That Was A Test Match

This weekend's game between France and the All Blacks was more like the test matches that we want to see. It was tough, willing, and this time the French came to play. From a New Zealand point of view, a lot more was learned from this game than was the case last week during the 47-3 hiding. The 23-11 scoreline reflected a much more competitive French effort, however the result of the match never seemed like it was in doubt. There was always the impression that the All Blacks could lift themselves, and if this was a final or semi-final during RWC 2007 they would.

Nevertheless, the All Blacks will have learned a lot from this game. They failed to dominate the breakdown as they had so completely the week before. The French turned up to play and compete in this area. The defence of the All Blacks was also outstanding, an uncharacteristic slip up in taking an up and under by McDonald was the only time that France were able to break the All Black line. Their kick and chase game had improved a lot from the week before.

However, the All Blacks continued to dominate at set piece, both scrum and lineout and it was a pretty strong performance all around. The All Blacks did not take all of their chances, and best of all from this win is the impression that there is room for the team to improve further which will assist them in combating the dreaded All Blacks favourtie tag that has undone them at so many competitions in the past.

Nonu scored a good try from a line breaking run set up well by Dan Carter. However, the jury will still be out on whether or not he has what it takes to be the front runner for this position. There was little in this game to resolve the question one way or the other, and now that Mauger is returning home from this tour due to injury, the position is again wide open. As was said last week, it is known what McAlister can bring to the position, however the Nonu question remains open. It would not be surprising to see him get another run.

The All Blacks are right to be wary of Wales. This team have been getting better after the draw against the Wallabies kicked off their season against the tourists. This test against New Zealand will rate very highly in terms of their goals for the season, whereas for the All Blacks the games against France were clearly the most important of this Northern Hemisphere tour. This will be a tough test match and it will be interesting to see what team is named tomorrow.

There are a vast number of combinations that could be employed by the selectors for this game, and given the obvious preferred method of rotation in terms of selection, it is anyone's guess as to how many changes will be made. It is the final game, and if this really is a tour that is building the team towards the world cup next year, then there should be a large number of changes to introduce the new comers to international rugby. Andy Ellis should get a go at fullback, and Nick Evans should get a crack at starting at first five. Masoe should get a start, as should Tialata. Afoa may be unlucky not to get a start as an untested tight head prop. Whatever the team is, they will take the field hungry to keep this winning record alive, and up against quality opposition that could surprise.

Check back tomorrow for comment on the All Blacks side when named. Note also that the Welsh have delayed naming their team until all injured players are able to be considered for playing this weekend, against an All Black side the Welsh are confident they can take on and beat. More comment tomorrow...