Penalties: Dan Carter (4)


On home soil, at a new intimidating venue designed to aid the Boks, it was the All Blacks that left the black township of Soweto triumphant.

The Boks had started the match well, but in the end were out-played and out-thought as the All Blacks finished the fitter and hungrier side that allowed them to whitewash the Boks 3-0 this year.

The Boks will feel aggrieved they lost this match in the last few minutes, but in reality the All Blacks desered their victory as they have in their previous 2 encounters this season.

Sure the ref once again favoured the All Blacks at the breakdown, but the Boks weren’t smart enough, or physical enough to combat them.

The Boks may have had a 5 point lead going into the last 10 minutes, but again they couldn’t make it count. You can’t rely on scoring 1 try and winning games at this level. A defensive mindset cost the Boks, whilst the All Blacks did all the attacking.

The Boks felt they played well and lost the game at the end, but the game was lost before the game started in terms of mindset and game plans.

The Boks did very little in this game with ball in hand. Where are the moves to construct tries? Why have runners like Juan de Jongh, Gio Aplon and Bryan Habana when they never get the ball in space?

THE DIFFERENCE

The difference was summed up by the captains after the game.

“We knew if we kept believing and kept playing with ball in hand, the points would come” said All Black captain Richie McCaw.

Whereas Springbok captain John Smit said “We controlled the game well in the first half, but weren’t accurate enough in the second. We made a few errors like missing touch, and gave away a few penalties.”

“At 22-22, we had planned to take the ball back up field and set Morne Steyn up in the pocket for a drop-goal. Then we conceded a turnover and I missed that tackle. It was game over. I couldn’t be more disappointed to miss a tackle to lose my 100th Test” said Smit.

Whilst I don’t have a problem with going for a drop goal, the midset of the All Blacks is to use the ball and score tries. The mindset of the Boks is kick and chase (only) and they don’t know how to take the ball through phases and ask consistent questions of the opposition.

There is only so many tackles a side can make. The All Blacks run the ball at you, and if the Bok defence holds and they force a turnover, it gets booted straight back at the All Blacks to run again. That will never win games as sooner or later a whole will appear. The All Blacks simply showed the patience to wait the full 80 for it to occur.

On home soil at an inspirational venue, having had a 3 week break to recuperate and recharge, it is unnacceptable for the Boks to lose.

All Black coach Graham Henry suggested his side had superior fitness level, and he was right. The Boks ran out of puff. I would add they are stronger mentally, and more determined too. Tight games often go to the side who simply wants it more.

“This team is one I would go to war with, they have character and togetherness and this is a very special win for the All Blacks. We have to pay tribute to our fitness coach Nick Gill as we were in great shape in those last 10 minutes. Our fitness levels were superb and that and our heart was what got us through this game” said Henry after the game.

DENIAL

Springbok captain John Smit tried to deny his side had run out of puff.

“I don’t think we ran out of steam, but the accuracy of doing the things wasn’t the same as in the first half” said Smit. Unfortunately that is exactly how to define fitness. When you are fit and sharp you can execute, as you tire you can’t.

Where to from here from the Boks? A handful of players showed they deserve to run out in the green jersey, whilst others need to be dropped. This was reflected in the Springbok player ratings.

Coach Peter de Villiers now faces the biggest 2 tests of his life against Australia. The only thing counting in his favour is that the Aussies are also very average, so it will once again come down to attitude and desire!

Saturday’s Tri-Nations test match between the Springboks and the All Blacks promises to be a truly spectacular event.

Besides featuring the top 2 sides in the world, in what is rugby’s greatest rivalry, the match will be special for many reasons.

It will be the first rugby match at FNB Stadium (Soccer City) which was re-built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. It is also the first test match to be played in Soweto.

A record crowd of 92 000 will make it one of the biggest crowds in South African history.

FLAG RECORD

The day is set to kick off with a 20m flag being released into the crowd before the game.

Fans will also endeavour to set a new World Record at half-time by bringing and waving their South African flag.

Started by the keep flying initiative, and partnered by Lead SA and Vodacom, the attempt is being made to get the largest number of flags flying in a single stadium by the crowd, with proof to be sent to the Guinness book of world records.

The aim is to keep alive the tremendous spirit that was displayed during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Vodacom marketing executive Enzo Scarcella, said “We want to make the day extra special. This Test is extra special. Just over a month ago we showed the world what a vibrant, amazing nation we are and how we can achieve the impossible, by working together.”

“We wanted to continue that momentum, let the world take notice again of the spirit of South Africa and mark the day as another exceptional one in our sporting tapestry. There could have been no better hallmarks than through the passion and commitment of our Player 23’s” said Scarcella.

PLAYING RECORDS

Springbok captain will also celebrate his 100th test cap on this historic occasion. He becomes only the 2nd South African after Percy Montgomery, and the 14th player of all time to do so.

All Black captain Richie McCaw will lead the All Blacks for the 51st time, equalling the record of hooker Sean Fitzpatrick.

SPECIAL CAMERAS

Spidercam in use at FNB Stadium

The day and game will also feature special cameras.

The Vodacom fan cam, used at the Super 14 final, captures a 360 degree HD image photographing the entire stadium and every spectator in it.

Spider-cam used so successfully during the 2010 FIFA World Cup will also be in operation.

Whilst used during the 2007 Rugby World Cup and Twickenham; it is the first time Spidercam will be used for a rugby match in the Southern Hemisphere.

Spidercam operates on 4 cables and allows the camera to get ultra-close and offer unique overhead perspectives on the playing field.

In addition there will be the use or a helicopter camera, and an ultra-motion camera giving super slow-motion replays.

Spidercam in use at FNB Stadium

Peter de Villiers and the Springboks have under-performed in the 2010 International season, and have come out criticising the referees and officials after every Tri-Nations game they’ve played this year.

They’ve also come out suggesting the All Blacks cheat and get away with murder at the breakdown.

Are they justified?

Whilst I believe the Springboks will generally always get a raw deal, it’s up to the Boks to be better than their opposition and the officials, and not allow the ref to influence the game so heavily.

Former New Zealander Paddy O’Brien is head of the IRB referees, and like most officials doesn’t like South Africa. Whenever anything bad happens to the All Blacks he’ll step in and “fix” the problem such as the recent incident with the South African assistant referee Cobus Wessels.

Former Australian coach Bob Dwyer released stats that show the All Blacks concede the highest number of penalties per yellow card, but that is largely irrelevant.

The All Blacks are dominating this year’s Tri-Nations competition because they’ve been the smartest team so far.

All Black captain Richie McCaw say’s that any players who doesn’t adapt at the breakdowns is “an idiot” and he provides the Boks with the lesson they need to learn.

“When you get close to a yellow card, you need to get back and make sure you don’t give another penalty away. When you get a warning you have to be smart about it” said McCaw.

“When you are there you have to adapt to the referees interpretations. That’s what frustrates me the most about this debate, is that players don’t learn the way the referee interprets the breakdown” explained McCaw.

“You can moan about it all you like but if you’re not getting what you want then you’re an idiot. You need to change personally and for the team. You have to adapt to each referee because no ref is identical” stated McCaw.

McCaw is a great player because he knows the boundaries. Sure he gets away with murder, but he knows what he can and can’t away with. How often does he get yellow carded?

Former Bok captain Corne Krige this week said, “You have to cheat if you are an openside flank. That is why you are in the team. If you can’t do it properly and get away with it, you won’t be picked.”

“I think one should look at it differently. If the All Blacks are getting away with murder, they are doing it right. “My job as openside flank was to disrupt my opponents and slow the ball. If the guys did not sort me out and the referee did not penalise me, I kept at it. That’s rugby” said Krige.

“People say Richie cheats, but for me he’s an incredible player because his job as an openside flank is to play on the edge. If he cheats and the referee does not catch him out, he has had a great game as far as I’m concerned because that is what an openside flank does. You have to be able to cheat well.”

“New Zealand play intelligently. They are more subtle than us. We’re not dumb, but make blatant errors that are seen by referees” continued Krige.

In fact I believe it’s a New Zealand tactic to bait the Boks, and the problem is we fall for it far too often. It throws us off our stride and distracts us allowing the All Blacks to do what they do best.

The Bok management have to take responsibility and not allow this sort of distraction to occur.

Krige also said “I don’t think someone took Bakkies aside and told him how things work and that he’s not irreplaceable. He’s an incredible player and belongs in any Bok team if he’s managed well”

Therein lies the problem. Until we get smarter and teach our players the right behaviours, we’ll always keep complaining about the officiating.

Whilst the claims are often justified, we can’t change it so we might as well live with it and adapt to it!

On a historic day, the Springboks need to stand up, Lead SA and make South Africa proud!

After 3 consecutive losses overseas, the Boks are under massive to deliver in front of their home fans on what is going to be an awesome occasion.

A 92000 strong crowd for the first ever test match in Soweto will aid the Boks, but they’ll need to have improved dramatically from the recent form to deal with this All Blacks side.

MILESTONES

First ever test match at this venue, and the first in Soweto.

81st Test match between the two sides, and the 34th Vodacom Tri-Nations match between the 2.

New Zealand’s dominance in recent times is reflected in their 23-10 Tri-Nations winning tally between the 2 countries.

Springbok captain will also celebrate his 100th test cap on this historic occasion. He becomes only the 2nd South African after Percy Montgomery, and the 14th player of all time to do so.

This will be his 74th match as Captain, and in leading his side for his 26th Tri-Nations match, is the most capped captain in the Tri-Nations.

Victor Matfield is the most capped Springbok (23) against New Zealand.

If John Smit scores s try, he will be equal the Springbok try scoring record for hookers in a test match, held by James Dalton and Bismarck du Plessis (5).

Bryan Habana will become the most capped Springbok wing (63). He is currently tied for the most Springbok test tries (38) with Joost van der Westhuizen.

Pierre Spies needs 1 more try to becoming the leading try scorer as a Springbok eighth man that he holds with Gary Teichmann, Bob Skinstad and Joe van Niekerk (6)

All Black captain Richie McCaw will lead the All Blacks for the 51st time, equalling the record of hooker Sean Fitzpatrick.

TEAM SELECTION

This is a much more balanced Springbok side than the ones selected whilst overseas.

I still don’t believe we have the right tightheads, and I think Jannie du Plessis is very fortunate, whilst John Smit hasn’t been at his best this season.

They’ll need to stand up because the Boks have been awful this season because our tight five has been dominated.

Flip van der Merwe deserves his start, and should allow Victor Matfield to concentrate on what he is best at.

The back row is strong, and will gives us great ball carrying ability, but we don’t have a specialist fetcher to play to the ball.

If we can carry the ball through phases and work as a pack at the breakdown we’ll ask questions of the All Blacks, but if we are forced to tackle, tackle, tackle again, who’ll win us the ball on the ground?

Francois Hougaard at scrumhalf is a star in the making. Thankfully we now have a scrumhalf who will clear the ball quickly, as well as snipe around the fringes when it’s on.

The backline is more dangerous, with all players capable of breaking the line. In Hougaard, Juan de Jongh and Gio Aplon we have guys who will step, and this will test the All Black tacklers.

I question the make-up of the bench however.

Is Chiliboy our second best hooker? Is Rossouw fit enough? Why have a fetcher (Francois Louw) on the bench? And there is no specialist outside back who can cover wing or fullback.

Let’s hope it doesn’t come back to haunt us.

PREDICTION

At home, we have to win! However I am not confident.

Much will depend on whether the Boks can turns things around mentally and physically.

If our tight five can’t match the All Blacks again, the game is lost.

If we play to our strengths, use more lineouts, chase more accurate kicks and use de Jongh and Aplon to slice the All Black defence we’ll create enough opportunities to put pressure on the All Blacks.

Then we can use the advantage of the altitude and the crowd to power us home!

Boks by 9…hopefully!

Go Bokke Go!

Springboks:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. John Smit (c)
3. Jannie du Plessis
4. Flip van der Merwe
5. Victor Matfield
6. Schalk Burger
7. Juan Smith
8. Pierre Spies
9. Francois Hougaard
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bryan Habana
12. Jean de Villiers
13. Juan de Jongh
14. JP Pietersen
15. Gio Aplon

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle
17. CJ van der Linde
18. Danie Rossouw
19. Francois Louw
20. Ricky Januarie
21. Butch James
22. Wynand Olivier

All Backs:

1. Tony Woodcock
2. Kevin Mealamu
3. Ben Franks
4. Brad Thorn
5. Tom Donnelly
6. Jerome Kaino
7. Richie McCaw (c)
8. Kieran Read
9. Jimmy Cowan
10. Daniel Carter
11. Joe Rokocoko
12. Ma’a Nonu
13. Conrad Smith
14. Cory Jane
15. Mils Muliaina

16. Corey Flynn
17. John Afoa
18. Sam Whitelock
19. Victor Vito
20. Piri Weepu
21. Aaron Cruden
22. Israel Dagg

Referee: Nigel Owens (Wales)

The fixture list for the last Tri-Nations in 2011 has been released.

2011 sees the Tri-Nations resort to a single round, ie the teams will play a single round on a home and away basis. This is due to the Rugby World Cup being scheduled for later in the year.

It will also be the last Tri-Nations, as the competition will expand to accomodate Argentina in 2012.

The Springboks once again have a tough schedule as they play 2 away games first up that will play a crucial role in determining if they still remain in contention for the title when they play their home games at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium (Port Elizabeth) and Durban.

With the Rugby World Cup being the major prize in 2011, it is possible sides may experiment or rest players ahead of the biggest event in World Rugby.

2011 Tri-Nations Schedule:

July 23 – Australia v South Africa, Sydney
July 30 – New Zealand v South Africa, Wellington
August 6 – New Zealand v Australia, Auckland
August 13 – South Africa v Australia, Durban
August 20 – South Africa v New Zealand, Port Elizabeth
August 27 – Australia v New Zealand, Brisbane

Former Wallaby and Fox Sports presenter Brendan Cannon used the Wallabies 30-13 victory over the Springboks in Brisbane to show Peter de Villiers just what he really thinks of him.

In the week leading up to the test match at Suncorp Stadium, the Fox Sports commentary side were taking digs at Springbok coach Peter de Villiers, with Cannon saying, “I can’t believe that senior players like John Smit and Victor Matfield allow themselves to be controlled by this guy. He is a clown. He surely does not coach the team.”

The Boks decided that no Springbok player or member of management would speak to Fox until Cannon apologised on air.

Of course Cannon was always going to apologise (whether he meant it or not) for the sake of Fox Sports’ coverage and interviewing the Springbok side.

“I hereby wish to publicly apologise to Bok coach Peter de Villiers for comments I made about him on The Rugby Club TV programme on Wednesday evening. I am sorry if I offended him,” said Cannon on Fox Sports on Friday 23rd July.

Peter de Villiers at the Springbok press conference

He started off the questions, directed only at Springbok coach Peter de Villiers, and not the captain John Smit as he clearly had an agenda.

He asked a stressed and subdued Peter de Villiers, “Are you the right man to take the Springboks into the nest Rugby World Cup?” Cannon was clearly having a go at de Villiers, implying that he thought the Springbok coach was not the right man.

de Villiers could only reply with “You’ll have to ask my employers.”

It was an interesting set of events. Cannon was well within his rights to do so, but I don’t believe he acted with good sportsmanship, although de Villiers has not helped matters by seeking an apology for a comment that simply stated Cannon’s views. As a Springbok coach, criticism comes with the territory and de Villiers neds to be thicker skinned with those of opinions.

I just hope de Villiers will end up with the last laugh at the completion of the 2011 Rugby World Cup, but for now, Brandan Cannon is probably feeling pretty smug!

The Springboks were visibly frustrated after their 30-13 drubbing at the hands of the Wallabies at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night.

At the post match press conference, both Peter de Villiers and John Smit were in a sombre mood, and along with Ryan Kankowski and Ruan Pienaar, there were subtle digs at Irish referee George Clancy.

“It was very disappointing. It was very tough for us in the breakdowns and I thought there were a couple of harsh decisions against us, especially on attack. They spoilt our ball, slowed it down a couple of times. I’m sure Australia will be happy with the way the breakdowns were blown in this game, but I thought the referee was harsh on us. Every time we made a mistake in the ruck, he penalised us, but when they did the same thing, they would get away with it,” said scrumhalf Ruan Pienaar.

ILL-DISCIPLINE

There was much talk before the match about how the Boks would be more disciplined and any player receiving a yellow card would be fined internally by the team.

I’m not sure what it achieved, as within the opening 2 minutes Jaque Fourie was yellow carded for a spear tackle. There were moans from the South African contingent, but I felt it was a fair call, as the tackle was dangerous and reckless.

Considering Fourie was suspended for an almost copycat tackle in last year’s Tri-Nations, you have to wonder if the players actually learn from their mistakes sometimes. At least when Quade Coooper performed a similar tackle he recieved the same punishment, and both players now have to face the SANZAR judiciary.

BJ Botha was also sin-binned for flopping over the ball, a call I felt was harsh as he was pushed over and clearly tried not to interfere with the Wallabies ball. Considering David Pocock got away with a deliberate and more cynical offence, it was a tough pill to swallow. Still, those are the types of calls that don’t seem to go your way when you are losing.

POOR REFEREEING

Earlier in the week, Springbok coach Peter de Villiers and SARU corresponded with the IRB in regards to the ‘poor’ and ‘one-sided’ refereeing they have been recieving. Once again there were calls that wer inconsistent and hurt the Springboks.

On the supersport commentary both Matthew Pearce and Bob Skinstad were frustrated with the referee, with Skinstad even saying the Boks cannot beat a side playing with 16 men!

However inequality in refereeing against the Springboks is nothing new. I personally believe that much of the prejudice against South Africa stems from the past and the political situation. Rightly or wrongly, that is simply the way it is, the Boks have and will continue to have an extra obstacle to overcome, and bleating on and on about it is not going to change it.

It didn’t cause us to lose, and it didn’t cause us to miss tackles. Although you could argue that turnovers or allowing the opposition to get ball they otherwise wouldn’t have got, puts your defence under presure when you’d perhaps be attacking instead.

I think the Springbok focus is in the wrong areas, and they should rather look towards themselves first as they have not performed to their potential.

The question has also been asked whether the use of Northern Hemisphere referees has been a factor (during the Super 14 it was all Southern Hemisphere officials). That is irrelevant in my opinion, as the Kiwis and Aussies are in exactly the same situation.

EXCUSES ARE FOR LOSER

Last year Springbok captain John Smit said “Excuses are for losers.”

We can not complain about Bakkies Botha’s suspension, Danie Rossouw’s yellow card in Wellington (he should never have even put himself in the situation of getting involved with McCaw) or Jaque Fourie’s spear tackle.

I am sure all Springbok supporters want to see the team winning again, and to do so rapidly. The only way I can see that happening is if the side takes ownership of their own performances, and is prepared to rise above whatever challenges are presented.

Champions can overcome all adversity. Champions are smart. If the referee is a factor, we need to be better than that. Limit his effect. Take him out of the equation. Become street-smart, give him no option to penalise you, and you can then control your own destiny.

For the sake of all us Springbok supporters, I hope the Boks look within as I am sure they will then rise above once more.

The Springboks on paper are littered with classy, experienced players all over the pitch. However once again as individuals and a team, they failed to deliver when it mattered most.

Springboks 13

Tries: Jaque Fourie, Guthro Steenkamp
Penalty: Morne Steyn

Wallabies 30

Tries: Drew Mitchell, Will Genia
Conversion: James O’Connor
Penalties: Matt Giteau (5), James O’ Connor

Springbok player ratings:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp – 5

The only Springbok player to have played all 480 minutes of test rugby this year. Another 100 percent effort, but without the same accuracy as previous weeks and will look forward to some much needed rest and recuperation. Rewarded for his efforts with a well-worked try.

2. John Smit (c) – 2

I’ve believed for some time Smit should lead us to the World Cup, but on the back of the last 3 weeks I would rather see Gary Botha or Tiaan Liebenberg.

Always leads from the front, but has struggled with his lineout throwing recently which once again cost points as a crucial stage of the match. Also lacking pace and effectiveness round the field. Maybe a break would freshen him up, but it’s becoming a gamble.

As evidenced with the penalty late in the game, his consulting with Victor Matfield is becoming more than advice, and he is now leaning too heavily on a more successful leader. Also has to take responsibility (along with Peter de Villiers) for yellow cards which has cost the Boks dearly.

3. BJ Botha – 4

Blotted his perfromance with an unlucky yellow card. Was industrious without making a big enough impact, although held his side of the scrum up well against Benn Robinson.

4. Danie Rossouw – 2

A forgetable performance from the big lock who has failed to bring the grunt needed to replace Bakkies Botha. A great team man who gives 100%, his accuracy holding on to the ball once again cost the Boks at crucial times, and slipped too many tackles which gave the Wallabies momentum.

5. Victor Matfield – 5

Has not been at his best recently, and unable to dominate the lineouts as we’ve come to expect.

Took good options in getting the ball wide when it was on and makes plenty of tackles, but needs help from his team-mates to dominate the areas he is selected for.

6. Schalk Burger – 6

A massive work-rate and made plenty of tackles as well as carrying the ball up. Whilst that is all one can ask of a blind side flank, Schalk needed to play more as an opensider, and whilst he tried hard, he was innefective in creating enough pressure on Australian ball to create any turnovers.

7. Ryan Kankowski – 7

The Springboks targeted a wider channel than in recent weeks, and Kankowski did his job well without ever really busting the line wide open. Needed more support on his shoulder which was sadly lacking.

8. Pierre Spies – 5

Tried to gee the side up once Fourie was sinbinned, but as a senior player needs to lead from the front more often in tight matches like this. Had one or two strong runs but needs to be more involved over the 80 minutes, and get the loose trio working better as a unit.

9. Ruan Pienaar – 6

The Boks attacking game was helped immensely by quicker delivery from Pienaar yet it was still largely inneffective. Made 1 or 2 snipes around the ruck area, but unable to link with his outside backs effectively. Also needed greater accuracy with his kicking game.

10. Morne Steyn – 6

Limited opportunity with his goal-kicking and departed early in the game for Butch James. Made 1 clean linebreak but once again the Boks couldn’t capitalise.

11. Bryan Habana – 3

Made some strong covering tackles, often when he was initally beaten. Handling has been a problem, but most worringly he exposes the defenisve line by continually coming in off his wing looking for the intercept. Living on reputation and should be replaced in my opinion.

12. Wynand Olivier – 5

Had to make a couple of crucial tackles when the Boks were exposed out wide, and had a couple of strong ball carries. Overall just hasn’t done enough to ignite the Boks attack.

13. Jaque Fourie – 2

Obviously hadn’t learnt his lesson from last year’s spear tackle, and one expects more from a senior player. Missed too many first time tackles, although had one electrifying run later in the second half.

14. Gio Aplon – 4

Limited opportunities. Made a hash of a set move in the second half as he aimlessly kicked the ball back to the Wallabies.

15. Zane Kirchner – 6

A busy night for the fullback. Many are critical of his play, but Kirchner is never going to bust a game open. He is a solid player who once again did his job, and his strength is creating opportunities for those around him, who are sadly struggling to gel as a side.

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle – 5

Did his job when he came on, but had little noticeable impact.

17. CJ van der Linde – 4

Much the same as Chiliboy.

18. Flip van der Merwe – 5

Has the ability to be the nect “Bakkies” but needs to make a greater impact with the little opportunities he is given.

19. Dewald Potgieter – 8

Ran strongly and looked to get involved as often as possible. Ran some good lines, looking to exploit holes in the Wallaby defence.

20. Francois Hougaard – 8

Brilliant. Not necessarily in terms of anything he did, but for having a go and asking questions of the Wallaby defence. Looked to clear the ball quickly, and snipe around the fringes as the Wallabies got tired. Backed himself, and that is the sort of attitude his team-mates need to exhibit. Needs to be included in the starting line-up as he is a star of the future.

21. Butch James – 4

Offered very little when he came on and needs to be more accurte with his kicking game rather than simply hoofing the ball downfield and hoping for the best.

22. Juan de Jongh – 6

Looked sharp and incisive when he came on, like Hougaard he looked to run direct and step his way through defenders. Made his tackles, although let himself down, giving away a silly penalty for pushing a player.

Peter de Villiers – 2

Has failed to deliver and tactically out manouvered by his counterpart Robbie Deans. The Boks attacking play has looked stagnant and one-dimensional compared with their Tri-Nations rivals.

The Springboks have all but surrendered their Tri-Nations crown and need to make some brave decisions looking forward to the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Springboks 13

Tries: Jaque Fourie, Guthro Steenkamp
Penalty: Morne Steyn

Wallabies 30

Tries: Drew Mitchell, Will Genia
Conversion: James O’Connor
Penalties: Matt Giteau (5), James O’ Connor


The Springboks have not won in their last 7 attempts in Brisbane, and have yet to beat the Suncorp Stadium bogey, having never won at the ground.

At least the Boks can take solace from the fact they finally managed to score 2 tries, after having been held tryless in their previous 4 matches at Suncorp. That however is scant consolation for what was a third consecutive beating.

The Springboks were well beaten once again, and defeats by 20, 12 and now 17 points represent worrying signs for the side. Whereas in the past we’ve relied on getting back to South Africa to give us that edge, it doesn’t look forthcoming just by home ground advantage, and it represents a significant backward step to limply concede their Tri-Nations title after just 3 matches.

Poor refereeing was once again a factor in the game, but it certainly did not cost the Boks who were simply not good enough on the night.

SHODDY DEFENCE

For the third match in a row, the Springboks conceded 30+ points. You will never win matches consistently with a leaky defence (and an ineffectual attack).

There were too many missed first time tackles, even after all the work put in this week with the tackle bags.

Defence is all about attitude. It say’s little about the Springbok side that for 3 weeks they’ve missed far too many first up tackles, and conceded 10 tries (whilst only scoring 4).

On Saturday night the Wallabies out-thought and out-manourvered the Springboks by cleverly changing the direction of play, and exposing the Bok defence on the short side far too often.

It didn’t help that Bryan Habana comes out of the defensive line far too often and places his side under presure trying to cover his position. It’s okay once or twice in a game, but not almost every time as he is currently doing.

THE WALLABIES AREN’T WORLD BEATERS

The Wallabies won the game by winning the battle of the breakdown. Greater energy and enthusiasm allowed them to dictate play as they had better quality ball and with the steady stream of penalties, playing from the front.

Will Genia, Quade Cooper and the back three of Drew Mitchell, James O’Connor and Adam Ashley-Cooper were made to look like world beaters, as the Springboks failed to pitch up. Had our tight five performed as they should, I’m sure they will look rather ordinary.

Worringly, Will Genia was only returning from injury having played a game of club rugby. Whilst he admitted afterwards he was “blowing a bit,” he looked much sharper and quicker than any of the Boks.

BATTLE OF THE BREAKDOWN

The Wallabies won the battle of the breakdown quite emphatically. One of the things I noticed is that whenever the Boks were on attack (and it was a plan to attack with Kankowski and Spies wide of the ruck) they never had anyone on the ball carriers shoulder.

Half-breaks and offloads were never capitalised on, and when the ball carrier went to ground they either hung on too long, or turned the ball over as the Wallabies had the greater numbers.

I am not sure why this area is lacking in the Boks, is it lack of fitness and fatigue? (A sorry excuse even given the success of the Bulls and Stormers)

On defence, we were under pressure at the breakdown because we missed too many first-time tackles. There is no remedy for missed tackles.

THE MANNER OF DEFEAT

Whilst 3 defeats on the road is nothing new for the Boks, the manner of defeat leaves a sour taste. Even at our peak last year, our biggest winning margin during the Tri-Nations was 12.

This year our average losing margin in the Tri-Nations has been just over 16 points! That is simply unnacceptable from a Springbok side, and indicates we are not even close.

ARE THE BOK COACHES BRAVE ENOUGH?

Some brave decisions need to be made by the coaching staff.

Our tight five is not performing. Wynand Olivier is ineffectual. Bryan Habana needs to be dropped.

Francois Hougaard, Juan de Jongh and Dewald Potgieter have all shown they have a spark and deserve to be playing for the Boks. Will the selectors reward form and energy, or will they stick with the experienced mob who are failing to deliver. I’d like to remind them, “fortune favours the brave”.

Springbok Player Ratings from the test at Suncorp Stadium.

The Springboks will need to defy history to have an chance of defending their Tri-Nations title

After 2 consecutive losses to the All Blacks in New Zealand, the Springboks have travelled to Brisbane, to play the Wallabies at a venue they are yet to win at in seven attempts.

MILESTONES

The most telling statistics are the fact that the Boks have only won twice in Brisbane (1956 and 1971) and are yet to win at Suncorp Stadium.
New Zealand is the only visiting side ever to have won a test at Suncorp.

Since 1992, the Boks have managed just 4 wins in Australia, and only 3 since the Tri-Nations has started (1996) in 16 attempts.

The Boks have not recorded a try in their last 4 encounters with the Wallabies at Suncorp Stadium , yet have conceded a mammoth 131 points with an average winning margin of 27 and a half points!

For South Africa to win, history will have to be made, with a massive reversal of their recent performances.

TEAM SELECTION

Coach Peter de Villiers has spoken of changing his side to add more pace for the ‘quick field’ of Suncorp Stadium.

BJ Botha claims the tighthead spot in the merry-go-round number 3 position, whilst the loose forward trio springs the biggest surprise with Ryan Kankowski’s inclusion on the flank in place of Francois Louw as an out and out fecther is sacrified for another strong ball carrying option as de Villiers seeks to get hi side moving forward. It means Schalk Burger will have to play towards the ball, and may limit his ability to run wider as he did in Wellington.

Ruan Pienaar gets a long overdue start at scrumhalf as de Villiers seeks quicker ball for his backs.

Gio Aplon replaces the injured/suspended Jean de Villiers to add a more potent attacking threat to a stale Bok backline.

PREDICTION

The Springboks have signalled their intentions with their personnel changes, but can they turn things around in just 7 days? If they were playing the All Blacks I’d say no, the are helped by the fact this Wallaby side is young and unpredictable and not coming off strong recent form.

Had it been a typical Wallaby side, I would have said the Boks would struggle to win for sure. I still think they’ll be up against it, but the match may be determined by the opening 20 minutes.

If the Boks get a strong start as they always seek to do, they could run away with it. Conversely, if the Wallabies start well, they’ve shown they know how to put the Springboks away at this venue. Once the crowd gets behind them, the Boks could be put to the sword.

This one is too tough to call, it depends on the opening exchanges, I think the margin will be 10+ whoever wins, I’m just hoping it’s the Boks!

Springboks:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. John Smit (c)
3. BJ Botha
4. Danie Rossouw
5. Victor Matfield
6. Schalk Burger
7. Ryan Kankowski
8. Pierre Spies
9. Ruan Pienaar
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bryan Habana
12. Wynand Olivier
13. Jaque Fourie
14. Gio Aplon
15. Zane Kirchner

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle
17. CJ van der Linde
18. Flip van der Merwe
19. Dewald Potgieter
20. Francois Hougaard
21. Butch James
22. Juan de Jongh

Wallabies:

1. Benn Robinson
2. Saia Fainga
3. Salesi Ma’afu
4. Dean Mumm
5. Nathan Sharpe
6. Rocky Elsom (c)
7. David Pocock
8. Richard Brown
9. Will Genia
10. Quade Cooper
11. Drew Mitchell
12. Matt Giteau
13. Rob Horne
14. James O’Connor
15. Adam Ashley-Cooper

16. Stephen Moore
17. James Slipper
18. Rob Simmons
19. Ben McCalman
20. Luke Burgess
21. Berrick Barnes
22. Kurtley Beale

The Springboks have been appalled at the standard of refereeing, believing it to be the decisive factor in their 2 opening Tri-Nations matches.

A frustrated Springbok coach Peter de Villiers

After two successive losses to the All Blacks the Springbok coaching staff have left their feelings in no doubt as to the major contributor behind the losses.

Springbok coach Peter de Villiers highlighted at Monday’s press conference who he felt was to blame. He mentioned that the Crusaders were the most penalised side in this year’s Super 14, with 96 penalties at the breakdown, with the Hurricanes the second highest offenders.

He asked how could All Black captain Richie McCaw be penalised 5 times in the test in Wellington with no further action, whilst Bakkies Botha and Danie Rossouw were yellow carded in Auckland and Wellington rspectively with their first offences?

de Villiers expressed his extreme frustration with the effect the referees are having on their matches, saying how can a side know how to play when there are inconsistencies in officiating, and no one at a higher level is prepared to give him any answers as to what the Boks are doing wrong.

A case in point in Wellington was the fact that Francois Louw was penalised early in the game for not releasing the tackled player, yet just minutes later Conrad Smith did the exact same thing that caused the ball to come out of the ruck, and the loose ruck ball was hacked ahead by Ricky Januarie before it was scooped up by Piri Weepu who set up Mils Muliaina’s try.

The Springbok coach is clearly reaching the end of his teether, and has suggested his side needs to become more street-smart. He does not favour this approach however as he said that next year the new law interpretations will be in effect and he doesn’t want his players getting into bad habits.

Whilst I agree with de Villiers, and I’ve always maintained that the South African sides are always prejudiced against by the referees, the Boks have to be better than that. It makes it hard to get any momentum going, but did it cause them to lose the game?

I’d rather see the Boks try to take control of their own destiny by rising above the adversity rather than complaining. Nothing changes, and constant whining only deflects our focus.

I also disagree with de Villiers who felt the Boks played well, and had a strong second half. The Boks were once again out-scored 2 tries to 1, and 8 tries to 2 for the series. No matter how they look at it, the side has been out-muscled, out -thought and outplayed.

The Boks can complain all they want, but ultimately the only way they’ll be successful is to adopt a more pro-active attitude and seek to control their own destiny.

Like last year in South Africa, the first two Tri-Nations test matches between South Africa and New Zealand were largely carbon copies as the All
Blacks smashed the Springboks to complete a 2-0 sweep.

Springboks 17

Tries: Danie Rossouw, Schalk Burger
Conversions: Morne Steyn (2)
Penalty: Morne Steyn

All Blacks 31

Tries: Ma’a Nonu, Mils Muliaina, Rene Ranger, Israel Dagg
Conversion: Dan Carter
Penalties: Dan Carter (2), Piri Weepu

Springbok player ratings:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp – 6

Tried galiantly, and made a few errors but cannot be faulted for effort. Let down by his team-mates.

2. John Smit (c) – 4

I’ve always thought Smit has been a strong leader, but his leadership has been lacking in the last 2 games. Victor Matfield runs the forwards and
would be a better bet to captain the side.

I’d rather Smit was honest in his appraisal of the game and say the Springboks were poor. Trying to look for positives in a 14 point defeat fools no
one. Prehaps the Boks miss Bismarck du Plessis?

3. CJ van der Linde – 3

Poor. Danie Craven said the most important player on your side is your tighthead prop. van der Linde has been shown up, not sure why de Villiers has turned to a northern hemisphere player who has shown to struggle with the pace of the game.

4. Danie Rossouw – 4

Unlucky to be yellow carded early on in the match, but should not have been involved off the ball.
Struggled to get into the game on his 50th test match after returning from the sin-bin and a forgettable occasion on such a milestone.

5. Victor Matfield – 5

Like the rest of his pack, struggled to get anything going. With such a formidable lineout, the Boks have not been playing to Matfield’s or the team’s strength. Looked extremely frustrated.

6. Schalk Burger – 6

Got better as the match wore on and his workrate stood out. Needs to be more accurate and hard-edged earlier in the game and when the game is played tighter.

7. Francois Louw – 4

Anonymous again other than a couple of runs midway during the second half. Has had no impact this Tri-Nations, and has been outplayed totally by Richie McCaw.

8. Pierre Spies – 3

Also missing in action. Had a few good runs, but makes too many errors in tight games, one of which led to a try. Looked disinterested in defence during the first half, has to add a few more strings to his bow with the 2011 Rugby World Cup in mind.

9. Ricky Januarie – 3

Brilliant in creating the offload that led to Danie Rossouw’s try. Other than that fails to control the game with either quick ball, or bringing his loose forwards into play. Needs to be discarded given his multiple opportunities.

10. Morne Steyn – 7

100% goal kicking accuracy, pity he had little front foot ball to play with, and had to make way too many tackles.

11. Bryan Habana – 4

Limited opportunities, but those he had were let down by poor handling. Also ran the wrong line when Kirchner broke in the second half.

12. Wynand Olivier – 3

Carried the ball weakly once or twice and not physical enough in the tackle. Found out at this level.

13. Jaque Fourie – 5

Wasted talent defending all day.
Play just did not run his way.

14. Jean de Villiers – 3

Hopefully won’t be played at wing again. Lacks the pace and defending skill for a top class winger.

15. Zane Kirchner – 5

Made mostakes but tried hard. Looks more comfortable at this level, has been creating chances but his side has been failing to make them count.

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle -

Not on long enough to be rated.

17. BJ Botha – 5

Solidified the scrum but not good enough in the tight loose as he struggled with the pace of the game.

18. Andries Bekker – 4

Minimal impact on the game as largely reduced to a defensive role.

19. Ryan Kankowski – 6

At least brought some enthusiasm if not accuracy to proceedings.

20. Ruan Pienaar – 5

Made errors, but at least looked to get the ball cleared quickly, showing the problem is not all the fault of the forwards.

21. Butch James -

Not used.

22. Gio Aplon – 7

Showed the value that the right attitude can make. Plays tohis strength and has a go at the defensive line, which can brings errors, but usually gets over the advantage line and the side moving forward. Unlucky not to finish off his break with a try.

The Springboks look a shadow of the side they were last year, whilst the All Blacks are on an upward curve as they put the Springboks to the sword with a 31-17 victory in Wellington.

Springboks 17

Tries: Danie Rossouw, Schalk Burger
Conversions: Morne Steyn (2)
Penalty: Morne Steyn

All Blacks 31

Tries: Ma’a Nonu, Mils Muliaina, Rene Ranger, Israel Dagg
Conversion: Dan Carter
Penalties: Dan Carter (2), Piri Weepu


The Boks were completely outplayed in all facets of the game as they produced their second loss in 2 weeks as they were bullied into submission by a motivated All Blacks side.

The All Blacks were stung last year in losing all 3 test matches to the Boks, and have shown they were hurt immensely by those results. Even a poor Super 14 has not stopped their side from collectively being single minded in their desire to hit the Boks hard and show the world who is the number 1.

What has been surprising is the downward spiral this Bok side has shown. They’ve allowed themselves to be dominated by the All Blacks, meekly surrendering their mental edge by inept performances, and seeking excuses to justify their poor performances.

Last week after the Eden park debacle, Jean de Villiers vowed the Boks would bounce back as he said, “I definitely think we’re too good to produce back-to-back performances like that.” If anything Wellington was even worse than Auckland.

At least in Auckland conditions were good. In wet conditions in Wellington, the All Blacks showed their skill levels were vastly superior as it did not stop them running the ball from all over the field and making the Bok defence look woeful.

The Boks for their part have looked one dimensional in their attacking approach. Last week John Smit said it was not the tactics that were to blame, it was the execution. He is right, although when you rely on a kick and hope strategy to attack from, it is no wonder they have rarely asked a question of the All Black defence.

The Springboks were harshly handled by referee Alain Lewis who let the All Blacks slow down the Bok ball, as evidenced by their second try to Mils Muliaina. Jaque Fourie went to ground and Conrad Smith illegally raked the ball back as he did not release the tackler. Ricky Januarie was then at fault as rather than tidy the ball up, he kicked it straight to the All Blacks who counter attacked brilliantly to score.

After the game Springbok coach Peter de Villiers said “I don’t want to discuss the officials in public, but I am frustrated at the moment. We go around the world for conferences about the laws and then I don’t understand what happens at the ground. The only thing a coach can ask for is consistency.”

However if the Springboks were brutally honest, they have failed to pitch up in their two Tri-nations encounters and that has caused their losses. If you don’t match the All Blacks physically up front, you will never win. The Boks have been smashed in the forward battle, and that has allowed the All Blacks time and space to run at them. There are only so many tackles a side can make. And if the intensity is not there on defence, you’ll struggle all day.

An 8 try to 2 drubbing in the 2 games is testament to the fact that the Boks have not asked enough questions of the All Black defence. It comes down to being man-handled at the breakdown and trying to attack from slow, static ball. It is hard to gain momentum, and the Bok attack has looked ordinary because of it.

The Springboks may not win the Tri-nations this year, as they now head to Brisbane, a venue they struggle terribly at. As much as we all hurt from these defeats, it’s not the end of the world however if we can use these matches to learn the lessons that will prepare us to win the Rugby World Cup in 2011. To do that however, the Boks need to be honest with themselves and become better, not bitter.

Springbok Player Ratings from the test in Wellington

Can the Springboks bounce back and recover from their 32-12 drubbing last week at the hands of the All Blacks?

Did the Boks simply have a bad day at the office last week in the Tri-Nations opener, or is Peter de Villiers and his side on the decline ahead of the Rugby World Cup in 2011?

The second Tri-Nations test will provide these answers and give us plenty more to think about!

Watching the sides go through their pre-match warm-up, Victor Matfield looks psyched. I’ve never seem him look so angry or so focused in his 96 prior test matches. That is a great sign.

Danie Rossouw leads the side out in his 50th test match.

1st Min – Matfield misses the kick-off and the All Blacks have the early territory and a chance to see the scrums.

4th Min – The Springboks get the first penalty, and then Danie Rossouw gets a yellow card. I think the AB’s definitely have a ploy to try and niggle the Boks…and it’s working. What a shocking decision from the ref Alain Rolland.

6th Min – All Blacks get a penalty as Francois Louw penalised for not letting the tackled player go.
Justice as Carter misses the kick.

7th Min – Try. Nonu in the corner, as Kieran Read set the play up with a strong run. Quick ball saw it shifted to the other side of the field and de Villiers had to come in as the Boks lacked numbers out wide.
Like last week the AB’s making the Boks pay with a man in the bin.
Carter misses the conversion to keep the score at 5-0.
Boks up against it.

10th Min – The AB’s are playing the game at speed, running it from everywhere. They are killing the Boks.
Thankfully we get a penalty. Have to make first time tackles…doesn’t help we only have 14.

12th Min – Try. The AB’s score another 50m effort. This time the right hand corner. What bullshit refereeing. Fourie took the ball in and the tackler never let him go, allowing him to steal the ball. Well done to the AB’s it was a great try, but where is the consistency in the reffing? The Boks were penalised for doing the same thing.
Carter misses his third kick.
All Blacks lead 10-0.

16th Min – The Springboks have some semblance of attack, and penalised for not letting go. Schalk Burger warned for coming in at the side, next time yellow. What is the ref doing???

Taking into account Hamilton last year, the AB’s have now scored 8 unanswered tries against the Boks. That’s a disgraceful statistic.

21st Min – Boks finally get some ball, and Habana can’t handle.

23rd Min – Everytime the AB’s get the ball they find space. Even when they are initally under pressure. The Boks meanwhile struggle to break the advantage line.

30th Min – Penalty to the Boks. Probably lucky as the All Blacks had an overlap out wide.
Carter drills it down the middle.
All Blacks lead 13-0. Game over?

32nd Min – Weepu was laughing at the scrum. The All Blacks look relaxed, and are enjoying it. Kirchner saved an almost dire situation with a timely intercept.

36th Min – Rene Ranger didn’t use his arms in the tackle. Probably a fair enough tackle in my mind.
Although if they said he didn’t use his arms it should be a yellow card.

37th Min – Much better! Try time. Danie Rossouw stops the All Black scoring riot as Ricky Januarie set up Jean de Villiers to snipe through from the lineout, from the recycle Rossouw went over.
Morne Steyn converts and 13-7 is so much better.

40th Min – All Blacks win a penalty as they get to the breakdown in numbers. The Boks look slow, static and are getting bullied.
Carter misses his 4th kick of the half, otherwise the damage would be shocking.

Half Time – Springboks 7 All Blacks 13

The All Blacks have bossed and bullied the Boks. Each of their players have had strong performances, whereas the Bok loose trio, and midfield are largely anonymous.

The Boks only use the kick and chase and are getting slow, static ball that struggles to break the advantage line, whereas the All Blacks are being rewarded for running at speed, recycling quickly and that is finding massive holes in the bok defence.

It’s all mental from here. The Boks need to step up. Up the intensity, accuracy and the desire to compete at the highest level. I know they can do it, they just look unlikely at this stage.

BJ Botha on for CJ van der Linde, and Gio Aplon on for Jean de Villiers.

41st Min – Aplon immediately runs a ball back, and breaks the advantage line. Good boy. That’s a better attitude.

43rd Min – Cynical foul from McCaw 2m from his line. Send him off! Boks earn the penalty when a try was looming.
Morne Steyn narrows the gap and now we have a ball game. All Blacks lead 13-10.

45th Min – We are going to the TMO as Rene Ranger goes in at the corner.
The try is awarded and the score is now 18-10. All came as a poor kick from Januarie gave Muliaina too much space and he got the All Blacks over the advantage line.
Carter has another tough kick and pushes it wide.
Score 18-10.

50th Min – Boks penalised for holding on. What about the tackler(s) letting go??
Weepu replaces Carter as kicker. He knows the ground let’s see what he can do.
Weepu kicks it well. Score now 21-10.

54th Min – Andries Bekker on for Danie Rossouw, and Ruan Pienaar on for Ricky Januarie.
They need to be special!

56th Min – Pienaar’s first move is to kick the ball into touch on the full. Oh dear.

58th Min – Bok attack finally breaks down. The problem is the recycles are too slow and we have to start from a static position each time. All Black defence is solid.

60th Min – Better pressure at the scrum as the Boks turn the ball over. Now we have a scrum on the All Black 22m line.
It’s now or never.

61st Min – Aplon almost through for the try. A series of recycles, but the Boks just can’t score.
All Blacks get an official warning. I guess McCaw’s previous warning was unofficial.

Boks kick to the corner and can’t score. McCaw leads the All Black counter rucking that was superb.

63rd Min – Solid All Blacks defence, although I feel they haven’t been rolling away quick enough.
Sam Whitelock on for Tom Donnelly, and Jimmy Cowan for Piri Weepu and Israel Dagg for Rene Ranger. I wouldn’t have taken Weepu off.

65th Min – Try! Israel Dagg scores in the left hand corner. Shakes off 4 tackles. At least I think they were trying to tackle. Spies, Burger, Aplon, Kirchner…non-existent.
Game over.
Carter kicks it
All Blacks lead 28-10. Bonus point try for the All Blacks.

69th Min – This is a disgrace. Kirchner tackles high, although Cory Jane slipped into it. Could be a citing for that I feel.
Carter with the penalty makes it 31-10.

Ryan Kankowski on for Pierre Spies.

72nd Min – A great back from Kirchner, but he had no support.
It breaks down and the All Blacks win a penalty.

Aaron Cruden on for Ma’a Nonu as the All Blacks can do whatever they want now.

74th Min – Schalk Burger scores. All too late however.
Morne Steyn on song with the conversion to add some respecatability. Not sure they deserve it.
Score 31-17.

Chiliboy Ralepelle on for captain John Smit. Liam Messam is on for Richie McCaw.

Full Time – Springboks 17 All Blacks 31

Well done to the All Blacks who thoroughly deserved their victory as they clearly outplayed the Springboks.
Questions were answered for the Boks, and the question now is where too from here?

After being posed many questions by the All Blacks in last weekend’s Tri-Nations opener, the second match will provide us with the answers

The All Blacks showed with their 32-12 thrashing of the Springboks at Eden Park that they have taken a step up from their performances last season. They posed many questions of the Boks, and the Boks had no answers.

QUESTION AND ANSWERS

Like the Bok coaching staff, I don’t believe any change in tactics need occur, just a change in execution. I’d make some changes to the personnel, but whatever side the Boks name, they have the capacity to beat the All Blacks. It remains a question of “are they good enough?”

This test provides many questions and resultant answers that will allow the Springboks to measure just where they are at with their current side, and how we are likely to fare at next year’s Rugby World Cup to be held in New Zealand.

Is the forward pack strong enough? Are some of our second tier players good enough for test rugby (e.g Wynand Olivier, Zane Kirchner, Ricky Januarie, Francois Louw)? Is Ricky Januarie still able to compete at test level? Is Wynand Olivier good enough to keep out Jean de Villiers at inside centre? Are our tactics out-dated?

Peter de Villiers has shown trust in his players to fix what they created with the loss in Auckland. Like 2008 where they came back to win in Dunedin, and like the Bulls who also got smashed at Eden Park earlier this year, the Boks can bounce back.

BOKS WERE ASLEEP

Last week it emerged that the Boks had not got their physical preparation right off the field. Did it have an effect or was that an excuse?

If the Boks play to their potential, they’ll win. There is no disrespect intended to the All Blacks, but the only thing that can stop the Springboks from winning is themselves.

As legendary Springbok Os du Randt said this week, there is a tendancy for the Springboks to “fall asleep”

“Some aspects of our game can become a bit lax, sometimes it seems like we are just going through the motions. That’s maybe what happened last Saturday, so I had to speak hard to the boys, get their minds right and refresh the guys’ minds about stuff they already know. It makes no difference the number of tests you have played, every now and then you will get a wake-up call. The big challenge for management is not allowing the team to fall into that trap of complacency. South Africans have a tendency to sometimes be asleep, it happened to us in 2006 (when they were thrashed 49-0 in Brisbane). Sometimes it seems we must first be rapped over the knuckles, then we want to play!” said du Randt.

I’ve felt that after the French game the Springboks have lost their intensity with games against Italy and the Soccer World Cup being distractions. The problem is can they regain their monentum against a highly motivated New Zealand side?

TEAM SELECTION

Coach Peter de Villiers has opted for only enforced changes with the suspension to Bakkies Botha and the injury to Jannie du Plessis. Like all Bok sides, it is strong upfront, they just need to do the business.

In the backline, I am still not convinced about Wynand Olivier, and it remains to be seen whether this backline is capable of unlocking the All Black defence.

The bench has a more balanced look, although I’d have gone with Dewald Potgieter instead of Ryan Kankowski.

PREDICTION

With slight rain around, the game will be tighter than Auckland, but once again won and lost in the forward battle.

I’d like to think the Boks can turn their performance around, similar to 2008, but this time i’m not convinced it’ll happen. I hope I am proved wrong.

Boks by 6 (but only because I’ll only ever back the Boks!)

Springboks:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. John Smit (c)
3. CJ van der Linde
4. Danie Rossouw
5. Victor Matfield
6. Schalk Burger
7. Francois Louw
8. Pierre Spies
9. Ricky Januarie
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bryan Habana
12. Wynand Olivier
13. Jaque Fourie
14. Jean de Villiers
15. Zane Kirchner

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle
17. BJ Botha
18. Andries Bekker
19. Ryan Kankowski
20. Ruan Pienaar
21. Butch James
22. Gio Aplon

All Backs:

1. Tony Woodcock
2. Kevin Mealamu
3. Owen Franks
4. Brad Thorn
5. Tom Donnelly
6. Jerome Kaino
7. Richie McCaw (c)
8. Kieran Read
9. Piri Weepu
10. Daniel Carter
11. Rene Ranger
12. Ma’a Nonu
13. Conrad Smith
14. Cory Jane
15. Mils Muliaina

16. Corey Flynn
17. Ben Franks
18. Sam Whitelock
19. Liam Messam
20. Jimmy Cowan
21. Aaron Cruden
22. Israel Dagg

After suffering a 20 point defeat (32-12) to the All Blacks in the first Tri-Nations test at Eden Park, can the Boks bounce back, regain their pride and defend their title?

I hate to ever think the Boks will lose, but their backs are well and truly against the wall. For the World Champions, who believe they are worthy of being ranked number 1 in the world, it was an embarrassing loss because of the manner of defeat.

Put into perspective, it’s only 1 loss, away from home at that. However the Boks had no answers to everything the All Blacks threw at them, and were out-thought, out-muscled and out-played. They’ve almost undone the entire psychological edge they gained with their 3 victories over the All Blacks last year.

As rampant as the Boks were last year, especially in the Tri-Nations against the All Blacks, their biggest victory was 12 points in the Durban test match (9 in Bloemfontein and 3 in Hamilton). The All Blacks in Auckland meanwhile produced 4 tries to zip, and a 20 point victory is massive.

It was a 20 point victory (55-35) in 1997 that sealed the fate of Carel du Plessis, and that day was regarded as one of the worst in Bok history.

What makes this occasion any different? 55-35 is no different to 32-12. 7 tries to 5 actually sounds better than 4 to 0!
The Boks now have to try and beat the All Blacks in Wellington, and then the Australians in Brisbane, both unhappy hunting grounds for the Boks. is it really that bad? After all we beat Wales, put 40 points past the French and beat the Italians.

The Welsh test was too close for comfort, The Argentinians also put 40 points on the French (putting our result into perspective), and the Italian games were way too competitive for my liking. The French result may have even lulled us into a false sense of security as my same concerns have been evident over the past 5 games.

1. I don’t believe we have selected wisely.
2. We have not put together an 80 minute effort
3. We have produced too many errors such as knock-ons, forward passes etc
4. We have not been able to construct many tries.

These issues are all related to one another. Naas Botha commented before the game that the Boks are almost a complete side, and he believes they only have to develop their counter-attacking.

I’d disagree as I believe the Boks counter-attack well, it’s the ability to construct tries from set-pieces of stringing phases together. If you look at the French game, most of those tries were scored off turnover ball, intercepts etc. That’s fine when you are leading and you can pressure the opposition, but when you are behind as we were in Auckland, the opposition doesn’t often make the same mistakes and you are forced to have to construct your own tries to put the pressure back on them.

During the Italian series, constant errors robbed us of our momentum, and we were unable to constantly sustain pressure on the opposition. I’d like to see the loose-trio take more responsibility to get us going forward, and then the centres set better targets to bring our outside backs into the game (rather than stand around looking for intercepts all the time).

I would suggest however that with our current personnel, I don’t believe it’ll get much better quickly. Peter de Villiers has his favourites, and that’s fine by me, but if you live by the sword you must die by the sword.

I have never rated Jannie du Plessis or BJ Botha, and I’d have much rather seen the 2 form tightheads in South African rugby, Werner Kruger and Brok Harris rewarded. At least they scrum well, and aren’t often penalised.

The locks and loose-trio are good, but I’d like to see the ball carrying loose forwards brought into the game more often too get the side moving forward. I believe that is the scrumhalf’s responsibility to control the direction of the side, and that is my criticism of Ricky Januarie who although he brings great physicality, doesn’t control the game or clear the ball quickly enough for those outside him.

The centre combination is another area of great debate. I don’t believe Wynand Olivier is the answer. For those that applaud his physicality, defence and attacking prowess, I don’t believe he is strong enough in all these areas to dominate at test level. It’s a concern that when Olivier is on the field, our midfield defence looks disorganised and was responsible for letting the All Blacks have way too much space to operate in.

I’d rather see Jaque Fourie paired with either Jean de Villiers or Juan de Jongh. Obviously de Villiers is only just coming back from injury, but if someone like Francois Louw is good enough to start, so is de Jongh.

And rather than play de Villiers out of position on the wing, we can inject some pace or skill with Gio Aplon or even Francois Hougaard. Actually I’d play Hougaard at scrumhalf, but doubt the selectors are even thinking of that one.

Kirchner is safe at fullback and showed in Auckland his basics are good, and he can create opportunities for those around him.

On the bench I’d opt for a more conventional split, with Dewald Potgieter covering loose forward. Butch James has had his time, I am not sure what he offers as his kicking and passing are not world class. Surely Peter Grant would’ve been a better option?

It’ll be interesting to see if Peter de Villiers makes any changes. I doubt he will, other than the necessary ones for Bakkies Botha’s suspension.

The coach had this to say after the Auckland defeat, “There’s no need to panic, it’s nothing we can’t fix. It’s not a train smash, it’s only the first game of the Tri-Nations. Now we need to stop the momentum of a great team but our destiny is in our own hands.”

Springbok captain John Smith had this to add, “The only positive from this game is that we can’t get any worse. Just losing this test will be enough motivation, we will learn from a poor defeat that was a disappointment for all of us.”

A change of personnel won’t change the attitude, commitment and intensity of the players which were lacking in Auckland; but it will make the side more complete with a more solid midfield, greater attacking prowess and the ability to out score the All Blacks, one thing we need to do to beat them!

The Springboks produced one of their worst results in many years as they were outgunned 32-12 at Eden Park by a fired up All Black side.

Most of the Boks were disappointing, few could leave with the heads held high, and ultimately the pack did not front up physically, whilst a disorganized backline contributed to the 23 missed tackles that allowed the All Blacks to run rampant in a 4 try to nil victory.

Springboks 12

Penalties: Morne Steyn (4)

All Blacks 32

Tries: Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Kieran Read, Tony Woodcock
Conversions: Dan Carter (3)
Penalties: Dan Carter (2)

Springbok player ratings:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp – 6

Did what he could but ultimately the collective effort was not good enough. Dropped a ball he wasn’t expecting late in the first half.

2. John Smit – 7

Strong around the field carrying the ball and making tackles, including a crucial one in the second half in front of his poles. Was poor throwing the ball into the lineout however which contributed to the much vaunted Springbok lineout being a fizzer.

3. Jannie du Plessis – 5

Doesn’t provide a strong right shoulder and did not make a strong impression in the tight loose.

4. Bakkies Botha – 1

One of his worst test matches.
Not sure what was going through his head prior to the game, but got held back by Jimmy Cowan in the first few minutes and then had a brain explosion as his head butt will cost his side, and his professional foul cost the Boks 10 point and meant they had to chase the game.
Will not enjoy a long break and can concentrate on the end of year tour.
Made some strong runs later in his time on the field as he obviosuly looked to make amends.

5. Victor Matfield (c) – 6

Anonymous in the lineouts as the All Blacks kept the ball away from him and John Smit couldn’t find him on the Boks’ throws. Was busy around the park making tackles and trying to organise the Boks, but that’s not his primary job.

6. Schalk Burger – 5

Industrious, and look bewildered as the game got away from the Boks. Made enough tackles, but needs to find the hard edge he once had, one that Juan Smith can produce week after week.
As a ball carrying flank he needs to go forward more often if he can’t set up play wider as he does for the Stormers.

7. Francois Louw – 4

Anonymous in his debut Tri-Nations test. The Boks made no steals and were out muscled at the breakdown, Louw’s primary role.
Is a good player however and deserves another chance to prove his worth.

8. Pierre Spies – 5

Missed a few tackles and barely a presence with ball in hand. Strong from the base of the scrum, but also needs to become a go to man to get the Boks over the advantage line when the going gets tough.

9. Ricky Januarie – 5

Brings a strong physical presence and sniped and set up the next phase well when his options were cut down.
I still believe your scrumhalf needs to clear the ball quickly, something Januarie is improving at, but still too often he waits when the ball is not presented well. Tactical kicking was better, but not pin point which gave the All Blacks room to run it back at the Boks.
I’d opt for Pienaar in the next test to clear the ball faster and give Morne Steyn more room to work with.

10. Morne Steyn – 5

Good kicking for poles, but erratic in his all round game with too many errors (e.g a missed penalty kick for touch, dropped balls).
His general play is often under-rated as he showed when he almost scored late in the first half. Was never able to get the backline going as possession was not consistently good.

11. Bryan Habana – 6

Became busier as the game went on, chasing back well as the All Blacks kicked deep into the Bok half.
Limited opportunities with ball in hand.

12. Wynand Olivier – 3

Brought very little to the game in terms of getting over the advantage line or creating a presence on defence. For my mind the midfield defence looks disorganised with Olivier there, and de Villiers or de Jongh should start.

13. Jaque Fourie – 5

Minimal opportunities on attack, and like Olivier never marshalled the midfield defence which was porous at best. If he truly wants to be the world’s best centre as he states often enough, needs greater accuracy in every facet.

14. Jean de Villiers – 5

Lacks the pace for an international wing, and not used to create pressure on attack as intended. Needs to hold his defensive line and guage when to try the intercept better as a wing, although in my mind he is clearly wasted in that position.

15. Zane Kirchner – 8

A solid all round game on attack and defence. His positional play was excellent and on defence he made his tackles and took the right options when confronted with an overlap (though there was not much he could do other than take the man with the ball).
On attack he used the up and under well, ran the ball back strongly when it was on, and entered the line to create opportunities the Boks could not capitalise on.
A great platform to build on for Kirchner as he seeks to make the fullback position his own.

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle – 6

Did what he had to with limited time , but the damage had been done.

17. BJ Botha – 6

Solid at scrum time.

18. Andries Bekker – 4

Very little impact in either the lineouts or around the field.

19. Danie Rossouw – 6

Looked for work, but had a mountain to climb. Will no dobut start in Bakkies’ absence.

20. Ruan Pienaar -

Not on long enough to be rated.

21. Butch James – 3

Like Bakkies, always in trouble. Rightly or wrongly he is also a liability and not sure he can offer what Morne can at flyhalf.

22. Gio Aplon -

Not on long enough to be rated.

Coaching Staff -1

Team selection, especially in the backline came back to bite them, and they were comprehensively out through by the All Blacks brain trust who had worked out their every move.

The All Blacks easily accounted for the Springboks 32-12 in the 2010 Tri-Nations opener at Eden Park.

Springboks 12

Penalties: Morne Steyn (4)

All Blacks 32

Tries: Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Kieran Read, Tony Woodcock
Conversions: Dan Carter (3)
Penalties: Dan Carter (2)

The All Black victory was built on 2 simple principles.

1. After suffering three defeats to the Springboks last year, the All Blacks were wounded and hungry for revenge. At the national anthems and haka it was evident the Boks were not focused like they were against France and for the second Italian test. Body language gives much away, and the Boks were not intense in their pre-match formalities, whereas the All Blacks performed the haka like men possessed.

2. The Tri-Nations last year, and this years Super 14 showed the Kiwis just what sort of pattern the Boks like to play to; the question is could they comeup with an effective counter? Full credit to the All Blacks because they were well-schooled by their ex-headmaster coach and had an answer for everything the Boks would throw at them.

They had counters for the Boks strengths. They sacked the rolling maul early, and even showed in the second half they could reply in kind.

At the few lineouts they allowed to eventuate they employed measures to ensure the Boks were on the back foot. Quick throws and not allowing the lineout to form. They even stole three Bok lineouts just to rub salt into the wound. I am not sure why the Boks didn’t play to their strengths more often, and put the ball out rather than allow the All Blacks the ability to counter attack from kicks and broken play.

The All Blacks regained their once feared physicality and bossed the breakdowns (an area they come off second best last year). Much of that is technique, but the majority is attitude and commitment.

The Boks kicking (especially with Fourie du Preez gone) was innacurate and the All Blacks (similar to the Crusaders against the Bulls at Loftus) had a plan to run into spaces and gain momentum from their back three. It worked a treat, and from front ball, the All Blacks were unstoppable with their full head of steam. It takes courage to keep running, even from deep in your own half, but the All Blacks backed their ability and were duly rewarded.

A 4 try to nil scoreline is very comprehensive. The All Blacks had done their homework well, had plans for the Boks strengths, and maintained their intensity and discipline for the entire game, echoed by Kieran Read after the game who said “It was just about an 80 minute performance from us.”

After the game All Black coach Graham Henry was obviously a very pleased man and had this to say,”(it was) A very special day for those guys out there, who played superbly. The lineout was superb, well thought out and well executed.” However he showed the All Blacks won’t be complacent for the next match as he stated “We haven’t done the job yet, next week is very important.”

As a collective, the Springboks were poor with very few players enhancing their reputations. Check out the Springbok players ratings.
Whereas the All Blacks played as a team, with no poor performances.

The Springbok brains trust have much to think about. John Smit seemed in a daze after the game, trying to search for answers. He said, “Discipline costs you test matches,” frustrated with his team-mate Bakkies Botha before adding, “Obviously we didn’t front up and we’ve got a lot to work on. I was surprised at how poor we were.”

The question now is: Can the Boks bounce back?

Is this a preliminary World Cup Final, as the top 2 sides in the world playing at the venue for the 2011 Rugby World Cup Final?

As the first match of the 2010 Tri-Nations, this match has great significant as it sets the tone for the competition, and a win by the Springboks could set up a successful title defence.

Many questions will be answered in 80 minutes time, and there is also the extra incentive of the IRB number 1 world ranking up for grabs, as well as a significan psychological edge ahead of the Rugby World Cup in 2011.

South Africa have not won at Eden Park since 1937, albeit only 6 test matches have been played. Let’s hope history is re-written today.

Why would you place a test match in a half completed stadium? It’s not really the smartest decision is it? What do the players think looking at concrete developments as opposed to a packed stadium with their fans?

Not particularly impressed with the performance of the South African national anthem. She didn’t sound very South African! The Boks look a bit on edge so far, whilst the All Blacks looked pumped as evidenced by the performance of the haka.

2nd Min – Great intensity to start with. Bakkies Botha will be cited for a headbutt and with his track record he can kiss any further involvement in the Tri-Nations aside. Unfortunately this time he’ll deserve it.
Carter misses the penalty attempt.

4th Min – Mistakes all over the show. The intensity is enormous! The Boks just need to settle here. The loose trio need to set better targets for the Boks.
Morne Steyn narrowly misses the drop goal attempt.

7th Min – Great scrum from the Boks. Richie McCaw penalised for detaching early.
Morne Steyn gets the first points of the Vodacom Tri-Nations as the Boks get the early lead 3-0.

9th Min – Great build-up by the Boks almost brings a try as there was space on the right hand flank.

11th Min – Great break out from the AB’s. The Bok defence scrambles well as a try was butchered.
An inevitable penalty sees Bakkies Botha sin-binned for a professional foul slowing the ball at the breakdown. That’s a massive call from the ref, Alain Lewis.
Dan Carter kicks the penalty to make it 3-3.

17th Min – Boks look a bit slow and pedestrian while the AB’s are definitely trying to move the ball around and are making way too much yardage.

19th Min – Conrad Smith scores in the right hand corner as the All Blacks split the Boks straight down the middle. Shocking defence.
Carter kicks the sideline conversion to give the All Blacks a 10-3 lead.
Unlike last year, it’ll be the Boks who have to come from behind as they enjoyed playing from in front last year. I’m not so confident we can play from behind.

23rd Min – The All Blacks are creating overlaps all over the field. One of the criticisms is that Wynand Olivier doesn’t organise the midfield defence well, although I can’t see who is to blame there is way to much space in the Bok midfield.

25th Min – A 7 man, and then 8 man scrum takes a battering from the AB’s and results in a penalty. I guess the Boks were lucky not to concede a try, but Carter will have a shot at goal.
Carter slots the penalty to open a 10 point gap 13-3.

29th Min – Almost a great Bok try as they went through the phases really well. Just missed the last pass a few metres short of the AB line. It was Kirchner who started the counter attack.
A gift 3 points went begging as advantage was played. It was a good/fair call however.

35th Min – Nonu scores in the left hand corner after great build up. I think this game is all over as I don’t see the Boks coming back. I just hope we don’t get a big hiding.
Carter is kicing brilliantly to get another one from the sideline. All Blacks lead 20-3.

Half Time – Springboks 3 All Blacks 20

What a dismal first half from the Boks. Bakkies Botha has had a match to forget and has let his side down, whilst the All Blacks have shown they back themselves to run this Bok side around and are winning by creating space all over the paddock.

The Boks need to take off Wynand Olivier, move Jean de Villiers into midfield to shore up the defence and introduce and utilise some pace on the wings in Habana and Aplon. All that will be dependent on the Boks pack contesting better in all aspects of the forward exchanges however where we haven’t been able to get enough forward momentum.

At this stage though I suggest the Boks will be lucky to get within 10 by the end of the game.

41st Min – An early penalty for the Boks who still look a bit disorganised.
Morne Steyn narrows the gap to make it 20-6 and bring up 101 points in Tri-Nations as a personal milestone.

46th Min – Better play from the Boks going through phases and more importantly running onto the ball at pace.
From a penalty Morne Steyn narrows it to 20-9.

49th Min – Much better continuity from the Boks. Morne Steyn resorts to a drop goal as it broke down and it just misses narrowly.

52nd Min – The Boks look a completely different side, as they’re playing their game.
Bakkies Botha and Francois Louw make way for Andries Bekker and Danie Rossouw.
Bakkies will have a hearing to prepare for before being sent home I’m sure.

55th Min – Piri Weepu on for Jimmy Cowan as the All Blacks make their first change. Cowan has been combative and had a great game.

57th Min – Try! Kieran Read goes through a couple of tackles to charge over as the AB’s went through patient build-up. 3 Tries to nil is pretty comprehensive.
Carter is on song once again to add the extra points and now it is 27-9.

59th Min – BJ Botha on for Jannie du Plessis.
A penalty in centre field and interestingly the Boks still want to aim at poles. I’d have gone for the lineout as we are going to have to score some tries to win this one.
Morne Steyn safe with the penalty however to narrow it to 27-12.

68th Min – The AB’s physicality has paved the way for their victory.
The Springboks have looked clueless, disorganised and have been bossed in the physical exchanges. I’d also add they’ve been outhought by the AB coaching staff who have been better prepared.

71st Min – Butch James on for Morne Steyn. The Bok backline for my mind is unsettled and lacks the game breakers and stability of last year. If Peter de Villiers is not going to play Jean de Villiers at inside centre I’d rather see Juan de Jongh.
The result is now a formality, just a question of bonus points.
Chiliboy Ralepelle on for John Smit, and Gio Aplon on for Wynand Olivier as Jean de Villiers moves into the midfield.

76th Min – Ruan Pienaar on for Ricky Januarie who has actually had a decent game unlike most of his team-mates.
So far the Boks have missed 23 tackles compared to the AB’s 9.

78th Min – The All Blacks have their 4th try as once again they out muscle the Boks to just drive over the Bok pack. That’s a 4 try bonus point. Schalk Burger and Pierre Spies look lost and bewildered.
Carter finally misses one to leave the score at 32-12.

Full Time Springboks 12 All Blacks 32

What a comprehensive victory for the All Blacks!
4 Tries to zip. The Boks were out-thought, out-muscled and out-played.

The manner of defeat leaves a sour taste for all us Bok fans. Well done to the All Blacks they deserved their victory and showed they want the Tri-Nations back.

The All Blacks also now earn a firmer hold on the IRB number 1 World Ranking, giving the Springboks plenty to strive towards over the rest of their Tri-Nations campaign.