Rugby from a land down under sees the Wallabies beat the Springboks and the Pumas succumb to the All Blacks
Rugby expert, Mike Penistone, looks at what has helped the Green & Golds move forward whilst looking at what Argentina has learnt from two bruising encounters with the All Blacks
Wallabies 30, South Africa 17.
Belief and commitment, Wallabies going forward.
Saturday’s win was no fluke.
Wallaby players demonstrated throughout the 80 minutes that they not only understand the numbers game, but they can also implement it.
- Numbers in attack, supporting the ball carrier.
- Numbers in defence, stopping the ball carrier.
- Numbers when counter-rucking, technically correctly.
- Numbers contributing to team mobility in attack and defence. impressive.
Belief
“What players need is that belief in themselves and in their team from the beginning of the game and for it to be there until the final whistle.”
Commitment
“Each player must be aware of his potential contribution to the team. Choosing when to, and when not to contribute is important.”
That said the opposition were a sad reflection of the team that won the World cup. It is now a little clearer why Erasmus felt it necessary to produce the infamous video.
Springbok forwards laboured around the field.
Defence on the short side was naïve.
Adjustment to the angle of backline attack woeful.
Slow to re-align in all aspects of attack and defence.
Slow ball attack predictable.
Some dumb play! Don’t run into Michael Hooper front on unless you have support…he will win the contest!!
The Wallabies made subtle changes that improved not only the individual but also his contribution to team play.
Persisting with Len Ikitau brought out the best in his performance. As did promoting Taniela Tupou to the starting 15. Confidence is the feeling that you’re in the right place at the right time. Both will progress mentally from this game.