Quite simply the All Blacks keep playing no matter what the score is or what stage the game is at, continuing to play what is in front of them. This enables them to come from behind and win, especially if the opposition try to close out the game.
Many pundits, including in New Zealand, questioned the strength of this current All Black squad. They have been silenced, as emerging young players have coped with the pressure and played exceedingly well, Wallace Sititi, has demonstrated excellent footwork and penetrative running skills. There is clear evidence of harmony within the coaching department and a more fluid style of play is emerging, something witnessed in last Saturday’s (Nov 10) 23-13 defeat of Ireland.
Australia continued this theme against England last Saturday. No one would have thought Australia’s forwards would outplay England’s. However, the game is never over until it’s over.
Rugby Union is a game about knitting together basic skills into various patterns of play, some unscripted. There are options for every situation.
England are on a precipice. A loss to South Africa tomorrow (Nov 16) may see the demise of the coaching department and the captain. The stats will show England needs a ball winning technician in the back row - the All Blacks have two!
Rugby in Australia needed last Saturday’s thrilling win against England. It may not change the landscape or ignite a sudden surge to play the game, but those volunteers who are keeping the game alive will generally feel a whole lot better.
Elsewhere Argentina and France both scored over 50 against a disappointing Italy and a spirited Japan. South Africa used all their 7 forward replacements in beating Scotland 32-15. Fiji despite some ill discipline inflicted a 10th defeat on Wales, 24-19.
To all rugby lovers in Thailand, it is the Amora Hotels & Resorts CNX Dimbulla rugby 11s tournament over the weekend of Nov 23-24 at the Suthep Stadium in Chiang Mai. As in previous tournaments, this will be an exhilarating weekend of running rugby. Go to info@11srugby.com for more information.
The Global Rugby Coach, Mike Penistone, is a globally renowned professional rugby coach based in Phuket who is also an ambassador for the Asia Center Foundation, a charity for disadvantaged children. For more information visit: www.rugbycoachingconsultancy.com.