By GREG FORD at Waikato Stadium - Stuff
Last updated 21:23 26/06/2010
Mission accomplished. Bring on the Springboks.
They were the two sentiments which prevailed after the All Blacks (unlike last year) made it a clean sweep of the June internationals.
Wales were beaten 29-10 in Hamilton, in relatively comfortable fashion.
Dan Carter booted Wales off the park with five penalties and a conversion and the visitors played with more resolve than in Dunedin a week ago, which would have pleased the All Blacks coaching troika of Henry, Smith and Hansen.
On Sunday morning at 10am, after they have digested last night's events, they will reveal who did, and didn't, make their squad for next month's Tri Nations. The series looms as the All Blacks' most important before next year's world cup.
Next year's annual jaunt against our two Southern Hemisphere cousins will be severely abbreviated. That has placed special meaning on this year's, and in a fortnight we will know whether the All Blacks have been able to bridge the gap with the Springboks which emerged last year.
The secon test, in front of a crowd of 29,200 – 1300 below the ground's capacity – gave us little insight, for one simple reason. South Africa is in a different league to Wales and Ireland, the All Blacks' opponents in this year's opening three tests.
But there were several encouraging signs. Wales provided much stiffer resistance at scrum time in Hamilton, than in Dunedin.
The contest was fairly even until the end of the match when New Zealand finished the strongest, and several All Blacks continued to stake their claim in test rugby, none more so than Cory Jane.
The Hurricanes wing has picked up where he left off with the All Blacks last year, playing outstanding rugby on the wing.
Carter has shaken off the cobwebs that plagued him during his Super rugby campaign, as have Richard Kahui and Tony Woodcock, while Richie McCaw has proved much more effective in test rugby. It remains a mystery as to exactly why. The rules used in test and Super rugby are identical.
But McCaw played a significant role in plugging the All Blacks' leaky defence in New Plymouth.
Jamie Roberts scored Wales' sole try last night, the first by a Welshman against the All Blacks since 2006.
Like last week in Dunedin, both teams shadow-boxed for much of the first half and one of the few All Blacks to emerge with any merit was Jimmy Cowan.
The fiery All Black halfback was in a vociferous mood marshalling the All Blacks pack, particularly late in the first half when they mounted several rolling mauls close to the Welsh line.
Cowan manhandled the Black pack, and physically hauled players out of mauls and rucks back into position. It wasn't pretty, but it was invaluable practice before the expected onslaught in a fortnight's time by the South Africans, the current undisputed champions of the world when it comes to the rolling maul.
The only pity was the Welsh didn't respond in kind. More than anything, the All Blacks needed practice at defending phalanx-like tactics. But the Welsh were happy to kick as much of their possession as possible deep into the All Blacks' half.
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Eventually trouble arrived for them in the form of Jane. He has been an absolute handful in the series and scored the All Blacks' first try of the night from a routine attack.
The only other incident of note was a yellow card to Lee Byrne just before the break for a clumsy lifting tackle on Tom Donnelly. Given Donnelly has played little rugby in recent weeks, the lock did well to last until the 48th minute. He was replaced by Adam Thomson who played on the flank, a move which forced Jerome Kaino to pack down in the second row.
Cowan was yanked at the same time, replaced by Piri Weepu, and Henry also used the hit-out to blood Rene Ranger 25 minutes from the final whistle, with the game safe at 22-3.
Ranger featured in a couple useful runs and Aaron Cruden scored an opportunistic try just before the end when a Welsh defender inexplicably failed to flop on the ball in his own in-goal.
But a bevy of handling errors by the All Blacks was cause for concern. Conditions were moist but could not be blamed for what was the most worrying statistic to emerge from the night.
New Zealand 29 (Cory Jane, Aaron Cruden tries; Daniel Carter 5 pen, con, Piri Weepu con) Wales 10 (Jamie Roberts try; Leigh Halfpenny pen, Stephen Jones con). Halftime: 13-3.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Monday, June 21, 2010
Attack-minded All Blacks lead counter-revolution
Attack-minded All Blacks lead counter-revolution
By TOBY ROBSON - The Dominion Post
OPINION: Kick at your peril. It's a message the All Blacks have beamed out to the world in the opening two rugby tests of the season.
One would not be surprised if South Africa had been CC'd on the memo.
Counterattack is the platform, under the new rules from which the All Blacks have an advantage over their rivals.
A year of honing their skills under the high ball is paying dividends as players such as Cory Jane, Israel Dagg, Joe Rokocoko and Richard Kahui launch their running games with impunity.
The reason? The first ruck is no longer a lottery, but a chance to launch second phase attacks against a disorganised defensive line, still staggered from the kick-chase.
Ireland and Wales have found out the hard way. The All Blacks are patiently stalking turnovers and slightly overcooked kicks like a predator. Most of their 14 tries in the past two weeks have come from one or the other.
Why Wales felt the compunction to test the theory at Carisbrook is hard to fathom for a team with enough gifted ball players to challenge the All Blacks. Wales fail to understand that they must focus on outscoring the All Blacks, not restricting them.
Competing for 50 minutes seemed to please coach Warren Gatland but, unless the visitors chance their arm, a similar scoreline beckons in Hamilton.
What else have we learned from the All Blacks' first steps toward next year's World Cup? Here are five points that jump out:
1: Dan Carter is indispensable. Maybe he's mentally stimulated again? Maybe he's surrounded by better players? Whatever the case, Carter is taking the ball to the line again and causing havoc with opposition defences.
2: Experience is still key. Tony Woodcock lifted the scrum against Wales, and Keven Mealamu and Brad Thorn remain the heart of the tight five. And the cool heads of Joe Rokocoko and Conrad Smith have allowed the young backs to thrive. Those calling for Mils Muliaina's dismissal need their heads read.
3: Depth is growing. Six debutants acquitted themselves well against Ireland and Dagg, Victor Vito and Sam Whitelock leap out as possible starters come the World Cup.
4: New leaders are emerging. Richie McCaw has stepped in and given his troops a blast at key moments, but he hasn't been a lone voice. Kieran Read and Jimmy Cowan are increasingly influential figures.
5: Ireland and Wales aren't South Africa. Before we all get carried away, a reality check – the first half against Wales plus the second half against Ireland equals a loss to the Springboks. There is still work to do.
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On a separate note. Good riddance to Carisbrook.
Students will have fond memories of burning couches on the terraces and the glory days of the Otago sides of the 1990s. Those who have played there will cherish the occasion.
But, in truth, The Brook is a decrepit relic that resembles the scrap yard next door.
Queues to the toilets and food and beverage outlets clog the concourse from opposite directions for hours before kickoff. It is cold, uncomfortable and ugly.
The players' facilities are as ad-hoc as the piecemeal stands that surround the ground's redeeming feature, it's pristine playing surface.
Kapa o Pango began a fitting farewell and the crowd stayed on to savour the moment with a rendition of Auld Lang Syne, bagpipes and fireworks. But progress is across town and not a day too soon.
By TOBY ROBSON - The Dominion Post
OPINION: Kick at your peril. It's a message the All Blacks have beamed out to the world in the opening two rugby tests of the season.
One would not be surprised if South Africa had been CC'd on the memo.
Counterattack is the platform, under the new rules from which the All Blacks have an advantage over their rivals.
A year of honing their skills under the high ball is paying dividends as players such as Cory Jane, Israel Dagg, Joe Rokocoko and Richard Kahui launch their running games with impunity.
The reason? The first ruck is no longer a lottery, but a chance to launch second phase attacks against a disorganised defensive line, still staggered from the kick-chase.
Ireland and Wales have found out the hard way. The All Blacks are patiently stalking turnovers and slightly overcooked kicks like a predator. Most of their 14 tries in the past two weeks have come from one or the other.
Why Wales felt the compunction to test the theory at Carisbrook is hard to fathom for a team with enough gifted ball players to challenge the All Blacks. Wales fail to understand that they must focus on outscoring the All Blacks, not restricting them.
Competing for 50 minutes seemed to please coach Warren Gatland but, unless the visitors chance their arm, a similar scoreline beckons in Hamilton.
What else have we learned from the All Blacks' first steps toward next year's World Cup? Here are five points that jump out:
1: Dan Carter is indispensable. Maybe he's mentally stimulated again? Maybe he's surrounded by better players? Whatever the case, Carter is taking the ball to the line again and causing havoc with opposition defences.
2: Experience is still key. Tony Woodcock lifted the scrum against Wales, and Keven Mealamu and Brad Thorn remain the heart of the tight five. And the cool heads of Joe Rokocoko and Conrad Smith have allowed the young backs to thrive. Those calling for Mils Muliaina's dismissal need their heads read.
3: Depth is growing. Six debutants acquitted themselves well against Ireland and Dagg, Victor Vito and Sam Whitelock leap out as possible starters come the World Cup.
4: New leaders are emerging. Richie McCaw has stepped in and given his troops a blast at key moments, but he hasn't been a lone voice. Kieran Read and Jimmy Cowan are increasingly influential figures.
5: Ireland and Wales aren't South Africa. Before we all get carried away, a reality check – the first half against Wales plus the second half against Ireland equals a loss to the Springboks. There is still work to do.
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On a separate note. Good riddance to Carisbrook.
Students will have fond memories of burning couches on the terraces and the glory days of the Otago sides of the 1990s. Those who have played there will cherish the occasion.
But, in truth, The Brook is a decrepit relic that resembles the scrap yard next door.
Queues to the toilets and food and beverage outlets clog the concourse from opposite directions for hours before kickoff. It is cold, uncomfortable and ugly.
The players' facilities are as ad-hoc as the piecemeal stands that surround the ground's redeeming feature, it's pristine playing surface.
Kapa o Pango began a fitting farewell and the crowd stayed on to savour the moment with a rendition of Auld Lang Syne, bagpipes and fireworks. But progress is across town and not a day too soon.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
All Blacks run over Wales with second half blitz
By TOBY ROBSON at Carisbrook - Stuff
Last updated 2All Blacks back Richard Kahui:
http://static.stuff.co.nz/1276943901/915/3831915.jpg1:20 19/06/2010
Wing Cory Jane puts a fend on his opposite on the way to the All Blacks first try at Carisbrook.
All Blacks first-five Dan Carter out-paces the Welsh cover defence to score his second try.
All Blacks skipper Richie McCaw congratulates wing Cory Jane after scoring the team's first of five tries against Wales.
The All Blacks during the rarely-seen Kapa O Pango haka.
Second half substitute Richard Kahui sprints away for a try.
The All Blacks, with captain Richie McCaw and Keven Mealamu at front, start the Kapa O Pango haka.
The All Blacks finish the Kapo O Pango haka before taking on Wales at Carisbrook.
All Blacks first-time starter at No 6, Victor Vito, carries a Welsh defender on his back in the first half.
Hooker Keven Mealamu dives over for the All Blacks first try, after a penalty quick-tap from halfback Jimmy Cowan.
With captain Richie McCaw (left) and prop Ben Franks in support, Keven Mealamu sprints downfield for the All Blacks.
Wales first-five Stephen Jones attempts an unsuccessful drop-goal in the second half.
All Blacks first-five Dan Carter runs into the Wales defence in New Zealand's 42-9 win at Carisbrook.
Wales winger Leigh Halfpenny loses the ball as he is tackled by All Blacks first-five Daniel Carter.
Black-and-white face-painted All Blacks fans arrived early at Carisbrook for the test against Wales.
All Blacks fans arrived early for the final test at Carisbrook between the All Blacks and Wales.
All quiet before the sell-out crowd arrives, Dunedin's Carisbrook before its final test between the All Blacks and Wales.
All Blacks No 6 Victor Vito steps off the team bus at Carisbrook ahead of the test against Wales.
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Substantial challenge awaits All Blacks All Blacks-Wales test rivalry creates sparks Kieran Read determined to reign as No8 Hooker de Malmanche has no regrets Quiet Welsh have All Blacks on edge Eden Park sold out for Boks test All Blacks keen to send Carisbrook out in style Israel Dagg out to avoid second game jitters All Blacks ready for 'blitz' from Wales Welsh will be watching Dan Carter
Ball in hand trumped kick and chase as the All Blacks ran up five tries against Wales to farewell an old friend in fashion with a 42-9 win at Carisbrook tonight.
The visitor's squandered a wealth of first half possession and territory to trail 15-9 at the break and then felt the full brunt of the All Blacks ability to off load and counter attack.
First five Dan Carter was the standout with two brilliant individual tries in the second half for an individual haul of 27 points.
Ever-green hooker Keven Mealamu was the pick of the pack, while other All Blacks to shine were flawless wing/fullback Cory Jane, ever present openside Richie McCaw and replacement wing Richard Kahui.
Wales missed their cue from Ireland a week earlier and rather than hold the ball put their hopes in a barrage of high kicks.
They discovered the power of the All Blacks counter attack as the home backs diffused bombs with ease all night.
Tries to Mealamu and wing Jane cancelled out two penalties and a drop goal to Wales' first five Stephen Jones in the first half, but there was a feeling the home side were a sleeping giant.
And so it proved as Carter ran riot on the back of his increasingly dominant pack, including prop Tony Woodcock, who replaced Ben Franks shortly after the break.
Carter's double were gems.
Wing Joe Rokocoko countered, halfback Jimmy Cowan off loaded and Kahui surged down the right before Carter and Jane produced a memorable moment.
Carter passed inside to Jane, then back up to step past three Welsh defenders to dive over and extend the lead to 25-9.
His second was a weaving 50 metre run that proved too much for a flailing Welsh defence.
A speedy looking Kahui added the finishing touches when he simply carved through the middle on the counter attack with 8 minutes to play.
Dagg was replaced at halftime with Kahui returning from his long injury break and Jane dropping back to fullback.
It was not a reflection of a poor match from Dagg, who took the numerous high balls that came his way with ease, but he was guilty of pushing the pass on a couple of occasions and some inaccurate kicking.
Blindside flanker Victor Vito, the only change to the starting side that beat Ireland, had a solid match carrying the ball strongly and growing in confidence.
If Wales' intention was to play running rugby it wasn't evident in the opening 25 minutes as Jones led an aerial assault on the All Blacks' back three.
It was understandable to a point, but when just one of the first 10 reaped any real reward, wing Leigh Halfpenny beating Rokocoko in the air, it should have been shelved.
Wales' were at their best with ball in hand and led 6-0 after 15 minutes, but lacked the penetration to capitalise.
Mealamu got the All Blacks' first try after Cowan's kick gave his side a rare attacking opportunity.
Lock Brad Thorn won the All Blacks' only lineout throw of the half and after several surges Cowan quick tapped a penalty to go close before Mealamu burrowed over to steal a 7-5 lead.
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Wales continued to probe, but lacked the penetration to capitalise on their possession and when lock Alun-Wyn Jones was crunched in the 32nd minute the All Blacks pounced.
Centre Conrad Smith seized the bobbling ball and shuffled it through his legs to an unmarked Jane, who sprinted 70 metres, stepping inside Tom Prydie and Stephen Jones before dotting down for his third test try.
Jones landed a second penalty before the break, but the writing was on the wall.
New Zealand 42 (Dan Carter 2, Keven Mealamu, Cory Jane, Richard Kahui tries; Carter 3 pen, 4 con) Wales 9 (Stephen Jones, pen, dropped goal, Leigh Halfpenny pen).
Last updated 2All Blacks back Richard Kahui:
http://static.stuff.co.nz/1276943901/915/3831915.jpg1:20 19/06/2010
Wing Cory Jane puts a fend on his opposite on the way to the All Blacks first try at Carisbrook.
All Blacks first-five Dan Carter out-paces the Welsh cover defence to score his second try.
All Blacks skipper Richie McCaw congratulates wing Cory Jane after scoring the team's first of five tries against Wales.
The All Blacks during the rarely-seen Kapa O Pango haka.
Second half substitute Richard Kahui sprints away for a try.
The All Blacks, with captain Richie McCaw and Keven Mealamu at front, start the Kapa O Pango haka.
The All Blacks finish the Kapo O Pango haka before taking on Wales at Carisbrook.
All Blacks first-time starter at No 6, Victor Vito, carries a Welsh defender on his back in the first half.
Hooker Keven Mealamu dives over for the All Blacks first try, after a penalty quick-tap from halfback Jimmy Cowan.
With captain Richie McCaw (left) and prop Ben Franks in support, Keven Mealamu sprints downfield for the All Blacks.
Wales first-five Stephen Jones attempts an unsuccessful drop-goal in the second half.
All Blacks first-five Dan Carter runs into the Wales defence in New Zealand's 42-9 win at Carisbrook.
Wales winger Leigh Halfpenny loses the ball as he is tackled by All Blacks first-five Daniel Carter.
Black-and-white face-painted All Blacks fans arrived early at Carisbrook for the test against Wales.
All Blacks fans arrived early for the final test at Carisbrook between the All Blacks and Wales.
All quiet before the sell-out crowd arrives, Dunedin's Carisbrook before its final test between the All Blacks and Wales.
All Blacks No 6 Victor Vito steps off the team bus at Carisbrook ahead of the test against Wales.
« Previous« PreviousNext »Next »
Related Links
All Blacks vs Wales in Dunedin All Blacks experience key against Wales Wales win a better measure of All Blacks Wales coach Gatland struggles for positives
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All Blacks
Substantial challenge awaits All Blacks All Blacks-Wales test rivalry creates sparks Kieran Read determined to reign as No8 Hooker de Malmanche has no regrets Quiet Welsh have All Blacks on edge Eden Park sold out for Boks test All Blacks keen to send Carisbrook out in style Israel Dagg out to avoid second game jitters All Blacks ready for 'blitz' from Wales Welsh will be watching Dan Carter
Ball in hand trumped kick and chase as the All Blacks ran up five tries against Wales to farewell an old friend in fashion with a 42-9 win at Carisbrook tonight.
The visitor's squandered a wealth of first half possession and territory to trail 15-9 at the break and then felt the full brunt of the All Blacks ability to off load and counter attack.
First five Dan Carter was the standout with two brilliant individual tries in the second half for an individual haul of 27 points.
Ever-green hooker Keven Mealamu was the pick of the pack, while other All Blacks to shine were flawless wing/fullback Cory Jane, ever present openside Richie McCaw and replacement wing Richard Kahui.
Wales missed their cue from Ireland a week earlier and rather than hold the ball put their hopes in a barrage of high kicks.
They discovered the power of the All Blacks counter attack as the home backs diffused bombs with ease all night.
Tries to Mealamu and wing Jane cancelled out two penalties and a drop goal to Wales' first five Stephen Jones in the first half, but there was a feeling the home side were a sleeping giant.
And so it proved as Carter ran riot on the back of his increasingly dominant pack, including prop Tony Woodcock, who replaced Ben Franks shortly after the break.
Carter's double were gems.
Wing Joe Rokocoko countered, halfback Jimmy Cowan off loaded and Kahui surged down the right before Carter and Jane produced a memorable moment.
Carter passed inside to Jane, then back up to step past three Welsh defenders to dive over and extend the lead to 25-9.
His second was a weaving 50 metre run that proved too much for a flailing Welsh defence.
A speedy looking Kahui added the finishing touches when he simply carved through the middle on the counter attack with 8 minutes to play.
Dagg was replaced at halftime with Kahui returning from his long injury break and Jane dropping back to fullback.
It was not a reflection of a poor match from Dagg, who took the numerous high balls that came his way with ease, but he was guilty of pushing the pass on a couple of occasions and some inaccurate kicking.
Blindside flanker Victor Vito, the only change to the starting side that beat Ireland, had a solid match carrying the ball strongly and growing in confidence.
If Wales' intention was to play running rugby it wasn't evident in the opening 25 minutes as Jones led an aerial assault on the All Blacks' back three.
It was understandable to a point, but when just one of the first 10 reaped any real reward, wing Leigh Halfpenny beating Rokocoko in the air, it should have been shelved.
Wales' were at their best with ball in hand and led 6-0 after 15 minutes, but lacked the penetration to capitalise.
Mealamu got the All Blacks' first try after Cowan's kick gave his side a rare attacking opportunity.
Lock Brad Thorn won the All Blacks' only lineout throw of the half and after several surges Cowan quick tapped a penalty to go close before Mealamu burrowed over to steal a 7-5 lead.
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Wales continued to probe, but lacked the penetration to capitalise on their possession and when lock Alun-Wyn Jones was crunched in the 32nd minute the All Blacks pounced.
Centre Conrad Smith seized the bobbling ball and shuffled it through his legs to an unmarked Jane, who sprinted 70 metres, stepping inside Tom Prydie and Stephen Jones before dotting down for his third test try.
Jones landed a second penalty before the break, but the writing was on the wall.
New Zealand 42 (Dan Carter 2, Keven Mealamu, Cory Jane, Richard Kahui tries; Carter 3 pen, 4 con) Wales 9 (Stephen Jones, pen, dropped goal, Leigh Halfpenny pen).
All Blacks experience key against Wales
By MARC HINTON - Stuff
Last updated 22:09 19/06/2010
Last week it was the fresh-faced rookies who hogged the All Black headlines. This one, against a legitimate Welsh challenge in Carisbrook's final hurrah, some experienced old warhorses took their turn to bask in the limelight.
Dan Carter was simply superb, illuminating a great occasion with one of those top-drawer displays of his that only he seems capable of delivering. After an indifferent Super 14, this was the Cantab well and truly back in world's-best-No 10 mode as the All Blacks positively strode to a 42-9 victory.
Last week Carter had very much launched the return to form; but last night it exploded into the stratosphere. This was a hugely influential display from a man who was near perfect - he chose his options brilliantly, and at times inspirationally. His change of pace and footwork were sublime and the Welsh will surely long remember this night that Carter tormented them at nearly ever opportunity, before he left the field with 10 minutes remaining, and 27 points to his name.
But this wasn't just the Dan Carter Show as the All Blacks eventually showed they can take apart 15 men just as emphatically as they can 14, or even 13. Not far behind the maestro were some other experienced All Blacks, men like skipper Richie McCaw, locks Brad Thorn and Anthony Boric, hooker Keven Mealamu and wing Joe Rokocoko who all thrived as the New Zealand game went up a gear or two.
Theirs were telling contributions all and should be lauded every bit as much as the six debutants' efforts were last week in New Plymouth.
But it didn't end there. Off the bench Tony Woodcock finally awoke from his seemingly season-long slumber to remind us of his quality, while Richard Kahui came in for 40 minutes of quality football to reinforce why he was such a highly-rated All Black before injury set him back a little.
It's going to be interesting next week if Graham Henry can find room for him somewhere in his starting lineup.
Though the final difference ended up being of a similar nature to last week's romp over the Irish; this was a much more meritorious victory against a Welsh side who gave this thing a good shake in the first half.
The All Blacks faced long periods of pressure, but worked their way out of it splendidly. And then they lit up a famous night for this southern citadel of rugby by producing some scintillating attacking rugby when it counted.
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In the second half when Carter, twice, and Kahui blitzed the tiring Welsh defence with brilliant runs to the tryline, mixing exquisite changes of pace with dashing footwork, the 28,000 who packed the ground started their night-long celebrations early.
They came to party, and apparently so had the All Blacks.
It wasn't all the old hands, of course, even though they very much set the tone. Victor Vito came through his first test start pretty damn well, Israel Dagg absorbed a testing first half mostly safely before staggering off at the break with a head knock, and Benson Stanley did all that was asked of him, and only blotted his copybook with a couple of handling errors.
But really, this was more like it after the folly of New Plymouth when Ireland self-destructed early.. A real rugby test. A fitting way to say bye-bye to the old ground and a much more telling measure of these rejigged All Blacks. We even had Kapa o Pango to add a bit of spice before things kicked off.
The Welsh certainly accepted the All Blacks' challenge early on after an appropriate - and rare - unleashing of the team's personalised haka. They say they only use it on special occasions these days, and this was certainly one of those as Carisbrook hosted its final rugby test after 102 years as an international venue.
It was appropriate, too, for it was here back in 2005 that this stylised haka - complete with its controversial throat-slitting gesture - was unveiled for the first time. The Welsh last night stood and respected it - as they do - and then answered in the appropriate fashion.
With a ton of pressure. Yes, this was test rugby as we know and love it, 15 against 15, tight, tense and at times terrific. The All Blacks may have eventually broken the shackles, but make no mistake they spent much of the first half under the blowtorch.
Wales dominated the opening quarter and stretched their hosts to the limit on occasions. But this side featuring so many newcomers to this level held firm and produced a classic half of All Black rugby - they scored from their only two forays deep into enemy territory, and kept their own line intact with some committed and systematic defence.
It was past the quarter-hour mark before the All Blacks fashioned their first foray into the Welsh red zone, though they did score from it beautifully when Jimmy Cowan took a quick tap and Mealamu's trademark low body position and leg drive saw him score his second try on this ground.
Later Cory Jane punished the Welsh just past the half-hour mark when he dashed, and then jigged, across after Conrad Smith had fashioned a clever ruck turnover from deep. That made it 15-6 after it had had been practically all Wales in the first 40.
And then they did what quality All Blacks sides have done through the ages. They came out after the break and turned this match on its head. Suddenly it was the men in black applying the pressure, asking the questions.
Carter's dazzling individual try early in the second spell - from a 95m move that the maestro launched from near his own line when he elected to feed Joe Rokocoko rather than relieve pressure via the boot - started the ball rolling and as the Welsh finally tired, the All Blacks made them pay with withering efficiency.
On a night when an old ground said goodbye, surely some old All Black faces reminded us all that they remain class acts of the highest order. Fitting really.
KEY FEATURES
Defining moment: Carter's first try early in the second spell. That well and truly turned the tide
Star man: Carter. Simply sublime. What slump?
What the ABs did well: Defended. And attacked. OK, they played bloody well all-round
What the ABs need to do better: Um, maybe start a little better. But that's being picky, and their first-half defence was very, very good
Who's smiling: Graham Henry. Good call to keep this outfit intact another week, and they delivered for their coach
Who's nervous: Maybe Ben Franks. Woodcock looked a man keen on winning back his starting jersey
Last updated 22:09 19/06/2010
Last week it was the fresh-faced rookies who hogged the All Black headlines. This one, against a legitimate Welsh challenge in Carisbrook's final hurrah, some experienced old warhorses took their turn to bask in the limelight.
Dan Carter was simply superb, illuminating a great occasion with one of those top-drawer displays of his that only he seems capable of delivering. After an indifferent Super 14, this was the Cantab well and truly back in world's-best-No 10 mode as the All Blacks positively strode to a 42-9 victory.
Last week Carter had very much launched the return to form; but last night it exploded into the stratosphere. This was a hugely influential display from a man who was near perfect - he chose his options brilliantly, and at times inspirationally. His change of pace and footwork were sublime and the Welsh will surely long remember this night that Carter tormented them at nearly ever opportunity, before he left the field with 10 minutes remaining, and 27 points to his name.
But this wasn't just the Dan Carter Show as the All Blacks eventually showed they can take apart 15 men just as emphatically as they can 14, or even 13. Not far behind the maestro were some other experienced All Blacks, men like skipper Richie McCaw, locks Brad Thorn and Anthony Boric, hooker Keven Mealamu and wing Joe Rokocoko who all thrived as the New Zealand game went up a gear or two.
Theirs were telling contributions all and should be lauded every bit as much as the six debutants' efforts were last week in New Plymouth.
But it didn't end there. Off the bench Tony Woodcock finally awoke from his seemingly season-long slumber to remind us of his quality, while Richard Kahui came in for 40 minutes of quality football to reinforce why he was such a highly-rated All Black before injury set him back a little.
It's going to be interesting next week if Graham Henry can find room for him somewhere in his starting lineup.
Though the final difference ended up being of a similar nature to last week's romp over the Irish; this was a much more meritorious victory against a Welsh side who gave this thing a good shake in the first half.
The All Blacks faced long periods of pressure, but worked their way out of it splendidly. And then they lit up a famous night for this southern citadel of rugby by producing some scintillating attacking rugby when it counted.
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In the second half when Carter, twice, and Kahui blitzed the tiring Welsh defence with brilliant runs to the tryline, mixing exquisite changes of pace with dashing footwork, the 28,000 who packed the ground started their night-long celebrations early.
They came to party, and apparently so had the All Blacks.
It wasn't all the old hands, of course, even though they very much set the tone. Victor Vito came through his first test start pretty damn well, Israel Dagg absorbed a testing first half mostly safely before staggering off at the break with a head knock, and Benson Stanley did all that was asked of him, and only blotted his copybook with a couple of handling errors.
But really, this was more like it after the folly of New Plymouth when Ireland self-destructed early.. A real rugby test. A fitting way to say bye-bye to the old ground and a much more telling measure of these rejigged All Blacks. We even had Kapa o Pango to add a bit of spice before things kicked off.
The Welsh certainly accepted the All Blacks' challenge early on after an appropriate - and rare - unleashing of the team's personalised haka. They say they only use it on special occasions these days, and this was certainly one of those as Carisbrook hosted its final rugby test after 102 years as an international venue.
It was appropriate, too, for it was here back in 2005 that this stylised haka - complete with its controversial throat-slitting gesture - was unveiled for the first time. The Welsh last night stood and respected it - as they do - and then answered in the appropriate fashion.
With a ton of pressure. Yes, this was test rugby as we know and love it, 15 against 15, tight, tense and at times terrific. The All Blacks may have eventually broken the shackles, but make no mistake they spent much of the first half under the blowtorch.
Wales dominated the opening quarter and stretched their hosts to the limit on occasions. But this side featuring so many newcomers to this level held firm and produced a classic half of All Black rugby - they scored from their only two forays deep into enemy territory, and kept their own line intact with some committed and systematic defence.
It was past the quarter-hour mark before the All Blacks fashioned their first foray into the Welsh red zone, though they did score from it beautifully when Jimmy Cowan took a quick tap and Mealamu's trademark low body position and leg drive saw him score his second try on this ground.
Later Cory Jane punished the Welsh just past the half-hour mark when he dashed, and then jigged, across after Conrad Smith had fashioned a clever ruck turnover from deep. That made it 15-6 after it had had been practically all Wales in the first 40.
And then they did what quality All Blacks sides have done through the ages. They came out after the break and turned this match on its head. Suddenly it was the men in black applying the pressure, asking the questions.
Carter's dazzling individual try early in the second spell - from a 95m move that the maestro launched from near his own line when he elected to feed Joe Rokocoko rather than relieve pressure via the boot - started the ball rolling and as the Welsh finally tired, the All Blacks made them pay with withering efficiency.
On a night when an old ground said goodbye, surely some old All Black faces reminded us all that they remain class acts of the highest order. Fitting really.
KEY FEATURES
Defining moment: Carter's first try early in the second spell. That well and truly turned the tide
Star man: Carter. Simply sublime. What slump?
What the ABs did well: Defended. And attacked. OK, they played bloody well all-round
What the ABs need to do better: Um, maybe start a little better. But that's being picky, and their first-half defence was very, very good
Who's smiling: Graham Henry. Good call to keep this outfit intact another week, and they delivered for their coach
Who's nervous: Maybe Ben Franks. Woodcock looked a man keen on winning back his starting jersey
Friday, June 18, 2010
Quiet Welsh have All Blacks on edge
Quiet Welsh have All Blacks on edge
By MARC HINTON - Stuff
There has been no bluster, no bravado from the Welsh this week ahead of the first of two cracks at the All Blacks. And that has Richie McCaw just a little worried.
As the All Blacks captain spoke to the media following Friday's Captain's Run at Carisbrook, he was asked about the lack of verbal jousts coming from the Welsh camp this week ahead of Saturday night's historic test bringing the curtain down on the Dunedin ground as a test venue.
Given that this is a Warren Gatland team they're facing, and the Kiwi is rather renowned for using the media in the buildup to play a few mind games, it's been noticeable that the Welsh have been playing with rather a straight bat ahead of this test.
No suggestions of lost auras, no accusations of questionable tactics, favourable treatment, no brave predictions that this is going to be the one, when a 57-year run of All Black defeats is going to come to an end. Instead just respect, determination and acknowledgement that it's a massive task they face.
So, what has McCaw made of that?
"We don't usually take too much notice of that sort of stuff," shrugged the skipper. "Sometimes teams just come and put a performance out on the field and say nothing. They're the ones who perform best.
"If you read anything into it, they're obviously ready to play. We've got to make sure we are too."
It's a valid point from McCaw. The Welsh may be missing a key bod or two - top performers like James Hook, Shane Williams, Martyn Williams and Gethin Jenkins especially - but the quiet determination they've exhibited since their arrival suggests they're steeled for the task.
McCaw says his men are anticipating a tough challenge - certainly more testing that the ill-disciplined Irish could muster.
"They always play with a fair bit of passion and it's always a physical challenge against them. I've always enjoyed the matches we've had and they've never been easy," he said.
As far as the Carisbrook factor - and the end of 102 years of test rugby at the iconic ground - McCaw said it had been something his men had looked to embrace this week.
"It's the last time we probably get to play here, and there's a bit of significance in the history that's gone on. But you can't make it a huge deal. It's a game we've got to go out and perform on a rugby field."
McCaw admitted he didn't know a lot about his opposite number, Dragons flanker Gavin Thomas, though had received a bit of 'intel' from the Kiwi contingent playing in Wales.
But his suggestion that the Welsh No 7 was a "young fella" with "some ability" contrasted with Gatland's description of his new loosie as "an experienced flanker who knows all about what it takes to perform at international level".
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The All Black captain said he's expecting an open game - conditions permitting - as Wales had pretty much nailed their colours to that mast and the key for the All Blacks was to try to limit their opponents' opportunities while maximising their own.
McCaw wasn't too bothered by the four tries allowed last week against Ireland, describing them as "extenuating" circumstances.
Then he was asked about whether there remained any residual fedeling around the great 2008 haka standoff at the Millennium Stadium.
If you recall the Welsh team indulged in a stare-down with the All Blacks which lasted what seemed an age before an anxious referee was finally able to persuade the two groups to disperse.
But McCaw's response suggested no affront was taken, then or since.
"I think what happened in '08 was actually pretty good. It certainly upped the ante right from the word go. [But] the guys haven't talked too much about it."
McCaw said the All Blacks would stand their ground if the Welsh were similarly staunch tomorrow night
"You've got to start at some point and you don't want to get silly about it. [But] I guess anything to get everyone excited and the crowd certainly got into it that day."
Which brings us to the All Blacks' kapa o pango haka. It hasn't been seen for the best part of a couple of years, but might it be unleashed on this historic occasion?
"We've been working on it," said McCaw with a hint of a smile. "You'll have to wait and see."
Should be fun. The rugby too.
By MARC HINTON - Stuff
There has been no bluster, no bravado from the Welsh this week ahead of the first of two cracks at the All Blacks. And that has Richie McCaw just a little worried.
As the All Blacks captain spoke to the media following Friday's Captain's Run at Carisbrook, he was asked about the lack of verbal jousts coming from the Welsh camp this week ahead of Saturday night's historic test bringing the curtain down on the Dunedin ground as a test venue.
Given that this is a Warren Gatland team they're facing, and the Kiwi is rather renowned for using the media in the buildup to play a few mind games, it's been noticeable that the Welsh have been playing with rather a straight bat ahead of this test.
No suggestions of lost auras, no accusations of questionable tactics, favourable treatment, no brave predictions that this is going to be the one, when a 57-year run of All Black defeats is going to come to an end. Instead just respect, determination and acknowledgement that it's a massive task they face.
So, what has McCaw made of that?
"We don't usually take too much notice of that sort of stuff," shrugged the skipper. "Sometimes teams just come and put a performance out on the field and say nothing. They're the ones who perform best.
"If you read anything into it, they're obviously ready to play. We've got to make sure we are too."
It's a valid point from McCaw. The Welsh may be missing a key bod or two - top performers like James Hook, Shane Williams, Martyn Williams and Gethin Jenkins especially - but the quiet determination they've exhibited since their arrival suggests they're steeled for the task.
McCaw says his men are anticipating a tough challenge - certainly more testing that the ill-disciplined Irish could muster.
"They always play with a fair bit of passion and it's always a physical challenge against them. I've always enjoyed the matches we've had and they've never been easy," he said.
As far as the Carisbrook factor - and the end of 102 years of test rugby at the iconic ground - McCaw said it had been something his men had looked to embrace this week.
"It's the last time we probably get to play here, and there's a bit of significance in the history that's gone on. But you can't make it a huge deal. It's a game we've got to go out and perform on a rugby field."
McCaw admitted he didn't know a lot about his opposite number, Dragons flanker Gavin Thomas, though had received a bit of 'intel' from the Kiwi contingent playing in Wales.
But his suggestion that the Welsh No 7 was a "young fella" with "some ability" contrasted with Gatland's description of his new loosie as "an experienced flanker who knows all about what it takes to perform at international level".
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The All Black captain said he's expecting an open game - conditions permitting - as Wales had pretty much nailed their colours to that mast and the key for the All Blacks was to try to limit their opponents' opportunities while maximising their own.
McCaw wasn't too bothered by the four tries allowed last week against Ireland, describing them as "extenuating" circumstances.
Then he was asked about whether there remained any residual fedeling around the great 2008 haka standoff at the Millennium Stadium.
If you recall the Welsh team indulged in a stare-down with the All Blacks which lasted what seemed an age before an anxious referee was finally able to persuade the two groups to disperse.
But McCaw's response suggested no affront was taken, then or since.
"I think what happened in '08 was actually pretty good. It certainly upped the ante right from the word go. [But] the guys haven't talked too much about it."
McCaw said the All Blacks would stand their ground if the Welsh were similarly staunch tomorrow night
"You've got to start at some point and you don't want to get silly about it. [But] I guess anything to get everyone excited and the crowd certainly got into it that day."
Which brings us to the All Blacks' kapa o pango haka. It hasn't been seen for the best part of a couple of years, but might it be unleashed on this historic occasion?
"We've been working on it," said McCaw with a hint of a smile. "You'll have to wait and see."
Should be fun. The rugby too.
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