Test Rugby The All Blacks

[Aucklander]

Pretty much the start of a new era. What are peoples thoughts on how they'll go?

Super Rugby standings paint a pretty decent picture, but I think that means little when it comes to Internationals.

It's going to be a very interesting few months.

 

[Maester]

First All Blacks team of the year:

Ben Smith, Waisake Naholo, Malakai Fekitoa, Ryan Crotty, Julian Savea, Aaron Cruden, Aaron Smith, Kieran Read (c), Sam Cane, Jerome Kaino, Brodie Retallick, Luke Romano, Owen Franks, Dane Coles, Joe Moody

Reserves: Nathan Harris, Wyatt Crockett, Charlie Faumuina, Patrick Tuipulotu, Ardie Savea, TJ Perenara, Beauden Barrett, Seta Tamanivalu

I don't think you need to worry much about a drop off. You'd think losing the likes of McCaw, Nonu, Smith and Carter would be a huge deal, but the guys replacing them all have significant international experience and are at the peak of their powers. Would be surprised if Wales get within 20 points.

 

[Bomberboyokay]

Wales winning.

 

[Aucklander]

Wales winning.

Deservedly so too. Really taking it to them and looking great doing it.

 

[robbieando]

The Welsh can't win in Australia but would be funny to see them win a Test in New Zealand just for all the false hope the Australian media would be filled with

 

[Aucklander]

This looks very much like one of those horrid 1st tests the ABs are inclined to play. That said, I'm loving Wales attitude to the game.

 

[Aucklander]

Dang!! Ouch.

 

[Aucklander]

What a w***er

 

[Bomberboyokay]

Wales did well for a while there.

My stream died halfway through this second half, now watching on a crappier one

 

[Aucklander]

Why have a TMO if you ignore him?

 

[Aucklander]

Very good game. Wales were great right to the end.

 

[Aucklander]

Got the late try they were ripped off earlier. Score doesn't do justice to Wales though.

 

[Aucklander]

The Chiefs thrash Wales 40-7

 

[Bomberboyokay]

Don't like the All Blacks

 

[Aucklander]

So much for a changing of the guard.

 

[Aucklander]

Smashing win by the All Blacks tonight, although not sure it's the right build up to the Lions who will at least have had an excellent lead up to the series.

 

[Bomberboyokay]

Resting 22 players for the Japan game

 

[Aucklander]

Try fest in Japan. Could easily end up 70-40.

 

[Aucklander]

 

[Bomberboyokay]

Do Scotland have a lot of English-born players?