-
The Perfect 10: Dan Carter - Source: Photosport -
Related
That was quite simply a sublime performance from the All Blacks last night. In fact it was even better than the Marseille showing on last year's end of year tour and that is really saying something.
The most pleasing aspect for me was that it was a total team performance. I think it would be unfair to single out a player as a man-of-the-match because in all truth - they all did their jobs well.
But I would like to give special praise to the forwards. The pack really owned the South Africans in all facets last night and established the platform that allowed the backs to flourish.
As a result, some great tries were scored, especially in the first half, and to keep the Springboks tryless as well is really making a statement.
However the challenge is now for the All Blacks to back-up this performance next week in Wellington.
The South Africans will be better next week, we know that, but I want this All Blacks side to keep on getting better.
A win is simply not good enough in my book. I want them to reach their potential and if they do that they will win the World Cup next year - no question.
Some of you might think this sort of stance is harsh but I truly believe that we have the best players in the world and they should be wowing and winning all the time. Period.
Finally just a quick note on Bakkies Botha's brain explosion last night. There is no question it was stupid but he was retaliating to Jimmy Cowan holding him back.
I'm not making excuses for him but he was provoked. We all know that a head-butt shouldn't be seen on a rugby field but it is no worse than a punch.
You might not agree with me and that's fine but the Tri Nations judiciary will no doubt come down on him hard.
I can see Botha being suspended for at least four weeks but it shouldn't hurt the Springboks too much, after all, they do have a couple of handy locks as back-ups.
So now we all look forward to Wellington and the big question is - can these All Blacks back-up?
Buck Shelford is a former All Blacks captain and will be commenting on their performances for tvnz.co.nz throughout the international season.
