RugbyRebels

In ordinary times, you would automatically install the Springboks at Loftus as favourites. They have a 77% success rate there and are on a 12 year, 9 match winning streak (but one beginning from the last time the All Blacks played there, winning 45-26 in 2006).

On the other hand, the All Blacks themselves are on a 4 match winning streak at the ground and never lost there since the resumption of tests post-apartheid. Their only loss was in 1970 (with Māori and Pacific Islanders selected for the first time, albeit as “honorary whites”).

Also, despite the recent loss, the All Blacks still seem capable of playing the game at a level above everyone else. They will be keen to avenge their first home defeat in the 3N/TRC since 2009 (when they lost 3 in a row to the Boks) and avoid their first consecutive losses since dropping the last 2 matches of the 3N leading into RWC2011.

Match is sold out apparently. Saffers must be optimistic.

All Blacks named; it's a fairly straight-forward selection, with Frizell taking the 6 jersey from Squire who has joined the injured list.

Franks returns to the tighthead spot, along with Aaron Smith at halfback and Jack Goodhue at centre.
Savea moves back to the bench, after a performance that probably secured his position in the squad for the time being, along with Ryan Crotty.

1. Karl Tuinukuafe
2. Codie Taylor
3. Owen Franks
4. Sam Whitelock
5. Scott Barrett
6. Shannon Frizell
7. Sam Cane
8. Kieran Read (C)
9. Aaron Smith
10. Beauden Barrett
11. Rieko Ioane
12. Sonny Bill Williams
13. Jack Goodhue
14. Waisake Naholo
15. Ben Smith

16. Nathan Harris
17. Tim Perry
18. Ofa Tuungafasi
19. Patrick Tuipulotu
20. Ardie Savea
21. TJ Perenara
22. Richie Mo’unga
23. Ryan Crotty

Hopefully Goodhue has locked down the centre spot. Means we're slowly inching towards the optimal backline. Just need the likes of South Africa, England and Ireland to bomb the back three, 2009 style, until we get B.Barrett at fullback and B.Smith on the right wing, with Mo'unga at first five.

The meat eaters look up for it.

Jesus, Crotty continually puts his head on the wrong side when tackling.

Captain Reid, calling Captain Reid. WTF are you?

Aaron Smith you muppet. Karma served.

Composure lacking from the All Blacks. Boks kicking in play is superior, too.

Not very pretty. Smith is getting harassed at the ruck too much.

Our ball security in the maul has been terrible. One minute the ball is at the back, seemingly available, next minute Etzebeth has his mitts all over it.

I wish Aaron Smith would stop referreeing and start playing half back.

Oopsies. Boks changing the width very quickly there. Holes all over the show.

So what’s fucking up our backline defence? Late change or SBW dithering.

Also, how many turn overs on the wing is that?

Poor tackling and Springboks taking full advantage.

SBW.

That was a terrific pass by Taylor

Lizard wrote:That was a terrific pass by Taylor

Followed by a horrid throw in

Hmmm. Need tries and we aren't getting the ball.

Barrett is a fucking terrier on last ditch defence.

morepork wrote:Hmmm. Need tries and we aren't getting the ball.

And when we do we kick it away, poorly.

I think that’s the game gone now.

See how simple that was?

For instance that kick. What was the point?

Yeah...many stupid decisions made this game. Boks are just squeezing us enough to make them count.

Another senseless kick, not chased. Fortunate to get the penalty.