Welsh Confidence Riding High

Wales are definitely riding high going into the match this weekend against the All Blacks. Keen to avoid being "afraid" of the All Blacks as the French were, according to the Welsh side, perhaps they are in danger of going into the match too pumped and too full of self belief? Unlikely however as Wales have always played their best rugby when confident and when attacking. Hopefully this will permeate their game plan and there will be a cracking rugby test this weekend.

Wales have been bolstered by the selection of captain Stephen Jones to return to the fray, and have named a strong team to take on the All Blacks. A sign of this strength, as was referred to yesterday, is the naming of the top 3 All Blacks in their respective positions, as well as the maintenance of the loose forward trio for this match. With the new guys in midfield, Smith and McAlister, the Welsh ought to attack here and make the most of the occaisional lapses in defence we have seen from this side. However these two newbies were impressive against France, and will need to play at the same level this weekend as Wales won't roll over.

The All Blacks should expect confrontation at the breakdown, a lot of physicality in that phase especially, the lineout will be targetted again, and the inexperienced midfield pairing should be run at frequently. While the team has performed well, it should be kept in mind that Wales were six nations champions two seasons ago and have a quality side that will have first hand knowledge of the coaching and playing strategy of two of the present All Black coaching staff. This is an advanatage, although it cuts both ways as Henry and Hansen will know the weaknesses of their former charges.

The usual cheating claims have been given another airing in the media by the Welsh players. This refers to the breakdown and the cynical penalties given by New Zealand, and how the players are street smart and know what they can get away with. I think this is fairly accurate, McCaw has come in for criticism even in his home country for some of his tactics at the breakdown - who can forget Ali Williams rucking McCaw so hard he was suspended for a ridiculously long period of time. Slowing down opposition ball at the breakdown is crucial, and all teams do it. I doubt any of these comments will cause any loss of sleep amongst the All Black players and management.

All that awaits us now is game day, and for the players to do their talking on the field. It is a difficult game to pick, the All Blacks should win, but given it is the last game of a successful season, confidence will be riding high, and the weariness will be at a maximum, Wales could surprise a few people this weekend. Check back soon for more on the upcoming match.