John Connolly | July 27, 2008


Outstanding. A classic Test. Robbie Deans and All Blacks coach Graham Henry have played down their individual battle all week, but coaching is personal.
Believe me. I've been there.

Coaches are paranoid at the best of times. Deans would have slept very well last night after racking up a win against the All Blacks. There is no way of downplaying the satisfaction he would have felt.

Australia played with courage and belief. They can take a lot out of this game. They know for sure and certain they do not have to fear the All Blacks.

They had a better tactical game. They had a better kicking game. Tactically, NZ were very poor for extended periods.

They only had one kicking option in Dan Carter. That hurt the Kiwis. You have to tip your hat to them because they fought hard after being dominated for long periods of an entertaining game. But they were thrown off kilter by a brilliant Australian effort.

The Wallabies got on top of them in virtually every aspect. You do not see the Kiwis rattled like this very often.

Australia dominated the breakdown through George Smith, who reigned supreme. Lote Tuqiri was outstanding and Matt Giteau was his normal brilliant self.

Australia need to win three Tests to secure the Bledisloe Cup. They know now they can do it.


http://www.rugbyheaven.com.au/news/n...492821226.html