Certainly, Andy Farrell didn’t hold back in describing both of Ireland’s recent performances against New Zealand and Argentina as ugly. A loss and the end of a 19-match winning run in Dublin against New Zealand. A win against Argentina, but ugly.
What is an ugly performance? Generally, when elements of team play are malfunctioning. Some good bits, some bad bits. An example would be England’s poorly selected mid-field move against Australia, which saw Andrew Kellaway intercept 40 meters out and score. Fluency, timing and tempo can also come under the ugly umbrella.
England, a bit like a marathon runner, hit the wall around the 60-minute mark. Certain players lose concentration, some alarmingly lose fitness. The replacements lack impact. The small decisions, so vital to maintain continuity aren’t made positively. And where is the leadership? Oh, the captain gets removed again around the 60 minute mark. There are questions around the tactical, technical, physical and mental elements of the game. Why is it so?
Even Marcus Smith, who has orchestrated much of what has been positive in England’s performances, faded away. One minute he is excellent, the next ordinary. I do like the way he can initiate successful 3 versus 2s in confined spaces. Teams that can execute this way seldom lose. See Mark Tele’a’s tries for New Zealand as evidence.
Meanwhile, South Africa remains so mentally strong. Along with New Zealand, nothing seems to daunt them. Opponents score an early try and pile on the pressure but South Africa responds with ferocious lower body driving tackling and the inevitable turn over results.
The Springboks have depth across all 15 positions, evidenced in last Saturday’s (Nov 16) 29-20 win against England by Grant Williams’ try as a clear example of brilliant execution - a scintillating score.
FABULOUS TRIFECTA
France vs New Zealand last Sunday (Nov 17) was much anticipated. A win for New Zealand would have secured a fabulous trifecta against England, Ireland and France but, alas, they fell one point short in a thrilling 30-29 defeat.
France with Dupont at the helm are unearthing some exciting young talent, none more so than winger Bielle-Biarrey. He has blistering pace. Buros at full back may force Ramos to stay at fly-half.
The All Blacks have their own emerging talent, with scrum half Roigard set to cement that position for many seasons to come. The team are making slight adjustments to their playing style. Some of their support play is technically so correct, support from depth on either side of the ball carrier.
What is interesting to see is the number of short, angled runs into space. Not late unders or overs lines but deliberate short runs. They just ask another question of the defence and quick ball is possible.
Elsewhere, Australia probably put an end to the Welsh coaching department by winning with an impressive 52-20 score, Italy just got over the line against Georgia 20-17, Scotland demolished Portugal 50-21 and Ireland squeezed past Argentina 22-19.
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.