I think they need to amend their strategy as they head into the quarterfinals. This is knock-out rugby where penalty goals, territory and tight play get rewards.There will be plenty of time to counter with the talent the ABs have but I'd like to see them play a conservative style to get into a better test rhythm.
Shouldn't think so. It was a careless and lifting tackle and even if he was cited I would think at worst he would get an off-field yellow but who would know with the erratic system operating at this tournament. The ABs will be nervous until the citing period finishes.
Good point. The defence has been good especially in this match where Tonga had a lot of ball. In other games, the ABs were not put under such heat. Think Wayne Smith will be encouraged by his work.
Hard to look past the way the Wallabies have played so looking forward to see if they can back that up against Wales. The Springboks too are finding something and love the physical demands of knockout footy.
This is where Carter has to come into it more. The ABs might not like kicking but if they do, it will turn some of that defence around or get defenders sitting on their heels and then they can spread possession.
Not the way Samoa have played so far in this tournament. They have disappointed but if they get sorted and play with the attitude Tonga had today, they will make life very difficult for Scotland and give Japan that hope.
Carter is not the player he was however he is still the best the All Blacks have because of his all-round game and goalkicking. Sopoaga has played one test and promises while I would not back Foley to play well throughout a tournament--who put any pressure on him from England?
If that happens, Crockett will start and one of the Cantabs would get a call up. Have you got the inside word already from the All Blacks doctor?
If they are all fit it will be McCaw, Vito, Read but the form horse is Cane
Give me a break. How do you hold back in such a rugged physical match?
Nonu is my midfield pick yet I did not feel he and the test connected much today. Stacks of ABs have been carried off the field like that and even coach Laurie Mains back in '95.
Dont think Fekitoa has been more penetrating and SBW plays second five. There's no question C Smith is battling more but his combo with Nonu and experience will get the nod.
Variety has to be their go-to for the knockout stuff. There are no points for razzle-dazzle so a mix of sensible rugby and then hitting the attack switch down the right end of the park will be needed.
Thanks everyone for joining us today, I hope you have enjoyed our coverage. Make sure you stick around throughout as Chris Rattue's Player Ratings will be online very shortly.
I think they need to amend their strategy as they head into the quarterfinals. This is knock-out rugby where penalty goals, territory and tight play get rewards.There will be plenty of time to counter with the talent the ABs have but I'd like to see them play a conservative style to get into a better test rhythm.
