NEW ZEALAND RUGBY

HENRY KEEPS JOB FOR ANOTHER 2YRS, AWESOME:

2007-12-07T20:27:00.000+13:00

Graham Henry has been reappointed as head coach of New Zealand after being forced to reapply for the job following a poor World Cup.
Henry's side were favourites to lift this year's World Cup before losing to France in the quarter-finals.

The New Zealand Rugby Union handed the 61-year-old a two-year deal after he got the nod ahead of Colin Cooper, Robbie Deans and Ian Foster.

New Zealand have won 42 of 48 matches under Henry.

During that time they have taken the Tri-Nations title in 2005, 2006 and 2007, completed a series whitewash against the British and Irish Lions and a grand slam over England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.

Henry, who was first appointed after the World Cup in 2003, endured criticism for his squad rotation policy and decision to rest key players for most of the Super 14 season.

But the NZRU said he was still the best man for the job.

"Graham's record, both on and off the field, is among the best in All Blacks rugby history," said acting NZRU chairman Mike Eagle.

"He has set a very high standard in coaching, player management, and integration with the wider New Zealand rugby community.

"He has given a lot in a successful period for our game and the Board is convinced he has more to give the All Blacks and New Zealand rugby."

Henry, the former Wales and Lions coach, said he was grateful for the chance to continue.

"We have learnt lessons from this campaign and we now look forward to being able to build on those learnings and the experience we have," Henry said.

Eagle added: "We are all disappointed not to have won the Rugby World Cup. In that regard, the NZRU Board accepts it was jointly responsible and accountable for the result and the planning that went into the campaign.

"We are committed to learning the key lessons, which will be explored in the independent review announced earlier this week led by Mike Heron and high performance expert Don Tricker."

New Zealand won the inaugural World Cup in 1987 but have since struggled to peak at the four-yearly tournament.

Their only other final appearance ended in a loss to the Springboks in South Africa in 1995.

2008 Super 14 squads named:

2007-11-01T21:02:00.000+13:00

The 2008 Rebel Sport Super 14 squads are as follows:

¹ indicates player named in Rebel Sport Super 14 squad for the first time.
² indicates returning Super 14 player.
³ indicates draft player.

Blues:
John Afoa (Auckland), Ben Atiga (Auckland), Anthony Boric (North Harbour), Daniel Braid (Auckland), Justin Collins (Northland), Bryn Evans ¹ ³ (Hawke’s Bay), Nick Evans (Auckland), Troy Flavell (Auckland), Jamie Helleur ¹ (Auckland), Kurtis Haiu ² (Auckland), Jerome Kaino (Auckland), Tom McCartney ¹ (Auckland), Danny Lee ² ³ (Hawke’s Bay), Keven Mealamu (Auckland), Taniela Moa ¹ (Auckland), Bronson Murray ¹ (Northland), Isa Nacewa (Auckland), George Pisi (North Harbour), Josevata Rokocoko (Auckland), David Smith (Auckland), Benson Stanley ¹ (Auckland), Isaia Toeava (Auckland), Onosa’i Tololima-Auva’a (Auckland), Anthony Tuitavake (North Harbour), Nick White (Auckland), Nick Williams (North Harbour), Tony Woodcock (North Harbour), Rudi Wulf (North Harbour).

Chiefs:
Sosene Anesi (Waikato), Callum Bruce ³ (Otago), Ben Castle (Bay of Plenty), Simms Davison (Bay of Plenty), Aled de Malmanche (Waikato), Stephen Donald (Waikato), Jono Gibbes (Waikato), Tom Harding ² ³ (Wellington), Hayden Hopgood ³ (Canterbury), Richard Kahui (Waikato), Tanerau Latimer (Bay of Plenty), Sione Lauaki (Waikato), Tasesa Lavea (Counties Manukau), Faifili Levave ¹ ³ (Wellington), Brendon Leonard (Waikato), Toby Lynn (Waikato), Lelia Masaga (Counties Manukau), Ben May ³ (Tasman), Liam Messam (Waikato), Malili Muliaina (Waikato), Jamie Nutbrown (Bay of Plenty), Kevin O’Neill (Waikato), Kristian Ormsby (Counties Manukau), Sitiveni Sivivatu (Waikato), Dwayne Sweeney (Waikato), Viliame Waqaseduadua ³ (North Harbour), Craig West (Waikato), Tom Willis (Waikato).

Hurricanes:
Craig Clarke ² (Taranaki), Jerry Collins (Wellington), Jason Eaton (Taranaki), Hikawera Elliott ¹ (Hawke’s Bay), Jacob Ellison ¹ (Wellington), Tamati Ellison (Wellington), Tim Fairbrother (Wellington), Hosea Gear (Wellington), Jimmy Gopperth (Wellington), Zac Guildford ¹ (Hawke’s Bay), Andrew Hore (Taranaki), Cory Jane (Wellington), Michael Johnson ¹ (Hawke’s Bay), Chris Masoe (Wellington), Alby Mathewson (Wellington), Ma’a Nonu (Wellington), Shannon Paku (Wellington), Willie Ripia ¹ (Taranaki), John Schwalger (Wellington), Conrad Smith (Wellington), Rodney So’oialo (Wellington), Jeremy Thrush ¹ (Wellington), Neemia Tialata (Wellington), Tane Tu’ipulotu (Wellington), Bernie Upton (Wellington), Scott Waldrom ² (Taranaki), Thomas Waldrom (Wellington), Piri Weepu (Wellington).

Crusaders:
Tim Bateman (Canterbury), Stephen Brett (Canterbury), Daniel Carter (Canterbury), Wyatt Crockett (Canterbury), Andy Ellis (Canterbury), Ross Filipo ³ (Wellington), Corey Flynn (Canterbury), Kahn Fotuali’i ¹ (Tasman), Ben Franks (Canterbury), Hamish Gard ¹ (Canterbury), Scott Hamilton (Canterbury), Campbell Johnstone (Canterbury), Casey Laulala (Canterbury), Richie McCaw (Canterbury), Leon MacDonald (Canterbury), Sean Maitland ¹ (Canterbury), Nasi Manu ¹ (Canterbury), Michael Paterson (Canterbury), Ti’i Paulo (Canterbury), Kade Poki ¹ (Tasman), Caleb Ralph (Tasman), Kieran Read (Canterbury), Greg Somerville (Canterbury), Brad Thorn ² (Tasman), Reuben Thorne (Canterbury), Mose Tuiali’i (Canterbury), George Whitelock ¹ (Canterbury), Ali Williams (Tasman).

Highlanders:
Aaron Bancroft (Otago), Daniel Bowden ¹ (Otago), Tim Boys ² (Southland), Keith Cameron (Otago), Jimmy Cowan (Southland), Mike Delany ¹ ³ (Bay of Plenty), Tom Donnelly ² (Otago), David Hall (Southland), Chris King (Southland), Johnny Leota ¹ ³ (Manawatu), Jason Macdonald (Otago), Hoani MacDonald (Southland), Jamie Mackintosh (Southland), Brett Mather ¹ (Otago), Toby Morland (Otago), Lucky Mulipola (Otago), Craig Newby (Otago), Clint Newland ¹ ³ (Hawke’s Bay), Isaac Ross ³ (Canterbury), Steven Setephano ¹ (Otago), Alando Soakai (Otago), Niva Ta’auso ³ (Counties Manukau), Ezra Taylor (Otago), Adam Thomson ¹ (Otago), Hayden Triggs ³ (Manawatu), Fetu’u Vainikolo ¹ ³ (Northland), Paul Williams ³ (Canterbury), James Wilson ¹ (Southland).

The number of players from each province is as follows: Auckland (18), Bay of Plenty (5), Canterbury (25), Counties Manukau (4), Hawke’s Bay (6), Manawatu (2), North Harbour (7), Northland (3), Otago (14), Southland (7), Taranaki (5), Tasman (6), Waikato (15) and Wellington (23).

AUCKLAND CLAIMS AIR NZ CUP:

2007-10-21T20:58:00.000+13:00

Superb generalship by first five-eighths Isa Nacewa complemented another solid Auckland forward display as it beat Wellington 23-14 in the Air New Zealand Cup final at Eden Park on Saturday night.

A crowd of 16,000 could only marvel at the control of a player who has been a consistently dominant force in the championship winning campaign, in spite of the fact that first five-eighths is not his preferred position.

That seemed to matter little as the game was played once again in driving Auckland rain with Nacewa scoring 18 points and calling the shots in the manner which has seen Auckland complete the feat of winning the championship, the Ranfurly Shield and being unbeaten for the first time since 1990, and it achieved the remarkable feat of winning the championship in another World Cup year.

The only occasion in which it has not won the Cup in a World Cup year was in 1991 when Otago was successful.

The intensity of the occasion resulted in more errors than in Auckland's near perfect display over Hawke's Bay in the semi-final of a week earlier, but its solid defence denied Wellington the vital time necessary in Auckland's 22m area to score the tries to put the pressure on the home side.

Auckland showed its hand from the first time it won ball as Nacewa ran straight and hard to break the first line of defence before being dragged down.

Despite rain sweeping in Auckland maintained the tactic, although its error rate during the first half negated the impact as Wellington tackled well and gave as good as it got.

However, after tries had been denied Auckland in the respective corners due to fine tackles by fullback Cory Jane in the first instance and wing Shannon Paku in the second, the dam finally broke.

Big No.8 Brad Mika looked to have coughed up a try scoring chance after making a break but then baulking on the pass.

However, from the ruck the ball was moved back to the left and big wing Jay Williams aqua-planed his way over in the corner to convince the television referee over the try, his first for Auckland.

Then after Nacewa converted from the sideline, Auckland rampaged back onto attack and from a seemingly blind corridor another try was created by livewire wing David Smith.

His sheer acceleration took him through the Wellington cover and when he was held he flicked a pass which was in fullback Brent Ward's hands for a millisecond as he swept it into Nacewa's hands for him to score and convert to take Auckland to a 14-3 lead after 24 minutes.

Wellington finally got into the Auckland 22m after 30 minutes and while not able to score initially, it broke back when Jane chipped ahead. The ball was taken by No.8 Thomas Waldrom who passed to Jane. However, the fullback slipped and got a pass to lock Jeremy Thrush.

As Waldrom was clattered from behind by Ward, when he didn't have the ball, Thrush had the presence of mind to hold the ball and drive towards the corner where he crossed for the try, once again after video evidence was considered in the 35th minute.

After Auckland went to halftime leading 14-8, Nacewa and Wellington first five-eighths Jimmy Gopperth landed two penalty goals apiece before both sides worked their All Blacks into the game. Wellington replacement No.8 Rodney So'oialo tempted fate with an explosive no-arms tackle on Ward but only a penalty was awarded.

More outstanding cover defence from Waldrom denied a try for wing Smith as Wellington once again denied the home team.

Rain swept in again and made handling something of a lottery.

Wellington had a possible chance after a Gopperth midfield up and under which was taken by replacement centre Conrad Smith. He attempted to slip a pass to Thrush but the lock was unable to hold the ball with the goalline beckoning 30m away.

Thrush just missed another chance in the 66th minute after replacement forward Troy Flavell was sin-binned for slowing ball down in a ruck. Gopperth's penalty shot rebounded off the post and Thrush following up just failed to grasp the ball.

Auckland managed to escape when from the resulting lineout Gopperth dropped the ball and the ball was scrambled downfield.

Again it was Nacewa who carried his side to safety after Wellington was penalised just inside his own half. He calmly put the ball between the posts from 48m out.

Wellington had another late chance but it was only academic as Auckland had moved past the safety of the seven-point barrier and its victory was assured.

Scorers:
Auckland 23:
(Jay Williams, Isa Nacewa tries; Nacewa 2 con, 3 pen)
Wellington 14:
(Jeremy Thrush try; Jimmy Gopperth 3 pen). HT: 14-8

HENRY QUITS ALL BLACKS:

2007-10-10T20:42:00.000+13:00

The New Zealand Rugby Union confirmed coach Graham Henry would be replaced at the end of the year after the team's shock World Cup defeat by France.
Henry took charge of the All Blacks after the 2003 World Cup, but chairman Jock Hobbs said: "We'll have a new All Blacks coach in place by Christmas."

Hobbs also revealed an independent inquiry would assess the Kiwi campaign.

Henry said: "There's no need for me or [wife] Raewyn to rush into what we'd like to do immediately in the future."

The 20-18 defeat meant that for the first time the All Blacks would not feature in a World Cup semi-final.

All Blacks legend Colin Meads had led the calls for Henry to be axed.

Meads said: "History tells us if we lose the World Cup, you're history."

Meads, who played 133 times for New Zealand between 1957 and 1971, said Henry must take responsibility for the stunning defeat at the Millennium Stadium.

He said Henry had under-prepared his squad by resting key players for most of the Super 14 season.

"Tragically, we have to say it didn't work out," said Meads.

"Graham usually comes up with the answers, but he didn't this time," he said. "I think we took it too easily, to be quite honest.

"We've got this monkey on our back that we always choke at the World Cup, and that's just going to rear its head again building up to the next World Cup in four years' time.

"We'll go through the same process again. In between Cups we'll be good and then it will all come tumbling down again."

David Kirk, who captained New Zealand to their only World Cup win in 1987, agreed with Meads that Henry's coaching staff had not prepared the team well enough.

"The rotation policy has not worked the way the coaches and selectors would have liked," said Kirk.

"For all the endless hours of training and honing of different combinations they work on, some combinations simply work better than others.

"With the margin of error so fine at World Cups, it is the team management's responsibility to find those combinations and stick with them.

"I think playing the best team regularly is important. It is possible to have too much talent."

Henry was blunt when asked about his own future. "I'm pretty comfortable at 61. I don't have to worry about it. I'm not thinking about it," he said.

New Zealand scrum-half Byron Kelleher admits the defeat to France hurt even more than their semi-final defeat to Les Bleus in 1999.

Kelleher, who ended his 57-Test All Blacks career in the Millennium Stadium, said: "It hurts even more.

"We're a better team than '99 and we know it.

"Personally, to never reach the pinnacle of winning the World Cup breaks me. I'm suffering and it hurts me.

"No disrespect to any of the All Blacks in that 1999 campaign, but the closeness and the camaraderie that we've got in this team is something special.

"We strongly believe we could have pulled it off and we were just two points away. It just didn't go for us on the night.

"All New Zealanders should feel the grief we are suffering. We played for our country and we're hurting that we let them down.

"All we can do is hope the nation can embrace us and understand that we're feeling the same pain within the camp."

Hooker Anton Oliver also admitted the defeat to France was a desperate way for him to end an All Blacks career that has spanned a decade

"After the game I didn't want to take my jersey off, I didn't want to leave it," said the 32-year-old.

"It's very, very difficult for me. No one wants to finish their career like this. We've bled so much for the country and the team had such high hopes.

"It feels like no man's land - and it's not a nice place to be. There has been a lot of people crying, which is not something you see very often so it is quite powerful when you see it."

UNLUCKY BOYS:

2007-10-10T20:39:00.000+13:00

New Zealand coach Graham Henry insisted his players could hold their heads up high despite slumping to their worst-ever World Cup campaign.
The All Blacks let France rally from 13-0 down to record a breathtaking 20-18 quarter-final win and eliminate the odds-on tournament favourites.

"It's very disappointing for the guys - they've given their all over the last four years," said Henry.

"I'm very proud of them, but it just didn't happen for us."

The defeat has condemned Henry's much-hyped side to go down in history as the worst-performing New Zealand side since the World Cup started in 1987.

They won that tournament and reached at least the semi-finals in 1991, 1995, 1999 and 2003.

The All Blacks, who have been number one in the world rankings since May 2004, now face another four years of anguish after France's astonishing win at the Millennium Stadium.

"They're a great bunch of young athletes and they've got a lot of pride," added Henry.

"We just didn't finish up with enough points, I'm afraid.

"We didn't get the rub of the green much, but the French played particularly well. I thought they defended superbly and we had a couple of chances which we didn't take, so it's obviously disappointing."

The All Blacks are likely to come in for ferocious criticism from the unforgiving media in a rugby union-obsessed country, but Henry said that the coaches and players had done everything in their power.

"I don't think there was anything else we could have done leading up to the game," said Henry.

"We had a very good week and trained well but it just didn't happen for us."

All Blacks skipper Richie McCaw was left shell-shocked by the defeat.

"I'm lost for words," he said. "With France, we always knew they could come back in the second half. We lost our composure but I thought we could get it back.

"I can't explain it. We believed we had what it takes. In the first half they forced us to play aerial ping-pong - we didn't want to play like that.

"We couldn't get through. It's a day you try to forget."

RUGBY WORLD CUP.

2007-10-10T20:33:00.000+13:00

New Zealand (13) 18
Try: McAlister, So'oialo
Pens: Carter (2)
Cons: Carter

France (3) 20
Try: Dusautoir, Jauzion
Pens: Beauxis (2)
Cons: Beauxis, Elissalde

France set up a World Cup semi-final with England after a stunning win over hot favourites New Zealand in Cardiff.

The All Blacks dominated the first half but only had Luke McAlister's try to show for it, with Lionel Beauxis's penalty being France's lone score.

After McAlister was sin-binned early in the second half, Thierry Dusautoir took advantage to score and level the game.

Rodney So'oialo's try restored New Zealand's lead before Yannick Jauzion scored France's match-winning try.

France made their intentions clear by staring down the New Zealand haka before kick-off, but the early loss of Serge Betsen, knocked out cold in a fourth-minute ruck, disrupted their plans.

Dan Carter's early penalty put New Zealand ahead and it looked like a try was sure to follow when McAlister ran straight through the French defensive line minutes later.

But a brilliant tackle by Vincent Clerc forced Ali Williams's feet into touch as he tried to go over in the corner.

That McAlister cameo showed just what a threat he was, though, and it was not long before that threat was converted into points.

Carter's expertly-timed pass sent Sale's new recruit through the French defence once again and he flew over after swapping passes with Jerry Collins.

Another Carter penalty extended the lead as France failed to live up to their pre-match theatrics with any positive action.

They chose not to run the ball out of defence in the first half-hour and only had one Beauxis penalty on the board at the break.

But the game turned just after the restart, when McAlister was sin-binned for deliberate obstruction on Jauzion as he chased Beauxis's kick-through.

France's backs finally sprung into life as a meaningful attacking force, Dusautoir finding a way through on the right to touch down behind the posts.

So'oialo slid under several challenges to claim New Zealand's second try and restore the lead, but the introduction of Frederic Michalak had instant effect as France promptly went ahead for the first time.

Damien Traille fed the fly-half, whose burst of speed took him away from the chasing New Zealand players before he off-loaded to Jauzion to touch down.

Jean-Baptiste Elissalde's conversion put France on top and, inspiring comparisons with their legendary 1999 semi-final win over the All Blacks, they held on for a famous win.

New Zealand's defeat meant they failed to reach the semi-final for the first time in World Cup history.

New Zealand:
MacDonald, Rokocoko, Muliaina, McAlister, Sivivatu, Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Oliver, Hayman, Robinson, Williams, Collins, McCaw (capt), So'oialo.
Replacements:
Hore, Tialata, Jack, Masoe , Leonard, Evans, Toeava.

France:
Traille, Clerc, Marty, Jauzion, Heymans, Beauxis, Elissalde; Milloud, Ibanez (capt), De Villiers, Pelous, Thion, Betsen, Dusautoir, Bonnaire.
Replacements: Szarzewski, Poux, Chabal, Harinordoquy, Michalak, Dominici, Poitrenaud.

RUGBY WORLD CUP TEAM NEWS:

2007-10-03T13:05:00.000+13:00

New Zealand coach Graham Henry has ushered fly-half Dan Carter back into the side for Saturday's World Cup quarter-final with France in Cardiff.

Carter, 25, missed the 85-8 victory over Romania with a calf strain and has yet to return to full training, but he is hoping to be fit to face the French.

New Zealand's record try-scorer Doug Howlett is left out of the 22.

"Dan Carter was playing 50% of the time in practice [on Tuesday] but it looks like he'll be fine," said Henry.

"We can't be 100% sure on that but we have Nick Evans ready to step in if required, so it's not a major issue.

"Dan is reasonably positive he'll get through, but if we keep pushing him in training he won't get there.

"For him to train at 100% would be suicidal so we need to keep the reins on him a bit."

Only five players remain from the side that beat Romania - inside centre Luke McAlister, wingers Joe Rokocoko and Sitiveni Sivivatu, lock Keith Robinson and back row Jerry Collins.

Howlett, who has scored 48 Test tries, has been kept out of the side by Sivivatu, while Leon MacDonald starts at full-back and Mils Muliaina comes in at outside centre.

Robinson is preferred at lock to Chris Jack, while Anton Oliver starts at hooker, with Keven Mealamu on the bench.

"The selection of the side is probably the most difficult it's been since we've done the job, particularly the backs," said Henry.

"We could have picked any of our 14 backs in this match because they're all playing exceptionally well.

"Up front, there is a bit of a gap between the top and second players in some positions. "That's no criticism of the second player, that's just the fact of the matter.

"Having tough choices to make is a great situation to be in but it's also difficult to inform the guys who haven't been picked."

Henry had all of the 30-man squad available for selection, with the exception of loose forward Sione Lauaki, who was banned for two matches for a dangerous tackle on Romania winger Gabriel Brezonianu.

Henry added: "We are excited to play France. Sudden-death rugby obviously has its own tensions and that's the reality all eight teams face this weekend.

"France probably weren't expected to be in this quarter-final so there may be some extra tension in this match particularly.

"As a team we have really enjoyed the big occasions over the last few years and we've enjoyed a good and thorough preparation for this match."

New Zealand will wear their grey "away" strip instead of their traditional black after losing a coin toss to France, whose shirt is dark blue.
"The All Blacks are a very strong team and if they play in pink, blue or white they would be as strong as playing in black," said France captain Raphael Ibanez.

New Zealand:
MacDonald, Rokocoko, Muliaina, McAlister, Sivivatu, Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Oliver, Hayman, Robinson, Williams, Collins, McCaw (capt), So'oialo.
Replacements:
Mealamu, Tialata, Jack, Masoe , Leonard, Evans, Toeava.

RUGBY WORLD CUP.

2007-09-30T17:28:00.000+13:00

New Zealand (36) 85
Tries: Sivivatu 2, Masoe, Rokocoko 3, Evans, Mauger, Toeava 2, Hore, Smith, Howlett
Cons: McAllister 4, Evans 6
Romania (5) 8
Tries: Tincu
Pens: Vlaicu

Joe Rokocoko went over for a hat-trick of tries as New Zealand ran in 13 tries to beat Romania in their final Pool C clash in Toulouse.

The All Blacks were in dominant form with two tries apiece for Sitiveni Sivivatu and Isaia Toeava.

Chris Masoe, Aaron Mauger, Andrew Hore, Nick Evans, Conrad Smith and Doug Howlett also went over.

Romania tried hard but their only try came after 31 mintues through hooker Marius Tincu.

The All Blacks set out their intentions from the start with the first of Sivivatu's tries coming with less than a minute on the clock.

From then on it was one-way traffic as the Romanians had no answer to New Zealand's fast attack and the All Blacks built up a 31-0 lead after 25 minutes.

Romania showed some determination to take more from the contest early in the second half but the relentless All Blacks could not be contained.

Rokocoko completed his hat-trick in the second half and his side finished with a flourish with replacement Doug Howlett stretching his all-time New Zealand try scoring record to 49.

Sale-bound Luke McAllister kicked four goals with Evans notching six. With four wins out of four, the All Blacks will travel to Cardiff next weekend in confident mood to play France, Argentina or Ireland in the quarter-finals.

New Zealand coach Graham Henry
"Romania played with a lot of passion and were very physical. They lived on the offside line but we scored some great tries.

"Overall we're pretty pleased, and we had no injuries, which is a pretty big plus.

"There is obviously still room for improvement."

Romania captain Sorin Socol
"We're happy, especially with the fact we scored a try. Everyone knows New Zealand are the best team in the world.

"I think for a while we kept our heads together, but then we had five or six minutes out of the game and boom, we conceded five or six tries."

New Zealand:
Evans, Rokocoko, Toeava, Mauger, Sivivatu, McAlister, Ellis, Tialata, Mealamu, Somerville, Thorne, Robinson, Collins, Masoe, Lauaki.
Replacements:
Hore, Woodcock, Jack, McCaw, Leonard, Howlett, Smith.

Romania:
Dumitras, Ciuntu, Gal, Gontineac, Brezoianu, Dimofte, Sirbu, B. Balan, Tincu, Florea, Socol, Petre, Corodeanu, Manta, Tonita.
Replacements:
Mavrodin, Ion, Ursache, Ratiu, Calafeteanu, Vlaicu, Dascalu.

RUGBY WORLD CUP.

2007-09-24T20:47:00.000+12:00

Scotland (0) 0

New Zealand (20) 40
Tries: McCaw, Howlett (2), Kelleher, Williams, Carter
Cons: Carter (2)
Pens: Carter (2)

Scotland failed to score against a dominant New Zealand in a one-sided World Cup encounter at Murrayfield.

The All Blacks ran in tries from Richie McCaw, Doug Howlett - his two making a new All Black career record 48 - Byron Kelleher, Ali Williams and Dan Carter.

The tournament favourites eased off after the break and did not fully capitalise on their superiority.

A Scotland side featuring 13 changes to the side which defeated Romania failed to create anything of note.

Scotland had failed to beat the All Blacks in their previous 25 attempts.

But they placed a higher priority on beating Italy next Saturday - a result which is vital if they are to come second in their group - and named a second-string side with new caps.

Only Chris Paterson, who moved to fly-half, and Simon Webster on the wing, were retained from that game.

The All Blacks welcomed back captain Richie McCaw and fly-half Dan Carter.

Centre Conrad Smith, Chris Masoe and lock Williams were the only survivors from the Portugal game.

New Zealand, wearing silver and black instead of their famous black shirts, looked razor sharp from kick-off.

McCaw touched down in the fifth minute after collecting a clever inside pass from Rodney So'oialo at the back of the scrum.

Carter kicked his first conversion of the day, as the Scots looked set for a long afternoon.

Paterson looked to reply immediately for the Scots, but his drop-kick missed right of the posts.

The Scots were unable to make any headway into New Zealand territory in the opening quarter.

Howlett had a simple run-in for New Zealand's second try when he took Leon McDonald's pass, moving clear of Christian Cullen's previous record of 46 tries for New Zealand.

Scotland's frantic defending was struggling to keep the relentless New Zealand attacks at bay.

Hugo Southwell's kick was then charged down as the home fans in the stands groaned.

Carter added a penalty after 24 minutes to make it 15 for the All Blacks as the Scots prayed for some respite.

But the All Blacks were showing no mercy and Kelleher got the third try of the first half after Masoe tenaciously broke through a couple of tackles.

Carter was uncharacteristically poor with the boot as he missed another conversion but the number 10 added another penalty minutes after the re-start.

Carter then saw a penalty rebound off the upright and Howlett failed to capitalise when he looked set to score his second try of the game.

There was controversy after 55 minutes when McCaw passed to Carter for a kick at goal - a decision which did not go down well with the Murrayfield crowd.

Williams raised the try count when he held off three spirited challenges on the right before touching down.

Carter's miserable day with the boot continued, but he offered some cheer when he pounced on Nikki Walker's handling error and sprinted under the posts.

He made no mistake with the conversion as the Scots must have longed for full-time.

The All Blacks offered a glimpse of their best when Howlett raced away from the leg-weary Scots for his second try of the day and 48th for his country.

Carter missed the conversion to ensure the margin of victory did not creep nearer the half century.

Scotland:
Southwell, Walker, Di Rollo, Henderson, Webster, Paterson, Cusiter, Dickinson, Lawson, Smith, MacLeod, Murray (capt), Brown, Callam, Barclay.
Replacements:
Thomson, Kerr, Hamilton, Hogg, Lawson, Parks, Dewey.

New Zealand;
MacDonald; Howlett, Smith, McAlister, Sivivatu; Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Oliver, Hayman, Thorne, Williams, Masoe, McCaw (capt), So'oialo.
Replacements:
Hore, Tialata, Jack, Lauaki, Leonard, Evans, Toeava.

RUGBY WORLD CUP TEAM NEWS:

2007-09-21T20:44:00.000+12:00

New Zealand welcome back captain Richie McCaw and fly-half Dan Carter for the decisive World Cup Pool C match against Scotland at Murrayfield on Sunday.

Both players sat out the 108-13 romp against Portugal and All Blacks coach Graeme Henry makes 12 changes in all.

Chris Masoe starts at number six in place of Jerry Collins, while Leon MacDonald plays at full-back.

Doug Howlett starts on the wing while Reuben Thorne plays in the second row, with Chris Jack on the bench.

Centre Conrad Smith, Masoe and lock Ali Williams are the only survivors from the Portugal game, which saw the tournament favourites run in 16 tries.

Lock Keith Robinson and full-back Mils Muliaina are currently unavailable because of injury.

However, New Zealand coach Graeme Henry expects Robinson to be fit for the final pool game against Romania on 29 September, and Muliaina is slowly returning to training after tweaking his hamstring against Portugal.

The winner of the match will be on course to top the group and All Blacks' coach Graeme Henry is not expecting an easy ride at Murrayfield.

"We expect our toughest match of the pool against Scotland. We're looking forward to it," said Henry.

"The test is well-timed for us, coming two weeks out from the quarter-finals.

"If we can play well against Scotland, we can build some momentum ahead of the knock-out round."

New Zealand;
MacDonald; Howlett, Smith, McAlister, Sivivatu; Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Oliver, Hayman, Thorne, Williams, Masoe, McCaw (capt), So'oialo.
Replacements:
Hore, Tialata, Jack, Lauaki, Leonard, Evans, Toeava.

Pool C Table
Team P W D L F A BP PTS
1 New Zealand 2 2 0 0 184 27 2 10
2 Scotland 2 2 0 0 98 10 2 10
3 Italy 3 2 0 1 69 99 0 8
4 Romania 2 0 0 2 18 66 1 1
5 Portugal 3 0 0 3 28 195 0 0

RUGBY WORLD CUP.

2007-09-16T19:46:00.000+12:00

New Zealand: (52) 108
Tries: Rokocoko 2, Toeava, Williams, Mauger 2, Collins, Masoe, Hore, Leonard, Evans, Ellis, MacDonald, Smith 2, Hayman
Cons: Evans 14

Portugal: (3) 13
Tries: Cordeiro
Cons: D Pinto
Pens: D Pinto
Drop-goals: Malheiro

New Zealand ran in 16 tries as they brushed aside Portugal in Lyon.

Joe Rokocoko (2), Isaia Toeava, Ali Williams, Aaron Mauger, Jerry Collins, Chris Masoe and Andrew Hore went over for the All Blacks in the first half.

They then added further scores through Nick Evans, Brendon Leonard, Andrew Ellis, Mauger, Leon MacDonald, Conrad Smith (2) and Carl Hayman.

Portugal managed a converted Rui Cordeiro try to add to Goncalo Malheiro's earlier drop goal.

The Portuguese, 22nd in the world, had eagerly awaited their opportunity to meet the world's top ranked team and they visibly relished the chance to face the haka.

Italy had spurned the challenge when they met the All Blacks and conceded a try within two minutes, but Portugal held out twice as long before Rokocoko scythed through to score.

The winger soon added a second try, but the next score went to Portugal as Malheiro, their all-time record points scorer, drilled over a fine drop-goal.

The All Blacks, the tournament favourites, said they would be "sensitive" up against a largely amateur team, but conceding points was not part of the deal and the drop-goal had the same effect as poking a wasps' nest.

New Zealand started to swarm over Os Lobos and, in the last 18 minutes of the first half, added further tries by Toeava, Williams, Mauger, Collins, Masoe and Hore.

Amazingly, the first score of the second half went to Portugal as Cordeiro finished off a series of close-range drives.

Duarte Pinto duly kicked the conversion to put the minnows within 42 points.

But Leonard rapidly hit back for the All Blacks and, although Portugal defended bravely, Evans, Ellis, Mauger, MacDonald, Smith, who grabbed a double, and Hayman all crossed as the floodgates opened once more.

Evans converted 14 tries and claimed a personal haul of 33 points as New Zealand finished well short of the record 145 points they ran up against Japan in 1995.

New Zealand coach Graham Henry:
"I think it was a really good occasion. The crowd really enjoyed the rugby, we're pleased with our guys.
"We started a little slower than last week and that was credit to the Portuguese but we got into a rhythm.

"I'm delighted the way the guys handled this particular game. They didn't get over-physical, they showed their skills and treated the opposition with a lot of dignity.

"I think it was a pretty good game all round and I hope the Portuguese are pleased. They seemed to be happy after the game."

Portugal coach Tomaz Morais:
"It is an excellent day for rugby in Portugal and rugby across the world.
"Rugby has to evolve and only by playing the best can teams like Portugal do that. I don't think it was a disappointing game, it was a good spectacle and there was a great atmosphere in the stadium.

"Our goals for the game were very clear we knew we were playing against New Zealand, the greatest team in the world in recent years.

"They have beaten good teams by 70 or 80 points, but we scored a try and played very well. All the players that came back today came as survivors, we couldn't resist their physicality but we played rugby from the first to last."

New Zealand:
Muliaina; Toeava, Smith, Mauger, Rokocoko; Evans, Leonard; Tialata, Hore, Somerville, Jack, Williams, Collins (capt), Masoe, Lauaki.
Replacements:
Oliver, Woodcock, Hayman, So'oialo, Mealamu, Ellis, MacDonald.

Portugal:
Leal; Aguilar, Portela, Mateus, Carvalho; Malheiro, Pissarra; Silva, Correia, Spachuck, d'Orey, G Uva, Murinello, Coutinho, V Uva (capt).
Replacements:
Cordeiro, Ferreira, Penalva, Girao, J Uva, J Pinto, D Pinto.

RUGBY WORLD CUP.

2007-09-09T08:38:00.000+12:00

New Zealand (43) 76
Tries: McCaw 2, Howlett 3, Muliaina, Sivivatu 2, Jack, Collins 2
Cons: Carter 7, McAlister 2
Pens: Carter

Italy (7) 14
Tries: Stanoevic, Mirco Bergamasco
Cons: Bortolussi, de Marigny

Favourites New Zealand laid down a World Cup marker by destroying Italy in their opening game in Marseille.

Richie McCaw (2), Doug Howlett, Mils Muliaina and Sitiveni Sivivatu (2) scored before Marko Stanojevic crossed for Italy to make it 43-7 at the break.

The All Blacks added further tries through Chris Jack, Howlett (2) and Jerry Collins (2), before Mirco Bergamasco grabbed a consolation try.

Star All Blacks fly-half Dan Carter landed 17 points with the boot.

Italy have a reputation as a physical, abrasive unit but they were taken apart by the All Blacks in a devastating opening quarter.

New Zealand have a history of peaking between World Cups but since losing in the semi-finals of the 2003 tournament they have won 38 of their 43 Tests.

They thrilled the passionate 60,000 crowd at Olympique Marseille's Velodrome stadium by performing their traditional pre-match Ka Mate haka, rather than the Kapa O Panga haka they have used frequently over the past couple of years.

The Italians chose to spurn the challenge by going into a group huddle and they seemed to turn their backs once again just 60 seconds into the game.

All Blacks second row Ali Williams peeled round the back of a line-out and New Zealand captain McCaw romped over untouched from the 22.

McCaw, the IRB player of the year in 2006, added his second try just six minutes later before two Carter conversions and a penalty put the tournament favourites 17-0 up after just 11 minutes.

Italy looked shell-shocked and a panicky kick soon landed in the hands of the lethal Sivivatu, who sparked a sweeping passing move ended by Howlett in the far corner.

The battered Azzurri tried to respond by imposing themselves physically, but twice Carter saw their blitz defence coming, twice he chipped over the thin blue line and twice the All Blacks scored.

Muliania and Sivivatu were the lucky recipients and, with Carter maintaining his 100% success rate with the boot, the tournament favourites had 38 points on the board after just 18 minutes.

With their worst nightmare unfolding before them, Italy finally woke up and they restricted the hosts to just one more try before the interval, Sivivatu finishing off a lightning attack started by Leon MacDonald taking a quick tap in his own 22.

Carter missed the conversion but, with the game already won well before half-time, the All Blacks started to play fantasy rugby.

They duly paid the price as one ambitious break-out ended with Stanojevic intercepting and racing clear to score, with David Bortolussi adding the conversion to make it 43-7 at the break.

Italy's task was made somewhat easier when giant New Zealand tight-head Carl Hayman was sent to the sin bin for a punch a minute into the second half.

It took 10 minutes before towering second row Jack, who will join Saracens after the World Cup, strode over for his side's seventh try and they continued to arrive at regular intervals.

The Munster-bound Howlett grabbed a brace to move level on 46 tries with legendary full-back Christian Cullen as the All Blacks' all-time leading try scorer, while Collins also picked up a double.

Carter and Luke McAlister, who is heading to Sale Sharks, added four conversions between them before the younger of the two Bergamasco brothers went over for Italy, with Roland de Marigny converting.

Marseille may be famed for the Mistral, the strong wind which frequently sweeps over the southern port city, but on Saturday it was the All Blacks who simply blew the opposition away.

New Zealand:
MacDonald; Howlett, Muliaina, McAlister, Sivivatu; Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Mealamu, Hayman, Jack, Williams, Collins, McCaw, So'oialo.
Replacements:
Oliver, Tialata, Masoe, Lauaki, Leonard, Mauger, Toeava.

Italy:
Bortolussi; Robertson, Masi, Mirco Bergamasco, Stanojevic; De Marigny, Troncon; Perugini, Ongaro, Castrogiovanni, Dellape, Bortolami (capt), Zanni, Mauro Bergamasco, Parisse.
Replacements:
Festuccia, Lo Cicero, Bernabo, Vosawai, Griffen, Canale, Galon.

All Blacks reveal World Cup squad:

2007-07-22T20:19:00.000+12:00

New Zealand coach Graham Henry left one place open when he announced a 29-man squad for the World Cup in September.
Injured All Blacks prop Greg Somerville has been given another three weeks to prove his fitness following Achilles tendon surgery.

The only surprises in Henry's selection were recalls for scrum-half Andy Ellis and loose forward Sione Lauaki at the expense of Piri Weepu and Troy Flavell.

The deadline for the complete 30-man squad to be named is 14 August.

New Zealand are the favourites to win the World Cup after retaining the Tri-Nations title on Saturday with a 26-12 win over Australia in Auckland.

The 29-man squad was made up of 15 forwards and 14 backs and will be captained by Canterbury flanker Richie McCaw.

"They are talented players who have worked hard to prove themselves over a long period of time," said Henry.

"We have been working towards Rugby World Cup for years and now it is our only focus. We are doing everything we can in terms of preparation."

New Zealand World Cup squad:
Backs:
Mils Muliaina, Leon MacDonald, Doug Howlett, Joe Rokocoko, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Isaia Toeava, Conrad Smith, Luke McAlister, Aaron Mauger, Daniel Carter, Nick Evans, Byron Kelleher, Brendon Leonard, Andrew Ellis.
Forwards:
Rodney So'oialo, Chris Masoe, Richie McCaw (capt), Jerry Collins, Sione Lauaki, Reuben Thorne, Ali Williams, Chris Jack, Keith Robinson, Carl Hayman, Neemia Tialata, Tony Woodcock, Anton Oliver, Keven Mealamu, Andrew Hore.

New Zealand 26-12 Australia:

2007-07-22T20:15:00.000+12:00

New Zealand (12) 26
Tries: Woodcock
Pens: Carter (7)

Australia (9) 12
Pens: Mortlock (3)
Drops: Giteau

New Zealand retained the Tri-Nations title and the Bledisloe Cup with a hard-fought win over Australia at a damp Eden Park in Auckland.

Heavy rain made the early stages a battle, with four Dan Carter penalties helping the All Blacks to a slender 12-9 lead at half-time.

But the hosts' physical power told after the break when Tony Woodcock went over from close range on 59 minutes.

A seventh Carter penalty on 72 minutes put the result beyond doubt.

A heavy pre-match downpour put paid to hopes of running rugby and the boot was always to the fore.

Carter and Australian skipper Stirling Mortlock put on an exemplary display off the kicking tee in a tit-for-tat first-half in which the biggest margin between the teams was three points.

A Matt Giteau drop-goal gave the Wallabies a 6-3 lead on 25 minutes, but they were unable to hold on to that advantage until the break as Carter slotted three more penalties to Mortlock's one.

Following another Carter effort, Mortlock pulled his team back to within three points again before being harshly adjudged to have caught Doug Howlett with a high tackle.

Carter stepped up again to slot the points and Australia were never to get back within touching distance of their hosts.

"We had a lot more ball and a lot more territory in the first half but didn't use it as much as we should," said Mortlock.

"We came out in the second half and didn't have any territory at all."

Despite causing New Zealand some trouble at the line-out in the first half and standing stout in defence, John Connolly's men never threated to score a try.

The All Blacks only had one real chance for a five-pointer but did not waste it.

Brendon Leonard broke in midfield to set up the platform of a five-metre scrum and when the replacement scrum-half darted for the line his pack piled in to support and Woodcock ducked in at the corner.

Coach Graham Henry said of the difference between the two halves: "We got the ball in front of us a lot more.

"Our lineout obviously improved immensely in the second half which was a key factor, we had more dominance at scrum time which led to the try."

And his captain Richie McCaw added: "We didn't have a lot of ball outside our own half in the first spell.

"In the second half we put them under pressure, especially chasing kicks, and got a bit of a reward for that.

"Through the whole Tri-Nations, the emphasis was on doing it right. We didn't always do it right but putting a couple of trophies in the cabinet tonight is pretty satisfying."

The win clinched the Tri-Nations title for the third straight year, kept the Bledisloe Cup in New Zealand for the sixth year in a row and extended to 22 years the All Blacks' winning streak over the Wallabies at Eden Park.

However, the focus all along has been the World Cup.

Graham Henry's men will head to France as favourites to secure a first success since 1987 after this confidence-boosting win.

But despite their professionalism in seeing off Australia, there is hope for everyone else as the All Blacks are still struggling to meet the scintillating standards they set last season.

New Zealand:
Muliaina; Howlett, Toeava, McAlister, Rokocoko; Carter, Kelleher, Woodcock, Oliver, Hayman, Robinson, Jack, Collins, McCaw (capt), So'oialo.
Replacements:
Mealamu, Tialata, Thorne, Masoe, Leonard, Mauger, Evans.

Australia:
Ashley-Cooper; Mitchell, Mortlock (capt) Giteau, Gerrard; Larkham, Gregan; Dunning, Moore, Shepherdson, Sharpe, Vickerman, Elsom, Smith, Hoiles.
Replacements:
Freier, Baxter, McMeniman, Chisholm, Waugh, Staniforth, Latham.

All Blacks team to play Australia announced:

2007-07-17T21:00:00.000+12:00

New Zealand have made three changes for Saturday's Tri-Nations decider against Australia at Eden Park in Auckland.

Byron Kelleher, Jerry Collins and Anton Oliver return after last weekend's 33-6 win over South Africa in Christchurch.

Scrum-half Kelleher comes in for Piri Weepu, Collins takes over from Reuben Thorne at blind-side flanker and Oliver replaces Keven Mealamu at hooker.

Australia have decided against starting Chris Latham at full-back, although he has earned a place on the bench.

Concerns over Latham's match fitness after knee surgery mean the number 15 jersey goes to Adam Ashley-Cooper, with Drew Mitchell coming in on the wing.

Latham, who has won 72 caps, has only played one full club game since a knee reconstruction operation in January.

But he suddenly found himself back in the Australia 22 after Julian Huxley suffered a thigh injury at an awards dinner.

Huxley was "playfully tackled" by his ACT Brumbies team-mate Gene Fairbanks. "It was just a joke gone wrong and it turned out to be quite embarrassing," Huxley said.

Stephen Moore returns at hooker in place of Adam Freier after recovering from a sternum injury while David Lyons ousts Stephen Hoiles at number eight.

The Tri-Nations and Bledisloe Cup are both up for grabs on Saturday after Australia shocked the All Blacks 20-15 in Melbourne last month.

Both teams have nine points after winning two and losing one of their three games to date.

South Africa are bottom of the table, with five points from their four matches.

"Bledisloe Cup and Tri-Nations deciders are right up there alongside World Cup finals," said Wallabies coach John Connolly.

"Opportunities to play in Tests like this don't come around too often and Saturday night will be a very special occasion.

"For a number of our players it will be the biggest match of their career."

All Blacks coach Graham Henry agrees that the match carries plenty of significance.

"The Bledisloe Cup and the Tri Nations championship are hugely important to New Zealand and we would like to claim those honours again," he said.

"Our performance improved last week and we are after more improvement this week. We are close to playing the type of rugby we want to play."

Henry has retained faith in the young midfield pairing of Isaia Toeava and Luke McAlister but winger Sitiveni Sivivatu was not considered for selection because of a calf strain.

Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Rugby Football Union has confirmed it is in talks to host a game between the Wallabies and the All Blacks next year.

New Zealand:
Muliaina, Howlett, Toeava, McAlister, Rokocoko, Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Oliver, Hayman, Robinson, Jack, Collins, McCaw (capt), So'oialo.
Replacements:
Mealamu, Tialata, Thorne, Masoe, Leonard, Mauger, Evans.

Australia:
Latham/Ashley-Cooper, Ashley-Cooper/Mitchell, Mortlock (capt), Giteau, Gerrard, Larkham, Gregan; Dunning, Moore, Shepherdson, Sharpe, Vickerman, Elsom, Smith, Lyons.
Replacements:
Freier, Baxter, McMeniman, Hoiles, Waugh, Staniforth, Mitchell/Latham.

New Zealand 33-6 South Africa:

2007-07-15T14:08:00.000+12:00

New Zealand (6) 33
Tries: Leonard, Evans, Carter
Cons: Carter (3)
Pens: Carter (4)

South Africa (3) 6
Pen: Hougaard (2)

New Zealand defeated a gritty South Africa to set up a Tri-Nations decider against Australia next Saturday.

After a largely kick-dominated game, Brendon Leonard scored the opening try with just 11 minutes left after Joe Rokocoko's camouflaged pass.

Nick Evans added another score in the corner late on and Dan Carter finished off a 12-pass move to add the third try after the final hooter had sounded.

South Africa finish the Tri-Nations campaign bottom of the table.

But they showed great determination and remained in the contest until the final minutes of the match when the All Blacks finally broke down their resolute defence.

Once again South Africa fielded a sub-strength team, but from the start they showed a real intent to run the ball, with JP Pietersen making good early yards.

Having missed an early chance, Carter put New Zealand ahead on nine minutes with the first of his four penalties.

Derick Hougaard levelled the scores but by the time Carter restored the All Blacks' three-point advantage on 24 minutes, it was already the 10th penalty of the game, which summed up the disappointing quality of the first half.

The nearest either side came to a try in the first half was when Piri Weepu threw a brilliant pass to Luke McAlister, who sidestepped to put himself in a great attacking position.

A try seemed there for the taking but McAlister's pass out wide was poor and the ball went into touch.

Hougaard missed another penalty attempt just before the break, but hit the target six minutes after the restart to level the score for a second time.

Carter landed his third penalty to restore the New Zealand advantage, as Pedrie Wannenburg was sin-binned for killing the ball at a ruck.

The home team then found some attacking rhythm, working the ball through 10 phases of play close to the Springbok line as they went in search of a try.

Again South Africa, down to 14 players, held out and won a crucial penalty close to their line - but the decision was reversed when Albert van den Berg was adjudged to have stood on an opponent's head.

Carter made no mistake with a simple penalty to extend his team's lead, putting them 12-6 ahead.

With 11 minutes remaining, the All Blacks finally crossed the line.

Rokocoko burst forward from midfield after collecting a pass from Doug Howlett before executing an audacious flick pass while looking the other way for Leonard to cross.

Evans then scored in the left-hand corner after a series of smooth passes stretched their tiring opponents and, with the very last action of the match, Carter broke free to cross.

He added his third conversion to give the scoreline a slightly flattering appearance for his team.

The victory takes the All Blacks top of the Tri-Nations table, level on Australia with nine points.

And with one more match before their World Cup campaign, the All Blacks will want to ensure they defeat the Wallabies at home next week to avenge their defeat on 30 June and travel to France with a real sense of momentum.

New Zealand coach Graham Henry put a positive spin on the result, despite it having taken so long for them to break down the visitors.

"We played most of the rugby and looked like scoring most of the tries and probably got a bit frustrated that we didn't score early," Henry said.

"That led to a lack of patience and discipline but I think it was a good step forward."

His South African counterpart Jake White said the game was changed irreversibly by the sin-binning of Wannenburg.

"You can't play a team like the All Blacks with 14 men with their athletic ability," he said.

"If they had played with 14 men who knows what might have happened -- you could tell that the crowd sensed that they weren't on their game."

New Zealand:
Muliaina, Howlett, Toeava, McAlister, Rokocoko; Weepu, Carter; Woodcock, Mealamu, Hayman, Jack, Robinson, Thorne, McCaw (capt), So'oialo.
Reserves: Hore, Tialata, Collins, Masoe, Leonard, Smith, Evans.

South Africa:
Pietersen, Paulse, Murray, Olivier, Pretorius; Pienaar, Hougaard; Van der Linde, B du Plessis, J du Plessis, Van den Berg, Muller (capt), Van Heerden, Wannenburg, Cronje.
Reserves: Botha, Andrews, Britz, Lobberts, Claassens, Grant, Chavhanga.

All Blacks V South Africa: Team news.

2007-07-12T13:32:00.000+12:00

Johann Muller will captain South Africa in place of the injured Bobby Skinstad in Saturday's Tri-Nations Test against New Zealand in Christchurch.

The Springboks make four changes to their side and hand a first Test cap to hooker Bismarck du Plessis.

New Zealand have made seven changes with wings Doug Howlett and Sitiveni Sivivatu and centre Isaia Toeava back.

Lock Keith Robinson returns after injury, while scrum-half Piri Weepu, Reuben Thorne and Keven Mealamu start.

Rico Gear, Joe Rokocoko, Aaron Mauger, Troy Flavell, Byron Kelleher, Jerry Collins and Anton Oliver all drop out.

South Africa bring back Jacques Cronje to replace Skinstad at number eight while Albert van den Berg replaces the injured Johan Ackermann at lock.

Du Plessis is prefered to Gary Botha and joins his brother, prop Jannie du Plessis, in the front row.

The only new addition to the backline was left wing Jaco Pretorius, who replaced full-back Bevan Fortuin.

New Zealand are the defending champions but lie second in the standings, though they will retain the title if they win their last two matches, with a return fixture against Australia in Auckland following Saturday's match in Christchurch.

South Africa are bottom of the standings and need to beat the Kiwis on Saturday to keep alive their hopes of winning the Tri-Nations crown.

"The challenge is to make sure everyone in the squad is raising the standard," All Blacks coach Graham Henry said.

"We can play better and these two home matches are our last chance to do so before the Rugby World Cup.

"We also want to see some players get more time on the field, so there have been changes to the line-up."

New Zealand full-back Leon MacDonald, who missed the 20-15 defeat against the Wallabies with a groin problem, remains on the sidelines.

New Zealand:
Mils Muliaina, Doug Howlett, Isaia Toeava, Luke McAlister, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Daniel Carter, Piri Weepu; Tony Woodcock, Keven Mealamu, Carl Hayman, Keith Robinson, Chris Jack, Reuben Thorne, Richie McCaw (captain), Rodney So'oialo.
Replacements:
Andrew Hore, Neemia Tialata, Jerry Collins, Chris Masoe, Brendon Leonard, Conrad Smith, Nick Evans.

South Africa:
JP Pietersen, Breyton Paulse, Waylon Murray, Wynand Olivier, Jaco Pretorius; Derick Hougaard, Ruan Pienaar; Jacques Cronje, Pedrie Wannenburg, Wikus van Heerden, Johann Muller (captain), Albert van den Berg; Jannie du Plessis, Bismarck du Plessis, CJ van der Linde.
Replacements:
Gary Botha, Eddie Andrews, Gerrie Britz, Hilton Lobberts, Michael Claassens, Peter Grant, Tonderai Chavhanga.

Australia 20-15 New Zealand.

2007-07-01T11:17:00.000+12:00

Australia (6) 20
Tries: Ashley-Cooper, Staniforth
Cons: Giteau 2
Pens: Mortlock 2

New Zealand (15) 15
Tries: Woodcock, Gear
Con: Carter
Pen: Carter

Australia replacement Scott Staniforth crossed with just eight minutes left to give the Wallabies their first win over the All Blacks since 2004.

New Zealand started well and led 15-6 at half-time with tries from prop Tony Woodcock and wing Rico Gear.

But Australia battled back and the game turned when All Blacks prop Carl Hayman was sin-binned on 62 minutes.

Adam Ashley-Cooper and Staniforth crossed while he was off the field and Australia hung on for a memorable win.

The victory throws this year's Tri-Nations wide open while giving the Wallabies a massive psychological boost ahead of the World Cup.

It also gives them a real chance of claiming their first Bledisloe Cup - the regular series between the two countries - since 2002.

The tone for the opening half was set in the first move of the match when Australia full-back Julian Huxley thumped the kick-off straight out, allowing New Zealand to take charge of the early stages.

The Wallabies did not see the ball for the first five minutes, and New Zealand's pressure told when the video ref awarded a try to Woodcock who barged his way over from close range.

Australia regained their composure, and skipper Stirling Mortlock was unlucky not to score when he almost latched onto a clever grubber kick from Stephen Larkham into the in-goal area.

They soon got on the board through a Mortlock penalty, but All Blacks fly-half Dan Carter replied on 17 minutes when flanker George Smith lost his discipline at a ruck.

The scrummaging area was a mess all game, and when the New Zealand front row were penalised as another scrum disintegrated, Mortlock reduced the deficit to four points with his second penalty.

New Zealand always looked dangerous, and Gear went over in the corner for their second try after some nice work from Luke McAlister.

Australia had plenty of ball but could not find a way through the ferocious New Zealand defence, and Mortlock missed a superb opportunity for a morale-boosting score just before half-time when he fired a penalty wide.

The Wallabies came out for the second half showing a bit more purpose, and the impressive Mortlock made Australia's first line break just after the restart.

New Zealand, visibly tiring after their exertions in South Africa last week, started to spill some ball in attack and their frustration began to show.

South African referee Marius Jonker finally lost patience after a string of indiscretions at the breakdown and Hayman was sin-binned with just 18 minutes to go.

Australia immediately took advantage, with Ashley-Cooper scoring a superb try a minute later when he skipped through the tackles of Gear, Richie McCaw and Chris Jack to power over in the corner. Matt Giteau converted.

New Zealand's woes increased when Carter missed a shot at goal on 71 minutes - and with eight minutes left Australia took the lead for the first time.

Mortlock carved his way through the New Zealand defence after McAlister and McCaw missed tackles and fed inside to Staniforth, who dived over unchallenged underneath the posts.

New Zealand piled the pressure on in the closing stages but Australia were not going to be denied as their impressive defence held firm.

Australia:
Huxley; Ashley-Cooper, Mortlock (capt), Giteau, Tuqiri; Larkham, Gregan; Dunning, Moore, Shepherdson, Sharpe, Vickerman, Elsom, Smith, Palu.
Replacements:
Freier, Baxter, Chisholm, Hoiles, Waugh, Staniforth, Gerrard.

New Zealand:
Muliaina; Gear, McAlister, Mauger, Rokocoko; Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Oliver, Hayman, Jack, Flavell, Collins, McCaw (capt), So'oialo.
Replacements:
Mealamu, Tialata, Filipo, Masoe, Weepu, Sivivatu, Evans.

All Blacks team announced - Muliaina moves to 13.

2007-06-27T21:36:00.000+12:00

Australia have made one change for Saturday's Bledisloe Cup match against New Zealand, with Adam Ashley-Cooper replacing Drew Mitchell on the wing.

New Zealand have recalled second row Chris Jack after paternity leave.

There are three changes in the backs as Sitiveni Sivivatu and Isaia Toeva are injured, while Aaron Mauger is benched.

Leon McDonald is in at full-back for Mils Muliaina, who replaces Toeava in the centre, Rico Gear replaces Sivivatu and Luke McAlister is in for Mauger.

Australia have not beaten New Zealand since 2004 and have not held the Bledisloe Cup - the regular series between the two countries - since 2002.

In addition to bringing in Ashley-Cooper, who has started four Tests this season in the centre, they have also brought backs Scott Staniforth and Mark Gerrard onto the bench.

George Smith retains his place at open-side flanker at the expense of Wallabies co-captain Phil Waugh.

New Zealand captain Graham Henry says he has picked his strongest available team.

"The Bledisloe Cup means a lot to the team and to New Zealanders," he said. "We have selected our best team. It's not the same team as last week, but it's our best."

Saturday's match will be Australia's first at the Melbourne Cricket Ground since 1998, when the Wallabies beat New Zealand 24-16.

Australia:
Huxley; Ashley-Cooper, Mortlock (capt), Giteau, Tuqiri; Larkham, Gregan; Dunning, Moore, Shepherdson, Sharpe, Vickerman, Elsom, Smith, Palu.
Replacements:
Freier, Baxter, Chisholm, Hoiles, Waugh, Staniforth, Gerrard.

New Zealand:
MacDonald; Gear, Muliaina, McAlister, Rokocoko; Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Oliver, Hayman, Jack, Flavell, Collins, McCaw, So'oialo.
Replacements:
Mealamu, Tialata, Filipo, Masoe, Weepu, Mauger, Evans.

TRI NATIONS TABLE:

23 June 2007
Team------------P W D L F A BP PTS
1 S Africa--------2 1 0 1 43 45 1 5
2 New Zealand 1 1 0 0 26 21 0 4
3 Australia------1 0 0 1 19 22 1 1

South Africa 21-26 New Zealand.

2007-06-25T19:36:00.000+12:00

South Africa (11) 21
Tries: Burger, James
Pens: Montgomery (2), Pienaar
Con: Montgomery

New Zealand (6) 26
Tries: McCaw, Rokocoko
Pens: Carter (3)
Cons: Carter 2
Drop: Mauger

New Zealand justified their position as the world's best team by coming from behind in Durban to edge closest rivals South Africa in the Tri-Nations.

Dan Carter cancelled out two early Springboks penalties before the hosts took the initiative with a Schalk Burger try just before the interval.

Aaron Mauger landed a drop-goal on the resumption but his risky pass allowed Butch James to streak away for a try.

But late scores from Richie McCaw and Joe Rokocoko saw the All Blacks home.

They trailed 21-12 with 14 minutes left but a stunning break from number eight Rodney So'oialo launched a superb counter which culminated with McCaw picking up and diving over.

Dan Carter, who had endured a mixed day with the boot, converted to make it 21-19 and the visitors struck again two minutes later.

Full-back Leon MacDonald picked up a loose ball and timed his pass perfectly to Rokocoko, who roared away for a classic sucker punch, Carter adding the extras.

The Springboks, visibly deflated in front of a capacity 50,000 King's Park crowd, tried to turn the tide but New Zealand kept their line intact for a psychologically important victory.

Many pundits believe the two sides will face each other in the World Cup final come October.

And South Africa, buoyed by the their late victory over Australia a week ago, tore into the All Blacks in the opening exchanges.

An early penalty from Percy Montgomery was improved by a 53m effort from scrum-half Ruan Pienaar as the hosts led 6-0 at the end of the first quarter.

New Zealand gradually picked up the pace though and two Carter penalties - either side of another missed attempt - made it 6-6 two minutes before half-time.

But South Africa regained the advantage at the interval when Burger emerged with the ball after a superb driving maul split the All Blacks defence.

Despite Mauger's drop-goal on the resumption, the initiative remained with the hosts when James plundered a try after 46 minutes, Montgomery converting for an 18-9 lead.

They lost Pedro Wannenburg to the sin-bin barely a minute after he had replaced the returning Bob Skinstad in the back row.

But despite Carter landing a penalty to bring the All Blacks to within six points, Montgomery restored the nine-point cushion after 66 minutes.

It proved insufficient, however, as New Zealand's clinical finishing turned the match around in the space of two minutes.

They will return home to prepare to face Australia in Melbourne next Saturday as favourites to claim a third successive Tri-Nations title.

South Africa:
Montgomery; Willemse, Fourie, De Villiers, JP Pietersen; Butch James, Ruan Pienaar; Du Randt, Gary Botha, BJ Botha, Bakkies Botha, Matfield (capt), Burger, Rossouw, Skinstad.
Replacements:
Du Plessis, CJ van der Linde, Muller, Wannenburg, Claassens, Olivier, Steyn.

New Zealand:
Muilaina; Rokocoko, Toeava, Mauger, Sivivatu; Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Oliver, Hayman; Flavell, Rawlinson; Collins, McCaw, So'oialo.
Replacements:
Mealamu, Tialata, Filipo, Masoe, Weepu, McAlister, MacDonald.

Skinstad handed starting berth.

2007-06-22T21:51:00.000+12:00

Bobby Skinstad will make his first Test start for five years after South Africa lost two thirds of their back row for Saturday's match against New Zealand.

Skinstad replaces Pierre Spies at number eight while Danie Rossouw comes in for Juan Smith on the flank.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry has been forced to field a second-string second row with Troy Flavell and Greg Rawlinson filling in.

Henry has made eight changes to the side which beat Canada.

Even before losing Spies, who has a knee injury, and Smith, who has a bruised thigh, the Boks were already without hooker John Smit and prop Gurthro Steenkamp.

They have been replaced by Gary Botha and Os du Randt respectively.

"I would rather not have players going into the game 70 or 80% fit," said South Africa Jake White. "You have to be at your best to play against the All Blacks."

Smit has been replaced as captain by second row Victor Matfield, while loose forward Pedrie Wannenburg comes onto the bench.

Rawlinson, who was born in South Africa, ousts Ross Filipo at lock for New Zealand, while Jerry Collins is on the flank and Rodney So'oialo plays at number eight.

Rawlinson will be making just his second Test start. His first was also against the Springboks 10 months ago when the All Blacks won 45-26 at Durban's King's Park Stadium, where Saturday's Test will be played.

First-choice lock Chris Jack has remained in New Zealand for the birth of his first child, while three other second-rows, Ali Williams, Jason Eaton and James Ryan, are injured.

Both the Springboks and New Zealand are unbeaten so far this year.

The game will be the All Blacks' first in this year's Tri-Nations, which opened with South Africa claiming a last-gasp win over Australia.

South Africa:
Montgomery; Willemse, Fourie, De Villiers, JP Pietersen; Butch James, Ruan Pienaar; Du Randt, Gary Botha, BJ Botha, Bakkies Botha, Matfield (capt), Burger, Rossouw, Skinstad.
Replacements:
Du Plessis, CJ van der Linde, Muller, Wennenburg, Claassens, Olivier, Steyn.

New Zealand:
Muilaina; Rokocoko, Toeava, Mauger, Sivivatu; Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Oliver, Hayman; Flavell, Rawlinson; Collins, McCaw, So'oialo.
Replacements:
Mealamu, Tialata, Filipo, Masoe, Weepu, McAlister, MacDonald.

All Blacks overcome spirited Canada:

2007-06-17T12:21:00.000+12:00

New Zealand put in a mediocre performance to beat a spirited Canada side 64-13 in front of a sold-out Waikato Stadium in Hamilton on Saturday.

The Canucks put up a good fight and were just six points adrift when New Zealand hooker Andrew Hore went over on cusp of half-time to give the home team a 26-13 half-time lead.

The floodgates duly opened after the break and Canada were forced into some tackling practice which certainly needs some more attention.

ALl Blacks fly-half Dan Carter scored a hat-trick of tries on the night and pocketed a personal tally of 29 points to overtake Andrew Merhtens's All Black record for points in a Test match.

Carter, who missed last week's 61-10 win over France with an ankle injury, kicked seven conversions from 10 attempts on his return.

Canada full-back Mike Pyke ran almost the length of the field to score a lone intercept try while wing James Pritchard landed the conversion and two penalties before the visitors ran out of steam in the second half.

In a game the All Blacks had little to gain from, the good news was that no more New Zealand locks or players succumbed to injury ahead of what could a testing Tri-Nations campaign.

The All Blacks were scratchy and at times woeful against Canada, making far too many uncharacteristic errors.

Although the home team scored 10 tries to one, they were left wondering what could have been with the All Blacks struggling with their combinations and rhythm.

Huge question marks also remain over the New Zealand performance at ruck and maul time. The ball carriers were isolated forcing turnovers on far too many occasions.

New Zealand coach Graham Henry will have to work on his team's lack of precision and patience heading into their Tri-Nations campaign that kicks off next weekend against South Africa in Durban.

However, it was a good night for the All Blacks' debutants. New boy John Schwalger celebrated his first test with a try and lock Ross Filipo survived a late injury scare to complete a solid performance.

It was certainly a game of two halves. The first belonging to the Canadians and the second was all New Zealand's.

Winger Sitivini Sivivatu waltzed through the Canadian forward pack to score in the opening minutes of the game that would certainly be rated as his easiest of his 17 Test tries.

Sivivatu then turned provider for the second try with a precise cut-out pass floated over Mils Muliaina and Aaron Mauger to enable Luke McAlister to cross over in the left-hand corner with ease.

McAlister's try gave the capacity crowd of 25,000 a reason to believe they would see a try-scoring bonanza.

However, someone forgot to tell the visitors they were not meant to be playing as well as they did, constantly disrupting the All Blacks usual game flow wherever they could.

The Canucks' highlight of the match came when tall full-back Mike Pyke intercepted a pass from Carter meant for Mils Muliaina to race 90 metres down the right-hand touchline to score.

Sivivatu put in a dedicated chase, but the Montauban full-back had enough steam in his engine to go all the way.

Pritchard, who opened Canada's account with a 14th minute penalty, added the extras to allow Canada to narrow the margin to 12-10 in the 22nd minute, hushing the capacity crowd.

Schwalger was able to save the All Blacks some embarrassment by diving over in the corner thanks to a well-timed McAlister pass.

Carter kicked the touchline conversion to make the score 19-10, but Canada were full of confidence at this stage and fought back to earn a penalty that Pritchard slotted with ease.

Nobody could have guessed the visitors would be trailing the All Blacks by six points with half-time just a couple of minutes away.

With the half-time siren sounded, Canada spirits were shattered when Hore powered over from a blindside move to give the hosts scoreline some respect.

Carter's conversion left the score reading 26-13 in favour of the All Blacks at half-time, but the Canucks would have the field with their heads held high - the All Blacks on the other hand trudged off the field in disbelief.

Carter, after a quiet first half, came into his own after the resumption of play. The Crusaders pivot scored his first converted try a minute after the resumption of play in a blind-side move that was helped along by some abysmal tackling by the Canada defenders.

His second was a solo effort when he beat three defenders after the defence was stretched to its limits and he crossed for a third time taking the final pass from Peeri Weepu after a long build-up from a tighthead in the scrum.

Somewhere in between Carter's first and second touchdown, flanker Chris Masoe managed to crash over for his first Test try in an All Blacks shirt - but his all-round performance raised a few eyebrows and may have played himself out of contention for a trip to South Africa.

Carter's third try brought on the half century for the All Blacks and the Canadians missed tackles were starting to take its toll - 24 missed tackles by the 60th minute.

Winger Doug Howlett had a quiet night, but managed to cruise over and add another try to his impressive all-time try-scoring list thanks to some unselfish work by the hard working Jerry Collins.

Replacement Rico Gear, who came on at centre for McAlister finished had the last laugh after he was handed an easy run in after skipper Reuben Thorne forced a turnover in the middle of the field.

The ball was popped up to Gear who casually sprinted 50 metres to round off an average day at the office for the All Blacks.

Man of the match:
The entire Canada team can give themselves a pat on the back for a tremendous first half display. For New Zealand, debutants Ross Filipo and John Schwalger played as if it were their 50th Test. Jerry Collins was exhausting to watch as he again worked hard all match. Aaron Mauger did his bit in the backline, but our vote goes to hat-trick hero Dan Carter who single handedly tore the Canada team to pieces. He had a slow first half and threw that intercepted pass, but the All Blacks number 10 was instrumental with the boot and showed us once again why he is regarded as the best fly-half in the world.

Moment of the match:
This has to go to Canada's full-back Mike Pyke who ran almost the full length of the field to score from his well-timed interception. The try brought the Canucks into the game and left all viewers watching around the globe looking twice at the scoreboard. It will also be a moment Pyke will cherish for the rest of his life.

Villain of the match:
All good clean fun, no award.

The scorers:

For New Zealand:

Tries:
Sivivatu, McAlister, Schwalger, Hore, Carter 3, Masoe, Howlett, Gear
Cons:
Carter 7

For Canada:
Tries:
Pyke
Cons:
Pritchard
Pens:
Pritchard 2

The teams:

New Zealand:
15 Mils Muliaina, 14 Doug Howlett, 13 Luke McAlister, 12 Aaron Mauger, 11 Sitiveni Sivivatu, 10 Daniel Carter, 9 Byron Kelleher, 8 Jerry Collins, 7 Chris Masoe, 6 Reuben Thorne (c), 5 Ross Filipo, 4 Troy Flavell, 3 Neemia Tialata, 2 Andrew Hore, 1 John Schwalger.
Replacements:
16 Keven Mealamu, 17 Carl Hayman, 18 Rodney So'oialo, 19 Richie McCaw, 20 Piri Weepu, 21 Rico Gear, 22 Leon MacDonald.

Canada:
15 Mike Pyke, 14 Justin Mensah-Coker, 13 Craig Culpan, 12 David Spicer, 11 James Pritchard, 10 Ryan Smith, 9 Morgan Williams (c), 8 Sean-Michael Stephen, 7 Stan Mckeen, 6 Colin Yukes, 5 Mike Burak, 4 Luke Tait, 3 Scott Franklin, 2 Pat Riordan, 1 Kevin Tkachuk.
Replacements:
16 Aaron Carpenter, 17 Dan Pletch, 18 Mike Pletch, 19 Josh Jackson, 20 Adam Kleeberger, 21 Dean van Camp, 22 Ed Fairhurst.

Junior ABs smash Australia `A:

2007-06-17T12:18:00.000+12:00

The Junior All Blacks inflicted Australia A's first defeat in the IRB Pacific Nations Cup with a comprehensive 50-0 victory at Carisbrook Park in Dunedin on Saturday.

In freezing conditions the 'House of Pain' again lived up to its billing as the Kiwis ran in seven tries to take an unassailable lead at the top of the 2007 Pacific Nations Cup with one round still to play.

Fly-half Stephen Donald opened the scoring for New Zealand with a penalty after three minutes.

The game's first try arrived after 10 minutes, when prop John Afoa's turnover at the breakdown led to Donald sprinting the length of the field to score.

Lock Tom Donnelly then took advantage of some porous Australia A defence to score in the corner, with Donald again adding the extras for a 17-0 lead after only 17 minutes.

A try to Sione Lauaki in the 22nd minute and a yellow card to Australia A' prop Nic Henderson minutes later effectively settled the contest inside the first half an hour.

Further tries to Scott Hamilton and Lauaki rounded out an impressive first stanza for the Junior All Blacks, 38-0.

Playing for little more than pride, Australia A managed to halt the Kiwi onslaught in the second half, but powerhouse centre Ma'a Nonu scored his team's sixth try after outpacing the Australia A cover defence to score in the corner after 59 minutes.

Nonu then tore through the Aussies again to set up a try for second-half replacement Daniel Braid three minutes later to complete the rout.

The scorers:

Junior All Blacks:
Tries: Lauaki 2, Donald, Donnelly, Hamilton, Nonu, Braid
Cons: Donald 6
Pens: Donald

Teams:

Junior All Blacks:
15 Cory Jane, 14 Scott Hamilton, 13 Ma'a Nonu, 12 Sam Tuitupou, 11 Anthony Tuitavake, 10 Stephen Donald, 9 Andrew Ellis, 8 Sione Lauaki, 7 Marty Holah (captain), 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Tom Donnelly, 4 Hoani MacDonald, 3 John Afoa, 2 Derren Witcombe, 1 Clarke Dermody.
Replacements: 16 Corey Flynn, 17 Campbell Johnstone, 18 Mose Tuiali'i, 19 Daniel Braid, 20 Jimmy Cowan, 21 Stephen Brett, 22 Tane Tu'ipulotu

Australia A:
15 Peter Hewat, 14 Cameron Shepherd, 13 Junior Pelesasa, 12 Ryan Cross, 11 Digby Ioane, 10 Sam Norton-Knight, 9 Josh Holmes, 8 David Lyons, 7 Julian Salvi, 6 Hugh McMeniman, 5 James Horwill, 4 Alister Campbell (c), 3 Rodney Blake, 2 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 1 Nic Henderson.
Replacements: 16 Sean Hardman, 17 Troy Takiari, 18 Dean Mumm, 19 Jone Tawake, 20 Josh Valentine, 21 Gene Fairbanks, 22 Lachlan Turner.

All Blacks announce team to play Canada:

2007-06-13T19:26:00.000+12:00

Lock Ross Filipo will make his All Blacks debut after being called in to the squad on Sunday. His call-up and that of fellow lock Greg Rawlinson follows injuries to Keith Robinson and Ali Williams. Prop John Schwalger will also debut against the Maple Leafs.

Meanwhile wing Rico Gear has joined the All Blacks and Ma’a Nonu has been released to join the Junior All Blacks in Dunedin. The return of Gear, who has played in 17 Tests for the All Blacks, is prompted by impending paternity leave for wing Doug Howlett, who will not travel to South Africa.

Similarly, lock Chris Jack is unavailable for the Iveco Series Test against Canada or the Philips Tri Nations opener in Durban because of paternity leave.

“The guys need to put their families first,” noted All Blacks coach Graham Henry, ”and we support their decision to be with their partners. Ross will start this weekend’s Test and Rico has plenty of experience in our environment. So they will be up to speed before we start the Philips Tri Nations.”

“We’ve got some new combinations for the Test in Hamilton which is a chance to further our depth and options, and gives us something of a fresh challenge.”

The team is:

Mils Muliaina
Doug Howlett
Conrad Smith / Luke McAlister
Aaron Mauger
Sitiveni Sivivatu
Dan Carter
Byron Kelleher
Jerry Collins
Chris Masoe
Reuben Thorne (c)
Ross Filipo
Troy Flavell
Neemia Tialata
Andrew Hore
John Schwalger

Reserves:

Keven Mealamu
Carl Hayman
Rodney So’oialo
Richie McCaw
Piri Weepu
Luke McAlister / Rico Gear
Leon MacDonald

NZ 61-10 France:

2007-06-10T18:50:00.000+12:00

New Zealand (30) 61
Tries: Oliver, Kelleher, Rokocoko (2), MacDonald, Toeava, Collins, Mealamu, Evans
Cons: McAlister (5)
Pens: McAlister (2)

France (3) 10
Try: J Laharrague
Pens: Boyet
Cons: Boyet

New Zealand strolled to an emphatic victory over a toothless France in the second Test in Wellington on Saturday.

The All Blacks outgunned the weakened visitors in all departments and ran in nine tries for France's record defeat.

Tries from Anton Oliver, Byron Kelleher and a brace from Joe Rokocoko gave the All Blacks a 30-3 half-time lead.

Leon MacDonald, Isaia Toeava, Jerry Collins, Keven Mealamu and Nick Evans added further scores, while France grabbed a classic break-away try.

New Zealand's victory sets a new world record of 23 straight home wins. The All Blacks last lost on Kiwi soil when England won 15-13 in June 2003.

England's 22-game winning streak from 1999-2003 was the previous best home record.

New Zealand won the first Test 42-11 in Auckland but were critical of some aspects of their play last week.

"It's a heck of a lot better. The performance tonight we're very happy with," said captain Richie McCaw.

Coach Graham Henry added: "The team stepped up several notches from last week. They played with more patience and control and it was pleasing."

The only downside for the All Blacks was an injury to lock Ali Williams, who left the field with a suspected broken jaw after colliding with France number eight Sebastien Chabal.

New Zealand have already lost second-rows James Ryan and Jason Eaton to injuries, while Keith Robinson withdrew before kick-off with a calf strain.

France were missing a host of top players because of a calendar clash with their domestic championship play-offs but the defeat still ranks as their biggest defeat in any Test, eclipsing New Zealand's 54-7 win in 1999.

"It's a very impressive team we played tonight, maybe the best team in the world. It's very tough," said French flanker Olivier Magne.

"They showed us we have a lot of work to do before the World Cup. I hope we will be on time for this competition."

French manager Jo Maso added: "It was the power and strength and the speed of the All Blacks which hurt us.

"The young guys are not used to facing such intensity for 80 minutes."

New Zealand next face Canada before their Tri-Nations defence starts later this month.

New Zealand:
MacDonald; Rokocoko, Toeava, McAlister, Sivivatu; Evans, Kelleher; Woodcock, Oliver, Hayman, Robinson, Williams, Collins, McCaw, So'oialo.
Replacements: Mealamu, Tialata, Jack, Masoe, Leonard, Nonu, Howlett.

France:
Castaignede; J Laharrague, Mignardi, Mazars, Coux; Boyet, Durand; Califano, Bruno, Sourgens, Pape, Pierre, Chouly, Magne, Chabal.
Replacements: Ibanez, Mas, Olibeau, Ouedraogo, Forest, N Laharrague, Thierry.

Referee: Craig Joubert (South Africa)

Junior All Blacks too good for Tonga:

2007-06-10T18:47:00.000+12:00

The Junior All Blacks have wrestled their way back from a halftime deficit to overcome Tonga 39-13 in a Jekyll and Hyde Pacific Nations display in Nuku'alofa.

Heading into the match on the back of sizzling wins over both Samoa and Fiji, the Junior All Blacks appeared to struggle early in the afternoon.

Making untimely errors throughout the first half, the visitors trailed 3-10 for most of the opening 40 minutes courtesy of two tries to Tongan fullback Vungakoto Lilo.

However, a late Ross Filipo try in the 32nd minute added a degree of respectability to the score before Lilo slotted over a penalty after the siren to give the hosts a 13-10 lead.

Coming out after the break, the fitness of Tonga's players came to the fore and before long the Junior All Blacks began to find their feet.

Scoring early in the second half, Derren Witcombe clawed the Junior All Blacks into the lead for the first time and from there four further unanswered tries ensured a convincing victory.

Failing to secure the ball from the opening kick-off, the Junior All Blacks immediately found themselves under the pump as Tonga retrieved the ball and charged within inches of the line.

However, some strong defence from the visitors proved to be the difference and the first onslaught was eventually quelled.

The hosts continued to assert dominance over the Junior All Blacks throughout the opening half and in the 12th minute Tongan fullback Lilo latched onto a pass out wide to easily coast over the line and score the opening try.

Trailing 0-5, the Junior All Blacks replied four minutes later when first five-eighths Stephen Brett slotted over a simple penalty goal.

Finally on the scoreboard, errors from the visitors continued to mount and scarcely a moment after the restart, fullback Cory Jane was unable to pull in a high kick and Lilo was on the spot to dot down for his second try of the afternoon.

With time running out in the opening half and the Junior All Blacks desperate to sniff out their first try of the afternoon, they were rewarded when Filipo crossed the chalk in the 32nd minute.

Opting to kick for touch rather than take an easy three-points, skipper Marty Holah's decision soon paid dividends when the towering lock burrowed under a maul to score. Brett then slotted over the conversion to square the scores.

But with the halftime siren less than 30 seconds away, Tonga continued to attack inside the Junior All Blacks' half and following a late penalty, Lilo slotted over the goal to give his side a 13-10 lead at the break.

Moments after the restart, Witcombe put the visitors ahead for the first time in the match after diving onto a little chip kick to give his side a four-point buffer.

Leading for the first time in the afternoon, the Junior All Blacks' chances of victory were then significantly boosted in the 49th minute when Tongan skipper Nili Latu was sin-binned for a professional foul.

Down to 14 men, Tonga was quickly overwhelmed by the visitors and scarcely a moment later Holah burrowed over for his side's third try of the afternoon.

Coming on early in the second half after warming the bench in the first 40 minutes, Tane Tu’ipulotu also had an immediate impact for the Junior All Blacks with a well-worked try in the 57th minute.

Gaining momentum with every passing moment, Anthony Tuitavake, latching onto a pass from Jane in the 63rd minute, then crossed the line for his side's fifth try, before Scott Hamilton sealed the result with another five-pointer out wide in the 75th minute.

Junior All Blacks 39
Tries: Filipo, Witcombe, Holah, Tu'ipulotu, Tuitavake, Hamilton
Conversions: Brett 3
Penalty: Brett

Tonga 13
Tries: V Lilo 2
Penalty: V Lilo

NZ's Carter out for second Test:

2007-06-08T20:34:00.000+12:00

The All Blacks will be without star fly-half Dan Carter for the second Test against France on Saturday.
Carter injured an ankle in last week's opening 42-11 win over Les Bleus, but his exclusion is just a precautionary measure ahead of the World Cup.

Nick Evans will replace Carter in Wellington in a side featuring seven changes from the Auckland line-up.

Rodney So'oialo and Jerry Collins replace Chris Masoe and Reuben Thorne in the back row.

Keith Robinson and Anton Oliver take over from Chris Jack and Kevin Mealamu at lock and hooker respectively.

Centre Luke McAlister and scrum-half Byron Kelleher also return with Aaron Mauger and Piri Weepu making way.

Centre Conrad Smith and full-back Mils Muliaina are still injured, while Ma'a Nonu returns to the bench after a hamstring problem.

Captain Richie McCaw, who also picked up an injury in the first Test, has recovered and retains his place.

"There's a feeling that we were happy enough with last week, but we need a better performance," said McCaw.

"First and foremost you look at your performance, that's what we always try and do as a team. You judge what happens by the things we do on the field.

"What we win by, or if we win, on Saturday is going to come second to a better performance than last week. Our scrum was dominant but we didn't get good quality ball from it."

France have made four changes for the game, with Julien Laharrague, who missed the match because he turned up late for training, returning on the right wing.

Jean-Francois Coux, who scored on his debut in the first Test, moves to the left wing with new cap Lionel Mazars starting at centre.

Up front, flanker Damien Chouly is promoted from the bench while 35-year-old Olivier Sourgens will make his debut at prop.

Sourgens replaces Nicolas Mas, who drops to the bench.

Three more uncapped players - flanker Fulgence Ouedraogo, scrum-half Mickael Forest and full-back Benjamin Thierry - are included among the replacements.

New Zealand:
Leon MacDonald, Joe Rokocoko, Isaia Toeava, Luke McAlister, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Nick Evans, Byron Kelleher; Tony Woodcock, Anton Oliver, Carl Hayman, Keith Robinson, Ali Williams, Jerry Collins, Richie McCaw, Rodney So'oialo. Replacements: Keven Mealamu, Neemia Tialata, Chris Jack, Chris Masoe, Brendon Leonard, Ma'a Nonu, Doug Howlett.

France:
Thomas Castaignede; Julien Laharrague, Arnaud Mignardi, Lionel Mazars, Jean-Francois Coux; Boyet, Nicolas Durand; Christian Califano, Sebastien Bruno, Olivier Sourgens; Pascal Pape (capt), Julien Pierre; Damien Chouly, Olivier Magne, Sebastien Chabal.
Replacements: Raphael Ibanez, Nicolas Mas, Olivier Olibeau, Fulgence Ouedraogo, Mickael Forest, Nicolas Laharrague, Benjamin Thiery.

Kiwis clinch World Sevens crown:

2007-06-04T08:39:00.000+12:00

New Zealand pipped Fiji to the IRB World Sevens Series title after outclassing Samoa in the final of the Murrayfield Sevens on Sunday.
The All Blacks thrashed Samoa 34-5 to win their second tournament in a row and force Fiji, last year's champions, into second place in the standings.

Fiji paid a heavy price for their quarter-final loss to underdogs Wales.

A place in the last four would have clinched the series title for Fiji, but Wales denied Waisale Serevi's team.

New Zealand coach Gordon Tietjens said his team had showed real character to win the title.

"It's such a surprise - no-one really gave us a chance," he told BBC Sport.

"We were trailing in fourth for a long time, but we kept going right to the end. I know the guys are really proud and they deserve to be - they were magnificent."

Wales' campaign came to an end with a 28-0 semi-final defeat at the hands of New Zealand, but the All Blacks certainly owed Dai Rees' side a debt of gratitude.

Tries from Rhodri McAtee, Tal Selley and Wayne Evans helped the Welsh to a shock 21-14 win, with Fiji missing a late chance to level when Semisi Naevo Saukawa dropped the ball over the line.

"We learned a hell of a lot when we played them down in Twickenham last week," said coach Rees.

"There was a lot of self belief in our team."

Scotland lost 22-10 to Argentina in their quarter-final, while England beat Portugal 31-0 in the Bowl final.

The IRB World Sevens Series takes place over eight tournaments, with teams earning points depending on how far they progress at each event.

IRB World Sevens Series final standings:

1. New Zealand - 130 pts
2. Fiji - 128
3. Samoa - 122
4. South Africa - 92
5. England - 52
6. Wales - 38
7. Australia - 32
8. France - 28
9. Scotland - 26
10. Argentina - 23
11. Kenya - 22
12. Tonga - 10
13. Canada - 8
14. Tunisia - 6
15. Portugal - 2
16. USA - 2
17. Russia - 1

New Zealand 42-11 France:

2007-06-03T11:35:00.000+12:00

New Zealand 42 (20)
Tries: Mauger 2, Sivivatu 2, So'oialo
Cons: Carter, Weepu, Evans 2
Pens: Carter, Weepu, Evans

France 11 (3)
Try: Coux
Pen: Boyet 2

Aaron Mauger and Sitiveni Sivivatu scored two tries each as World Cup favourites New Zealand began the season with a comfortable win over France.

Joe Rokocoko helped set up Mauger for the first and Sivivatu added a second before the break after a chip-through.

Sivivatu scored again off a close-range scrum on 55 minutes before France, deprived of a host of top players, crossed through Jean-Francois Coux.

But Mauger and Rodney So'oialo added late tries for the All Blacks.

It was just the start to their World Cup build-up that the hosts needed and they were never seriously troubled by a French side missing most of their leading players because of championship play-offs back home.

New Zealand, who were turned over a handful of times during a rusty first 40 minutes, also got the benefit of the doubt in most of Stuart Dickinson's decisions.

The Australian referee twice missed knock-ons before awarding penalties which Dan Carter and Piri Weepu, close to the touchline while Carter was nursing an ankle problem, kicked over.

France battled and tackled hard but were starved of possession and struggled at the scrum, with Sebastien Chabal particularly error-ridden, but Boyet cut the deficit when a fussy Dickinson penalised the All Blacks for not rolling away.

Gradually, the All Blacks took a grip of the game and a delightful short pass from Carter in the 29th minute set up Rokocoko to power away and the ball was worked via Isaia Toeava to Mauger, who crossed under the posts.

The visitors were stunned four minutes before the break when Carter chipped forward and Sivivatu just beat Thomas Castaignede to the ball. He did not appear to get enough downward pressure but the try was given anyway.

Carter and captain Richie McCaw, suffering from a bruised hip, did not appear for the second half but, if anything, the All Blacks grew in confidence.

Carter's replacement Nick Evans traded penalties with Boyet before Chris Masoe and Sivivatu created try-scoring opportunities which went begging.

Boyet was dispatched to the sin-bin for 10 minutes after tackling while off-side as New Zealand piled on the pressure.

A try had to come and after the video referee ruled against Toeava following a delicate kick from Evans, the All Blacks got their third.

Again, there was an element of luck about it as Evans appeared to tip the ball forward following a scrum to Sivivatu, who dived over for his second score.

Nothing was going right for the French until Jean-Francois Coux got on the end of a kick from Olivier Magne and crossed in the corner.

But it was only temporary respite and their flat defence was torn asunder by a scything move which ended with Mauger racing through under the posts.

And the French were well beaten by the time So'oialo squirted through to complete a comprehensive triumph.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry said neither Carter nor McCaw's injuries were serious and expects more from his team in the coming months.

"I thought the French played with a lot of spirit. They showed a lot of guts and a lot of heart," he said.

"As individuals, I thought our guys played pretty well and as a team, we got better as the game went on.

"We've got a lot to work on as a team, it was our first run together for six months, but it was an improving performance."

Opposite number Bernard Laporte admitted his team had been outgunned but insisted there was hope for New Zealand's World Cup rivals.

"I have no complaints about the way my young side stood up to the All Blacks," Laporte said.

"It's obvious the All Blacks are favourites for the World Cup, they have the best players in many positions.

"But just because you start a Grand Prix in pole position doesn't mean you are going to win."

New Zealand:
Leon MacDonald, Joe Rokocoko, Isaia Toeava, Aaron Mauger, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Dan Carter, Piri Weepu, Tony Woodcock, Kevin Mealamu, Carl Hayman, Chris Jack, Ali Williams, Reuben Thorne, Richie McCaw (capt), Chris Masoe.
Replacements: Andrew Hore, Neemia Tialata, Troy Flavell, Rodney So'oialo, Brendon Leonard, Nick Evans, Ma'a Nonu.

France:
Thomas Castaignede, Jean-Francois Coux, Arnaud Mignardi, Jean-Phillipe Grandclaude, Benjamin Thierry, Benjamin Boyet, Nicolas Durand, Christian Califano, Sebastien Bruno, Nicolas Mas, Pascal Pape (capt), Julien Pierre, Gregory Le Corvec, Olivier Magne, Sebastien Chabal.
Replacements: Raphael Ibanez, Franck Montanella, Olivier Olibeau, Damien Chouly, Michael Forest, Nicolas Laharrague, Ludovic Valbon.

England Saxons 17-13 NZ Maori:

2007-06-03T11:30:00.000+12:00

England Saxons (7) 17
Tries: Sackey, Voyce, Croft
Cons: Barkley
NZ Maori (5) 13
Tries: Tahana, Kawau
Pens: Ellison

England's second-string Saxons side edged New Zealand Maori 17-13 to win the Churchill Cup at Twickenham.

The Saxons trailed with less than five minutes to go before replacement lock Tom Croft outpaced the cover on the right wing to score the winner.

The hosts led 7-5 at the break after a converted try from Paul Sackey against Anthony Tahana's score for the Maori.

Tom Voyce and Kiwi Jason Kawau swapped second-half tries but a penalty gave the Maori the edge before Croft struck.

"We've said it all along, the reason for the Saxons is as a breeding ground for the first team," said Saxons coach Mallinder.

"There are players who have certainly shown me that they are capable of playing at international level.

"The side has grown over the last three weeks. Defensively we've been great throughout and today we were outstanding."

"We started to panic kick and gave their full-back (Danny Cipriani) a chance to get himself in the game, and he came good."

Maori assistant coach Shane Howarth said: "We were very, very flat and every time we got momentum seemed to turn the ball over. They were more cohesive as a team.

The two-week competition also featured the USA, Canada, Scotland A and Ireland A.

An absorbing opening set the tone for a tight, physical match punctuated by moments of individual brilliance from the likes of Wasps' 19-year-old full-back Danny Cipriani and Maori captain Rua Tipoki.

England went ahead on 17 minutes when fly-half Olly Barkley retrieved a long line-out throw deep in Maori territory and sparked a move which put Sackey into the right corner.

Despite going behind, the Maori bristled with intent but were let down by Tamati Ellison, who missed two penalty attempts in quick succession.

Ellison's inaccuracy nearly cost his side dear when England went close after a good running from Voyce and Cipriani.

But the New Zealanders finally crossed when centre Tipoki set off on a jinking break before putting in Tahana in the left corner.

Ellison missed the conversion but made amends with his first successful penalty shot shortly after the break.

But almost instantly, the Saxons hit back after full-back Cipriani received Nils Mordt's long pass and drew his man to send Voyce into the left corner.

Barkley missed the conversion and the game entered a phase of stalemate before the Maori rumbled over with centre Kawau to retake the lead on 57 minutes.

The Maori sensed an opportunity and went close again after another Tipoki break.

But Saxons had their own stars and Cipriani almost carved his way through late on before Wasps team-mate Sackey launched a counter which was finished off in sensational, match-winning style by the pace of Croft on the right wing.

England Saxons:
Cipriani; Sackey, Sorrell, Mordt, Voyce; Barkley, Wigglesworth; Hatley (capt), Paice, Brooks, Blaze, Evans, Haskell, Skinner, Dowson.
Replacements: Thompson, Forster, Mercey, Croft, Crane, Dickson, Erinle.

NZ Maori:
Paku; H Gear, Sweeny, Tipoki (capt), Tahana; Ellison, Smylie; West, De Malamanche, May, Ormsy, Triggs, MacDonald, Latimer, Smith.
Replacements: Mahoney, Hoani, Ross, Waldrom, Rodley, Bruce, Te Whare

France veterans face All Blacks:

2007-05-30T21:03:00.000+12:00

France have recalled Christian Califano, Olivier Magne and Thomas Castaignede for Saturday's first Test against New Zealand in Auckland.
Les Bleus will award five new caps as the top four clubs are still involved in championship play-offs, making leading players unavailable.

Squad captain Raphael Ibanez, the Wasps hooker, is likely to be a replacement in both Tests after a long season.

Second row Pascal Pape skippers the side at Eden Park instead.

Califano, who has resurrected his career at English Premiership side Gloucester, has not added to his 69 caps in four years

Magne, 34, won the last of his 86 caps in the 2006 Six Nations and Castaignede, 32, has missed out because of injury in the last 12 months.

France:
Thomas Castaignede; Julien Laharrague, Arnaud Mignardi, Jean-Philippe Grandclaude, Benjamin Thiery; Benjamin Boyet, Nicolas Durand; Christian Califano, Sebastien Bruno, Nicolas Mas; Pascal Pape (capt), Julien Pierre; Gregory Le Corvec, Olivier Magne, Sebastien Chabal

Replacements:
Raphael Ibanez, Franck Montanella, Olivier Olibeau, Damien Chouly, Mickael Forest, Nicolas Laharrague, Ludovic Valbon

Ireland A 22-50 NZ Maori :

2007-05-30T20:58:00.000+12:00

NZ Maori: (24) 50
Tries: Gear (2), Paku, Ellison, May (2), Bruce
Cons: Ellison (5), Sweeney
Pen: Ellison

Ireland A: (12) 22
Tries: Cave (2), Earls, Gannon
Con: Sexton

Ireland A's hopes of making the Churchill Cup final were ended as the New Zealand Maori ran in seven tries in a one-sided contest at Sandy Park.

The Irish led early on with tries from Darren Cave and Keith Earls split by a Maori score from Hosea Gear.

However, tries from Shannon Paku and Tamati Ellison helped the Maori take a 24-12 lead at the interval.

Gear, Ben May (two) and Callum Bruce added further Maori tries while Cave and David Gannon replied for the Irish.

The Maori, who will now face England in Saturday's final at Twickenham, were lethal in open space and cut the Irish to ribbons with some dazzling rugby.

Ireland A made a great start when Cave crossed with just two minutes on the clock after a fine pass from Johnny Sexton.

Fly-half Sexton slotted the conversion, only for the Maori to respond swiftly with an Ellison penalty.

Superb vision from Paku then saw the Maori creep into the lead with the full-back chipping through Ireland's backline and Gear was on hand to touch down.

Ireland hit back when Keith Earls slipped through several tackles and strolled over, with the sin-binning of May for an off-the-ball tackle further aiding their cause.

But they could not take advantage as Paku drove over from close range after slick footwork from Rua Tipoki.

Ireland A scrum-half Frank Murphy followed May into the sin-bin for straying offside and Ellison then darted around several tackles to further stretch the Maori's lead.

Gear added his second with a sublime finish and May then added two more tries for the Maori.

The Irish produced a late rally with Cave's second try followed by a score from substitute David Gannon.

But there was still time for Callum Bruce to ensure the Maori had the final word with a simple score.

NZ Maori:
Paku, Gear, Sweeney, Tipoki, Tahana, Ellison, Smylie, West, de Malmanche, May, Ormsby, Triggs, MacDonald, Latimer, Smith.
Replacements: Bruce for Tipoki (65), Te Whare for Tahana (60), Rodley for Smylie (68), Tui for West (61), Mahoney for de Malmanche (61), Ross for Ormsby (68), Hoeata for Latimer (60).

Sin Bin: May (21), Rodley (70).

Ireland A:
McCarron, McKenzie, Cave, Earls, J Murphy, Sexton, F Murphy, Hogan, Fogarty, Ross, Caldwell, Farley, O'Sullivan, O'Connor, Wilson, Fitzpatrick.
Replacements: Hearty for McCarron (50), Mallon for Earls (53), Keane for F. Murphy (74), Fitzpatrick for Hogan (14), Cronin for Fogarty (51), Gannon for Ross (64), Keogh for Fitzpatrick (50).

Sin Bin: F Murphy (36).

All Blacks team announced.

2007-05-29T19:46:00.000+12:00

All Blacks coach Graham Henry and his assistant coaches Wayne Smith and Steve Hansen and fellow selector, Sir Brian Lochore, have announced the team to play France in Auckland on Saturday June 2 at Eden Park:

Leon MacDonald
Josevata Rokocoko
Isaia Toeava
Aaron Mauger
Sitiveni Sivivatu
Dan Carter
Piri Weepu
Chris Masoe
Richie McCaw (c)
Reuben Thorne
Ali Williams
Chris Jack
Carl Hayman
Keven Mealamu
Tony Woodcock

Reserves:

Andrew Hore
Neemia Tialata
Troy Flavell
Rodney So’oialo
Brendon Leonard
Nick Evans
Ma’a Nonu

“We have set high standards for ourselves in the Iveco Series Tests against France,” said coach Graham Henry. “We’d like to find the good form we had in November as quickly as possible and then build on it. So, for us, there’s a lot at stake.”

Henry also noted that loose forward Chris Masoe gets his sixth start for the All Blacks: “We want Chris to have some game time at No. 8 this season and build his experience at the test-level.”

Players not considered for selection due to injury were: Byron Kelleher, Mils Muliaina, and Conrad Smith, who have hamstring strains; Jerry Collins who has a heel injury; and Anton Oliver who is managing a foot injury.

Bruce leads Maori romp.

2007-05-27T13:04:00.000+12:00

New Zealand Maori began the defence of their Churchill Cup in style with a resounding 59-23 win over Canada at Northampton Saints' Franklins Gardens on Friday.

Otago fly-half Calam Bruce was the star of the show, scoring 19 points as the Maori ran in nine tries to Canada's three.

Canada made eight changes from the side which was beaten 39-20 to Ireland A but were under the cosh from kick-off.

The Maori won a penalty after just 43 seconds but Bruce struck the left upright from 20 metres.

However they opened the scoring in the sixth minute when Canadian full-back Mike Pyke's clearance was charged down by Bruce and flanker Scott Waldrom collected to run in from five metres.

Bruce converted successfully before they doubled their advantage after a fine move seven minutes later.

After a huge line out from hooker Luke Mahoney was well collected by debutante Isaac Ross, Bruce's incisive reverse pass sent Anthony Tahana running in towards the line and his unselfish offload allowed fellow wing Pehi Te Whare to cross unchallenged in the right corner.

Bruce again successfully converted before Bedford wing James Pritchard perfectly judged a 40-metre penalty to open Canada's account.

But Tahana extended the Maori lead in the 20th minute after a turnover in the Canada pack allowed scrum-half Chris Smylie to pick him out on the left for a simple try.

Bruce hooked the difficult conversion wide before Pritchard again nailed a long-distance penalty to reduce the deficit to 13.

But again the Maori responded instantly through full-back Glen Horton who raced in after another superb pass from Bruce cut out three Canada forwards.

Bruce completed the conversion to open up a 20-point lead before Canada scored their first try in the 33rd minute through Adam Kleeberger to make the scores 26-11.

A huge drive from the Canada pack looked to have run out of steam but the flanker from the University of Victoria managed to touch down.

Pritchard missed the conversion before the Maori scored a stunning counter-attack try from within their own half.

Smylie made the decisive break from midfield with a 40-metre run and though his pass to Bruce was cut out by the diving figure of Ander Monro, Tahana was on hand to touch down the loose ball.

Bruce missed the conversion to leave the half-time score 31-11 but the mercurial fly-half was again in the thick of it in the second half and got his name on the score sheet after 46 minutes when he broke a tackle 35 metres out and charged through before converting his own score.

Centre Jason Kawau then grabbed the Maori's seventh try from close range which was converted before substitute Tamati Ellison dived in for the eighth with his first touch.

Bruce converted to bring up the 50-point mark before Canada sub Morgan Williams steamed down the left to feed in the overlapping Pyke for a simple score which was brilliantly converted by Pritchard.

Tahana then embarked on a surging run before handing off for number eight Warren Smith to score and Bruce again converted.

Ross then capped a memorable debut by being sin-binned after a scuffle and from the resulting scrum sub Aaron Carpenter dived over for Canada's third score.

Canada will now face the USA for fifth place on finals day at Twickenham on June 2 while the Maori play Ireland A at Exeter on Tuesday in their final Pool B match.

The Scorers:

For New Zealand Maori:

Tries: Waldrom, Te Whare, Tahana 2, Horton, Bruce, Kawau, Ellison, Smith
Cons: Bruce 7

For Canada:

Tries: Kleeberger, Pyke, Carpenter
Con: Pritchard
Pens: Pritchard 2

Yellow Card: Issac Ross (New Zealand Maori - fighting)

New Zealand Maori: 15 Shannon Paku, 14 Pehi Te Whare, 13 Jason Kawau, 12 Rua Tipoki (captain), 11 Anthony Tahana, 10 Callum Bruce, 9 Chris Smylie, 8 Warren Smith, 7 Scott Waldrom, 6 Angus Macdonald, 5 Isaac Ross, 4 Kristian Ormsby, 3 Hoani Tui, 2 Luke Mahoney, 1 Keith Cameron.
Replacements: 16 Aled de Malmanche, 17 Craig West, 18 Jarrad Hoeata, 19 Hayden Triggs, 20 James Rodley, 21 Tamati Ellison, 22 Dwayne Sweeney.

Canada: 15 Mike Pyke, 14 Dean van Camp, 13 Craig Culpan, 12 Derek Daypuck, 11 James Pritchard, 10 Ander Monro, 9 Ed Fairhurst, (c) 8 David Biddle, 7 Adam Kleeberger, 6 Mike Webb, 5 Mike Burak, 4 Luke Tait, 3 Scott Franklin, 2 Pat Riordan, 1 Kevin Tkachuk.
Replacements: 16 Aaron Carpenter, 17 Dan Pletch, 18 Mike Pletch, 19 Josh Jackson, 20 Stan McKeen, 21 Morgan Williams, 22 Nathan Hirayama.

New Zealand Maori squad named.

2007-05-26T13:54:00.000+12:00

New Zealand Maori coaches Donny Stevenson and Shane Howarth today announced the New Zealand Maori squad for the 2007 Churchill Cup tournament in England. The squad is (province and iwi):

Callum Bruce - Otago, Ngati Kahungunu
Keith Cameron* - Otago, Te Whanau Apanui
Aled de Malmanche* - Waikato, Tainui
Tamati Ellison - Wellington, Ngati Porou
Hosea Gear - Wellington, Ngati Porou
Brendan Haami - Taranaki, Te Ati Awa
Glen Horton* - Otago, Tuwharetoa
Jason Kawau* - Southland, Ngati Apa
Tanerau Latimer - Bay of Plenty, Ngai Te Rangi
Angus Macdonald - Auckland, Ngapuhi
Luke Mahoney - Wellington, Te Ati Awa
Ben May* - Tasman, Tuhoe
Liam Messam - Waikato, Ngai Tuhoe
Kristian Ormsby - Counties Manukau, Ngati Maniapoto
Shannon Paku - Wellington, Ngai Tuhoe
Isaac Ross* - Canterbury, Kai Tahu
Chris Smylie - Otago, Ngati Mutunga
Warren Smith - Bay of Plenty, Ngati Kahungunu
Dwayne Sweeney* - Waikato, Tainui
Anthony Tahana - Bay of Plenty, Te Arawa
Pehi Te Whare - Southland, Ngati Maniapoto
Hayden Triggs* - Manawatu, Ngati Kahungunu
Rua Tipoki (captain) - Canterbury, Te Whanau Apanui
Hoani Tui* - Wellington, Ngati Apa
Scott Waldrom - Taranaki, Ngati Porou
Craig West* - Waikato, Ngati Apakura

* Denotes new cap

A total of 10 new players have been included in the squad for the tournament, which will be held from 18 May – 2 June.

New Zealand Maori coach Donny Stevenson said the squad was well-balanced with a good mix of experienced players and newcomers.

“This is the beauty of this team - we are able to give young players the opportunity to play international rugby. A couple of the new players came to our attention during last year’s Air New Zealand Cup, which highlights the importance and value of this domestic competition,” Stevenson said.

The Churchill Cup tournament has previously been held in North America but will this year be staged in England.

“There is an air of excitement about the change of venue. This is new territory for us but that is the exciting challenge. We hope that the strong expat Kiwi community in the UK will come out and support us,” Stevenson added.

It will be the first time since 1998 that New Zealand Maori will play in the United Kingdom after playing matches in Scotland that year.

adidas Head of Rugby Nick Drake said the apparel supplier was delighted that one of New Zealand’s most iconic rugby teams would be in action in England.

“This will be a fantastic opportunity to see one of the world’s most exciting teams playing in England. New Zealand Maori are more than just a rugby team – they represent one of the unique cultures of New Zealand's society and we are proud to be associated with the team. We wish them the very best of luck in defending the Churchill Cup,” Drake said.

TV3 will televise New Zealand Maori pool matches and the final live.

Churchill Cup tournament (kick off times local)
Friday 25 May: New Zealand Maori v Canada, Northampton at 8.00pm
Tuesday 29 May: New Zealand Maori v Ireland A, Exeter at 8.00pm
Saturday 2 June: Churchill Cup finals day, Twickenham

All Blacks squad named.

2007-05-26T13:51:00.000+12:00

The All Blacks selectors have announced their All Blacks squad for the 2007 Iveco Series and Philips Tri Nations and it includes two first-time selections in Waikato halfback Brendon Leonard and Wellington prop John Schwalger.

“Brendon has been the best attacking halfback in the Rebel Sport Super 14 this season and has forced his way into the side based on form,” said Henry “while John’s ability to play both sides of the scrum was a key factor for us.”

The 22-year-old Leonard made his provincial debut in 2005 and his first Chiefs start this year. Schwalger also started his provincial career in 2005 and played for the Hurricanes in 2006 as well as 2007. He also represented New Zealand Under 21 in 2004 and the Junior All Blacks last season.

Henry noted that the upcoming Iveco Series Tests against France and Canada were critical to the All Blacks season: “We’re focused on finding our form as fast as possible and then we want to build on it. We are looking to improve on where we were last year and there’s a lot of work to do.”

Of the 2006 All Blacks, locks Jason Eaton and James Ryan, who took part in last November’s tour to Europe, were unavailable for selection due to injury, and prop Greg Somerville continues to rehabilitate an achilles injury sustained during last year’s Philips Tri Nations.

Meanwhile, Rebel Sport Super 14 loose forward Sione Lauaki and centre Richard Kahui were not considered for selection due to injury.

The sqaud:

Dan Carter - Canterbury
Jerry Collins - Wellington
Nick Evans - Otago
Troy Flavell - Auckland
Carl Hayman - Otago
Andrew Hore - Taranaki
Doug Howlett - Auckland
Chris Jack - Tasman
Byron Kelleher - Waikato
Brendon Leonard - Waikato
Luke McAlister - North Harbour
Richie McCaw - Canterbury (Captain)
Leon MacDonald - Canterbury
Chris Masoe - Wellington
Aaron Mauger - Canterbury
Keven Mealamu - Auckland
Malili Muliaina - Waikato
Anton Oliver - Otago
Keith Robinson - Waikato
Josevata Rokocoko - Auckland
John Schwalger - Wellington
Sitiveni Sivivatu - Waikato
Conrad Smith - Wellington
Rodney So’oialo - Wellington
Reuben Thorne - Canterbury
Neemia Tialata - Wellington
Isaia Toeava - Auckland
Piri Weepu - Wellington
Ali Williams - Auckland
Tony Woodcock - North Harbour

Junior All Blacks team announced for opening match.

2007-05-26T13:45:00.000+12:00

Waikato flanker Marty Holah will captain a strong Junior All Blacks side against Samoa in the team's opening IRB Pacific Nations Cup match in Apia on Sunday (NZ time).

Ten former All Blacks are in the starting line-up for the Junior All Blacks’ tournament opener.

Co-Coach Colin Cooper said it was important for the Junior All Blacks to get the campaign off to a good start.

“There is no doubt that this match will be a challenge for us but it is important that we set the high standards we have for this team. The Junior All Blacks are New Zealand’s second national team and we are focused on fulfilling the expectations that come with the name,” Cooper said.

“As for Samoa, we are familiar with many of their players and they will be a challenging side, especially in conditions that they are used to,” he added.

Wellington hooker Tone Kopelani has replaced Corey Flynn who is on parental leave and Wellington centre Tane Tu’ipulotu has replaced Ma’a Nonu, who has joined the All Blacks squad.

Note: Daniel Braid has been bracketed with Tu’ipulotu in the reserves. A final decision will be made before the match.

The game will be televised live on Sky Sport 1 from 2.00pm on Sunday 27 May.

Junior All Blacks team to play Samoa: 15. Cory Jane, 14. Rico Gear, 13. Casey Laulala, 12. Stephen Brett, 11. Scott Hamilton, 10. Stephen Donald, 9. Jimmy Cowan, 8. Mose Tuiali’i, 7. Marty Holah (captain), 6. Kieran Read, 5. Greg Rawlinson, 4. Hoani MacDonald, 3. John Afoa, 2. Derren Witcombe, 1. Clarke Dermody
Reserves: 16. Tone Kopelani, 17. Campbell Johnstone, 18. Ross Filipo, 19. Jerome Kaino, 20. Andrew Ellis, 21. Anthony Tuitavake, 22. Daniel Braid / Tane Tu’ipulotu

WALES PUT TO THE SWORD!

2006-11-26T11:17:00.000+13:00

Wales 10-45 New Zealand

Wales 10 (3)
Tries: M Williams.
Cons: Hook.
Pens: S Jones.

New Zealand 45 (28)
Tries: McAlister, Sivivatu 3, Penalty try.
Cons: Carter 2, Evans 2.
Pens: Carter 4.

New Zealand finished their November tour with victory over a gritty Wales at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium.

Luke McAlister set the All Blacks on their way with the opening try after just four minutes, with wing Sitiveni Sivivatu adding a fine hat-trick.

Wales caused the All Blacks as many problems as England or France had, but still finished a distance behind.

The home side did claim a deserved try from Martyn Williams, but the All Blacks moved away with a penalty try.

In an unprecedented escape from tradition, the fans were denied the sight of the haka being performed live because of a spat over the order of performances of national pride.

Wales were determined to sing Hen Wlad fy Nhadau after the haka, but the All Blacks were having none of it and opted to perform it privately in the dressing room.

If a packed Millennium Stadium was disappointed to miss out on that, the fans were soon treated to an early try - if that is the right word for the red-shirted majority.

Stephen Jones missed touch and New Zealand launched a swift counter-attack that swept from right to left flank, allowing Sivivatu's inside pass to send centre McAlister over.

Fly-half Dan Carter added the conversion and followed that up with three penalties to give the All Blacks a 16-0 lead with a quarter of the match gone.

The penalties Wales conceded were a sign of the pressure they were under, unable to make headway against fierce defence and creaking when New Zealand had the ball.

At last Wales managed to put New Zealand under pressure, some clever off-loading in contact carving into the visitors' 22.

Skulduggery in a ruck eventually brought the move to an end, but referee Dave Pearson had spotted All Blacks skipper Richie McCaw's infringement and awarded the penalty.

The flanker escaped with a lecture and Stephen Jones kicked the three points to get Wales on the scoreboard.

Wales looked like they would create another opportunity when Carter had a kick charged down, but the All Blacks defence swarmed over the danger.

Hooker Rhys Thomas could not take a pass under pressure and Carter was on hand to scoop the loose ball and race away downfield.

Great work from New Zealand lock Ali Williams and hooker Anton Oliver punched the move forward, giving Sivivatu a one-on-one against Tom Shanklin.

The flying winger gave Shanklin no chance, a shimmy and burst of pace sending Sivivatu over from five metres for another seven-pointer.

The Chiefs wing added his second before the break, cutting a beautiful inside line after another irresistible counter-attack had caught Wales out.

The only surprise was that Carter missed the simple conversion, proving he is fallible if only sometimes.

Normal service was resumed within four minutes of the restart as Carter struck his fourth penalty of the evening, although he was again wide with a similar attempt soon after.

Wales coach Gareth Jenkins had seen enough and James Hook, Alix Popham and Gethin Jenkins all arrived off the bench for Shanklin, Ryan Jones and Duncan Jones.

But Jenkins' opposite number Graham Henry added fresh legs to his own side and the pattern of All Blacks dominance continued.

A chink of light came when McCaw was sin-binned for one infringement too many and Wales laid siege to the Kiwi line from a series of five-metre line-outs and drives.

Patience paid off and Martyn Williams was shunted over the try line, with Hook taking over the kicking duties to stroke the conversion.

But all the hard work was undone as Popham left a hole in the Wales defence that allowed Nick Evans, on for Carter, to burst through and send Sivivatu under the posts for his hat-trick.

Evans added the easy extras for a 38-10 All Blacks lead with 15 minutes left on the match clock.

Andrew Hore became the second All Black to be shown a yellow card, after McCaw had returned to the action, but this time it made little difference.

Rico Gear cut back inside to be stopped just short of the try line, but Wales killed the ball in desperation and referee Pearson awarded a penalty try.

Evans' conversion made it 45-10 and ensured Wales continue their 53-year wait for another victory over New Zealand.

Wales:
Kevin Morgan; Mark Jones, Tom Shanklin, Sonny Parker, Shane Williams; Stephen Jones (capt), Dwayne Peel; Duncan Jones, Rhys Thomas, Adam Jones, Ian Evans, Ian Gough, Jonathan Thomas, Martyn Williams, Ryan Jones.
Replacements: Mathew Rees for R. Thomas (72), Gethin Jenkins for D. Jones (46), Alun Wyn Jones for Evans (55), Alix Popham for R. Jones (46), Mike Phillips for Peel (60), James Hook for Shanklin (46), Gavin Henson for Parker (72).

New Zealand:
Mils Muliaina; Rico Gear, Conrad Smith, Luke McAlister, Sitiveni Sivivatu; Dan Carter, Byron Kelleher; Neemia Tialata, Anton Oliver, Carl Hayman, Keith Robinson, Ali Williams, Jerry Collins, Richie McCaw (capt), Rodney So'oialo.
Replacements: Andrew Hore for Oliver (48), Tony Woodcock for Tialata (35), James Ryan for Williams (61), Reuben Thorne for So'oialo (61), Piri Weepu for Kelleher (48), Nick Evans for Carter (61), Ma'a Nonu for Sivivatu (75).

Sin bin: McCaw (56), Hore (71).

ALLBLACKS NAME TEAM TO FACE WALES:

2006-11-22T21:32:00.000+13:00

New Zealand's team to face Wales in Cardiff on Saturday shows seven changes from their last outing against France.

But captain Richie McCaw, fly-half Daniel Carter and flanker Jerry Collins will all start despite suggestions they would be rested.

Conrad Smith and Luke McAlister are reunited at centre, Mils Muliaina at full-back in place of Leon MacDonald.

Rico Gear replaces winger Joe Rokocoko, while Neemia Tialata, Anton Oliver and Keith Robinson come into the pack.

Gear scored a hat-trick of tires when the sides last met a year ago at the Millennium Stadium, with Carter adding the other 26 points in a crushing 41-3 victory.

"This is the team best suited to play Wales," said All Blacks coach Graham Henry, who only had injured centre Aaron Mauger unavailable for selection.

"The Welsh play a different style to the French and the match will be played in different conditions. We've made changes accordingly."

New Zealand:
Mils Muliaina; Rico Gear, Conrad Smith, Luke McAlister, Sitiveni Sivivatu; Dan Carter, Byron Kelleher; Neemia Tialata, Anton Oliver, Carl Hayman, Keith Robinson, Ali Williams, Jerry Collins, Richie McCaw (capt), Rodney So'oialo.
Replacements: Andrew Hore, Tony Woodcock, James Ryan, Reuben Thorne, Piri Weepu, Nick Evans, Ma'a Nonu.

WALES NAME TEAM FOR ALL BLACKS MATCH:

2006-11-22T21:28:00.000+13:00

Wales have selected Sonny Parker ahead of Gavin Henson for Saturday's Test with New Zealand in Cardiff.

Parker will partner Tom Shanklin in the midfield, with Henson on the bench after recovering from a toe infection.

Gareth Thomas has been ruled out with a knee injury so Kevin Morgan starts at full-back, but fly-half Stephen Jones returns to captain the side.

Duncan Jones and Rhys Thomas come into the pack as only the other changes to the side that started against Canada.

Loose-head prop Duncan Jones, who captained the side to victory over the Pacific Islanders earlier this month, replaces Gethin Jenkins, while Thomas is preferred to Matthew Rees at hooker.

James Hook makes way at fly-half for Stephen Jones to return for the first since he was injured against Australia in the opening match of the autumn series.

But emerging Ospreys star Hook has won a place on the bench to cover the inside centre and fly-half positions ahead of Ceri Sweeney.

Ian Gough and Ian Evans have fought off competition from Brent Cockbain to continue as the lock partnership.

Cockbain, available again after his 20-day suspension, has been released back to the Ospreys despite Wales losing lock Rob Sidoli, who was on the bench against Canada, to a shoulder injury.

Parker returned to the international stage for the first time in a year a fortnight ago after ending his international retirement to face the Pacific Islanders.

The 29-year-old duly won the man-of-the-match award for his performance in the 38-20 victory and followed that up with another outstanding performance last week against Canada.

Henson had been set to face the Canadians - and was pencilled in to face the All Blacks - before an infected toe forced him to pull out at the last minute.

But Wales coach Gareth Jenkins said Parker's form has made it impossible for him to overlook the Kiwi-born centre.

"Sonny very much played himself into the selection debate with two solid performances since coming out of retirement, against Canada and the Pacific Islanders," said Jenkins.

"He comes into an exciting back line with the kind of pace and power which can hopefully match New Zealand and enable us to take our game-plan to them."

Wales have not beaten the All Blacks for 53 years, but Jenkins claims this set of players are capable of etching their names into the history books.

"We go into this game with a huge amount of self-belief. We know we are playing the number one team in world rugby, but we also know they are human beings," he said.

Wales:
Kevin Morgan; Mark Jones, Tom Shanklin, Sonny Parker, Shane Williams; Stephen Jones (capt), Dwayne Peel; Duncan Jones, Rhys Thomas, Adam Jones, Ian Evans, Ian Gough, Jonathan Thomas, Martyn Williams, Ryan Jones.
Replacements: Mathew Rees, Gethin Jenkins, Alun Wyn Jones, Alix Popham, Mike Phillips, James Hook, Gavin Henson.

ALL BLACKS CLINCH SERIES:

2006-11-19T12:28:00.000+13:00

FRANCE 11-23 NEW ZEALAND

France: (5) 11
Tries: Heymans
Pens: Yachvili (2)

New Zealand: (16) 23
Tries: Rokocoko, Nonu
Con: Carter (2)
Pens: Carter (3)

New Zealand beat France for the second time in seven days to further enhance their status as overwhelming favourites for next year's World Cup.

Despite an early shock when a Cedric Heymans try put France 5-3 ahead, an upset never looked likely in Paris.

Daniel Carter's kicking and tries either side of the break from Joe Rokocoko and Ma'a Nonu had the All Blacks 23-5 ahead after 50 minutes.

France battled but could only respond with two Dmitry Yachvili penalties.

New Zealand demolished France 47-3 in Lyon last week and were quickly ahead again when Carter slotted an early penalty.

But the 80,000 crowd in the Stade de France was ignited when Kiwi full-back Leon MacDonald dropped a high ball, allowing Heymans to scamper over in the corner.

If there were any nerves on the All Blacks side, the peerless Carter soon banished them with two penalties.

And with half-time approaching the New Zealanders landed a killer blow, combining superbly following a midfield break from MacDonald to send Rokocoko in at the corner.

Carter converted to give the All Blacks a useful 16-5 lead at the break and when centre Nonu powered over from close range early in the second half, the result was beyond doubt.

France did not capitulate, however, and dominated possession in the closing stages without ever really threatening the New Zealand line.

Yachvili did land his second penalty with two minutes to play but the Parisian crowd greeted the decision to kick for goal with derisory whistles.

"It was tough tonight," said Carter. "The French really took it to us and came back well in the second half. It was a scrappy win, but we will take it."

France coach Bernard Laporte said: "The All Blacks are a very good side, we know that, but if we hadn't had conceded that try at the end of the first half, it would not have been the same match."

France:
Elhorga; Rougerie, Fritz, Jauzion, Heymans; Traille, Elissalde; Miloud, Ibanez (capt), de Villiers, Nallet, Pape, Bonnaire, Martin, Vermeulen.
Replacements: Szarzewski, Marconnet, Jacquet, Betsen, Yachvili, Marty, Dominici.

New Zealand:
MacDonald; Rokocoko, Muliaina, Nonu, Sivivatu; Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Mealamu, Hayman, Jack, Williams, Collins, McCaw, So'oialo.
Replacements: Hore, Tialata, Eaton, Masoe, Ellis, Evans, McAlister.

ALL BLACKS THRASH FRENCH:

2006-11-14T08:25:00.000+13:00

FRANCE 3 NEW ZEALAND 47:

France (3) 3
Drop goal: Fritz

New Zealand (23) 47
Tries: Sivivatu 2, McCaw, Carter, Smith, Rokocoko, McAlister
Cons: Carter 3
Pen: Carter 2

New Zealand underlined their status as favourites for the 2007 World Cup with a dazzling seven-try display away to tournament hosts France.

Tries from Sitiveni Sivivatu, Richie McCaw and Dan Carter helped the All Blacks into a 23-3 lead at half-time.

They ran in tries from Conrad Smith and Joe Rokocoko early in the second half.

And further efforts from Sivivatu, with his second, and Luke McAlister rounded off an awesome performance as France managed only a Florian Fritz drop goal.

Sivivatu produced a sizzling step off his left foot to beat Aurelien Rougerie and power over for the opening score after five minutes.

Carter missed the conversion but soon landed a penalty to put the visitors 8-0 ahead.

France finally got on the scoreboard through Fritz after 21 minutes but Carter's boot edged the All Blacks further ahead before they ran in two tries to take total control.

Captain McCaw got the first when he powered over from close range and Carter went over unopposed on the stroke of half-time as New Zealand really turned the screw.

Things went from bad to worse for France four minutes after the break when a rare home attack broke down and Smith raced 70 metres to score under the posts.

Carter's conversion made it 30-3 and he was on target again after Rokocoko finished off another searing New Zealand attack.

The All Blacks eased off a little in the final 20 minutes but they still had the last word as Sivivatu and McAlister went over in the left-hand corner to finish off a brace of flowing attacks.

FRANCE:
Laharrague; Rougerie, Fritz, Jauzion, Dominici; Traille, Yachvili; Marconnet, Szarzewski, De Villiers, Pelous, Pape, Dussautoir, Bonnaire, Vermeulen.
Replacements: Ibanez, Milloud, Nallet, Martin, Elissalde, Marty, Heymans.

NEW ZEALAND:
MacDonald; Rokocoko, Smith, McAlister, Sivivatu; Carter, Weepu; Woodcock, Oliver, Hayman, Ryan, Williams, Collins, McCaw, So'oialo.
Replacements: Mealamu, Tialata, Eaton, Masoe, Kelleher, Nonu, Muliaina.

10 CHANGES FOR FRENCH TEST:

2006-11-08T08:55:00.000+13:00

New Zealand coach Graham Henry has made 10 changes to his side for Saturday's first Test against France in Lyon.

Full-back Leon MacDonald, wing Sitiveni Sivivatu, scrum-half Piri Weepu and centres Conrad Smith and Luke McAlister come into the backs.

Number eight Rodney So'oialo, flanker Jerry Collins, hooker Anton Oliver and locks Ali Williams and James Ryan are named in the pack.

The All Blacks defeated England 40-21 in their tour opener on Sunday.

"We felt it was important to have fresh legs for this match against the strongest team in the northern hemisphere," said Henry.

"We are playing in Lyon where they had a lot of success and we are playing on Armistice Day, which usually brings out the best in the French side.

"It's a significant challenge for our team."

Henry has delayed naming his replacements as there is an injury concern over prop Neemia Tialata.

Fly-half Nick Evans, named in the original starting XV for the England game, remains sidelined with the hamstring injury that forced him to miss the Twickenham contest.

Star half-back Dan Carter, who was brought in to replace Evans and scored 26 points, retains his place as do skipper Richie McCaw, props Tony Woodcock and Carl Hayman and wing Joe Rokocoko.

New Zealand are using this tour as a dry run for next year's World Cup in France.

They face France again in Paris on 18 November before playing Wales in Cardiff a week later.

NEW ZEALAND:
MacDonald; Rokocoko, Smith, McAlister, Sivivatu; Carter, Weepu; Woodcock, Oliver, Hayman, Ryan, Williams, Collins, McCaw (capt), So'oialo.
Replacements: TBC

ALL BLACKS THUMP WOEFULL ENGLAND:

2006-11-06T08:00:00.000+13:00

England 20 (5)
Tries: Noon, Cohen, Perry.
Cons: Hodgson.
Pens: Hodgson.

New Zealand 41 (28)
Tries: Mauger, Rokocoko, Hayman, Carter.
Cons: Carter (3).
Pens: Carter (5).

England lost their sixth straight match and suffered a record home defeat as Dan Carter led New Zealand to victory.

Jamie Noon's early try was disallowed - he did score later but Joe Rokocoko and Carl Hayman's tries just before the break put New Zealand well in command.

England took the game to the All Blacks in the second half and had a man over when Chris Masoe was sin-binned.

But fly-half Carter scored 26 points as New Zealand eased home despite tries by Ben Cohen and debutant Shaun Perry.

In the first match under England's restructured set-up and in front of Twickenham's new South Stand, coach Andy Robinson's side were hoping to produce something for a record 82,000 crowd to cheer about.

But although they showed determination, England were guilty of careless errors at crucial moments and the All Blacks dominated the scrums.

The 21-point losing margin was England's worst defeat on home soil - surpassing their 29-11 loss against South Africa nine years ago.

Carter, a late addition to the All Blacks side following an injury to his understudy Nick Evans, soon underlined his status as arguably the best back in world rugby.

The fly-half put them into an early lead with a penalty after England were guilty of keeping their hands in a ruck, and his clinical kicking continued to punish the home side whenever they transgressed.

But England hit straight back with some quick handling sending Noon clear.

The Newcastle centre had Danny Grewcock outside him but chose to go it alone and seemed to have grounded the ball after rolling over the line under some All Black tackling.

But referee Joel Jutge called for the video and no try was awarded because it was not conclusively clear that Noon had grounded.

Noon did get his name on the try-sheet later in the half, reacting quickly to scoop up Anthony Allen's pass that had bounced behind Iain Balshaw and sprinting over the line.

But the All Blacks had already established a healthy cushion by then, thanks to Aaron Mauger's try, which was set up for him by Rico Gear, and Carter, who kicked conversions and penalties with metronomic consistency.

And two tries just before the break put the visitors almost out of sight.

Firstly Rokocoko intercepted Allen's telegraphed pass to race up the pitch and touch down.

Then in the last action of the half, Carl Hayman crossed over the line after a neat passing movement stemming from a dropped pass by Lewis Moody, which Rokocoko carried up the field.

Despite that double whammy, England came out full of heart at the start of the second half and were almost instantly rewarded for continuing to take the game to the All Blacks.

A long and laboured move ended with Cohen diving over on the wing and England were threatening to build some momentum, but the All Blacks struck back in typically ruthless fashion.

Carter brushed off Allen's feeble attempt at a tackle to break the England line and sprint clear for a simple try.

England hung on, with Perry charging down Mauger's kick and taking the ball down the other end for a memorable debut try.

A glimmer of hope for the home side came when Masoe was sin-binned for getting caught underneath Cohen.

But Hodgson missed the easy penalty that resulted and the All Blacks even extended their lead despite being a man down.

Carter rounded off his man-of-the-match performance with a couple more penalties as England's new rugby supremo Rob Andrew was given plenty to think about ahead of England's defence of their world crown next year.

ENGLAND:
Balshaw; Sackey, Noon, Allen, Cohen; Hodgson, Perry; Sheridan, Chuter, White; Grewcock, Kay; Corry (capt), Moody, Sanderson.
Replacements: Mears, Turner, Jones, Lund, Richards, Goode, Van Gisbergen.

NEW ZEALAND:
Muliaina; Gear, Nonu, Mauger, Rokocoko; Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Mealamu, Hayman; Jack, Robinson; Thorne, McCaw (capt), Masoe.
Replacements: Hore, Afoa, Dermody, So'oialo, Ellis, MacDonald, Sivivatu.

ENGLAND/ALL BLACKS NAME TEAMS;

2006-11-02T21:23:00.000+13:00

Preview: All Blacks v England 02/11/2006

England, no matter its perceived strength, is always a tantalising prospect for All Blacks fans and the opening Test of this year's tour promises to be little different as New Zealand counts down to its Rugby World Cup campaign.

VENUE & TIME: Twickenham, London, Monday November 5, 4.30 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 28 - All Blacks 21, England 6, Draws 1.

LAST TIME: November 19, 2005 (Twickenham) - All Blacks 23-19 England.

WALKING WOUNDED: New Zealand is still not able to call on fullback Leon MacDonald and prop Neemia Tialata and Nick Evans is described as a 50-50 chance to play due to a hamstring strain. England has far greater injury concerns. Among the English absentees are: fullback Josh Lewsey, centre Mathew Tait, No.8 James Forrester. Wing Mark Cueto is the most recent withdrawal after suffering an ankle injury.

FORM: England's record in the last 12 months has not been impressive and it has entered into a rebuilding phase before next year's World Cup. The injury list will not have helped coach Andy Robinson in his plans but the introduction of new players gives them a chance to impress. The All Blacks, after dominating the Tri Nations, lost disappointingly in their last match to South Africa.

WHO'S HOT: First five-eighths Charlie Hodgson has a big role to play in whatever game plan England employs. His kicking will be crucial but his ability to set alight his backline will make him dangerous. Martin Corry is on the blindside of the scrum and respected for his work rate. Wing Ben Cohen is always a handful against New Zealand. Evans might be a surprise for British pundits at first five-eighths, but he had a good Air New Zealand Cup campaign for Otago and will relish any openings in the English defence. Outside him Aaron Mauger will have an important role in unleashing centre Ma'a Nonu's talents. Captain Richie McCaw, after such a long time out of match play can be expected to be a dominating figure in the loose.

TEAMS:

New Zealand: 1 - Tony Woodcock, 2 - Keven Mealamu, 3 - Carl Hayman, 4 - Chris Jack, 5 - Keith Robinson, 6 - Reuben Thorne, 7 - Richie McCaw (Captain), 8 - Chris Masoe, 9 - Byron Kelleher, 10 - Nick Evans, 11 - Joe Rokocoko, 12 - Aaron Mauger, 13 - Ma'a Nonu, 14 - Rico Gear, 15 - Mils Muliaina.

Replacements: 16 - Andrew Hore, 17 - John Afoa, 18 - Clarke Dermody, 19 - Rodney So'oialo, 20 - Andrew Ellis, 21 - Dan Carter, 22 - Sitiveni Sivivatu.

England: 1 - Andrew Sheridan, 2 - George Chuter, 3 - Julian White, 4 - Danny Grewcock, 5 - Ben Kay, 6 - Martin Corry (Captain), 7 - Lewis Moody, 8 - Pat Sanderson, 9 - Shaun Perry, 10 - Charlie Hodgson, 11 - Ben Cohen, 12 - Anthony Allen, 13 - Jamie Noon, 14 - Mark Cueto, 15 - Iain Balshaw.

Replacements: 16 - Lee Mears, 17 - Stuart Turner, 18 - Chris Jones, 19 - Magnus Lund, 20 - Peter Richards, 21 - Andy Goode, 22 - Mark van Gisbergen.

2007 SUPER 14 SQUADS NAMED:

2006-10-29T09:11:00.000+13:00

New Zealand's 2007 Rebel Sport Super 14 squads have been confirmed today, following a selection meeting at the New Zealand Rugby Union offices in Wellington yesterday, attended by the coaching staff of the five New Zealand Franchises.

NZRU Deputy Chief Executive Steve Tew said the NZRU and the Franchises recognised that, because of the Rugby World Cup, next year was a unique year for the New Zealand Rebel Sport Super 14 sides and would allow a number of players who had been identified during the Air New Zealand Cup an opportunity to further their careers at the next level.

“The selected squads are evidence of the real depth across the country and the injection of exciting, new players will add real spice to the competition,” Mr Tew said.

Mr Tew said there would be interest in the make-up and shape of the New Zealand sides, with established Rebel Sport Super 14 stars playing alongside new players and draft players from outside the region.

“I think New Zealand rugby fans will find the mix quite exciting and will look forward to the kick off of the competition in February,” he added.

The Blues and Crusaders kick off next year’s Rebel Sport Super 14 competition when they play the opening match in Auckland on 2 February. The final is on 19 May.

In explaining the selection process, Mr Tew said the five New Zealand squad sizes differed as coaches were able to pick players to replace those players on the All Blacks’ conditioning programme. The squad sizes are Blues (32), Chiefs (31), Hurricanes (34), Crusaders (35) and Highlanders (30).

The squads include 42 new Rebel Sport Super 14 players who were able to showcase their abilities during the inaugural Air New Zealand Cup. They are as follows:

Blues: Auckland prop Chris Heard, flanker Onosa’i Tololima-Auva’a and wing James Somerset; and Waikato prop Sam Biddles.

Chiefs: Waikato prop Craig West and fellow front-rower Aled de Malmanche, lock Toby Lynn, halfback Brendon Leonard, midfielder Richard Kahui and utility back Dwayne Sweeney; and Bay of Plenty first five-eighth Murray Williams.

Hurricanes: Wellington flanker Serge Lilo, halfback Alby Mathewson and wing Cory Jane; Manawatu lock Hayden Triggs, Auckland wing David Smith, Canterbury flanker Hayden Hopgood and Southland first five-eighth Blair Stewart.

Crusaders: Canterbury loose forwards Kieran Read and Peter Nixon, hooker Ti’i Paulo, locks Michael Paterson and Isaac Ross, midfielder Tim Bateman and first five-eighth Stephen Brett; Tasman prop Ben May and his flanker teammate Jonathon Poff; Northland loose forward Jake Paringatai and North Harbour first five-eighth Tusi Pisi.

Highlanders: Tasman winger Lucky Mulipola, Otago prop Keith Cameron, loose forwards Alando Soakai and Ezra Taylor, halfback Toby Morland, fullback Craig Clare, first five-eighth Charlie Hore, midfielder Aaron Bancroft and winger Greg Zampach; Southland hooker David Hall, prop Jamie Mackintosh, lock Kane Thompson and midfielder Jason Kawau.

The full squads also include 16 draft players (indicated below) and seven players returning to Rebel Sport Super 14 rugby – Otago fullback Glen Horton, Auckland loose forward Jerome Kaino (brought in as a replacement player in 2005) and hooker Derren Witcombe, Waikato lock Keith Robinson, Wellington hooker Mahonri Schwalger, Taranaki prop Tony Penn and North Harbour wing Rudi Wulf.

The 2007 Rebel Sport Super 14 squads are as follows:

¹ indicates new Rebel Sport Super 14 player.
² indicates returning Super 14 player.
³ indicates draft player.

Blues: John Afoa (Auckland), Ben Atiga (Auckland), Sam Biddles ¹ ³ (Waikato), Anthony Boric (North Harbour), Daniel Braid (Auckland), Justin Collins (Auckland), Steve Devine (Auckland), Troy Flavell (Auckland), David Gibson (Auckland), Chris Heard ¹ (Auckland), David Holwell (Northland) Doug Howlett (Auckland), Jerome Kaino ² (Auckland), Luke McAlister (North Harbour), Angus Macdonald (Auckland), Keven Mealamu (Auckland), Isa Nacewa (Auckland), George Pisi (North Harbour), Greg Rawlinson (North Harbour), Josevata Rokocoko (Auckland), James Somerset ¹ (Auckland), Saimone Taumoepeau (Auckland), Isaia Toeava (Auckland), Onosa’i Tololima-Auva’a ¹ (Auckland), Anthony Tuitavake (North Harbour), Sam Tuitupou (Auckland), Nick White (Auckland), Ali Williams (Auckland), Nick Williams (North Harbour), Derren Witcombe ² (Auckland), Tony Woodcock (North Harbour), Rudi Wulf ² (North Harbour).

Chiefs: Sosene Anesi (Waikato), Steven Bates (Waikato), Ben Castle (Bay of Plenty), Simms Davison (Bay of Plenty), Aled de Malmanche ¹ (Waikato), Stephen Donald (Waikato), Jono Gibbes (Waikato), Marty Holah (Waikato), Richard Kahui ¹ (Waikato), Byron Kelleher (Waikato), Roy Kinikinilau (Waikato), Tanerau Latimer (Bay of Plenty), Sione Lauaki (Waikato), Tasesa Lavea ³ (Auckland), Brendon Leonard ¹ (Waikato), Toby Lynn ¹ (Waikato), Lelia Masaga (Counties Manukau),
Liam Messam (Waikato), Malili Muliaina (Waikato), Jamie Nutbrown (Bay of Plenty), Kristian Ormsby (Counties Manukau), Keith Robinson ² (Waikato), Sitiveni Sivivatu (Waikato), Dwayne Sweeney ¹ (Waikato), Niva Ta’auso (Counties Manukau), Anthony Tahana (Bay of Plenty), Tane Tu’ipulotu ³ (Wellington), Craig West ¹ (Waikato), Nathan White (Waikato), Murray Williams ¹ (Bay of Plenty), Tom Willis (Waikato).

Hurricanes: Luke Andrews (Wellington), Jerry Collins (Wellington), Jason Eaton (Taranaki), Tamati Ellison (Wellington), Lome Fa’atau (Wellington), Tim Fairbrother (Wellington), Hosea Gear (Wellington), Jimmy Gopperth (Wellington), Hayden Hopgood ¹ ³ (Canterbury), Andrew Hore (Taranaki), Cory Jane ¹ (Wellington), Tone Kopelani ³ (Canterbury), Nili Latu ³ (Bay of Plenty), Serge Lilo ¹ (Wellington), Chris Masoe (Wellington), Alby Mathewson ¹ (Wellington), Bradley Mika ³ (Auckland),
Ma’a Nonu (Wellington), Shannon Paku (Wellington), Tony Penn ² (Taranaki),
John Schwalger (Wellington), Mahonri Schwalger ² (Wellington), Conrad Smith (Wellington), David Smith ¹ ³ (Auckland), Chris Smylie ³ (Otago), Rodney So’oialo (Wellington), Blair Stewart ¹ ³ (Southland), Neemia Tialata (Wellington), Paul Tito (Taranaki), Hayden Triggs ¹ (Manawatu), Tana Umaga (Wellington), Bernie Upton (Wellington), Thomas Waldrom (Wellington), Piri Weepu (Wellington).

Crusaders: Tim Bateman ¹ (Canterbury), Stephen Brett ¹ (Canterbury), Daniel Carter (Canterbury), Wyatt Crockett (Canterbury), Andy Ellis (Canterbury), Ross Filipo ³ (Wellington), Corey Flynn (Canterbury), Ben Franks (Canterbury), Rico Gear (Tasman), Scott Hamilton (Canterbury), Chris Jack (Tasman), Campbell Johnstone (Canterbury), Casey Laulala (Canterbury), Johnny Leo’o (Canterbury), Richie McCaw (Canterbury), Leon MacDonald (Canterbury), Aaron Mauger (Canterbury), Ben May ¹ (Tasman), Peter Nixon ¹ (Canterbury), Kevin O’Neill (Canterbury), Jake Paringatai ¹ ³ (Northland), Michael Paterson ¹ (Canterbury), Ti’i Paulo ¹ (Canterbury), Tusi Pisi ¹ ³ (North Harbour), Jonathon Poff ¹ (Tasman), Caleb Ralph (Canterbury), Kieran Read ¹ (Canterbury), Isaac Ross ¹ (Canterbury), Kevin Senio (Canterbury), Greg Somerville (Canterbury), Reuben Thorne (Canterbury), Rua Tipoki (Canterbury), Mose Tuiali’i (Canterbury), Brent Ward ³ (Auckland), Paul Williams (Canterbury).

Highlanders: Aaron Bancroft ¹ (Otago), Josh Blackie (Otago), Callum Bruce (Otago), Keith Cameron ¹ (Otago), Craig Clare ¹ (Otago), Jimmy Cowan (Southland), Clarke Dermody (Southland), Nick Evans (Otago), David Hall ¹ (Southland), Carl Hayman (Otago), Charlie Hore ¹ (Otago), Glen Horton ² (Otago), Jason Kawau ¹ (Southland), Chris King (Otago), Filipo Levi (Otago), Jason Macdonald (Otago), Hoani MacDonald (Southland), Jamie Mackintosh ¹ (Southland), Toby Morland ¹ (Otago), Lucky Mulipola ¹ ³ (Tasman), Craig Newby (Otago), Anton Oliver (Otago), James Ryan (Otago), Matt Saunders (Otago), Alando Soakai ¹ (Otago), Ezra Taylor ¹ (Otago), Kane Thompson ¹ (Southland), Hale T-Pole (Southland), Viliame Waqaseduadua ³ (North Harbour), Greg Zampach ¹ (Otago).

The number of players from each province is as follows: Northland (2), North Harbour (10), Auckland (26), Counties Manukau (3), Waikato (21), Bay of Plenty (7), Taranaki (4), Manawatu (1), Wellington (24), Tasman (5), Canterbury (29), Otago (21) and Southland (9).

NEW ZEALAND NAME SQUAD FOR EUROPE:

2006-10-23T21:00:00.000+13:00

Canterbury scrum-half Andrew Ellis is the only new cap named in the 32-man New Zealand squad for November's European tour.
Ellis replaces Jimmy Cowan, who was previously third-choice number nine behind Byron Kelleher and Piri Weepu.

Lock Keith Robinson, who played six tests between 2002 and 2004, returns from injury after a two-year absence.

And centre Conrad Smith, lock James Ryan, fly-half Nick Evans and utility back Ma'a Nonu are also recalled.

Robinson has won his selection after helping Waikato to a 37-31 win over Wellington in Saturday's National Provincial Championship final.

Smith, who returned to top-flight rugby only this season after suffering a badly broken leg, effectively replaces young Auckland centre Isaia Toeava.

"It's great to see Keith back in an All Blacks squad," said New Zealand coach Graham Henry.

"He is an accomplished lock with a great attitude on and off the field."

Winger Doug Howlett and prop Greg Somerville were among the players not considered for selection because of injury.

New Zealand will play England at Twickenham on 5 November, France on 12 and 19 November and Wales in Cardiff on 26 November.

NEW ZEALAND SQUAD:

John Afoa, Dan Carter, Jerry Collins, Clarke Dermody, Jason Eaton, Andy Ellis, Nick Evans, Rico Gear, Carl Hayman, Andrew Hore, Chris Jack, Byron Kelleher, Luke McAlister, Richie McCaw (captain), Leon MacDonald, Chris Masoe, Aaron Mauger, Keven Mealamu, Malili Muliaina, Maa Nonu, Anton Oliver, Keith Robinson, Joe Rokocoko, James Ryan, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Conrad Smith, Rodney Sooialo, Reuben Thorne, Neemia Tialata, Piri Weepu, Ali Williams, Tony Woodcock.

SOUTH AFRICA 21 NEW ZEALAND 20:

2006-09-03T07:43:00.000+12:00

South Africa: (13) 21
Tries: Habana, Wannenburg
Cons: Pretorius
Pens: Pretorius 3

New Zealand: (13) 20
Tries: Carter, Rokocoko
Cons: Carter 2
Pens: Carter 2

A late penalty from Andre Pretorius ended New Zealand's run of Test wins at 15 as South Africa salvaged some pride with a gutsy victory in Rustenburg.

Joe Rokocoko's converted try with 14 minutes left appeared to have given the All Blacks a Tri-Nations clean sweep.

But Pretorius stepped up to snatch victory after the sides went in level at 13-13 at half-time.

Bryan Habana scored in reply to Daniel Carter's try before Pedrie Wannenburg put the Boks 18-13 up after 55 minutes.

But after Rokocoko's try the visitors, already crowned champions for a second successive year, could not resist the hosts' frantic late efforts.

Victory would have put them within one win of the world record of 17 straight Test victories before their next appointment at Twickenham in November.

South Africa, desperate to restore pride after four consecutive defeats in the tournament, had the better of the frenetic early exchanges.

Andre Pretorius, on his return to the team, landed two penalties to one by Carter, before the All Blacks showed their attacking prowess as the first quarter drew to a close.

.Rokocoko came off his right wing to create an overlap, Carter's pass sent Chris Jack through and when he was held up, Jerry Collins popped the ball up for Carter to dive over.

The fly-half converted for a 10-6 lead, only for the Springboks to hit back within a minute.

Number eight Rodney So'oialo's pass was intercepted by the jet-heeled Habana, who raced away for his 16th try in 22 Tests, Pretorius coverting.

New Zealand had a second try ruled out after 37 minutes for an obstruction by So'oialo, but Carter levelled it at 13-13 with a penalty with the last kick of the half.

Pretorius missed a drop-goal attempt on the resumption but the Springboks regained the lead with their best move of the match in the 55th minute.

Stealing possession from an All Blacks line-out, which again failed to function smoothly, they went through the phases, a thrust from Pierre Spies and quick hands from Pretorius allowing Wannenburg to plough over.

Pretorius was unable to convert, and New Zealand coach Graham Henry sent on five replacements in quick succession to try to restore order.

The changes yielded a swift reward when Rokocoko collected Mils Muliaina's clever grubber kick to touch down for his 32nd try in 36 Tests.

Despite South Africa's best efforts, the visitors looked to have held out until two minutes from time, when So'oialo was penalised for not rolling away at a ruck.

Pretorius kept his nerve to strike the kick sweetly between the posts, to the relief and delight of the Springbok nation.

South Africa:
Jaque Fourie; Akona Ndungane, Wynand Olivier, Jean de Villiers, Bryan Habana; Andre Pretorius, Fourie du Preez; Os du Randt, John Smit (capt), BJ Botha, Johann Muller; Victor Matfield, Pedrie Wannenburg, Pierre Spies, AJ Venter.
Replacements: Chiliboy Ralepelle, Lawrence Sephaka, Albert van den Berg, Jacques Cronje, Ruan Pienaar, Butch James, Breyton Paulse.

New Zealand:
Doug Howlett; Joe Rokocoko, Mils Muliaina, Aaron Mauger, Sitiveni Sivivatu; Dan Carter, Jimmy Cowan; Tony Woodcock, Andrew Hore, Carl Hayman, Chris Jack, Ali Williams, Jerry Collins, Richie McCaw, Rodney So'oialo.
Replacements: Anton Oliver, Neemia Tialata, Jason Eaton, Marty Holah, Byron Kelleher, Luke McAlister, Rico Gear.

TRI NATIONS TABLE:

Team P PD PTS
1 New Zealand 6 67 23
2 Australia 5 20 11
3 South Africa 5 -87 5

BOKS LOOK FOR FRESH START:

2006-08-31T21:36:00.000+12:00

Springboks rugby coach Jake White has made five changes to his team to face the All Blacks on Sunday, recalling veteran loose forward AJ Venter, axing fullback Percy Montgomery and promoting Andre Pretorius to first five-eighth.

White recalled Venter for his 24th Test, replacing Jacques Cronje in the No.8 jersey for the Tri-Nations fixture in Rustenberg as the Springboks look to end a five-match losing streak.

In other changes from the All Blacks' 45-26 victory in Pretoria, Pretorius replaces Butch James in the No.10 jersey; centre Wynand Olivier comes off the bench with Jaque Fourie moving out to replace Montgomery at fullback; Bulls flanker Pedrie Wannenburg replaces Solly Tyibilika on the blindside flank and prop BJ Botha replaces CJ van der Linde who has a neck injury.

The inclusion of Pretorius and the shifting of Fourie to fullback suggests a more open, running game after the Springboks kicked plenty of possession away last weekend.

White said Montgomery had a stomach bug this week, which contributed to his decision to omit the veteran fullback.

Venter, who last played for the Springboks against England in Twickenham in 2004, returns from captaining the Sharks in the Currie Cup and is expected to bring some experience to a loose forward trio missing injured pair Schalk Burger and Joe van Niekerk.

Wing Breyton Paulse and prop Lawrence Sephaka have been recalled to the bench.

White gave his team the day off training to clear their heads yesterday, with some of them hitting the golf course.

"We had a nice stern talk last night in terms of what their expectations are and we expect them to get it right," he said.

South Africa:

Jaque Fourie, Akona Ndungane, Wynand Olivier, Jean de Villiers, Bryan Habana, Andre Pretorius, Fourie du Preez, AJ Venter, Pierre Spies, Pedrie Wannenburg, Victor Matfield, Johann Muller, BJ Botha, John Smit (captain), Os du Randt.

Reserves: Chilliboy Ralepelle, Lawrence Sephaka, Albert van den Berg, Jacques Cronje, Ruan Pienaar, Butch James, Breyton Paulse.

HENRY KEEPS ROTATION POLICY:

2006-08-31T21:30:00.000+12:00

New Zealand have made 10 changes for their final Tri-Nations match against South Africa in Rustenburg on Saturday.

Only captain Richie McCaw, Ali Williams, Dan Carter, Mils Muliaina and Sitiveni Sivivatu remain from the 45-26 victory over the Boks last weekend.

The All Blacks will field a potent back three as Doug Howlett comes in at full-back, while Joe Rokocoko partners cousin Sivivatu on the wings.

Hooker Keven Mealamu and scrum-half Piri Weepu have both been rested.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry said their replacements, Andrew Hore and Jimmy Cowan, deserved their chance to shine.

"They've both been great team men and have played well from the bench. They have earned their opportunity," said Henry.

"Doug Howlett has played at fullback for Auckland, the Blues and the All Blacks - it's an exciting combination to have him alongside Joe Rokocoko and Sitiveni Sivivatu."

New Zealand:

Doug Howlett; Joe Rokocoko, Mils Muliaina, Aaron Mauger, Sitiveni Sivivatu; Dan Carter, Jimmy Cowan; Tony Woodcock, Andrew Hore, Carl Hayman, Chris Jack, Ali Williams, Jerry Collins, Richie McCaw, Rodney So'oialo.
Replacements: Anton Oliver, Neemia Tialata, Jason Eaton, Marty Holah, Byron Kelleher, Luke McAlister, Rico Gear.

Tri-Nations Table:
26 August 2006
Team P PD PTS
1 New Zealand 5 68 22
2 Australia 5 20 11
3 South Africa 4 -88 1

SOUTH AFRICA 26 NEW ZEALAND 45

2006-08-27T12:05:00.000+12:00

South Africa 26 (11)
Tries: De Preez, Fourie (2)
Cons: Pretorius
Pens: Montgomery (2), James

New Zealand 45 (16)
Tries: Tialata, McAlister, Sivivatu, Muliaina, Gear
Cons: Carter (4)
Pens: Carter (4)

The All Blacks confirmed their status as the dominant side in the 2006 Tri-Nations with a crushing victory over South Africa in Pretoria.

A burst of three tries in the middle of the second half took the visitors away from the Springboks after the home side had taken an early lead.

Inspired kicking by Daniel Carter and the running of Jerry Collins and Mils Muliaina were key to the Kiwis' win.

Two late tries from Jaque Fourie put a gloss on the scoreline for the hosts.

Carter's performance enabled the All Blacks to fight back in a first half that the Springboks seemed set to dominate.

After both sides had traded early penalties, the home side got their noses in front when Fourie de Preez took advantage of a Kiwi error at the breakdown to scoot clear 15 metres out and cross in the corner.

The Springboks dominated the next 10 minutes, constantly disrupting the All Blacks lineout, but a succession of missed tackles allowed the visitors back in.

Carter's cute cross-kick after a Rico Gear break put Tialata over in the left corner, and his magnificent conversion put the All Blacks in front.

Gear and Toeava managed to throw away a gilt-edged chance to extend their lead, the latter dropping the ball when clear 10 metres from the try line.

But Carter then lined up a penalty from fully 62 metres, sent the ball sailing through the high veldt air and cleared the bar with ease for an extraordinary three points.

Worse was to follow for the Springboks. They came out of the traps fast at the start of the second half but were rocked back immediately by another Carter penalty before the All Blacks took the game away from them with a burst of three unanswered tries.

Akona Ndungane made a break down the left wing but kicked the ball to Muliaina, who scythed through the static home defence before feeding Luke McAlister to power through under the posts.

South Africa were then caught napping by two quickly-taken tap penalties.

First Jerry Collins took advance of the sleepy defence to put Sitiveni Sivivatu into space on the left, and the winger's pace did the rest.

McAlister then returned the favour to Muliaina after breaking clear on halfway, and the All Blacks were rampant.

The home crowd had started booing their own players with a good 25 minutes left on the clock.

There was still time for Fourie to run in two tries with smartly-timed runs to re-ignite the final ten minutes.

But more smart work from Collins snuffed out the Springbok flame with three minutes to go, his clever kick ahead allowing Gear to jog home unopposed.

South Africa had not lost at home to the Kiwis since their 52-16 defeat in 2003.

South Africa:
Montgomery, Ndungane, Fourie, de Villiers, Habana; James, du Preez; du Randt, Smit (captain), van der Linde, Muller, Matfield, Tyibilika, Cronje.
Replacements: Olivier, Pretorius, Pienaar, van den Berg, Ralepelle, Botha, Spies.

New Zealand:
MacDonald; Gear, Muliaina, McAlister, Sivivatu, Carter, Weepu; Tialata, Oliver, Somerville; Rawlinson, Williams, Thorne, McCaw (capt), Masoe.
Replacements: Mealamu, Woodcock, Jack, Collins, Cowan, Tuitupou, Toeava.

TRI NATIONS TABLE:

Team P PD PTS
1 New Zealand 5 68 22
2 Australia 5 20 11
3 South Africa 4 -88 1

11 CHANGES BY ALL BLACKS:

2006-08-23T21:08:00.000+12:00

New Zealand coach Graham Henry has made 11 changes to the side that beat Australia for Saturday's Tri-Nations game against South Africa in Pretoria.
Only Luke McAlister, Dan Carter, Mils Muliaina and Richie McCaw survive from the starting XV that beat the Wallabies 34-27 in Auckland last week.

Sitiveni Sivivatu gets his first Test call-up this year on the left wing.

Leon MacDonald plays at full-back, with Rico Gear on the right wing, as the All Blacks seek a 15th consecutive win.

New Zealand also field a new-look front five as they aim for their first win in South Africa since 2003, when they thumped the Springboks 52-16 in Pretoria.

"We know every match against the Springboks will be tremendously hard and very physical and we've just come through a tough contest with Australia, so the changes are strategic," said Henry.

"We have not had much recovery time and had to travel for 18 hours off the back of a game and we'll be playing at high altitude."

Forwards coach Steve Hansen said they were braced for a big physical test, which was why they had changed the front five.

"We believe this pack is better suited to play against South Africa than the one that played against Australia," he said.

"This group is fresh and we wanted a fresh pack so we can mount a really good challenge on Saturday."

NEW ZEALAND TEAM TO FACE SOUTH AFRICA:

Macdonald; Gear, Muliaina, McAlister, Sivivatu, Carter, Weepu; Tialata, Oliver, Somerville; Rawlinson, Williams, Thorne, McCaw (capt), Masoe. Replacements: Mealamu, Woodcock, Jack, Collins, Cowan, Tuitupou, Toeava.

TRI NATIONS TABLE:

Team P PD PTS
1 New Zealand 4 49 17
2 Australia 5 20 11
3 South Africa 3 -69 1

ALL BLACKS SEAL TRI-NATIONS TITLE:

2006-08-20T14:24:00.000+12:00

New Zealand 34 (11)
Tries: Eaton, Jack, McAlister
Cons: Carter 2
Pens: Carter 5

Australia 27 (20)
Tries: Tuqiri 2, Elsom
Cons: Mortlock 3
Pens: Mortlock 2

New Zealand produced an impressive second-half comeback to defeat Australia in Auckland and secure the Tri-Nations title for the seventh time.

The home side trailed 20-11 at the break after tries from wing Lote Tuqiri and flanker Rocky Elsom, although Jason Eaton did cross for New Zealand.

But the All Blacks dominated the second half and Chris Jack and Luke McAlister put them ahead for the first time.

Tuqiri gave the Wallabies hope late on but New Zealand held on.

New Zealand's win maintained their recent dominance of a competition they have now won four times in the last five years.

They have also earned bragging rights over Australia this season thanks to a 3-0 Bledisloe Cup whitewash.

Graham Henry's men may have sealed the Tri-Nations title with two games to play but they were made to work hard by a gritty Wallabies side slowly improving under coach John Connolly.

The visitors started well and after Dan Carter and Stirling Mortlock exchanged two penalties each, Tuqiri crossed on 25 minutes to make the score 13-6.

Eaton crossed for New Zealand from a 25m rolling maul to reduce the deficit to two points before Elsom's controversial try just before the break.

Despite having Tuqiri in yards of space outside him, Elsom went for the line himself and the video referee judged that he just managed to ground the ball, although television replays were inconclusive.

Australia could hardly get out of their half after half-time but New Zealand only had two Carter penalties to show for their early pressure.

The home side finally claimed their second try when Jack finished off a fine move on 63 minutes before centre McAlister's intercept try sealed victory.

Tuqiri crossed for his second with eight minutes to go but the result was never in doubt and the All Blacks were left to celebrate a worthy win.

However, New Zealand management were angry with an apparent spear tackle by Tuqiri on All Blacks skipper Richie McCaw early in the second half.

It led to citing commissioner Willem Venter citing Tuqiri after the game.

The incident did not sour the celebrations and afterwards All Blacks coach Graham Henry hailed his side's performance.

"We are pleased to have wrapped up the Tri-Nations after four games out of six," said All Blacks coach Graham Henry.

"The boys played exceptional football in the second half after being nine points down and they showed heart and character and played very well."

ALL BLACKS/AUSTRALIA NAME TEAMS:

2006-08-16T13:34:00.000+12:00

Australia have dropped flanker George Smith for Saturday's must-win Tri Nations clash against New Zealand.
Smith has been replaced by Phil Waugh in one of three changes made by coach John Connolly in the wake of the lacklustre win over South Africa.

Wing Clyde Rathbone and hooker Jeremy Paul also earn recalls.

New Zealand have also made three changes for the game in Auckland, with wing Doug Howlett, lock Jason Eaton and centre Isaia Toeva all starting.

Leon McDonald, Rico Gear and Ali Williams are the players that make way, with Mils Muliaina switching from centre to full-back.

"This move bolsters our options at 15, keeps Leon MacDonald fresh, and makes room for Isaia in the starting line-up," said coach Graham Henry.

Victory over the Wallabies would seal the Tri-Nations title for New Zealand before they head to South Africa.

Australia, who needed a late try from Mat Rogers to beat South Africa on 5 August, narrowly lost 13-9 to the All Blacks last month.

The Wallabies have already lost the Bledisloe Cup after two straight defeats.

"There were some very tough selection decisions, particularly in the back row, but we feel that Phil Waugh deserves his opportunity in the starting team," said Connolly.

"George Smith has been very good for us throughout the season and is one of the world's best in his position, but we are very keen to see what Phil can bring to the mix.

"The wing was also very contentious and there has been nothing between the outside backs throughout the season."

New Zealand:
Muliaina; Howlett, Toeava, Mauger, Rokocoko; Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Mealamu, Hayman; Jack, Eaton; Collins, McCaw (capt), Sooialo.
Replacements: Hore, Somerville, Williams, Masoe, Weepu, McAlister, L MacDonald.

Australia:
Latham; Rathbone, Mortlock, Giteau, Tuqiri; Larkham, Gregan (capt); Holmes, Paul, Blake; Sharpe, Vickerman; Elsom, Waugh, Palu.
Replacements: McIsaac, Baxter, Chisholm, Smith, Sheehan, Gerrard, Rogers.

AUSTRALIA 9 NEW ZEALAND 13

2006-07-30T20:51:00.000+12:00

Australia (6) 9
Pens: Mortlock (3)
New Zealand (10) 13
Tries: Rokocoko
Cons: Carter
Pens: Carter
Drops: Carter

New Zealand's unyielding defence kept out Australia to retain the Bledisloe Cup in Brisbane and seal a third Tri-Nations victory of the season.

All Blacks wing Joe Rokocoko scored a stunning solo try in the 10th minute to give his side a 10-6 lead at the break.

Fly-half Dan Carter added a drop-goal to his conversion and penalty to extend the lead as Australia pressed late on.

Stirling Mortlock kicked a third penalty but the desperate Wallabies could find no way past the black wall.

"That was a great Test match, it was like a game of chess," said New Zealand coach Graham Henry.

"We're very pleased to come away with the win. The captain [Richie McCaw] was outstanding. In defence he saved a try in the far right-hand corner and I just thought the defensive effort was superb.

"But I think both teams can be very happy about the way they played."

New Zealand are now unbeaten in three Tri-Nations matches this season after a 32-12 victory over Australia in Christchurch and a 35-17 win against South Africa in Wellington.

The All Blacks, who retained the trans-Tasman Bledisloe Cup for the fourth year, lead the Tri-Nations with 13 points, seven clear of Australia. South Africa are yet to win a point.

"The Bledisloe Cup is a huge trophy for New Zealand rugby," said Henry. "New Zealanders are very proud of it, as are the team. It's probably the major trophy that we play for, apart from the one we play for every four years (World Cup)."

Australia, who also beat South Africa at home, have now lost seven of their last nine Tests against the All Blacks.

"It was a game that we could have won, but in saying that, I'm not taking anything from New Zealand's win," said Australia coach John Connolly.

"New Zealand are a great side and it's their time at the moment but I think we showed tonight we're not too far away."

It was the first Test in which Australia they have failed to score a try since their 18-9 loss to Ireland in Dublin in November 2002.

The Wallabies host the Springboks in Sydney next weekend.

TRI NATIONS TABLE:
29 July 2006
Team P PD PTS
1 New Zealand 3 42 13
2 Australia 3 25 6
3 South Africa 2 -67 0

AUSTRALIA NAME TEAM FOR NZ CLASH:

2006-07-27T20:57:00.000+12:00

Australia have handed a recall to inexperienced prop Rodney Blake, 23, for Saturday's Tri-Nations match against New Zealand in Brisbane.
Blake replaces Guy Shepherdson in the only change to the side that thrashed South Africa 49-0 on 15 July.

Hooker Tai McIsaac returns to the bench after recovering from a rib injury.

Australia coach John Connolly said: "New Zealand pose a very big challenge for us. There is no doubt they are the benchmark in world rugby right now."

The All Blacks have made seven changes from the side which destroyed South Africa as Graham Henry returns to his first-choice team.

And Connolly was fulsome in his praise for the All Blacks, saying "they have incredible depth".

Australia were out-scrummaged in the first encounter by the All Blacks and Blake warned he could not solve the Wallabies' problems up front on his own.

"It's going to put pressure on me, saying I'm the only guy who can make a difference," said Blake, who at 20st 7lb (130kg) is the heaviest rugby player to ever represent Australia.

"I'm just another player coming into the team through selection and I've just got to do what I have to do on the field."

Blake predicted "World War III" and said all eight players in the Australian scrum needed to work together against the All Blacks.

Connolly has named a nine-man bench, which he will reduce to seven after Friday's final training session.

Scrum-half George Gregan will captain the side for the 55th time to equal John Eales' record.

He will also extend his world record for caps to 124.

The All Blacks will also retain the Bledisloe Cup if they win on Saturday, while an Australia win would set up a decider in Auckland next month.

Australia:

Chris Latham, Mark Gerrard, Stirling Mortlock, Matt Giteau, Lote Tuqiri, Stephen Larkham, George Gregan (capt); Greg Holmes, Jeremy Paul, Rodney Blake, Nathan Sharpe, Dan Vickerman, Rocky Elsom, George Smith, Scott Fava.
Replacements (to be reduced to seven): Tai McIsaac, Al Baxter, Guy Shepherdson, Mark Chisholm, Phil Waugh, Wycliff Palu, Sam Cordingley, Mat Rogers, Clyde Rathbone.

ALL BLACKS MAKES CHANGES:

2006-07-26T12:32:00.000+12:00

TRI NATIONS TABLE:
22 July 2006.

Team P PD PTS
1 New Zealand 2 38 9
2 Australia 2 29 5
3 South Africa 2 -67 0

New Zealand have made seven changes to their team for Saturday's Tri-Nations match against Australia in Brisbane.
Coach Graham Henry admitted he was restoring his 'A' team as he announced four backline changes and three to the pack that beat South Africa 35-17.

Rico Gear and Joe Rokocoko return on the wings, Aaron Mauger starts at inside centre and Byron Kelleher replaces Piri Weepu at scrum-half.

Jerry Collins, Keven Mealamu and Tony Woodcock all return to the pack.

The only player of the eight rested after their opening 32-12 win over Australia not to be recalled is lock Jason Eaton, who is on the bench with Ali Williams retaining his starting spot.

Henry has opted for experience against a Wallabies side he expects to be in a "dangerous" frame of mind after that opening reverse in Christchurch.

They have since had the confidence boost of thrashing South Africa 49-0.

"A lot of these guys have played a lot of important Test matches together, so yeah, I think you could call that the 'A' team," Henry said of his own side.

"Australia won by an impressive margin in their last match and have a great record in Brisbane, so we expect this to be the most difficult Test of the season so far.

"It's a critical Test for the Tri-Nations series as well, so there's plenty to play for."

The All Blacks will also retain the Bledisloe Cup if they win on Saturday.

NEW ZEALAND:

Leon MacDonald; Rico Gear, Mils Muliaina, Aaron Mauger, Joe Rokocoko; Daniel Carter, Byron Kelleher; Tony Woodcock, Keven Mealamu, Carl Hayman, Chris Jack, Ali Williams, Jerry Collins, Richie McCaw (capt), Rodney So'oialo.
Replacements: Isaia Toeava, Luke McAlister, Jimmy Cowan, Chris Masoe, Jason Eaton, Greg Somerville, Andrew Hore.

NEW ZEALAND 35 SOUTH AFRICA 17

2006-07-26T12:28:00.000+12:00

New Zealand 35 (19)
Tries: Weepu, McCaw
Cons: Carter 2
Pens: Carter 7

South Africa 17 (7)
Tries: Du Preez, Paulse
Cons: Montgomery 2
Pens: Montgomery

Dan Carter kicked 25 points in a superb Tri-Nations display as the All Blacks claimed their 20th straight home win with victory over South Africa.

The Springboks took the lead after just 17 seconds when Fourie du Preez crossed after charging down Carter's clearance.

But indiscipline cost them dear and Carter kicked four penalties before Piri Weepu charged over on 40 minutes.

Breyton Paulse got a try back for the visitors but three more Carter kicks and a Richie McCaw try sealed the win.

New Zealand's victory at the Westpac Stadium in Wellington makes it two from two in this year's campaign and extends their lead over Australia in the Tri-Nations table.

And their triumph, all be it over a struggling Springbok side, came despite coach Graham Henry making eight changes to the team that defeated the Wallabies.

As for South Africa, their dismal form continues and although they improved vastly from last week's shambles against Australia, beleaguered coach Jake White knows there is still a lot to do if he is to keep the critics at bay.

The Springbok forwards fronted up and gave the All Blacks a real going over at the breakdown and their rush defence did not have the holes that were exploited so ruthlessly in the 49-0 loss to Australia.

But South Africa will have to reduce their penalty count if they are to give themselves a chance in the 2006 Tri-Nations.

Du Preez and Butch James impressed at half-back but they were no match for scrum-half Weepu and the inspirational Carter.

Carter did well to recover from an awful start when his kick was charged down by Du Preez inside his own 22 as he attempted to clear from the kick-off.

Percy Montgomery added the conversion and it seemed as if the horror show of last week would become a distant memory.

But Carter kept punishing South Africa's indiscipline, while at the other end Montgomery missed two chances at goal in the first half.

At the end of the first half Carter produced a wonderful burst, which was supported by the impressive Mils Muliaina, to set up Weepu's try and New Zealand were 19-7 ahead at the break.

New Zealand extended their lead after half-time with two more Carter kicks before South Africa gave themselves a glimmer of hope when Paulse collected Du Preez's cross-field kick to touch down.

After missing a third kick, Montgomery reduced the gap to eight points on 71 minutes but Carter ended any hopes of a fightback with his seventh penalty before collecting his own chip forward to set up McCaw four minutes from time.

DESPERATE BOKS MAKE CHANGES:

2006-07-20T20:31:00.000+12:00

South Africa have made five changes to the side thrashed 49-0 by Australia last week for Saturday's Tri-Nations match against New Zealand.
Fourie du Preez replaces Ricky Januarie at scrum-half while Meyer Bosman or Butch James will come in for Jaco van der Westhuyzen at stand-off.

Albert van den Bergh replaces the injured Danie Rossouw at lock.

Blind-side flanker Solly Tyibilika and number eight Jacques Cronje come in for Joe van Niekerk and Pierre Spies.

James only arrived in Wellington on Tuesday and coach Jake White says a decision as to who takes the number 10 jersey will depend on how he fits into the squad as well as the match-day weather.

White has come under severe criticism following the defeat in Brisbane last week, a record margin in Tri-Nations history.

But he denies the changes are a panic measure as he gears his side up to face an All Blacks team which has won their past 19 home matches.

"This is not a case of hitting the panic button, our objective was always to expose players at this level on this trip," he said.

"We haven't got a great record away and we really only have Australia, New Zealand and England to play this year.

"You have to give these players an opportunity to see whether they sink or swim."

South Africa:

Percy Montgomery; Akona Ndungane, Jaque Fourie, Wynand Olivier, Bryan Habana; Meyer Bosman/Butch James, Fourie du Preez; Os du Randt, John Smit (captain), CJ van der Linde, Albert van den Bergh, Victor Matfield, Solly Tyibilika, Juan Smith, Jacques Cronje.
Replacements:
Breyton Paulse/JP Pietersen, Bosman/James, Ricky Januarie, Joe van Niekerk, Johann Muller, Eddie Andrews, Danie Coetzee.

ALL BLACKS NAME TEAM FOR BOKS TEST:

2006-07-18T20:50:00.000+12:00

New Zealand coach Graham Henry has recalled former captain Reuben Thorne in one of eight changes for Saturday's Tri-Nations match against South Africa.
Thorne, who last played for the All Blacks at the 2003 World Cup, replaces the rested Jerry Collins at blind-side.

Lock Ali Williams, prop Neemia Tialata and hooker Anton Oliver also come into the forward pack.

Doug Howlett and Scott Hamilton start on the wings, Sam Tuitupou at inside centre and Piri Weepu at scrum-half.

Jason Eaton, Keven Mealamu and the injured Tony Woodcock are the forwards to drop out of the 22.

Wings Rico Gear and Joe Rokocoko, centre Aaron Mauger and scrum-half Byron Kelleher also step down as Henry makes full use of his powerful squad.

"The changes help to keep all of our players physically and mentally sharp," said the head coach.

"We hope that can provide an edge for us against South Africa this weekend and for the Tri-Nations series as a whole."

New Zealand:

Leon MacDonald; Doug Howlett, Mils Muliaina, Sam Tuitupou, Scott Hamilton; Dan Carter, Piri Weepu; Neemia Tialata, Anton Oliver, Carl Hayman, Chris Jack, Ali Williams, Reuben Thorne, Richie McCaw (captain), Rodney So'oialo.
Replacements: Andrew Hore, Greg Somerville, Greg Rawlinson, Chris Masoe, Jimmy Cowan, Luke McAlister, Isaia Toeava.

NEW ZEALAND 32 AUSTRALIA 12:

2006-07-09T13:01:00.000+12:00

New Zealand: (14) 32
Tries: Mealamu (2), McCaw, Toeava
Cons: Carter (3)
Pens: Carter (2)

Australia: (7) 12
Tries: Tuqiri, Fava
Cons: Mortlock

New Zealand overpowered Australia in an absorbing opener to the 2006 Tri-Nations tournament in Christchurch.

The All Blacks extended their winning streak in home Tests to 19 with two tries from hooker Keven Mealamu and one each for Richie McCaw and Isaia Toeava.

Mealamu struck twice with Australia down to 14 men to cancel Lote Tuqiri's score and lead 14-7 at the break.

McCaw's try took the Kiwis clear and Toeava's bonus-point score sealed it as the Wallabies suffered at the scrum.

New Zealand fly-half Dan Carter slotted three conversions and two penalties but missed a handful of kicks, while Stirling Mortlock was successful with just one conversion.

Both kickers wasted early penalty chances during a bruising softening-up period but the deadlock was broken by the individual enterprise of Australia's Chris Latham.

The full-back received a New Zealand re-start and gathered his own chip over the top to feed Mat Rogers.

The centre scythed deep into All Blacks' territory before slinging a pass back in-field for Tuqiri to romp home on 15 minutes.

Mortlock converted and a second missed Carter penalty cheered Australia further.

But their world fell apart when number eight Rocky Elsom was yellow-carded for back-chat to the referee on 26 minutes.

Kiwi wing Rico Gear went close soon after following a sweeping New Zealand move into the right corner, and Mealamu caught the ensuing line-out throw to flop over.

Carter converted and heavy New Zealand pressure yielded Mealamu's second score on 35 minutes after good forward work from close range.

Fly-half Carter landed his second kick to complete a 14-point haul with Elsom off the pitch, and notched a penalty soon after the interval to increase the lead by 10 points.

The creaking Australians were holed again when McCaw poached a try after Stephen Larkham failed to gather Aaron Mauger's grubber kick towards the line.

But the wounded Wallabies hit back immediately when replacement Scott Fava burrowed over from close range.

Carter stretched New Zealand's lead with a second penalty shortly after but Australia upped their intensity and went close twice, through Tuqiri in the left corner and a forward effort ruled out by the video official.

But the Wallabies were unable to make further inroads and they were finally sunk when Kiwi replacement Toeava completed a stunning All Black counter-attack at the death.

TEAMS NAMED FOR TRI NATIONS OPENER:

2006-07-04T21:49:00.000+12:00

New Zealand have named Mils Muliaina at outside centre for the first match of the Tri-Nations series against New Zealand in Christchurch on Saturday. Three different players have been chosen in the position this year after the retirement of Tana Umaga.

Australia coach John Connolly has opted for an unchanged starting line-up.

The 15 players who started the 37-15 win over Ireland two weeks ago are retained with Ben Tune, Matt Giteau and Scott Fava named on the bench.

Leon MacDonald fills the full-back slot vacated by Muliaina's switch and New Zealand coach Graham Henry is pleased to accommodate the two players in the team

"Mils is more suited to centre than Leon is so that's how it's finished up. We've got total confidence in his ability to play there," Henry said.

"It was a natural thing to do that was always at the forefront of our minds in the early part of the season."

Meanwhile, lock Chris Jack is set to make his 50th Test appearance in Saturday's showdown.

Winger Tune is back in the Australian set-up for the first time in four years after hamstring trouble ruled out Clyde Rathbone.

Giteau returns after knee surgery, while Fava is handed an opportunity after an injury to Wycliff Palu.

Australia are unbeaten this season after two comprehensive victories over England in addition to the win against Ireland in Perth.

Connolly admitted, however, that they would need to improve against the mighty All Blacks.

"Playing against New Zealand is a massive step up from what we've had so far and we certainly acknowledge that we are going to have to lift another gear for them this Saturday night," he said.

"They are the best team in the world and they've got class all over the field, so we know what to expect from them."

TEAMS:

NEW ZEALAND: L MacDonald; R Gear, M Muliaina, A Mauger, J Rokocoko; D Carter, B Kelleher; R So'oialo, R McCaw (captain), J Collins, J Eaton, C Jack; C Hayman, K Mealamu, T Woodcock.
Replacements: A Hore, G Somerville, A Williams, C Masoe, P Weepu, L McAlister, I Toeava.

AUSTRALIA: C Latham; M Gerrard, S Mortlock, M Rogers, L Tuqiri; S Larkham, G Gregan (captain); R Elsom, G Smith, M Chisholm, D Vickerman, N Sharpe; G Shepherdson, T McIsaac, G Holmes.
Replacements:J Paul, A Baxter, S Fava, P Waugh, S Cordingley, M Giteau, B Tune.

ALL BLACKS NAME TRI-NATIONS SQUAD:

2006-06-27T20:09:00.000+12:00

Former All Blacks captain Reuben Thorne has been recalled to their 30-man squad for the Tri-Nations starting against Australia on 8 July.
Thorne missed recent Tests with Ireland and Argentina, and turned down an offer to captain the Junior All Blacks.

But he has been recalled at the expense of Troy Flavell and Jerome Kaino, who both appeared against Ireland.

"We have looked at other candidates, none of whom have matched Reuben's form in Super 14," said coach Graham Henry.

"Hopefully, there is a glimpse of the future in those selections but, for now, Reuben's form is the benchmark. He is a proven performer."

Thorne captained the All Blacks in 22 of his 41 Tests from 1999 to 2003 but paid the price for New Zealand's failure to win the 2003 World Cup in Australia.

When that failure led to the sackings of coach John Mitchell and assistant Robbie Deans, it also seemed to have ended Thorne's Test career.

He was always a controversial selection, nicknamed "Captain Invisible" by some commentators and "Suitcase" by others who believed his team-mates were carrying him.

But he covers both blind-side flanker and lock positions and his selection indicates Henry still sees him as a possible World Cup candidate.

The rest of the squad already has a World Cup feel to it, although Henry has decisions to make at second row, centre and wing.

With South African-born Greg Rawlinson unimpressive on his debut against Ireland and Ali Williams struggling for form, Jason Eaton may be given the chance to partner Chris Jack against Australia in Christchurch a week on Saturday.

Outside centre remains a problem position after the retirement of Tana Umaga and injury to Conrad Smith, with Ma'a Nonu, youngster Isaia Toeava and the versatile Mils Muliaina the candidates.

Doug Howlett, Rico Gear, Joe Rokocoko and Scott Hamilton, who made his debut against Argentina, are competing for the wing slots.

"The competition is strong at many positions which is good for the All Blacks and good for New Zealand rugby," Henry added.

NEW ZEALAND SQUAD:

BACKS: Leon MacDonald, Mils Muliaina, Rico Gear, Doug Howlett, Joe Rokocoko, Scott Hamilton, Ma'a Nonu, Isaia Toeava, Aaron Mauger, Daniel Carter, Luke McAlister, Piri Weepu, Byron Kelleher, Jimmy Cowan.
FORWARDS: Anton Oliver, Keven Mealamu, Andrew Hore, Carl Hayman, Greg Somerville, Neemia Tialata, Tony Woodcock, Chris Jack, Ali Williams, Jason Eaton, Greg Rawlinson, Jerry Collins, Reuben Thorne, Richie McCaw (captain), Chris Masoe, Rodney So'oialo.

ALL BLACKS 25 ARGENTINA 19:

2006-06-25T19:33:00.000+12:00

Flyhalf Daniel Carter scored 15 points for New Zealand as they beat Argentina 25-19 in a stop-start match dominated by the whistle of referee Nigel Whitehouse in Buenos Aires on Saturday.

Whitehouse awarded more than 20 penalties, most stemming from the breakdown, and issued yellow cards to Pumas winger Jose Nunez Piossek and All Blacks fullback Leon MacDonald for professional fouls.

Whitehouse's intervention stymied any flow in a match which the Pumas could have snatched at the end when they had several attacking lineouts in the final seconds only for desperate All Blacks defence to keep them out.

"It was pretty frustrating that the game didn't flow because there was a lot of whistle," New Zealand coach Graham Henry said in a televised interview. "But I can't say whether it was good bad or indifferent until I look at the tape.

"The weather didn't help and the ball was as slippery as soap and very hard to hang on to."

Carter, who seemed to suffer a knock midway through the second half which affected his goalkicking, scored a try and slotted 10 points from two penalties and two conversions. The flyhalf, however, also missed four shots at goal as well as a mid-field drop-goal attempt.

MacDonald and debutant winger Scott Hamilton scored tries for the All Blacks while Argentina blindside flanker Martin Durand scored his side's only try.

Flyhalf Federico Todeschini also had trouble with his footing on the slippery surface and missed four shots at goal, though managed to slot four penalties and a conversion for 14 points.

Todeschini had opened the scoring when he calmly slotted a long-range penalty.

That was matched by Carter five minutes later before MacDonald slipped over on the blindside of a ruck after a well-worked backline movement that involved players running into gaps and beating their opposition with well-timed passes.

The Argentine flyhalf narrowed the gap with his second penalty before Pichot capitalised on an All Blacks turnover and fed right wing Jose Nunez Piossek who drew the last man and fed the flying Durand.

Todeschini added the conversion then another penalty to give his side a 16-8 lead after 27 minutes.

The All Blacks then put pressure on the Pumas in the slippery conditions when Gonzalo Tiesi fumbled on his line and Carter was able to scoot under the posts untouched from the resulting attacking scrum.

Todeschini then suffered the yips with his kicking, badly mistiming two late penalty attempts meaning his side were unable to extend their 16-15 lead by the break.

Hamilton scored his first Test try eight minutes after the break when he fell on a ball that had been kicked off an Argentine defender's feet after the All Blacks forwards Jason Eaton and Chris Masoe had rampaged down field.
Carter's conversion gave the All Blacks a 22-16 lead with 30 minutes remaining.

Todeschini brought the margin back to three points when he added his fourth penalty before Carter ended the scoring with his second penalty.

The Pumas defended for most of the remainder of the match until the final three minutes when they hammered away at the All Blacks line, though were held out.

"It was tough. We hadn't played for a couple of weeks and we made it tough on ourselves," said All Blacks captain Jerry Collins.

"But I can't take anything away from Argentina, they are pretty hard to beat at home."

ALL BLACKS NAME TEAM TO FACE PUMAS:

2006-06-21T21:03:00.000+12:00

All Blacks coach Graham Henry confirmed the team to play Argentina in a one-off test at Velez Sarsfield stadium in Buenos Aires on Saturday and there is no sign of regular All Black captain Richie McCaw.

The All Blacks selectors have announced the starting XV - to face the Pumas - before the two-test series against Ireland.

McCaw was in charge of the Kiwis' two-match whitewash of the Irish, but there was speculation that he would be on the bench when he was included in an extended tour party for Buenos Aires.

But McCaw's assistance to match captain Jerry Collins will be from the sidelines only. McCaw did not make the match-day 22 when the replacement bench was confirmed on Tuesday.

Craig Newby is providing cover for the loose forwards.

"We have a good balance in the 22," Henry said. "There are some newer faces alongside experienced players, and versatility among the reserves.

"Playing the Pumas in Buenos Aires is always a challenge, and they will be confident after their two wins in the last two weekends."

Saturday's match will be the first test for wing Scott Hamilton and the 50th for prop Greg Somerville.

New Zealand: 15 Leon MacDonald, 14 Rico Gear, 13 Isaia Toeava, 12 Sam Tuitupou, 11 Scott Hamilton, 10 Dan Carter, 9 Piri Weepu, 8 Mose Tuiali'i, 7 Chris Masoe, 6 Jerry Collins (captain), 5 Ali Williams, 4 Jason Eaton, 3 Greg Somerville, 2 Anton Oliver, 1 Tony Woodcock.
Replacements: 16 Andrew Hore, 17 Neemia Tialata, 18 Troy Flavell, 19 Craig Newby, 19 Jimmy Cowan, 20 Luke McAlister, 21 Ma'a Nonu.

ALL BLACKS WIN SERIES 2-0:

2006-06-21T20:58:00.000+12:00

The All Blacks completed a 2-0 series win over Ireland with a 27-17 win over Ireland in Auckland on Saturday, but it was an uneasy win in which Ireland had the home team lost for ideas for much of the second half.

In the end it was the weather which stumped the visitors as much as anything, a non-stop hose of rain which prevented the Irish from running the ball as much as they would have liked.

But there was no doubting the tactical superiority of the visitors for long periods of the match, especially the third quarter, and Graham Henry will face questions over his team he has not faced for a long time in this performance's aftermath.

It was a stirring match with lots of credit to both determined teams, and in the end it hinged on a mistake or two as the brave Irish came back, Phoenix-like but from the flood rather than from the flames.

Yet despite their efforts, they must still wait for that elusive first win over the All Blacks.

The rain fell straight down out of the heavens at Eden Park in Auckland. After a couple of unstaring anthems which some of the players sang tentatively, Carl Hayman, looking like a cross between Tarzan and John the Baptist, led his side in the exaggerated aggression of the haka, which is now less intimidating than the players try to make it, and finally the game was on.

The match was far more stirring than the preliminaries. It started in funny fashion with the All Blacks kicking straight down to Geordan Murphy in midfield, giving the Irish fullback a busy start to the match.

Two early penalties gave O'Gara a shot at goal - a long shot which fell short. The first activity which looked like producing a try came from a long, slithery kick by Aaron Mauger, whose tactical kicking in the match was brilliant. Gordon D'Arcy saved bravely and the intent Irish gout out of trouble, but not for long.

Chris Jack caught the ball in the line-out that followed Peter Stringer's clearing kick, and the All Blacks trudged up in a maul. Troy Flavell charged and was minisculely short. Back the ball came and chunky Byron Kelleher burrowed under big John Hayes to score a try which McAlister converted. 7-0 after six minutes.

The first scrum was significant. In it New Zealand got the shove-on on their own ball. Throughout the match they outscoring the Irish, once winning the ball against the head with a wheel.

The line-outs suffered from congestion but here things went better for New Zealand than they had in Hamilton. They lost four of nineteen throws as they used five jumpers. The Irish lost three of eighteen throws.

The Irish threatened when D'Arcy burst past McAlister and sent Ireland attacking down the left. O'Gara opted for a diagonal kick towards Andrew Trimble on the right but an opportunity was wasted.

After a turn-over, Kelleher, who was brilliant in the wet, broke and in fact could have scored on the left but sought to pass instead and was caught. Still, a penalty against Neil Best and Denis Leamy for being off-side made the score 10-0 after 23 minutes.

Mauger's boot set up position for the second try. He grubbered the ball down the right close to touch and, under pressure from Doug Howlett, Murphy was forced to fly-kick into touch. Rodney So'oialo caught the ball in the subsequent line-out and the All Blacks mauled. Jack plunged for the line but short of the line dropped the ball a few centimetres above the ground. Clarke Dermody picked up the ball behind Jack and plunged over for the try.

The Irish disputed the try, claiming that Jack had knocked it on. The ball appeared not to have gone forward when he dropped in which case there was no problem, but it is likely to be a talking point and important in the context of the unfolding game. This put Ireland 17-0 down after 28 minutes and one may have expected cracks to open, but instead the Irish fought back with all the composure of great professionals.

Just two minutes later they attacked, Dermody was penalised for diving and Ireland tapped. Big, ardent Paul O'Connell was knocked to ground, but not held. Several All Blacks were standing around him but none tackled him and the big man rose up and galloped through the standing New Zealanders and over and round for a try. 17-7.

Shortly after that Leamy was penalised for the wrongful use of his hands at a tackle/ruck and McAlister made it 20-7, but still the Irish refused to be walked over.

They made a penalty into a five-metre line-out and threw deep to Best. The All Blacks tipped Best in the air and again the Irish made a five-metre line-out. This time they mauled and when the maul fell apart hooker Jerry Flannery was there to plunge over for a try which O'Gara converted.

New Zealand kicked off to their left, straight to Brian O'Driscoll, which was a silly thing to do. The great centre sped down the right touch-line but, devoid of support, was forced to kick ahead and the All Blacks ran the ball out for half-time. 20-14 at the break, which was far closer than the opening exchanges had suggested it would be.

The breeze freshened and was behind the All Blacks in the second half but McAlister was short with a penalty attempt.

The All Blacks looked good going left when Howlett came in off his wing and Muliaina came in from fullback to make an overlap for Joe Rokocoko but the big wing, lacking the confidence of the past, was stopped.

Instead the Irish scored. O'Driscoll beat three men in a metre of space and Flavell grabbed at his throat to give Ireland a penalty and make the score a competitive 20-17.

This was a period of good pressure for Ireland. O'Gara missed a drop goal attempt and then found Anthony Horgan with a diagonal kick but Muliaina tackled the tall wing into touch.

Many changes were made from then on as the coaches sought to find a game-breaking moment. One of those to come on with five minutes to go was New Zealander Isaac Boss, less wildly hirsute than when he played for the Chiefs and Waikato. He came on for Peter Stringer. David Hill also came on for his first Test cap for New Zealand.

After O'Gara had knocked on an unpressured pass in midfield, New Zealand got back into the game with a series of pick-and-goes but the Irish defence was brave and determined. They had a crucial five-metre scrum. It was reset twice as Horan went down and then off the third scrum So'oialo picked up and drove forward. Back came the ball and Kelleher gave to McAlister. The muscular young flyhalf burst through slender veteran O'Gara and scored under the posts in O'Driscoll's grasp. He converted, and the game was done.

In those last nine minutes Ireland still had the better of play, but it was not productive any more.

TEAMS NAMED FOR 2ND TEST:

2006-06-14T20:35:00.000+12:00

All Black coach Graham Henry made three changes to his team to play Ireland in the second Test at Eden Park in Auckland on Saturday. Lock Troy Flavell, flank Jerome Kaino and centre Casey Laulala all come into the line-up.

Midfielder Ma'a Nonu and lock Greg Rawlinson move to the bench, while flank Marty Holah misses out altogether

All Blacks: 15 Mils Muliaina, 14 Doug Howlett, 13 Casey Laulala, 12 Aaron Mauger, 11 Joe Rokocoko, 10 Luke McAlister, 9 Byron Kelleher, 8 Rodney So'oialo, 7 Richie McCaw, 6 Jerome Kaino, 5.Troy Flavell, 4 Chris Jack, 3 Carl Hayman, 2 Keven Mealamu, 1 Clarke Dermody.
Replacements: 16 Andrew Hore, 17 Neemia Tialata, 18 Greg Rawlinson, 19 Craig Newby, 20 Jimmy Cowan, 21 David Hill, 22 Ma'a Nonu.

Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan has named an unchanged XV to face the All Blacks in the second test at Eden Park in Auckland on Saturday. But there could be a late change to the team due to doubts surrounding the fitness of fullback Geordan Murphy.

Ireland: 15 Geordan Murphy, 14 Shane Horgan, 13 Brian O'Driscoll (captain), 12 Gordon D'Arcy, 11 Andrew Trimble, 10 Ronan O'Gara, 9 Peter Stringer, 8 Denis Leamy, 7 David Wallace, 6 Neil Best, 5 Paul O'Connell, 4 Donncha O'Callaghan, 4 John Hayes, 2 Jerry Flannery, 1 Marcus Horan.
Replacements: 16 Rory Best, 17 Bryan Young, 18 Mick O'Driscoll, 19 Keith Gleeson, 20 Isaac Boss, 21 Girvan Dempsey, 22 AN Other

ALL BLACKS WIN 1st TEST:

2006-06-12T21:12:00.000+12:00

New Zealand retained their clean sheet against Ireland, recording a 34-23 victory at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton on Saturday. It was a late surge, 13 points in the last 10 minutes, which saw the All Blacks home in this tightly contested encounter.

The Kiwis outscored the Irish by three tries to two to ensure they retain the record of having never lost to the men from the Emerald Isle.

It wasn't the most convincing of wins, but as captain Richie McCaw said afterwards, the All Blacks stuck at it after conceded an early lead and in the end got through.

But what a great match! What drama, what tension, what skill! It was wonderful entertainment and it nearly contained an upset. Upsets are always fun if you are not the people being upset.

June is bursting out all over in rugby Tests. If this is the sunburst that is to come it is going to be a wonderful June.

If you had watched just the first eight minutes of the match, you would have left it thinking it was a runaway victory for New Zealand. If you had next tuned in at half-time you would have been in shocked disbelief when you saw that Ireland were leading 16-8.

The turning point in the game was Troy Flavells try. Behind by a point, the spirited Irish looked for a winning try. Geordan Murphy counter-attacked brilliantly from just outside his 22 and set O'Driscoll running. They seemed to have put the Irish on the way to scoring a try when somehow McAlister intercepted a pass from O'Connell and the attack went New Zealand's way. Trimble got back and saved bravely and the Irish won a defensive ruck. Stringer, still searching for a winner, chipped. The ball bounced awkwardly. O'Connell got a hand to it but managed only to tip the ball into the path of steaming Nonu to thump off Stringer and feed replacement Troy Flavell. The big lock celebrated his return to All Black duty.

It was just excitment from start to finish. The big question is, can the Irish front up again for the 2nd Test? Lets hope saw, it just makes for a great series, i for one can't wait. Bring it on!!!!

The scorers:

For New Zealand:
Tries: Howlett, Muliaina, Flavell
Cons: McAlister 2
Pens: McAlister 5

For Ireland:
Tries: O'Dricoll, Trimble
Cons: O'Gara 2
Pens: O'Gara 3

ALL BLACKS NAME TEAM FOR IRISH TEST:

2006-06-06T20:48:00.000+12:00

All Blacks coach Graham Henry and his assistant coaches Wayne Smith and Steve Hansen and fellow selector, Sir Brian Lochore, have announced the following team to play Ireland on Saturday, 10 June at Waikato Stadium:

1.Clarke Dermody
2.Keven Mealamu
3.Carl Hayman
4.Chris Jack
5.Greg Rawlinson
6.Marty Holah
7.Richie McCaw (Captain)
8.Rodney So’oialo
9.Byron Kelleher
10.Luke McAlister
11.Joe Rokocoko
12.Aaron Mauger
13.Ma’a Nonu
14.Doug Howlett
15.Mils Muliaina

Reserves:

Anton Oliver
Neemia Tialata
Troy Flavell
Jerome Kaino
Jimmy Cowan
David Hill
Scott Hamilton

It will be an All Blacks debut for Clarke Dermody, Greg Rawlinson. The match could also bring test debuts for uncapped All Blacks David Hill, Scott Hamilton and Jerome Kaino who are among the reserves.

IRELAND NAME TEAM FOR 1st TEST:

2006-06-06T20:42:00.000+12:00

Ireland made two changes to the starting XV which helped clinch the Triple Crown, by beating England in March, for Saturday's first of two Test against New Zealand at Waikato Stadium.

Ulster flanker Neil Best comes in for his third cap to replace the injured Simon Easterby, while Donncha O'Callaghan takes over from the injured Malcolm O'Kelly (groin) in the second row.

Bryan Young and Isaac Boss - the only uncapped players in the 22-man squad - have been included as the replacement prop and scrum-half respectively.

Boss formerly played for the Chiefs and the Hurricanes in his native New Zealand, but now represents Ulster and qualifies for Ireland through his grandmother.

Boss is in the side after injury ruled usual reserve halfback Eion Reddin out of the tour.

Ireland: 15 Geordan Murphy, 14 Shane Horgan, 13 Brian O'Driscoll (captain), 12 Gordon D'Arcy, 11 Andrew Trimble, 10 Ronan O'Gara, 9 Peter Stringer, 8 Denis Leamy, 7 David Wallace, 6 Neil Best, 5 Paul O'Connell, 4 Donncha O'Callaghan, 3 John Hayes, 2 Jerry Flannery, 1 Marcus Horan.
Replacements: 16 Rory Best, 17 Bryan Young, 18 Mick O'Driscoll, 19 Keith Gleeson, 20 Isaac Boss, 21 Denis Hickie, 22 Girvan Dempsey.

ALL BLACKS NAME SQUADS:

2006-05-29T21:28:00.000+12:00

The All Blacks have named their squad for the upcoming fixtuers against the Irish and the one off test against Argentina.

The squad named to prepare for the 2 tests on home soil against Ireland is:

Jimmy Cowan (Southland)
Clarke Dermody (Southland)
Troy Flavell (Auckland)
Scott Hamilton (Canterbury)
Carl Hayman (Otago)
David Hill (Waikato)
Marty Holah (Waikato)
Andrew Hore (Taranaki) (Second Test only)
Doug Howlett (Auckland)
Jerome Kaino (Auckland)
Byron Kelleher (Waikato)
Casey Laulala (Canterbury)
Luke McAlister (North Harbour)
Richie McCaw (Canterbury) (Captain)
Aaron Mauger (Canterbury)
Keven Mealamu (Auckland)
Mils Muliaina (Waikato)
Craig Newby (Otago)
Ma’a Nonu (Wellington)
Anton Oliver (Otago) (First Test only)
Greg Rawlinson (North Harbour)
Joe Rokocoko (Auckland)
Rodney So’oialo (Wellington)
Neemia Tialata (Wellington)
Ali Williams (Auckland)

The starting xv has been named for the test against Argentina in Argentina:

Leon MacDonald (Canterbury)
Rico Gear (Tasman)
Isaia Toeava (Auckland)
Sam Tuitupou (Auckland)
Sitiveni Sivivatu (Waikato)
Dan Carter (Canterbury)
Piri Weepu (Wellington)
Mose Tuiali’i (Canterbury)
Chris Masoe (Wellington)
Jerry Collins (Wellington) (Captain)
Chris Jack (Canterbury)
Jason Eaton (Taranaki)
Greg Somerville (Canterbury)
Anton Oliver (Otago)
Tony Woodcock (North Harbour)

CRUSADERS CHAMPIONS AGAIN!!!

2006-05-29T21:21:00.000+12:00

CRUSADERS 19 HURRICANES 12.

A try from Casey Laulala inside the final twenty minutes sealed a 19-12 win for the Crusaders over the Hurricanes in the inaugural Super 14 Final at Jade Stadium in Christchurch on Saturday.

It was a bizarre, almost eerie match, with heavy fog making it impossible at times to see play on the far side and even the players had trouble seeing the ball in the testing conditions.

But the Crusaders, as usual, had an answer - one crucial try at the business end of the game.

When the siren went to end the match, it was a fog horn, which was entirely appropriate. The match was a foggy flop, the players reduced to ghosts in the mist.

Pity the spectators at the ground and round the world. After the great build-up between these two great teams, little patches of match only were visible and then they too had an eeriness bout them.

Forget seeing anything that happened 30 metres away except sometimes in vague outline when the fog was kinder. Some spectators left the ground and some huddled near the big screen in the hope of seeing something.

It will be forever the fog-bound Final. It was far, far worse than the sleet Final of Canberra.

It effected the sound as well. Instead of a roar there was a murmur and that from those privileged enough to hear.

How to play was effected. Passing was not the best idea and so the teams resorted to high kicks and pick-'n-go.

Teams? One team, really, for the Crusaders had an almost total hold on possession and territory.

That the score was only 6-3 to them at half-time was really because of the fog and the defensive qualities of the Hurricanes, especially that of Jerry Collins.

The Hurricanes had their problems. Neemia Tialata hurt his right knee early on, Piri Weepu took a knock to the head when he got his head on the sworn side of a tackle and then Chris Masoe hurt a left knee. All three soldiered on.

There were also problems for the Hurricanes in getting first-phase possession. Their scrums crumbled, and in the line-outs Chris Jack was master. The line-outs went 21 throws to the Crusaders' to eight to the Hurricanes, symptom that the Hurricanes were on the defensive for most of the match.

Still the visitors were resolute and the climate a telling factor, leaving the match to be decided by the only try. One try in a match played by two of the most creative and skilled teams in the world. That try took 63 minutes in coming.

The match had three emotional outbursts. Richie McCaw and Ma'a Nonu were prominent early in the first half and then in the second half Jerry Collins was penalised for scrapping.

David Holwell had the first chance to score but he was short with a penalty. The Crusaders had the first attacking moment when a Carter chip was taken on the full. Later they attacked on the blind from a scrum, but knocked on with six metres to go and then conceded a free kick at the subsequent scrum.

Weepu had been hurt when he tackled John Senio but he was good enough to open the scoring with a 43-metre penalty goal, when Ross Filipo was penalised for slowing down at a tackle. That made it 3-0 after 13 minutes.

Scott Hamilton, who had a strong match, countered down the left and then the ball went wide to Rico Gear on the far right. The Hurricanes conceded a free kick at a throw-in from touch five metres from their line. The Crusaders chose a scrum but a knock-on spoilt their attack.

Leon MacDonald countered well down the left, but the ball slipped from his grasp just when things were promising.

Dan Carter missed a longish penalty but then produced a perfect chip which Hamilton caught on the full.

Next the Crusaders did a lot of effective pick-'n-go with Mose Tuiali'i prominent on attack and Collins and Masoe prominent on defence, but the inevitable penalty came and Carter goaled the straightforward kick to level the scores after 30 minutes.

When John Schwalger was off-side Carter made it 6-3 to the Crusaders and that was the score when the mournful foghorn signalled the end of the half.

As in the first half, the Hurricanes were the first to score in the second half when they goaled a penalty against MacDonald for holding on. This time Holwell was the kicker. 6-6 after 43 minutes.

Not long afterwards Tana Umaga was penalised for obstruction at a high kick, and Carter made it 9-6 but when Masoe was penalised for going in at the side Jimmy Gopperth, on for Holwell, goaled to make it 9-all - an astonishing score in view of the Crusaders' dominance of territory and possession.

Carter kicked high towards the Hurricanes' posts but Mauger knocked on. From the scrum Rodney So'oialo tried to drive the ball up but knocked on. That gave the Crusaders a five-metre scrum but still the defence held as Shannon Paku and Umaga combined to bundle Gear into touch on the right. It seemed that a try would not come and when it did it seemed so simple.

The Crusaders won a line-out through master Jack. For once he kept the ball and for once the Crusaders mauled and did so at speed. Then John Senio broke away going left and was tackled. The tackle was unplayable and produced a scrum to the Crusaders some five metres from the Hurricanes' line on the Crusaders right but well in from touch.

They won the scrum and Senio gave immediately to Carter. Casey Laulala cut back onto Carter's inside and took the switched pass. He was running straight, got past sprawling Weepu and was over near the posts in Masoe's tackle. Carter converted.

You then had the feeling that that was the game.

Afterwards So'oialo said: "That little try really cost us in the end."

There were still 17 minutes to play. Carter kicked a penalty when So'oialo was penalised for a tackle that was late and armless and then, straight from the kick-off, Gopperth kicked a penalty for holding on with 11 minutes to play, which made the score 19-12, which was the final score.

In those last 11 minutes the Hurricanes had more ball and tried to run it more than they had done in all of the match up till then but, apart from a break by replacement Tamati Ellison, they did no damage to the Crusaders' defences.

Eventually the foghorn sounded and Corey Flynn helped the ball into touch to start the festivities in Christchurch.

They were soon dancing in the mist.

SCORERS:

For the Crusaders:
Try: Laulala
Con: Carter
Pens: Carter 4

For the Hurricanes:
Pens: Weepu, Holwell, Gopperth 2

SUPER 14-PREVIEW-FINAL:

2006-05-25T12:18:00.000+12:00

Saturday's finale to the inaugural Rebel Sport Super 14 has all the hallmarks of a classic final with the home town defending champions, the Crusaders, facing a rejuvenated Hurricanes side playing in its first final.

Dealing to the Bulls, the Crusaders were at their clinical best and are a classic example of peaking at the right time. Their win over the Brumbies a week earlier had more lessons than last weekend's semifinal. The ability to absorb all the pressure the Brumbies could mount for 70 minutes and then unleash some superb action in the last 10 minutes said it all. The Hurricanes have been through some demanding build-up as well with games against the Waratahs on successive weekends. They were two different matches but which demonstrated the qualities they have developed this year. Now it is a case of marrying those two defensive and attacking styles to provide the sort of challenge needed to win the final.

Favouritism must rest with the Crusaders, for their special abilities at this level alone. They have completed an outstanding campaign with their only areas of concern being in the front row and at halfback where Ellis' loss will be felt. The extra time he provided for Carter could be missing in the final. The Hurricanes have strength in those specific departments but it is in the elimination of mistakes and indiscipline, areas that they have handled well this year, in the crunch situation of a final that will determine their fate.
PREDICTION: Crusaders by 5+.

CRUSADERS TEAM FOR FINAL:

2006-05-25T12:13:00.000+12:00

Reuben Thorne returns to his favoured blindside flanker's job and Ross Filipo has been inserted at lock as expected in the Crusaders' run-on side for Saturday night's Rebel Sport Super 14 final against the Hurricanes.

With first-choice halfback Andrew Ellis out with a medial ligament (knee) injury, Kevin Senio will start in the No 9 jersey, with first five-eighth Dan Carter the backup halfback.

THE TEAM:

15.Leon MacDonald,
14.Rico Gear,
13.Casey Laulala,
12.Aaron Mauger,
11.Scott Hamilton,
10.Daniel Carter,
9.Kevin Senio,
8.Mose Tuiali'i,
7.Richie McCaw (captain),
6.Reuben Thorne,
5.Ross Filipo,
4.Chris Jack,
3.Greg Somerville,
2.Corey Flynn,
1.Wyatt Crockett.

Reserves:

Caleb Ralph,
Cameron McIntyre,
Stephen Brett,
Tanerau Latimer,
Johnny Leo'o,
Campbell Johnstone,
Tone Kopelani.

HURRICANES TEAM FOR FINAL:

2006-05-25T12:08:00.000+12:00

The Hurricanes have named a full strength team to play the Crusaders in the 2006 Rebel Sport Super 14 final at Jade Stadium on Saturday with David Holwell and Ma'a Nonu being named in the starting line up, both recovering from their injuries.

THE TEAM:

1 John Schwalger
2 Andrew Hore
3 Neemia Tialata
4 Paul Tito
5 Jason Eaton
6 Jerry Collins
7 Chris Masoe
8 Rodney So’oialo (Captain)
9 Piri Weepu
10 David Holwell
11 Shannon Paku
12 Tana Umaga
13 Ma’a Nonu
14 Lome Fa’atau
15 Isaia Toeava

THE RESERVES:

16 Luke Mahoney
17 Joe McDonnell
18 Luke Andrews
19 Thomas Waldrom
20 Brendan Haami
21 Jimmy Gopperth
22 Tamati Ellison

PREVIOUS SUPER FINALS:

2006-05-24T10:45:00.000+12:00

The winners of the Super 12 have been:

1996: Blues
1997: Blues
1998: Crusaders
1999: Crusaders
2000: Crusaders
2001: Brumbies
2002: Crusaders
2003: Blues
2004: Brumbies
2005: Crusaders

The Super 12 Finals:

1996: Auckland vs Natal
Auckland 45 Natal 21
Eden Park
25 May 1996.

1997: Auckland Blues vs ACT Brumbies
Auckland Blues 23 ACT Brumbies 7
Eden Park
31 May 1997.

1998: Auckland Blues vs Canterbury Crusaders
Canterbury Crusaders 20 Auckland Blues 13
Eden Park
30 May 1998.

1999: Otago Highlanders vs Canterbury Crusaders
Canterbury Crusaders 24 Otago Highlanders 19
Carisbrook
20 May 1999.

2000: Brumbies vs Canterbury Crusaders
Crusaders 20 Brumbies 19
Bruce Stadium
27 May 2000.

2001: Brumbies vs Sharks
Brumbies 30 Sharks 6
Bruce Stadium
19 May 2001.

2002: Crusaders vs Brumbies
Crusaders 31 Brumbies: 13
Jade Stadium
25 May 2002.

2003: Blues vs Crusaders
Blues 21 Crusaders 17
Eden Park
24 May 2003.

2004: Brumbies vs Crusaders
Brumbies: 47 Crusaders 38
Canberra Stadium
22 May 2004.

2005: Crusaders vs Waratahs
Crusaders 35 Waratahs 25
Jade Stadium
20 May 2005.

2006: ?????????

CRUSADERS CRUISE TO FINAL:

2006-05-21T21:11:00.000+12:00

The Crusaders eased past the Bulls, beating them comprehensively 35-15 at Jade Stadium in Christchurch on Saturday, to cruise into the Super 14 Final. The reigning champions will meet the Hurricanes in an all-New Zealand Final at the same venue next Saturday.

The Crusaders outscored the Bulls by five tries to two, as the South Africans were yet again smashed by the masters of Super rugby. The Crusaders showing what class they have got when they turn the ball over. There is no other side in the world who can make you pay for your mistakes like the Crusaders can.

The Crusaders' win was no surprise in a competition they have made virtually there own since 1998. After finishing rock bottom in back in 1996, what a turn around.

The Crusaders had far too much panache tonight for a Bulls side who looked bereft of attacking options and leg-weary after only arriving from Pretoria on Tuesday.
The result continued the Crusaders' perfect semifinals record, having won all their seven appearances in the old Super 12 competition.The Bulls were also true to form, having lost their two appearances in the Super 12 semi-finals.

In captain Ritchie McCaw they have undoubtable the best player in the world. People say he is always offside and breaking the laws, you watch him, he is just the master at the breakdown. I just think he is simply to good, to good for the refs, it just looks like he infringes all the time.

SCORERS:

CRUSADERS:
Tries: Gear 2, Jack, Flynn, Mauger
Cons: Carter 2
Pen: Carter
DG: Carter

BULLS:
Tries: Habana, Spies
Con: Steyn
Pen: Steyn

TEAM OF THE WEEK:

15. Leon MacDonald (Crusaders)
14. Bryan Habana (Bulls)
13. Ma'a Nonu (Hurricanes)
12. Tana Umaga (Hurricanes)
11. Lote Tuqiri (Waratahs)
10. Dan Carter (Crusaders)
9. Andrew Ellis (Crusaders)
8. Rodney So'oialo (Hurricanes)
7. Richie McCaw (Crusaders)
6. Jerry Collins (Hurricanes)
5. Victor Matfield (Bulls)
4. Paul Tito (Hurricanes)
3. Neemia Tialata (Hurricanes)
2. Andrew Hore (Hurricanes)
1. Wyatt Crockett (Crusaders)

HURRICANES STORM INTO FINALS:

2006-05-20T08:36:00.000+12:00

The Hurricanes showed great disipline witch produced a 16-14 victory over the Waratahs in Wellington. Its the Canes 2nd win over the Tahs on back to back weekends, so there shouldn't be any complaints from the Aussies, they were beaten by the better side on both occasions.

It was an outstanding, and historic, result for the Hurricanes after their magnificent defensive effort against the Waratahs in Sydney last week.
Westpac Stadium, which has waited since it was first built for such a moment, lapped up the prospect of its side making a Super rugby final for the first time.

Hurricanes replacement fly-half Jimmy Gopperth slotted a 50-metre penalty eight minutes from time to secure the win.

It was a match of high intensity, especially in the first half. In both halves the Hurricanes started well, went on a dip and then finished in charge. The end was a long, long two minutes. That was where great disipline was needed and they did it.

Their opponents if the final, will be determined on Saturday when the Crusaders host the Bulls in Christchurch.

SCORERS:

HURRICANES:
Try: Fa'atau
Con: Holwell
Pens: Weepu, Holwell, Gopperth

WARATAHS:
Try: Hewat
Pens: Hewat 3

TEAM NEWS: SEMI-FINALS

2006-05-18T20:54:00.000+12:00

CRUSADERS V BULLS

Crusaders: 1 - Wyatt Crockett, 2 - Corey Flynn, 3 - Greg Somerville, 4 - Chris Jack, 5 -Reuben Thorne, 6 - Johnny Leo'o, 7 - Richie McCaw (Captain), 8 - Mose Tuiali'i, 9 - Andrew Ellis, 10 - Daniel Carter, 11 - Scott Hamilton, 12 - Aaron Mauger, 13 - Casey Laulala, 14 - Rico Gear, 15 - Leon MacDonald.

Reserves: 16 - Tone Kopelani, 17 - Campbell Johnstone, 18 - Ross Filipo, 19 Tanerau Latimer, 20 Kevin Senio, 21 - Cameron McIntyre, 22 - Caleb Ralph.

Bulls: 1 - Wessel Roux, 2 - Gary Botha, 3 - Danie Thiart, 4 - Bakkies Botha, 5 - Victor Matfield (captain), 6 - Jacques Cronje, 7 - Tim Dlulane, 8 - Pedrie Wannenburg, 9 - Fourie du Preez, 10 - Morne Steyn, 11 - Frikkie Welsh, 12 - Wynand Olivier, 13 - J P Nel, 14 - Bryan Habana, 15 - Jaco van der Westhuyzen.

Reserves: 16 - Jan Adriaan Strauss, 17 - Jaco Engels, 18 - Danie Rossouw, 19 - Pierre Spies, 20 - Francois van Schouwenburg, 21 - Heini Adams, 22 - Akona Ndungane.

HURRICANES V WARATAHS

Hurricanes: 1 - John Schwalger, 2 - Andrew Hore, 3 - Neemia Tialata, 4 - Paul Tito, 5 - Jason Eaton/Luke Andrews, 6 - Jerry Collins, 7 - Chris Masoe, 8 - Rodney So'oialo (Captain), 9 - Piri Weepu, 10 - David Holwell, 11 - Shannon Paku, 12 - Tana Umaga, 13 - Ma'a Nonu, 14 - Lome Fa'atau, 15 Isaia Toeava.

Reserves: 16 - Luke Mahoney, 17 - Joe McDonnell, 18 - Luke Andrews/Ross Kennedy, 19 - Thomas Waldrom, 20 - Brendon Haami, 21 - Jimmy Gopperth, 22 - Tamati Ellison.

Waratahs: 1- Benn Robinson, 2 - Adam Freier, 3 - Al Baxter, 4 - Alex Kanaar, 5 - Daniel Vickerman, 6 - Rocky Elsom, 7 - Phil Waugh, 8 - Stephen Hoiles, 9 - Chris Whitaker, 10 - Daniel Halangahu, 11 - Lote Tuqiri, 12 - Sam Norton-Knight, 13 - Morgan Turinui, 14 - Peter Hewat, 15 - Mat Rogers.

Reserves (to be confirmed from): Tatafu Polota-Nau, Matt Dunning, Will Caldwell, David Lyons, Wycliff Palu, Brett Sheehan, Shaun Berne, Ben Jacobs, Chris Siale.

SUPER 14 - PLAYOFFS

2006-05-18T13:24:00.000+12:00

Semi-finals:

19 May Hurricanes v Waratahs, Wellington.
20 May Crusaders v Bulls, Christchurch.

HOW I THINK THE NZ TEAMS WILL GO:

The Hurricanes take on the Waratahs in Wellington after last weeks heroics, can they pick themsalves up for another game, i think so and i think they will win by quiet a few points.
PREDICTION: Hurricanes by 15+.

The Crusaders tackle the Bulls, the Bulls have got to get over the travel and i don't think they will have enough to beat the Crusaders, but i don't think it will the walk in the park everyone anticapate. The Crusaders will be bruised and battered after this one.
PREDICTION: Crusaders by 4+.

SUPER 14 - ROUND 14

2006-05-18T13:09:00.000+12:00

eam Pl Pts
Crusaders 13 51
Hurricanes 13 47
Waratahs 13 45
Bulls 13 38
Sharks 13 38
Brumbies 13 38
Chiefs 13 36
Blues 13 29
Highlanders 13 27
Cheetahs 13 27
Stormers 13 23
Reds 13 22
Cats 13 15
Force 13 12

RESULTS:

12 May Crusaders v Brumbies, 33-3.
12 May Reds v Highlanders, 22-16.
12 May Sharks v Force, 41-25.
13 May Blues v Chiefs, 9-30.
13 May Waratahs v Hurricanes, 14-19.
13 May Cheetahs v Cats, 28-23.
13 May Stormers v Bulls, 10-43.

ROUND UP:

The Crusaders ended The Brumbies semi-final hopes by inflicting an heavy defeat on them, the 30 point winning marging being the difference. The Crusaders head in to the playoffs odds on favorites to take out the Super 14 title.

The Highlanders ended the season on a disapointing note, losing to the Reds in Brisbane.

The Chiefs comfortable disposed of the out of form Blues at Eden park. By not getting out of 1st gear they won at a canter.

The Hurricanes toughed out a huge win in Sydney witch sets up a mouth watering return game at the cake tin in Welington.

MY TEAM OF THE WEEK:

15 Leon MacDonald (Crusaders):
14 Bryan Habana (Bulls):
13 Ma'a Nonu (Hurricanes):
12 Aaron Mauger (Crusaders):
11 Brent Russell (Sharks):
10 Dan Carter (Crusaders):
9 Byron Kelleher (Chiefs):
8 Rodney So'oialo (Hurricanes):
7 Jacques Botes (Sharks):
6 Jerry Collins (Hurricanes):
5 Victor Matfield (Bulls):
4 Chris Jack (Crusaders):
3 John Afoa (Blues):
2 Andrew Hore (Hurricanes):
1 Wyatt Crockett (Crusaders):

SUPER 14-PREVIEW-ROUND 14

2006-05-08T12:28:00.000+12:00

FIXTURES:

12 May Crusaders v Brumbies, Christchurch.
12 May Reds v Highlanders, Brisbane.
12 May Sharks v Force, Durban.
13 May Blues v Chiefs, Auckland.
13 May Waratahs v Hurricanes, Sydney.
13 May Cheetahs v Cats, Bloemfontein.
13 May Stormers v Bulls, Cape Town.

HOW I THINK THE NZ TEAMS WILL GO:

The Crusaders head back home to take on the Brumbies, only victory will do for the Brumbies with teams hot on their heals for that fourth playoff spot. The Crusaders will be looking to cement a home semi-final birth and hopefully hosting the final in Christchurch if all goes to plan.
PREDICTION: Crusaders by 8+.

The Highlanders remain in Australia after their awesome performance against the Brumbies, the take on the Reds in Brisbane. This is a nothing game with both teams looking to end their season on a winning note.
PREDICTION: Highlanders by 10+.

The Blues and Chiefs clash in Auckland and the big question being, will this be Johno Gibbs last game for the Chiefs?
PREDICTION: Draw.

The Hurricanes head to Sydney to take on the Waratahs with both looking for a home playoff spot. This showed be a fantastic game, with so much talent on show from both side.
PREDICTION: Hurricanes by 2+.

SUPER 14 - ROUND 13

2006-05-08T12:02:00.000+12:00

Team Pl Pts
Crusaders 12 47
Waratahs 12 44
Hurricanes 12 43
Brumbies 12 38
Sharks 12 33
Bulls 12 33
Chiefs 12 32
Blues 12 29
Highlanders 12 26
Stormers 12 23
Cheetahs 12 23
Reds 12 18
Cats 12 14
Force 12 11

RESULTS:

5 May Hurricanes v Reds, Wellington 26-22.
5 May Bulls v Crusaders, Pretoria 17-35.
6 May Chiefs v Waratahs, Hamilton 37-33.
6 May Brumbies v Highlanders, Canberra 26-28.
6 May Cheetahs v Force, Bloemfontein 14-16.
6 May Sharks v Stormers, Durban 24-17.
6 May Cats v Blues, Jo'burg 34-3.

ROUND UP:

The Hurricanes made hard work of their victory over the Reds. They have now setup a cruical game against the Waratahs for a home semi-final spot in Sydney this weekend. They need to up their preformance if they are to trouble the Tah's, for all their talented backs, they really are not playing to their full potential, its time to step up now.

The Crusaders showed why they are a champion side by disposing of the much fanced Bulls in their home back yard. Watchout guys,the Crusaders are now in playoff mode which can be pretty frightening for other teams.

The Chiefs shocked the Warathahs dispite being outsscored by 5 tries to 4. The boot of David Hill proved the difference with Peter Hewat having an off day. This was by far the best game of the tournament so far, it had everything. Bring on the playoffs!!!!

Outscoring them by three tries to two and showing greater determination, the Highlanders recorded an upset 28-26 Super 14 win over the Brumbies in Canberra on Saturday. It was a result that kept the play-offs back-door open. The result means the Brumbies now have to travel to Christchurch next week and get at least two points against the Crusaders to secure their place in the semi-finals. I don't think so!!

The Cats managed to hang on for a nail-biting one-point (34-33) win against the Blues in their Super 14 Round 13 match at Ellis Park on Saturday, a thrilling game that produced nine great tries. It was only the Cats' second win of the season, but it lifted them off the bottom of the standings. For the Blues its just been one of those up and down season, can the finis with a home win against the Chiefs, who knows!!!

MY TEAM OF THE WEEK:

15. Mils Muliania(Chiefs)
14. Wendell Sailor(Waratahs)
13. Jaque Foure(Cats)
12. Matt Giteau(Brumbies)
11. Lote Tugiri(Waratahs)
10. Dan Carter(Crusaders)
9. Ruan Pienaar(Sharks)
8. AJ Venter(Sharks)
7. Tanera Latimar(Crusaders)
6. Craig Newby(Highlanders)
5. Johan Ackerman(Sharks)
4. Nathan Sharpe(Force)
3. Carl Hayman(Highlanders)
2. Aleki lutui(Chiefs)
1. Tony Woodcock(Blues)

SUPER 14 - PREVIEW - ROUND 13

2006-05-01T21:50:00.000+12:00

FIXTURES:

5 May Hurricanes v Reds, Wellington.
5 May Bulls v Crusaders, Pretoria.
6 May Chiefs v Waratahs, Hamilton.
6 May Brumbies v Highlanders, Canberra.
6 May Cheetahs v Force, Bloemfontein.
6 May Sharks v Stormers, Durban.
6 May Cats v Blues, Jo'burg.

HOW I THINK THE NZ TEAMS WILL GO:

I expect the Hurricanes to gain the full five points from the game against the Reds. They are in with a shout of a home playoff spot and they could put real pressure on the other teams.
PREDICTION: Hurricanes by 20+.

The Crusaders, who are down in confidence at the moment need to get a good result against the Bulls. Its going to have to take an huge effort, but i think they are up for it. If they win this one, they will take out the competition.
PREDICTION: Crusader by 6+.

The Chiefs still have a mathamatical chance of reaching the playoffs if results go their way. I think they can finish their campaign on a high by taking the scalp of the Waratahs.
PREDICTION: Chiefs by 4+.

The Blues go to jo'burg to face the Cats, its not going to be easy but i think they will do it by playing their expansive rugby. They also have a mathamatical chance of reaching the playoffs if results go their way, so nothing more than a win with four tries will do.
PREDICTION: Blues by 15+.

SUPER 14 - ROUND 12

2006-05-01T21:15:00.000+12:00

Team Pl Pts
Waratahs 11 42
Crusaders 11 42
Hurricanes 11 39
Brumbies 11 37
Bulls 11 33
Sharks 11 29
Chiefs 11 27
Blues 11 27
Stormers 11 22
Highlanders 11 22
Cheetahs 11 22
Reds 11 17
Cats 11 9
Force 11 7

RESULTS:

28 Apr Highlanders v Waratahs, 3-20
28 Apr Cats v Force, 34-34
29 Apr Hurricanes v Chiefs, 35-10
29 Apr Brumbies v Reds, 36-0
29 Apr Cheetahs v Blues, 33-34
29 Apr Bulls v Sharks, 34-27
29 Apr Stormers v Crusaders, 28-17

ROUND UP:

The Highlanders blew their slim playoff hopes when they were comprehensively beaten by the inform Waratahs. The Tah's moved to the top of the table and look certain to get a home semi-final. The weather played its part, with the Tah's coping with the really wet conditions far better then the Highlanders.

The Hurricanes pretty much ended the Chiefs hopes of a semi-final spot, with Andrew Hore the first hooker to score a hatrick in super rugby. With conditions not made for running rugby the Cane's tried to run everything and as a result turned the ball over on numerous occasions, with smarter rugby it could of been a lot worse for the Chiefs.

The Blues managed a nailbiting 34-33 win over the Cheetahs in a thrilling Super 14 match at Vodacom Park in Bloemfontein on Saturday. It ended the Cheetahs last desperate hopes of a place in the play-offs. The Cheetahs outscored the Blues by five tries to four, but fell short by a single point when Springbok Meyer Bosman's attempted conversion drifted horribly wide, after Tiaan Liebenberg had scored a try several minutes into injury time.

The Stormers ended the Crusaders' unbeaten run in the inaugural Super 14 competition when they recorded a 28-17 win at Newlands on Saturday night. That left the 'Red and Blacks' in second place on the standings and facing an uphill battle to secure home ground advantage in the play-offs. They really have to show their class if they are going to turn the Bulls over in the next round.

MY TEAM OF THE WEEK:

15. Peter Hewat(Waratahs)
14. Rico Gear(Crusaders)
13. Stirling Mortlock(Brumbies)
12. Tana Umaga(Hurricanes)
11. Jaque Fourie(Cats)
10. Luke MacAlister(Blues)
9. Chris Wittaker(Waratahs)
8. Mose Tuiali'i(Crusaders)
7. Marty Holah(Chiefs)
6. Luke Watson(Stormers)
5. Dan Vickernam(Waratahs)
4. Bakkies Botha(Bulls)
3. Carl Hayman(Highlanders)
2. Andrew Hore(Hurricanes)
1. Gareth Hardy(Force)

SUPER 14 - PREVIEW - ROUND 12

2006-04-23T21:47:00.000+12:00

FIXTURES:

28 Apr Highlanders v Waratahs, Dunedin.
28 Apr Cats v Force, Jo'burg.
29 Apr Hurricanes v Chiefs, Wellington.
29 Apr Brumbies v Reds, Canberra.
29 Apr Cheetahs v Blues, Bloemfontein.
29 Apr Bulls v Sharks, Pretoria.
29 Apr Stormers v Crusaders, Cape Town.

HOW I THINK THE NZ TEAMS WILL GO:

The Highlanders take on the Waratahs, with nothing more than a win needed to keep alive their playoff hopes alive. Both teams come into the game after a week off. I think the Highlanders will cause the Tah's a few problems.
PREDICTION: Highlanders by 8+.

In Wellington the Hurricanes will not have it easy against the Chiefs. I think the Cane's will win it but its going to be a close one, looking forward to this one!!
PREDICTION: Hurricanes by 2+.

The Blues countinue their tour of South Africa, where they play the Cheetahs. Both side are down on form, but maybe the Blues will have the edge with the Cheetahs returning from their trip down under.
PREDICTION: Blues by 3+.

The Crusaders start their tour in Cape Town. I don't think they will make the same mistake as last week, they will over run the Stormers and get the show back on track.
PREDICTION: Crusaders by 10+.

SUPER 14 - ROUND 11

2006-04-23T21:14:00.000+12:00

Team Pl Pts
Crusaders 10 42
Waratahs 10 38
Hurricanes 10 34
Brumbies 10 32
Bulls 10 28
Sharks 10 27
Chiefs 10 27
Blues 10 22
Highlanders 10 22
Cheetahs 10 20
Stormers 10 18
Reds 10 17
Cats 10 6
Force 10 4

RESULTS:
21 Apr Chiefs v Cheetahs, 33-32
21 Apr Reds v Stormers, 20-24
21 Apr Force v Crusaders, 23-23
22 Apr Brumbies v Hurricanes, 21-16
22 Apr Sharks v Blues,32-15
22 Apr Bulls v Cats, 46-17

Byes - Highlanders, Waratahs.

ROUND UP:

The Chiefs looked like they were going to put on a big score against the Cheetahs, after 15mins they were 21-3 up and in cruise control. In entertaining game each team scored 4 tries to claim a bonus point with the Cheetahs gaining another for losing by less than 7 points.

The Force produced the result of the round by holding title favorites The Crusaders 23-23. Playing with only 14 men and conceding 2 tries during that period the Force held on. But i think this is what the Crusaders needed to keep them on their toes. They know they have to be on their game at all times.

The Hurricanes produced a late charge but just couldn't do enough to claim victory over the Brumbies, but they did get a vital bonus point which could prove the difference at the end of the round robin stage.

The Sharks remained in the hunt for a place in the Super 14 semi-finals with an impressive 32-15 win over the Blues in Durban on Saturday. The bonus point for four tries ensured the Sharks kept up the pressure on the leading pack. No one is tallking about any South African teams making the playoffs, watch out for the Bulls and the Sharks, they can beat any team on their day.

MY TEAM OF THE WEEK:

15. Isaia Toeava(Hurricanes)
14. Odwa Ndungane(Sharks)
13. Stirling Mortlock(Brumbies)
12. Wynand Olivier(Bulls)
11. Mark Gerrard(Brumbies)
10. Morne Steyn(Bulls)
9. George Greagan(Brumbies)
8. Liam Messam(Chiefs)
7. George Smith(Brumbies)
6. David Pussey(Force)
5. Jason Eaton(Hurricanes)
4. Nathan Sharpe(Force)
3. Angus Scott(Force)
2. Tian Liebenberg(Cheetahs)
1. Gareth Hardy(Force)

SUPER 14 - PREVIEW - ROUND 11

2006-04-19T09:20:00.000+12:00

FIXTURES:

21 Apr Chiefs v Cheetahs, Hamilton
21 Apr Reds v Stormers, Brisbane
21 Apr Force v Crusaders, Perth
22 Apr Brumbies v Hurricanes, Canberra
22 Apr Sharks v Blues, Durban
22 Apr Bulls v Cats, Pretoria

Byes - Highlanders, Waratahs

HOW I THINK THE NZ TEAMS WILL GO:

The Chiefs tackle the Cheetahs in Hamilton, the Cheetahs will be going hard out to get something out of the game and it could be a real tricky one for the Chiefs. They have got to step up a few gears from here on in. This is a must win for them.
PREDICTION: Chiefs by 8+.

The Crusaders travel to Perth to take on the Force. This is not going to be the walk in park everyone expects for the Crusaders. The Force are back home and have nothing to lose. But the Crusaders will give them the respect they deserve and will be to strong for them in the end.
PREDICTION: Crusaders by 12+.

The Hurricanes have the tie of the round, when they travel to Canberra to take on the Brumbies. The Brumbies will be hurting from their defeat in Sydney and will be looking to get back on track. The Hurricanes are gunning for a home playoff spot and to continue their momentum. This is going to be a close one.
PREDICTION: Brumbies by 4+.

The Blues start their tour of South Africa against a Sharks team that is now starting to get some form. This is a tough ask for the Blues who have been up and down all year, they do have a slim chance of a playoff spot but that will end here.
PREDICTION: Sharks by 10+.

SUPER 14 - ROUND 10

2006-04-19T08:54:00.000+12:00

Team Pl Pts
Crusaders 9 40
Waratahs 10 38
Hurricanes 9 33
Brumbies 9 28
Bulls 9 23
Sharks 9 22
Chiefs 9 22
Blues 9 22
Highlanders 10 22
Cheetahs 9 18
Reds 9 16
Stormers 9 14
Cats 9 6
Force 9 2

RESULTS:
14 Apr Blues v Force, 39-8
15 Apr Crusaders v Cheetahs, 53-17
15 Apr Chiefs v Stormers, 30-20
15 Apr Reds v Bulls, 20-19
15 Apr Cats v Sharks, 8-36
16 Apr Highlanders v Hurricanes, 13-29
16 Apr Waratahs v Brumbies, 37-14

ROUND UP:

The Blues inflicted the heaviest defeat on the Force to date and have set themselves up for their tour. They will be missing Troy Flavell(Shoulder injury) and Rua Tipoki. Tipoki is banned for 16wks for use of the elbow, was it worth 16wks, i didn't think so. I think he has paid for his past reputation and has been made an example of. Whats your thoughts on it?

The Crusaders made light work of the Cheetahs, breaking through the 50 point mark. The big question is, can anyone stop this Crusade to the first ever Super 14 winners. On this form i say no, but in the playoffs anything can happen, can anyone step up?

The Chiefs came from behind with 13 points scored in he last 15mins to clinch victory over the Stormers. Can this be a spring board for the Chiefs to push for a playoff spot. I personly don't think the Chiefs have played to their full potential yet, its time to step up now, every game is vital.

The Hurricanes produced a dazzling second half performance, scoring 24 unanswered points to claim unimpressive victory over the Highlanders. With the victory it keeps the Canes home playoff spot alive, with them hot on the heels of the Waratahs.

MY TEAM OF THE WEEK:

15. Isaia Toeava(Hurricanes)
14. Rico Gear(Crusaders)
13. Julian Huxley(Reds)
12. Ma'a Nonu(Hurricanes)
11. Lote Tuqiri(Waratahs)
10. Dan Carter(Crusaders)
9. Piri Weepu(Hurricanes)
8. George Smith(Brumbies)
7. Schalk Burger(Stormers)
6. Reuben Thorne(Crusaders)
5. Jason Eaton(Hurricanes)
4. Bakkis Botha(Bulls)
3. Carl Hayman(Highlanders)
2. Schalk Britz(Stormers)
1. Benn Robinson(Waratahs)

SUPER 14 - PREVIEW - ROUND 10

2006-04-11T20:35:00.000+12:00

FIXTURES:

14 Apr Blues v Force, Auckland.
15 Apr Crusaders v Cheetahs, Christchurch.
15 Apr Chiefs v Stormers, Maunganui.
15 Apr Reds v Bulls, Brisbane.
15 Apr Cats v Sharks, Jo'burg.
16 Apr Highlanders v Hurricanes, Dunedin.
16 Apr Waratahs v Brumbies, Sydney.

HOW I THINK THE NZ TEAMS WILL GO:

The Blues take on the Western Force at Albany. They have started to get it together and they should have to much fire power for the Force. I think the Blues will set up a good platform up front to unleash their backs.
PREDICTION: Blues by 12+.

The Cheetahs get the chance to take the scalp of the unbeaten Crusaders. But that is not going to happen, i don't think this Crusaders are playing aswell as they can, but still no one has given them to much trouble. They will only get better when finals footie comes along, thats pretty daunting for the other teams.
PERDICTION: Crusaders by 15+.

The Chiefs take on the Stormers and will be kicking themselves for not got the maxinum points from the game against the Bulls. They need to win to keep their playoff hopes alive. the way the Stormers have been going its not going to happen.
PREDICTION: Chiefs by 10+.

SUPER 14 - ROUND 9

2006-04-11T20:00:00.000+12:00

Team Pl Pts
Crusaders 8 35
Waratahs 9 33
Brumbies 8 28
Hurricanes 8 28
Bulls 8 22
Highlanders 9 22
Chiefs 8 18
Cheetahs 8 18
Sharks 8 17
Blues 8 17
Stormers 8 14
Reds 8 12
Cats 8 6
Force 8 2

RESULTS:

7 Apr Crusaders v Waratahs 17-11
8 Apr Highlanders v Force 25-22
8 Apr Chiefs v Bulls 26-26
8 Apr Blues v Stormers 32-15
8 Apr Brumbies v Cheetahs 53-20
8 Apr Cats v Reds 16-23

Byes - Hurricanes, Sharks.

ROUND UP:

The Crusaders won the top of the table clash with the Waratahs with a great 1st half performance, they controlled all phases and at one stage looked like they were going to runaway with it. The Waratahs showed their credentials in the 2nd half, but huge defence from the Crusaders put them to the top of the table, at the expense of the Waratahs.

The Highlanders had a scare against the Force, the Force showing that they are getting better with every game and surely their first ever win is only around the corner. The game was no spectacle, it was littered with mistakes and thats about that!!!

The Chiefs came from 15pts down to secure a draw against the Bulls, they scored 2 tries a conversion and a penalty in the final quarter to get back to level terms. In the end the Bulls held on with the Chiefs looking for that final score to clinch victory, but it didn't happen.

The Blues comfortable beat the Stormers and are starting to get it together. They scored 4 tries in the process 2 of them coming in the last 10mins. It was no classic with not much skill on show, the only bright spark was Rua Tipoki who looked dangerous every time he got the ball.

MY TEAM OF THE WEEK:

15. Leon Macdonald(Crusaders)
14. Rico Gear(Crusaders)
13. Rua Tipoki(Blues)
12. Aaron Mauger(Crusades)
11. Lote Tuqiri(Waratahs)
10. Dan Carter(Crusaders)
9. George Gregan(Brumbies)
8. Mose Tuiali'i(Crusaders)
7. Richie Mccaw(Crusaders)
6. Pedrie Wannenburg(Bulls)
5. Dan Vickerman(Waratahs)
4. Chris Jack(Crusaders)
3. Carl Hayman(Highlanders)
2. Adam Frier(Waratahs)
1. Tony Woodcock(Blues)

SUPER 14 - PREVIEW - ROUND 9

2006-04-02T21:30:00.000+12:00

FIXTURES:

7 Apr Crusaders v Waratahs, Christchurch.
8 Apr Highlanders v Force, Dunedin.
8 Apr Chiefs v Bulls, Hamilton.
8 Apr Blues v Stormers, Auckland.
8 Apr Brumbies v Cheetahs, Canberra.
8 Apr Cats v Reds, Jo'burg.

Byes - Hurricanes, Sharks

HOW I THINK THE NZ TEAMS WILL GO:

Its another top of the table clash for the Crusaders, the table topping Waratahs head down to Jade Stadium. This should be a classic, two positive side who like to play open rugby. But i just think the Crusaders have the better of the Tah's up front, they will be to strong for them. I think the Crusaders would like to stamp their authority on the competition with this game.
PREDICTION: Crusaders by 14+.

The Highlanders have got the Western Force coming to town. The Australians are down on their luck and that want change this weekend. The Highlanders will be looking to get their show back on the road and i think they will do with some ease.
PREDICTION: Highlanders by 20+.

The big question is, Can the Blues win two on the trot????????????????????????????
I think they will do it quiet comfortably. The Stormers left it late against the Force in round 8. The Blues looked like they were back on track, with an impressive win over the Bulls, with their forward pack looking dominent against a well respective Bulls pack.
PREDICTION: Blues by 8+.

The Bulls head from Auckland down to Hamilton to face a very confident Chiefs side. The Chiefs looked classy against the Highlanders. If they can stop the Bulls forward pack like the Blues did, then this could be a big victory for them.
PREDICTION: Chiefs by 15+.

SUPER 14 - ROUND 8

2006-04-02T21:08:00.000+12:00

Team Pl Pts
Waratahs 8 32
Crusaders 7 31
Hurricanes 8 28
Brumbies 7 23
Bulls 7 19
Highlanders 8 18
Cheetahs 7 18
Sharks 8 17
Chiefs 7 16
Stormers 7 14
Blues 7 12
Reds 7 8
Cats 7 5
Force 7 1

RESULTS:

31 Mar Blues v Bulls 30-17
31 Mar Waratahs v Cheetahs 26-3
31 Mar Force v Stormers 25-26
1 Apr Hurricanes v Crusaders 11-20
1 Apr Chiefs v Highlanders 16-13
1 Apr Sharks v Reds 36-28

Byes - Brumbies, Cats

ROUND UP:

The Blues got back into winning ways and showed alot more promise than they have all year, can they back it up in the next round though? The Blues pack more than contained the big Bulls pack and after losing the battle upfront, the Bulls had no plan B. The Blues backline looked sharper, lead by the impressive Rua Tipoki.

The top of the table clash between Hurricanes and Crusaders turned out to be an evenly matched contest, the Crusaders just edging it, scoring 2 tries to 1. But all 3 tries were just awesome, full of skill and class. The Crusaders just had the edge it set pieces which laid the foundations for their victory.

In Hamilton the Chiefs held off the Highlanders 16-13. With Mils Muliaina moving to the No.13 jumper, the Chiefs had a real game breaker. But the Chiefs held off a late charge from the Highlanders and in the end deserved to hold on for victory. These two side will have a huge say on who makes the playoffs.

MY TEAM OF THE WEEK:

15. Cameron Shepherd(Western Force)
14. Rico Gear(Crusaders)
13. Mils Muliaina(Chiefs)
12. Rua Tipoki(Blues)
11. Lote Tuqiri(Waratahs)
10. Dan Carter(Crusaders)
9. Ruan Pienaar(Sharks)
8. Sione Lauaki(Chiefs)
7. Richie Mccaw(Crusaders)
6. Luke Watson(Sharks)
5. Jason Eaton(Hurricanes)
4. James Ryan(Highlanders)
3. Carl Hayman(Highlanders)
2. Cory Flynn(Crusaders)
1. Tony Woodcock(Blues)

SUPER 14 - PREVIEW - ROUND 8

2006-03-26T20:58:00.000+12:00

FIXTURES:

31 Mar Blues v Bulls, Auckland.
31 Mar Waratahs v Cheetahs, Sydney.
31 Mar Force v Stormers, Perth.
1 Apr Hurricanes v Crusaders, Wellington.
1 Apr Chiefs v Highlanders, Hamilton.
1 Apr Sharks v Reds, Durban.

Byes - Brumbies, Cats.

HOW I THINK THE NZ TEAMS WILL GO:

The Blues tackle the Bulls at Eden park with a win cruicial to their slim playoff chances. To be frank, i think they have blown it but hopefully they can give us a good preformance to put a smile back on our faces. I think they can turn it around, but they will have to contain the Bulls huge pack and go toe to toe with them.
PREDICTION: Blues by 5+.

The tie of the round is between the top two side the Hurricanes and the Crusaders. I can't wait for this one. The Crusaders are coming from a week off and they should be the fresher of the two sides. If any team can stop the Crusaders, the Hurricanes are the ones', but i don't think it will happen this week, the Crusaders should just have enough to take this one.
PREDICTION: Crusaders by 8+.

The other all kiwi clash is between the Highlanders and the Chiefs in Hamilton. This is a close one to call, both teams are gaining momentum and starting to put it together, but for this one i am going for the home team the Chiefs.
PREDICTION: Chiefs by 12+.

SUPER 14 - ROUND 7

2006-03-26T20:23:00.000+12:00

Team Pl Pts
Waratahs 7 28
Hurricanes 7 28
Crusaders 6 27
Brumbies 7 23
Bulls 6 19
Cheetahs 6 18
Highlanders 7 17
Chiefs 6 12
Sharks 7 12
Stormers 6 9
Blues 6 8
Reds 6 7
Cats 7 5
Force 6 0

RESULTS:

24 Mar Hurricanes v Sharks 23-17
24 Mar Waratahs v Blues 43-9
24 Mar Cheetahs v Reds 10-6
25 Mar Brumbies v Chiefs 28-26
25 Mar Highlanders v Cats 16-14
25 Mar Force v Bulls 21-30
Byes - Crusaders, Stormers

ROUND UP:

The Hurricanes moved to the the top of the table along with the Waratahs with a hard earned win over the Sharks. Its always hard returning home from their three match trip to South Africa, but they brushed the long flight off and showed great characther and in the end their stunch defence won them the game. The sharks scored late in the game to earn a bonus point.

The Blues got smashed by the Waratahs. They had all the possesion but did sweet FA with it, they lacked ideas and passion with the Waratahs winning all the 50-50 balls and showing the desire to win. The Waratahs have signaled their intent with this display, can they go one better then last year?

The Cheifs got pipped at the post by the Brumbies. Stirling Mortlocks late try and conversion sealing victory in a great game of footie. After Mortlock's try the Cheifs still had their chances but a forward pass to Sitiveni Sivivatu with the line at his mercy and a dreadful attempt at a drop goal by Stephen Donald just wasn't enough, the Brumbies held on.

The Highlanders got their campaigne back on track when they managed to sneak past the Cats. Leading 16-0, the Highlanders let the Cats score two late tries to make it into a nail biter for the home supporters. The Cats were in the Highlanders half for 70% of the game, but only had the two late tries to show for it, poor decision making and execution was their down fall.

MY TEAM OF THE WEEK:

15. Peter Hewat(Waratahs)
14. Lome Fa'atau(Hurricanes)
13. Stirling Mortlock(Brumbies)
12. Sam Tuitupou(Cheifs)
11. Drew Mitchell(Reds)
10. Mat Rogers(Waratahs)
9. Piri Weepu(Hurricanes)
8. Rodney So'oialo(Wellington)
7. Phil Waugh(Waratahs)
6. Hale T-Pole(Highlanders)
5. Dan Vickerman(Waratahs)
4. Johan Ackerman(Sharks)
3. Carl Hayman(Highlanders)
2. Adam Frier(Waratahs)
1. Heinke Van der Merwe(Sharks)

SUPER 14 - PREVIEW - ROUND 7

2006-03-19T21:46:00.000+12:00

FIXTURES:
24 Mar Hurricanes v Sharks, Wellington
24 Mar Waratahs v Blues, Sydney
24 Mar Cheetahs v Reds, Bloemfontein
25 Mar Brumbies v Chiefs, Canberra
25 Mar Highlanders v Cats, Invercargill
25 Mar Force v Bulls, Perth

Byes - Crusaders, Stormers.

HOW I THINK THE NZ TEAMS WILL GO:

The Hurricanes take on the much improved Sharks on Friday night. This could go either way. The Canes have just finished their tour of South Africa while the Sharks are well into their tour in NZ. Can the Canes get their jet lag out of them and stop the Sharks momentun. I think the classey Canes backs will have to much for the Sharks to contain, i expect a close game:
PREDICTION: Canes by 5+.
The Blues travel to Sydney to take on the Waratahs. Who knows what the Blues will do? The Tahs are playing really well, controlled by the impressive Mat Rogers at first five. It could be a road to far for the Blues?
PREDICTION: Waratahs by 10+.
The Brumbies would of been disapointed with the result against the Blues. The Cheifs are fresh from a week off and they will put more misery on the Brumbies.
PREDICTION: Cheifs by 4+.

SUPER 14 - ROUND 6

2006-03-19T20:58:00.000+12:00

Team Pl Pts
Crusaders 6 27
Hurricanes 6 24
Waratahs 6 23
Brumbies 6 19
Bulls 5 15
Cheetahs 5 14
Highlanders 6 13
Chiefs 5 11
Sharks 5 11
Stormers 6 9
Blues 5 8
Reds 5 6
Cats 6 4
Force 5 0

RESULTS:
17 Mar Crusaders v Cats 43-15
17 Mar Force v Waratahs 7-32
17 Mar Bulls v Hurricanes 23-26
18 Mar Blues v Brumbies 26-15
18 Mar Highlanders v Sharks 11-26
18 Mar Stormers v Cheetahs 25-31
Byes - Chiefs, Reds

ROUND UP:

Three converted tries by the Crusaders in the final 15mins destroyed the Cats in Christchurch. The Cats put in a brave performance and held their own for an hour, but the table topping Crusaders sent on their big guns, Richie McCaw and Chris Jack, and in the end eased to victory, scoring 6 tries to 2 in the process.

The Blues got finally got their season going by disposing of the Brumbies 26-15, in a game full of errors the Blues outscored the Brumbies by 3 tries to 2. The Brumbies had all the 1st half possesion, but found themselves going in at half-time 18-0 down. The Blues scored 1st after half-time, leaving the Brumbies with an up hill battle. They did reply with some style but the Blues just did enough.

The Sharks got the surprise result of the round by seeing off the Highlanders 26-11 in Dunedin. Ex Otago boy, Tony Brown tormented his old team mates with a great performance. He controlled the game for the Sharks. Brown nailed 3 pens and 2 cons to secure the Sharks or any South African teams first win away from home this year.

The Hurricanes sneaked another close win 26-23 against the Bulls in Pretoria thanks mainly to the creativity of their backs and the power of their loose trio. The Bulls lacked any ideas from number 10 out and if they are going to have any chance of wining the competition they will have to look at thier game plan. Crash, bang, one out rugby will not win it and besides that its just so boring to watch.

MY TEAM OF THE WEEK:
15. Isaia Toeava(Hurricanes)
14. Odwa Ndungna(Sharks)
13. Anthony Tuitavka(Blues)
12. Rua Tipoki(Blues)
11. Scott Hamilton(Crusaders)
10. Dan Carter(Crusaders)
9. Piri Weepu(Wellington)
8. Rodney So'oialo(Wellington)
7. Richie McCaw(Crusaders)
6. Jerry Collins(Hurricanes)
5. James Ryan(Highlanders)
4. Klein Jan Tromp(Cats)
3. Carl Hayman(Highlanders)
2. John Smit(Sharks)
1. Tony Woddcock(Blues)

SUPER 14 - PREVIEW - ROUND 6

2006-03-13T14:36:00.000+13:00

FIXTURES:

March 17, Crusaders v Cats, Christchurch
March 17, Force v Waratahs, Perth
March 17, Bulls v Hurricanes, Pretoria
March 18, Blues v Brumbies, Auckland
March 18, Highlanders v Sharks, Dunedin
March 18, Stormers v Cheetahs, Cape Town

Byes-Chiefs & Reds

HOW I THINK THE NZ TEAMS WILL GO:

The Crusaders will dispose of the Cats without breaking into a sweat. They should get their 4 try bonus. They will probably rest key players and give squad members game time. I expect Dan Carter to be missing from the starting line up, he has had a few minor injuries over the past few weeks.
PREDICTION: Crusaders by 25+.
The Hurricanes finish their trip to South Africa with a tough game against the Bulls. It will be a big ask for the Canes to win back to back games in SA. I think they can do it. they are playing well as a team and are showing great team spirit. Hopefully that will be enough to see them through.
PREDICTION: Canes by 4+.
The Blues tackle the high flying Brumbies. The Blues are fresh from their week off. The Brumbies came through a tough, physical game against the Sharks. Hopefully the week off has given the Blues time to re-group.
PREDICTION: Blues by 1+.
The Highlanders return to NZ after a successful trip to SA. They will be keen to get their home campaign off with a bang and start to push for a play off place. They will have to much pace for the Sharks. It will be good to see Tony Brown back in Dunedin but it won't be his day.
PREDICTION: Highlanders by 9+.

SUPER 14 - ROUND 5

2006-03-13T14:00:00.000+13:00

TEAM: pld pts
Crusaders 5 22
Hurricanes 5 20
Brumbies 5 19
Waratahs 5 18
Bulls 4 14
Highlanders 5 13
Chiefs 5 11
Cheetahs 4 10
Stormers 5 8
Sharks 5 7
Reds 5 6
Blues 4 4
Cats 5 4
W.Force 4 0

RESULTS:

Chiefs v Crusaders 19-25
Waratahs v Cats 50-3
Brumbies v Sharks 35-30
Reds v W.Force 29-18
Bulls v Highlanders 23-16
Stormers v Hurricanes 19-23

The Crusaders started this weeks fixtures off with a hard fought out win against the Cheifs in Hamilton, cementing their place at the top of the table.
The Hurricanes left it late, two tries in the final 5 mins secured the points, with Hosea Gear scoring the final try to put the Stormers away.
The Highlanders were also piped at the post by the rested Bulls. Fresh from their week off the big Bulls pack showed their power. Both teams are still the the hunt for a playoff spot.
Try of the round goes to Hosea Gear, has late show for the Hurricanes was a great team effort. They showed great composure with the Stormers looking to have done enough with only 5 mins left. Its not over until the fat lady sings!!!

MY TEAM OF THE WEEK:

15. Leon Macdonald (Crusaders)
14. Mark Gerrard (Brumbies)
13. Jean De Villers (Stormers)
12. Sam Tuitupou (Chiefs)
11. Ma'a Nonu (Wellington)
10. Dan Carter (Crusaders)
9. Piri Weepu (Wellington)
8. Rodney So'oialo (Wellington)
7. Richie McCaw (Crusaders)
6. Pedrie Wannenburg (Bulls)
5. Dan Vickerman (Waratahs)
4. Chris Jack (Crusaders)
3. Carl Hayman (Highlanders)
2. Adam Frier (Waratahs)
1. Deon Carstens (Sharks)

SUPER 14 - PREVIEW - ROUND 5

2006-03-06T21:06:00.000+13:00

FIXTURES:

Chiefs v Crusaders
Waratahs v Cats
Brumbies v Sharks
Reds v Force
Bulls v Highlanders
Stormers v Hurricanes

Byes - Blues, Cheetahs

HOW I THINK THE NZ TEAMS WILL GO?

The game of the round is the Chiefs/Crusaders game in Hamilton on Friday night. This is by far the toughest test for the table topping Crusaders. The Chiefs have the backs to trouble any defence, but they will need to be in top form this weekend. I think the Crusaders are getting better with every game they play, which is frighting for the other teams in the competition and they should come out on top.
PREDICTION: Crusaders by 8+.

The Highlanders continue in South Africa with a trip to Pretoria to face the Bulls. The Bulls are coming into the game after a week off. Thier huge pack need to be fireing on all cylinders to take this one. I am going to pick the Bulls for this one, but the Highlanders will pick up a bonus point or two in a close game.
PREDICTION: Bulls by 3+.

The Hurricanes will be hoping for better fortune against the Stormers in Cape Town after blowing a 15 point lead with only 20mins to play against the Cheetahs. They did pick up a bouns point for their trouble. If the Stormers can keep their discipline they could run the Canes close. But don't hold your breath, i expect the Canes to have lurnt from their loss to the Cheetahs and win this one by a lenght.
PREDICTION: Hurricanes by 13+.

The Blues have a bye, hopefully they can regroup and come together as a team. At least they cannot lose this weekend.