Scratchy All Blacks Nudge Out Italians
Remember the sights of Jonah Lomu’s storming tries against England in the 1995 Rugby World Cup, well those days are gone and after watching tonights All Black vs Italy test, it seems if they will never return…
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All Blacks Assistant Coach Wayne Smith described his teams play at halftime as “Dumb rugby” and was exactly right as the All Blacks stumbled past the Italians 27 – 6 at AMI Stadium in Christchurch on Saturday night.
The All Blacks looked sloppy,disjointed and disorganised as they spent three quarters of the game banked in their own half. Lock Issac Ross was one of only a few standouts, winning good lineout ball and looking dangerous with the ball in hand. Captain Mils Muliaina was outstanding, leading from the back, sniffing out every opportunity and moved himself into the middle of the game, letting him direct the All Blacks a lot better. Luke Mcalister was very disappointing, starting at five eighth, lacking a tactical kicking game and ball skills letting himself down.
The Italians were brilliant in parts of the game, on attack and in defence they were solid and looked dangerous close to the line. Former Australian Rugby League international Craig Gower slotted well into his role as first five eighth, directing his team with good tactical kicking and passing skills.Captain Sergio Parisse, had a strong game even though a video replay caught him attempting to eye gouge All Black lock Issac Ross which didn’t display good sportsmanship on his part. However, the Italian coaching staff were stunned at the final result and happy scenes were evident in the Italians Corporate box at the end of the game.
Italy has came a long way on this tour to Australia and New Zealand, putting in some very strong performances. If they can create some more opportunities in the backline they could be a threat come six nations time and the end of year All Black tour.
It is now pure fact that the All Blacks have a huge amount to work on. Graham Henry was bollocking his players at half time and will be doing it all week at training. If they play that kind of football in the Tri Nations, they will get eaten alive by the Springboks and Wallabies. The next test for the All Blacks is against the Wallabies at Eden Park in three weeks time, will Henry ring the changes? He will have to, if they want to compete at this level.
