Pocock touch and go for spring tour

Updated October 16, 2012 16:57:13

Injured Wallaby flanker David Pocock admits he is running out of time to prove himself fit for the Wallabies spring tour of Europe.

Sunday could be D-Day for Pocock, whose chances of making the tour remain touch and go.

After undergoing knee surgery in late August and the former Australian captain will consult the Wallabies' medical team after Saturday night's final Bledisloe Cup clash with the All Blacks in Brisbane.

While coach Robbie Deans is hopeful Pocock will play some part in Australia's four-Test tour, starting against France in Paris on November 10, the champion number seven is not so sure.

"I'm not holding my breath," he said on Tuesday.

"You always hope that you can get back on the field and play but whether that's realistic I'm not sure.

Pocock has been settling into his new training environment in Canberra since moving to the Brumbies from the Western Force.

"I've gotten stuck in while in Canberra the past month or so and am slowly improving," Pocock said.

"It's hard to gauge how far I am away from playing. It's all about upping the load now."

Pocock suffered a medial ligament tear in the Bledisloe Cup opener in Sydney on August 18.

With lock James Horwill (hamstring) and half-back Will Genia (knee) also falling victim to the Wallabies' captain's curse this season, Deans has once again talked veteran second-rower Nathan Sharpe out of retirement and into leading his side to Europe.

Horwill still holds high hopes of returning to action some time on the tour, while Genia is no chance after undergoing a knee reconstruction.

Deans will name a 30-man touring squad next week to assemble in Sydney on October 31, with the Wallabies leaving for Paris on November 4.

After opening against France, Australia will play further Tests against England at Twickenham (November 17), Italy in Florence (November 24) and Wales in Cardiff (December 1).

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, canberra-2600, act, australia

First posted October 16, 2012 14:27:08

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Nonu set for Highlanders switch

Updated October 16, 2012 16:53:31

All Blacks centre Ma'a Nonu is set to stay in New Zealand next season after deciding to play for the Highlanders, the Super Rugby team said on Tuesday.

Nonu, who played for the Blues last season after spending nine years with the Hurricanes, will join up with the Dunedin-based side early next year if contract negotiations are completed successfully.

Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph said signing the 30-year-old would be a massive boost for the team.

"Ma'a has been a stand-out performer for the All Blacks over his playing career and he would bring some great playing form to our squad next season," Joseph told the Highlanders' official website.

"He has a lot of big match experience at international level and we know that we would benefit from that."

Nonu, who made his All Blacks debut in 2003 against England, signed with the Blues after being sensationally dumped by the Hurricanes in 2011.

General manager Roger Clark said Nonu's decision to open talks with the Highlanders was a reflection of the team's progress.

"Ma'a is a world-class player who would add real excitement to the Highlanders in 2013," he added.

"It's testament to the work the coaching and management team have put in both on and off the field that a player like Ma'a has decided he'd like to join us."

The Highlanders are scheduled to kick off their 2013 Super Rugby season against the Chiefs on February 22.

Reuters

Tags: super-rugby, rugby-union, sport, new-zealand

First posted October 16, 2012 16:53:31

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Wallabies' injury toll grows

Updated October 16, 2012 17:27:37

The Wallabies' bewildering injury woes have worsened with hooker Saia Faingaa the latest to be added to their long list of sidelined players.

Reserve rake Faingaa has been ruled out of Saturday night's third Bledisloe Test against New Zealand in Brisbane after breaking his hand at training on Tuesday.

The Queensland hooker has been replaced on the bench by Reds team-mate James Hanson who is set to make his international debut at Lang Park.

Faingaa's blow comes after rookie winger Dom Shipperley on Tuesday was also ruled out of the Bledisloe clash with a lingering wrist injury.

Shipperley missed a bruising morning contact session at Ballymore as he was sent for scans which could determine whether he requires surgery that could rule him out of next month's end-of-season tour of Europe.

Fellow winger Digby Ioane had already continued a disastrous year on the injury front when he was scratched from the Wallabies' backline on Monday night due to a knee injury.

Coach Robbie Deans, with more than half of his best 22 unavailable, believes Faingaa should be right to tour France, England, Italy and Wales next month and also remained hopeful the destructive Ioane would be fit.

In stark contrast, the world champion All Blacks are at full strength as they chase a record 17th straight win on Saturday night.

In some positive news for Australia, number eight Wycliff Palu and winger Drew Mitchell will make their long-awaited returns at Lang Park.

Wallabies:

15. Mike Harris, 14. Nick Cummins, 13. Ben Tapuai, 12. Pat McCabe, 11. Adam Ashley-Cooper, 10. Kurtley Beale, 9. Nick Phipps, 8. Wycliff Palu, 7. Michael Hooper, 6. Scott Higginbotham, 5. Nathan Sharpe, 4. Sitaleki Timani, 3. Ben Alexander, 2. Tatafu Polota Nau, 1. Benn Robinson.

Reserves: 16. James Hanson, 17. James Slipper, 18. Kane Douglas, 19. Dave Dennis, 20. Liam Gill, 21. Brett Sheehan, 22. Drew Mitchell.

AAP

Tags: sport, rugby-union, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted October 16, 2012 17:22:13

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Eliminating errors the key to Wallabies chances

Updated October 16, 2012 06:45:43

Kurtley Beale has acknowledged the size of the test facing the Wallabies this weekend, saying that the All Blacks were looking in 'unbeatable' form heading into the final Bledisloe Cup match in Brisbane.

However Beale says the Australian team has to cut out the errors that have bedevilled them to have any chance against the mighty New Zealand side on Saturday night.

"If we are going to give these guys a good crack we've got to execute really well," Beale said on Monday.

"That's what let us down in the first two encounters.

"Obviously they are in awesome form at the moment, they're looking unbeatable all the time.

"(But) there are a few weaknesses there we want to exploit, so it's just a matter of us turning up from now until game day (training) and knuckle down and get the job done."

Beale has had a disrupted season, and was dropped after some poor performances for the Wallabies at full-back.

However he has had another chance at five-eighth replacing the out-of-favour Quade Cooper.

He received praise for his performance in Australia's win over Argentina in Rosario in the final Rugby Championship game.

"I'm feeling pretty confident, the win against Argentina was a great win to be part of," he said.

"There's a lot of belief in the team now, being on tour has really got the boys together.

"I'm enjoying myself at the (five-eighth) position at the moment and it's exciting playing with the guys around me - they're making my job a lot easier.

"I feel a lot better - I feel a lot fitter and stronger than I did earlier in the year."

Beale said he was starting to enjoy playing the game again after a difficult period.

"When you're trying to get back to your best, it takes a lot of time," he said.

Beale's Melbourne Rebels' team-mate, Nick Phipps, will get to play New Zealand for the first time on Saturday night.

Phipps said it was exciting to get the opportunity to test himself against the best.

"It's a big occasion, that's lost on no one," he said.

"We had a big morning - Sharpy (Nathan Sharpe) stood up and a few senior players stood up and spoke to what it means to them (to play New Zealand).

"The boys are fully behind them and committed to this weekend, (to) giving the best performance we have out there."

Tags: sport, rugby-union, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted October 15, 2012 19:37:27

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Ashley-Cooper, Palu return for Wallabies

Updated October 16, 2012 16:58:19

The Wallabies have made four changes to their line-up for the final Bledisloe Cup clash against New Zealand in Brisbane on Saturday.

The injured Digby Ioane (knee) is replaced by Adam Ashley-Cooper while Wycliff Palu returns to the number eight spot in place of the rested Radike Samo.

Scott Higginbotham earned a spot as the starting blindside flanker ahead of Kane Douglas, with Sitaleki Timani starting in the second row.

Up front, Benn Robinson replaces James Slipper at loosehead prop in the only other change from the starting side that defeated Argentina in Rosario.

The Wallabies kept their five-two interchange bench, with Drew Mitchell returning from what was first thought to be a serious ankle injury.

"They're both proven Test performers so it is good to have them back," Deans said of Ashley-Cooper and Palu.

"Adam has been cleared after the head knock he suffered in Pretoria.

"He brings with him all-round skill but also a lot of voice in terms of on-field communication, which will be important with a lot of younger players around him."

The All Blacks, who have already retained the Bledisloe Cup, are seeking their 17th successive Test victory which would equal the record for top tier rugby nations.

Deans's team was the last side to beat the All Blacks, at Lang Park, less than two weeks before the start of last year's World Cup.

"The All Blacks are the benchmark and proved it again through the Rugby Championship," Deans said of the world champions' run.

"They are a step up from where we've been, but the guys have shown a lot of resilience over the last two months, and they're excited about the opportunity ahead of them on the weekend."

15. Mike Harris, 14. Nick Cummins, 13. Ben Tapuai, 12. Pat McCabe, 11. Adam Ashley-Cooper, 10. Kurtley Beale, 9. Nick Phipps, 8. Wycliff Palu, 7. Michael Hooper, 6. Scott Higginbotham, 5. Nathan Sharpe, 4. Sitaleki Timani, 3. Ben Alexander, 2. Tatafu Polota Nau, 1. Benn Robinson.

Reserves: 16. Saia Fainga'a, 17. James Slipper, 18. Kane Douglas, 19. Dave Dennis, 20. Liam Gill, 21. Brett Sheehan, 22. Drew Mitchell.

ABC/Reuters

Tags: rugby-union, sport, australia

First posted October 16, 2012 12:28:24

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Ioane out of Bledisloe Cup clash

Updated October 15, 2012 22:52:19

The Wallabies have received a serious blow to their hopes of winning the final Bledisloe Cup match on Saturday, with the news that winger Digby Ioane will miss the game with a knee injury.

Ioane was ruled out on Monday night of the Lang Park encounter with the high-flying All Blacks.

The destructive 31-Test winger copped a bad cork on the joint against South Africa more than a fortnight ago but managed to back up the week after when he scored the match-winning try in the Wallabies' 25-19 win over Argentina in Rosario.

The problem flared up again during the long flight back from South America but Ioane is expected to recover in time to be available for next month's end-of-season tour of Europe.

His absence robs the Wallabies of their most-potent ball-runner as they attempt to end New Zealand's 16-match winning streak.

Coach Robbie Deans has the option of replacing Ioane with returning utility back Adam Ashley-Cooper or specialist wingers Dom Shipperley or Drew Mitchell.

Ashley-Cooper would prefer to stay at outside centre, which would come at the expense of Ben Tapuai, but he did play on the wing in the first Bledisloe Test in August when Australia lost 27-19.

Mitchell hasn't played since he re-injured his ankle in the 22-0 second Test loss but has made a remarkable comeback after initially being told he required surgery.

Deans has said he would be considered for an immediate return but rookie Shipperley would be the more match-hardened choice.

In positive news for the home side, number eight Radike Samo has been cleared for selection after overcoming a biceps problem.

The injury-depleted Wallabies know the enormity of their task as the All Blacks have not lost since the 25-20 defeat in their last Brisbane visit 14 months ago.

Both Ashley-Cooper and five-eighth Kurtley Beale rated the world champions a more fearsome, in-form unit than when they swept through last year's World Cup.

One more victory will equal New Zealand's own record 17-match winning streak.

Meantime, cautious Wallabies skipper James Horwill has undergone precautionary scans to ensure his rehabilitation from hamstring surgery is continuing on the right track.

Lock Horwill still holds genuine hope of returning to action in the four-Test tour of Europe.

AAP

Tags: sport, rugby-union, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted October 15, 2012 22:52:19

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Ioane may be latest injured Wallaby

Updated October 14, 2012 20:38:18

The Wallabies' most potent attacking weapon, Digby Ioane, is in doubt for Saturday's Bledisloe Cup clash which is being viewed as anything but a dead-rubber by the trans-Tasman arch-rivals.

Destructive winger Ioane is struggling with a lingering knee problem following the 25-19 win over Argentina in Rosario and is a serious concern for an Australian outfit desperate to end the high-flying All Blacks' 14-month winning streak.

New Zealand heads into the Brisbane encounter aiming to equal its record of 17 consecutive Test victories by continuing a roll which started after the last trans-Tasman clash in Brisbane.

That night the Wallabies triumphed 25-20 to claim the Tri-Nations but fortunes have wickedly reversed since and injury-ravaged Australia will start rank underdog against an outfit near the peak of its powers.

Despite being without more than half of his best side, coach Robbie Deans refuses to accept it is mission impossible and says his players are buoyed by a "great" opportunity to upset the world champions.

"We will give it everything," he said.

"We respect them as a team but we also respect what we're doing and it's something that really excites the group and we're looking forward to it.

"It's important to us.

"(New Zealand) will obviously be very proud of (their streak) but it's not a motivation for us - we've got reason enough."

The potential loss of Ioane would be a major blow as he is the line-breaking threat the All Blacks would fear most.

The 31-Test flyer - who crossed for the match-winning try against the Pumas - saw out the match in Rosario but pulled up sore after carrying severe bruising into the game from a heavy knock in the 31-8 loss to South Africa the week before.

Ioane will be fully assessed Monday and the report could determine where stalwart utility Adam Ashley-Cooper returns to the backline after overcoming his sickening head knock against the Springboks.

Ashley-Cooper's availability makes for a welcome selection dilemma as rookie trio Ben Tapuai, Nick Cummins and Mike Harris all performed strongly against the Pumas.

Forever a Mr Fix-It, Ashley-Cooper would prefer to stay at outside centre - which would come at the expense of Tapuai - but did play both wing and full-back in the opening two Bledisloe losses - 27-19 in Sydney and 22-0 in Auckland.

"We're waiting to hear on Digby and then we'll go from there once it comes clear," Deans said.

Dom Shipperley and the returning Drew Mitchell (ankle) would also be in the frame to start if Ioane fails to recover.

Like the unexpected prospect of rushing back Mitchell, Deans did not rule out selecting number eight Wycliff Palu, who last played in the three-Test whitewash of Wales in June.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted October 14, 2012 20:38:18

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Fiji triumphs as Aussies crash on Gold Coast

Luke Pentony

Updated October 14, 2012 20:57:27

Fiji defended its Gold Coast Sevens title with a 32-14 win over New Zealand, while Australia departed Robina empty-handed.

The host nation went through its pool play undefeated on Saturday but came unstuck in the Cup quarter-final via a 21-14 loss to Kenya.

The defeat saw Australia demoted to the Plate competition, effectively the consolation prize for the beaten Cup quarter-finalists.

But the hosts exited in the Plate semi-finals following a 17-14 loss to Argentina, which clinched victory with less than 30 seconds on the clock when Santiago Cordero scored a runaway 80-metre try.

The Australians could be forgiven for wondering "what might have been" after seeing Fiji advance to the final.

Australia had defeated Fiji 15-14 on Saturday night to top Pool B but the Pacific islanders showed they can play clutch Sevens by progressing through the knock-out stages with the scalps of Samoa (19-7) and South Africa (21-10) en route to the tournament decider.

Amid light drizzle, Fiji started what was a replay of last year's final in positive fashion by forcing a scrum five metres out from New Zealand's goal line inside the opening minute of play.

The excursion deep inside New Zealand territory eventually saw Fiji cross out on the right flank through Ratu Raitini to establish a 5-0 lead.

New Zealand, however, showed why it has won 10 of the 13 Seven World Series contested by immediately striking back with a converted try to Tom Mikkleson to move ahead 7-5.

Another entry into Fiji's 22 handed New Zealand an excellent scoring chance but a turnover of possession gave their opponents the opportunity they needed.

Fiji swiftly moved itself down into New Zealand's red zone, allowing Levani Botia to post a converted try before it rounded out the half with another five-pointer to Raitini in the right corner.

The conversion attempt from out wide was missed, leaving the score at 17-7 in favour of Fiji at the break.

Raitini added a third try to his tally in the opening minute of the second term, a blistering run from inside Fiji's 22 helping to extend the margin on the scoreboard to 15 points.

A fifth try, scored by Joji Raqamate, sealed the victory, and a sixth registered by Ilai Tinai simply added the icing to the cake.

The two tries were interrupted by New Zealand crossing the stripe through Kylem O'Donnell with Jamie Verran converting, although this simply served to add respect to the scoreline.

In the other finals, Scotland collected the Shield with a 40-5 rout of United States, Spain upset England 19-14 in extra time to win the Bowl and Argentina claimed the Plate by beating France 14-7.

South Africa, beaten by Fiji in the semi-finals, gained some consolation by defeating Kenya 41-7 in the play-off for third.

Australia entered day two in a buoyant mood, courtesy of its unbeaten record.

It seemed the Cup quarter-final was going according to script when Matt Lucas darted over to score under the posts and convert to set up an early 7-0 lead.

Australia, though, was becoming its own worst enemy via several turnovers of possession inside the Kenyan half.

Kenya needed no invitation to capitalise on Australia's mistakes and it levelled the score at 7-7 when Oscar Ouma finished off a 90-metre movement to score and Willy Ambaka added the extras.

The score remained deadlocked heading into the second term before Australia edged in front again with Pama Fou exploiting a lack of numbers in the Kenyan defensive line.

With Lucas' conversion Australia led 14-7 but again Kenya struck back Collins Injera touching and Ambaka slotting the conversion with less than three minutes on the clock.

It appeared the match was headed to extra time until Kenya produced a multi-phase effort that saw Dennis Ombachi score the winning try after the full-time siren.

A deflated Australian outfit reappeared later in the afternoon for their Plate semi-final against Argentina, before again being consigned to a loss at the death.

The next leg of the World Series takes place in Dubai on November 30 and December 1.

Tags: rugby-7, rugby-union, sport, robina-4226, qld, australia

First posted October 14, 2012 17:17:35

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Aussies top pool but lose Morahan

Luke Pentony

Updated October 13, 2012 23:15:08

Australia qualified for the Cup stage of the Gold Coast Sevens by topping its pool but its title hopes were dealt a blow with Wallabies outside back Luke Morahan suffering a knee injury.

Morahan injured the medial ligament in his right knee inside the opening 40 seconds of Australia's 31-14 victory in its first match against Tonga at Robina and left the field immediately.

He will take no further part in the tournament and his hopes of selection for the Wallabies' spring tour of Europe starting next month are in doubt.

The loss of Morahan, who had just returned from Argentina on Wallabies duty, will no doubt impact on Australia's chances of winning a Sevens World Series tournament on home soil for the first time since 2002.

But Michael O'Connor's troops still went through Pool B undefeated, clinching top spot with a 15-14 win over reigning Gold Coast Sevens champions Fiji.

Fiji had led a see-sawing match 14-10 with less than two minutes on the clock but Australia edged in front when Jordan Tuapou slid across the stripe out on the left flank.

The result meant Australia will meet Kenya in the Cup quarter-finals on Sunday, while Fiji faces Samoa.

Australia captain Ed Jenkins says the victory over Fiji was just the tonic heading into Sunday's knock-out stage.

"It's a huge boost," he said.

"They were the only side we didn't beat last year so to get a win over Fiji first up is a huge boost to the confidence for the guys.

"We haven't beaten them in over a year, so a huge effort."

Samoa topped Pool C, remaining undefeated through its three matches, while Kenya made it through from the same group ahead of England on count-back.

Australia had earlier ensured its berth in the Cup competition with a solid 22-0 victory over Scotland in its second pool match.

The host nation was slow out of the blocks but after enjoying field position inside the Scottish half they were able to cross for their first try through Lewis Holland.

Holland took advantage of a lack of ruck defence to scoot over from five metres out from the Scottish goal line, Jenkins effectively setting up the try with outstanding clean-out work at the breakdown.

New Waratahs recruit Matt Lucas then added to Australia's total after breaking Scotland's defensive line following turnover ball, the try establishing a 10-0 half-time lead.

Australia put itself out of reach when Sean McMahon crossed for its third try close to the left touchline, the 18-year-old Nudgee product having held off the cover defence in a race to the goal line.

Lucas managed his only conversion of the match from wide out before former Gold Coast Titan Shannon Walker iced the win with Australia's fourth try late in proceedings.

Australia opened its account with the triumph over Tonga, scoring five tries to two.

Jesse Parahi posted a double, while Jenkins, McMahon and former volleyballer Pama Fou also managed five-pointers.

In other results, both South Africa and defending World Series champions New Zealand advanced to the Cup competition from Pool A.

South Africa earned bragging rights with a 31-21 defeat of New Zealand in their final pool match, scoring five tries to three.

It had been the more impressive team following the first two rotations of pool play, with convincing victories over Canada (38-0) and United States (33-5).

New Zealand, whose squad of 12 includes six World Series debutants, did enough to beat the US 19-7 but it was outscored in the second half in its 28-21 win over Canada.

It will meet Pool D winner Argentina in the quarter-finals, while South Africa will play France in the quarter-finals.

Tags: rugby-7, rugby-union, sport, robina-4226, qld, australia

First posted October 13, 2012 22:05:24

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Wallabies name extended Bledisloe squad

Updated October 13, 2012 10:39:47

The Wallabies have included injured trio Wycliff Palu, Sekope Kepu and Drew Mitchell in their extended 30-man squad for next Saturday's Bledisloe Cup Test in Brisbane.

Palu missed the Rugby Championship because of a shoulder complaint, while Kepu (knee) and Mitchell (ankle) have been sidelined since August with respective injuries.

Utility back Adam Ashley-Cooper has also been named, despite missing last weekend's 25-19 win over Argentina in Rosario because of concussion.

Wallabies squad:

Mike Harris, Nick Cummins, Drew Mitchell, Dominic Shipperley, Digby Ioane, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Ben Tapuai, Anthony Faingaa, Pat McCabe, Kurtley Beale, Nick Phipps, Brett Sheehan, Wycliff Palu, Radike Samo, Scott Higginbotham, Michael Hooper, Liam Gill, Dave Dennis, Rob Simmons, Sitaleki Timani, Nathan Sharpe (captain), Kane Douglas, Sekope Kepu, Paddy Ryan, Ben Alexander, James Slipper, Benn Robinson, James Hanson, Saia Faingaa, Tatafu Polota Nau

Tags: rugby-union, sport, australia

First posted October 13, 2012 10:39:47

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O'Neill steps down as ARU chief

Updated October 12, 2012 13:55:13

John O'Neill has stood down as chief executive of the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) after a collective 14 years as the code's top administrator.

He was due to step down from running Australian rugby in 2013, but is now going a year early and will finish at the ARU at the end of the month.

O'Neill said his age, 61, and a 25-year run as a chief executive in sport and banking influenced his decision to leave the ARU and continue as a non executive chairman of casino management group Echo International.

The experienced sports administrator will continue to work with the ARU as its representative on the International Rugby Board (IRB) and as board member of the Rugby World Cup planning the 2015 tournaments in England and Japan respectively.

O'Neill held the position of ARU chief executive from 1995 to 2003, overseeing a golden period of Australian rugby which culminated in the Wallabies' 1999 World Cup win, before hosting the showpiece event in 2003.

The ARU forced O'Neill out in 2004, but reappointed him in 2007 after a stint with Football Federation of Australia where he oversaw the introduction of the A-League and the Socceroos qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in 34 years.

O'Neill's second stint with the ARU saw the appointment of Robbie Deans as coach, who guided the Wallabies to a Tri-Nations title in 2011, before losing to New Zealand in the 2011 Rugby World Cup semi-final.

Although expressing regret the Wallabies have slipped somewhat from the top of the world rugby tree he is proud of what they achieved under his reign.

"The Wallabies are an iconic team, I'm sorry they are not number one but hope fully they will get there," O'Neill told reporters.

ARU deputy chief executive Matt Carroll, who worked under O'Neill at the ARU and FFA, will act as caretaker while a global search is conducted for O'Neill's replacement.

O'Neill says he believes his successor will be able to lift Australian rugby to new heights.

"I am honoured during my second term at the ARU to have played a role in shaping the transformation of the game," he said.

"Australian Rugby has a rich culture and a proud history, but we have also been working to rapidly modernise and evolve the game.

"I believe the key planks necessary to drive that development are in place, allowing my successor to build on the solid foundations rugby enjoys and take it to the next level of success.

"There are other challenges for me to pursue outside the game now, although my involvement at an IRB and Rugby World Cup level will ensure I have a strong ongoing connection."

ARU chairman Michael Hawker said O'Neill had been a committed servant to the game and had laid the foundations for an important phase in Australian rugby.

"John has been a great servant of rugby in Australia over two decades and has achieved the key objectives of a five-year strategic plan since re-joining the ARU in 2007," Hawker said.

"John’s resignation enables the board to put in place new leadership to build on that platform and to drive our substantial agenda over the next five years, while enabling John to focus on his broader business interests."

Tags: rugby-union, sport, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted October 12, 2012 10:07:02

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Force chief steps aside

Updated October 12, 2012 21:17:02

Western Force chief executive Vern Reid has announced he will leave the club on the back of a disappointing 2012 Super Rugby season.

Reid held the position since 2009 and his departure follows a tumultuous year in which both captain David Pocock and coach Richard Graham left the struggling franchise.

The Force finished last in the Australian conference and 14th overall on the Super Rugby ladder in 2012 and will be coached by Michael Foley next season.

Reid will continue in the role until a new chief executive has been appointed.

Tags: rugby-union, sport, super-rugby, perth-6000

First posted October 12, 2012 21:17:02

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Sharpe puts retirement on hold again

Updated October 11, 2012 16:02:27

Wallabies caretaker captain Nathan Sharpe has made himself available for the tour of Europe beginning next month.

The 34-year-old Sharpe had initially announced he would be retiring at the end of the Super Rugby season but due to the Wallabies' depleted second row stocks he was asked to continue his international career.

He captained the Wallabies in their final three Tests of the Rugby Championship, in the absence of injured trio James Horwill (hamstring), David Pocock (knee) and Will Genia (knee).

Sharpe will also lead the Wallabies in this month's Bledisloe Cup encounter in Brisbane prior to the overseas Tests against France, England, Italy and Wales.

"Playing for Australia is something I have never taken for granted," Sharpe said in a statement.

"As such, to be asked to continue beyond the deadline I had set for myself was both flattering but also a request that was very difficult to turn down.

"I have never known a season where the Wallabies have faced such adversity as we have this year. To show the spirit and character that the team has is a mark of how the group has grown, both individually and collectively, and I have enjoyed playing my part in that."

Sharpe become the Wallabies' most-capped forward when he took the field against Argentina in Rosario last Sunday (AEST) in the 25-19 victory over the Pumas.

He is the Wallabies' second most-capped player with 111 Test appearances.

Tags: sport, rugby-union, australia

First posted October 11, 2012 16:02:27

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Beale makes his case as Wallabies' 10

Updated October 07, 2012 17:43:14

Just four weeks after being dropped to the bench for a second time in three Tests, Kurtley Beale highlighted his remarkable turnaround by piloting the Wallabies to a savoured South American success.

Beale, relishing his time as Wallabies playmaker, ensured he will remain in the number 10 Test jersey for at least another match after Australia's 25-19 win over Argentina in Rosario.

With close amigos James O'Connor and Quade Cooper still recovering from injuries, the 23-year-old is now a strong chance of finishing 2012 as the first-choice five-eighth.

He will line up there against the All Blacks in the third Bledisloe Test in Brisbane on October 20 in what will be a tougher test of his talents.

But under immense pressure and in tough, slippery conditions where almost every other player made handling errors, Beale showed his playmaking class to take control of a young, patched-up backline.

Retiring Pumas great Rodrigo Roncero was announced to the 41,000-capacity Rosario crowd as the man-of-the-match, but there was little doubt Beale was the most influential player.

He showed great composure, kicked well, looked dangerous each time he attacked and laid on a try from the top shelf for Digby Ioane.

Rookie centre Ben Tapuai, a decoy for Ioane's well-worked try as Beale fooled the Pumas' midfield defence, was rapt to be running lines two wide of Beale.

"Mate, it was awesome," Tapuai said.

"Just his talent, it lifts everyone up just a notch.

"He helped me with his chat and his skills.

"That ball he gave to Digby was world-class. It was unbelievable."

Coach Robbie Deans also singled out halves partner Nick Phipps for controlling the game with Beale as Australia's forwards proved far more aggressive and efficient at the breakdown than in the 31-8 loss to South Africa a week earlier.

"Kurtley was very good," Deans said. "He's a class act."

Prop Ben Alexander said the Wallabies knew they in for a special reception from the exactable Estadio Gigante de Arroyito crowd when the steep stands were already packed as they started their warm-up.

"It was unreal, the atmosphere incredible," he said.

"It would have been very easy for us to lose our cool and lose our heads.

"The humid weather and narrow pitch really didn't suit the way we wanted to play but I really thought it was a big step up for us."

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, argentina, australia

First posted October 07, 2012 17:43:14

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Force announce coaching staff

Updated October 08, 2012 13:42:58

Western Force have added to their staff to work under head coach Michael Foley in 2013.

The Force have appointed former Bath coach Steve Meehan as backs/attack coach, while former Queensland Reds consultant Phillip Fowler will join the franchise as a strategist.

Chris Webb, who worked with Foley at the Waratahs, has also been named as the Force's high performance general manager.

The trio will work alongside Foley and forwards coach Nick Stiles.

Meehan graduated from the Brisbane club coaching ranks to take a position on the staff of French Top 14 side Stade Francais from 2002 to 2005.

He was Bath's head coach in the English premiership from 2006 to 2011 and during his tenure the club won the 2007/2008 European Challenge Cup.

The New Zealand-born Fowler was one of Ewen McKenzie's confidants when the Reds won the 2011 Super Rugby title.

Fowler, a qualified psychologist, also worked as a strategist during four World Cups with the Wallabies (1991, 2003), the All Blacks (1995) and the Springboks (2007).

"We've engaged some of the best in the business to join us for 2013," Foley said in a statement.

"We've drawn a line in the sand for this season and, given we'll run out a new-look side, it was essential that we assembled a coaching staff that would not only provide insight into the game but will assist to develop our players and the group as a whole."

The Force are expected to make further appointments in the coming weeks.

Tags: rugby-union, super-rugby, perth-6000

First posted October 08, 2012 13:40:28

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Evergreen Thorn set for another Super Rugby season

Updated October 10, 2012 12:54:02

Evergreen dual international Brad Thorn is reportedly set to write a final chapter in his remarkable playing career by returning to Super Rugby with New Zealand franchise the Highlanders.

The former All Blacks lock, who played for Brisbane, Queensland and Australia in rugby league, has been playing rugby union in Japan and Ireland since helping New Zealand win last year's Rugby World Cup.

But the Otago Daily Times reports Thorn, who will turn 38 in February, has met with Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph and is believed to have agreed to play for the Dunedin-based franchise next season.

Thorn previously played Super Rugby for the Crusaders between 2001 and 2011, before returning to rugby league for a second stint with the Brisbane Broncos from 2005 to 2007.

He has played 200 top grade rugby league games for the Broncos, 14 for Queensland and eight matches for Australia.

In rugby union Thorn has played 92 Super Rugby games for the Crusaders and 60 Tests for the All Blacks.

However a move to the Highlanders would be a fitting career finale for Thorn, who was born in Mosgiel just outside Dunedin where the team is based.

He would add experience and steel to a Highlanders forward pack that already includes new signing All Blacks prop Tony Woodcock and All Blacks hooker Andrew Hore.

Thorn left for Japan last year on a two-year deal to play for the Fukuoka Sanix Blues and that deal is due to expire in late February, paving his way to play in Super Rugby.

Earlier this year, he signed a three-month contract with Irish club Leinster and helped them to win Europe's Heineken Cup.

It added another honour to Thorn's long list, having tasted success at virtually every level in both codes.

AAP

Tags: super-rugby, rugby-union, sport, new-zealand, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted October 10, 2012 12:54:02

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Lane switches from Reds to Waratahs

Updated October 11, 2012 13:49:03

NSW coach Michael Cheika has moved quickly to bolster his halves stocks at the Super Rugby franchise with Queensland five-eighth Sam Lane among four additions to the Waratahs squad for 2013.

The quartet of Lane, half-back Matt Lucas, lock Jed Holloway and hooker Luke Holmes have snapped up four of the five extended playing squad spots for next season.

Lane, 21, made his debut for the Reds in this year's Super Rugby competition before his season was cut short due to a knee injury.

He is the son of former Wallabies centre and 1999 Rugby World Cup-winning assistant coach Tim Lane and will be back-up to Berrick Barnes and Bernard Foley at number 10 following the departure to Italy of Daniel Halangahu.

Lucas, 20, is the younger brother of Queensland utility back Ben Lucas and has been a star for the Australian Sevens team.

He joins the squad as the third half-back behind Brendan McKibbin and Grayson Hart following the departure of Sarel Pretorius back to his native South Africa after just one season.

"As the youngest of our three half-backs within the squad, Matt gives us balance in the position and succession planning for the future as we look to constantly bring new talent through the ranks," said Cheika, who was appointed as coach four weeks ago.

Former Randwick hardman Cheika is particularly excited about the addition of 19-year-old Holloway, a Shute Shield rookie of the year from the Southern Districts club in Sydney.

"Jed is a very impressive young player," said Cheika.

"As a lock or back rower, to be so highly rated at such a young age is a good sign as typically these positions are late bloomers.

"He's a country player, full of enthusiasm and like Kane Douglas, Paddy Ryan and Pat McCutcheon, he brings a rawness and freshness to the team that we hope will help rough up the competition in the forward pack."

Rounding out the recruits is 28-year-old Holmes, who has 28 Super Rugby caps after being a foundation player with both the Western Force and Melbourne Rebels.

He is the older brother of former Waratahs half-back Josh Holmes and the third hooker in the squad along with Wallaby Tatafu Polota-Nau and Damien Fitzpatrick.

AAP

Tags: super-rugby, rugby-union, sport, sydney-2000, nsw, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted October 11, 2012 13:49:03

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All Blacks storm past Springboks

Updated October 07, 2012 07:28:04

New Zealand scored 20 unanswered second-half points to complete a perfect Rugby Championship campaign with a 32-16 triumph over South Africa in Soweto.

Down by 10 points early on and trailing 16-12 at half-time, the All Blacks reclaimed the lead 22 seconds into the second half through a try from veteran inside centre Ma'a Nonu and never looked back.

Lock Sam Whitelock, scrum-half Aaron Smith and outside centre Conrad Smith also scored tries and fly half Dan Carter kicked three conversions, a penalty and a drop goal.

"We could not get our hands on the ball in the first half and you can put the fact that we were still in the match down to a wonderful bunch of guys who have been together for some time," said All Blacks captain Richie McCaw.

"It was much better for us during the second half and the boys were able to build pressure. What we worked so hard on during the week paid off," added the bruised and cut flanker.

Springboks captain and inside centre Jean de Villiers said: "We had to play catch-up rugby for too much of the game and that is pretty difficult against a quality team like the All Blacks.

"This is a young team and let us hope that we all learn from our mistakes. The team panicked at times in the closing stages and conceded some stupid penalties."

Bryan Habana claimed his seventh try this season in the competition early on to raise South African hopes, but that was the only time the Boks crossed the line.

Fly half Johan Goosen kicked the conversion and a penalty before retiring injured late in the first half and replacement Elton Jantjies landed two penalties.

Coach Heyneke Meyer warned the Springboks before the battle of the highest ranked teams in the world that nothing less than an 80 per cent place-kicking success rate would give his team a chance, and his words proved prophetic.

Youngsters Goosen and Jantjies missed two kicks each to leave South Africa with only a 50 per cent success rate and so the poor record continued when aiming at the posts during the Championship.

While the South African pack held its own, there was a yawning gap in class between the back lines with New Zealand managing to score two first-half tries despite being virtually starved of possession.

New Zealand defeated South Africa, Australia and Argentina home and away and also picked up two bonus points for a total of 26 - 14 more than South Africa, which could surrender second place if Australia beats Argentina.

The All Blacks can now adjust their sights to creating two world records - the most consecutive victories by a top-tier rugby nation (18) and by a rugby nation (19) - with a Test in Australia and an end-of-season tour to Europe looming.

New Zealand: 32 (S Whitelock, A Smith, M Nonu, C Smith tries; D Carter 3 cons; penalty; drop goal)

South Africa: 16 (B Habana try; J Goosen con; penalty; E Jantjies 2 pens)

AFP

Tags: super-rugby, rugby-union, sport, south-africa, new-zealand

First posted October 07, 2012 07:15:44

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Gutsy Wallabies hold off Pumas

Updated October 07, 2012 12:38:49

Australia has ended the Rugby Championships with a third victory after hanging on for a gutsy 25-19 win over Argentina in Rosario this morning (AEDT).

The injury-stricken Wallabies lead from the outset after Mike Harris' radar-like boot gave the visitors a 15-9 half-time lead before a 65th minute try to winger Digby Ioane looked to the put the contest to bed.

The determined Pumas crossed the try line through Juan Imhoff with three minutes left, but shocking handling errors cost the hosts a chance of a memorable comeback victory.

Full-back Harris shrugged the distraction of a laser pointer from the crowd to kick 7/8, including six penalties and finished with 20 points.

The triumph means Australia ended the inaugural Rugby Championships in second place on 12 points, 14 points behind New Zealand and eases the pressure on beseiged coach Robbie Deans.

The Wallabies now have a fortnight before facing the All Blacks, undefeated in their last 17 Tests after a 32-16 mauling of South Africa, in the final Bledisloe Cup clash in Brisbane.

In front of a vocal crowd, both sides struggled to build momentum in a stop-start affair disrupted by 10 handling errors apiece and a 17-12 penalty count in favour of Australia.

The Wallabies struck their telling blow with Ioane's try right after surviving Argentina's most dangerous onslaught that almost delivered the Pumas a try.

From a scrum on Argentina's 22-metre line, a lovely set piece move saw the Queensland winger cut through a gap in the languishing Pumas defence to score under the posts with Harris converting.

Replacement winger Imhoff scored a late try for the Pumas which was converted by centre Marcelo Bosch. Fly half Juan Martin Hernandez slotted over three penalties and Bosch one.

Harris's steady kicking from penalties gave the Wallabies a 15-9 half-time lead.

He put three over early as Australia went 9-3 up and converted his fourth from under the posts in the 23rd minute after an infringement by Argentina when the Wallabies threatened to drive over and score.

Argentina lost lock Patricio Albacete to the sin bin two minutes later but the only advantage Australia was able to take was Harris's fifth penalty.

Hernandez then failed with two attempted penalties in the dying minutes of the half.
Australian replacement scrum-half Brett Sheehan was sin binned with less than six minutes remaining for an apparent high tackle.

Australia: 25 (D Ioane try; M Harris 1/1 con; 6/7 pens; K Beale 0/2 pens)

Argentina: 19 (JJ Imhoff try; M Bosch 1/1 con; 1/1 pen; JM Hernandez 3/5 pens)

ABC/Reuters

Tags: rugby-union, sport, argentina, australia

First posted October 07, 2012 11:53:50

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Ref erred in not allowing Wallaby sub: IRB

Updated October 04, 2012 10:48:15

Irish referee Alain Rolland erred in not allowing Australia to make a late substitution against South Africa in a Rugby Championship match last Saturday, the International Rugby Board has said.

The Wallabies were forced to play the closing stages at Loftus Versfeld stadium in Pretoria a man short, although it did not effect the result as the Springboks had all but sewn up a 31-8 victory.

A Board statement said that according to Law 3.12 (exception 2) Australia reserve hooker Saia Fainga'a should have been permitted to replace injured hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau.

Loftus touchline microphones picked up Rolland - an experienced referee who refereed the 2007 World Cup final - telling the Australians that they could not make any more substitutions as they had already used the usual maximum of seven.

IRB match official selection committee chairman John Jeffrey said: "The area of substitution management is a team effort. This was an unfortunate case of human error by the match officials who accept that they made a mistake."

Rolland, who will also referee the match between South Africa and New Zealand in Soweto this Saturday, was assisted in Pretoria by Greg Garner of England and Romain Poite of France with South African Shaun Veldsman the TMO.

Rolland provoked a fierce debate at last year's World Cup when he sent Wales captain Sam Warburton off early in the game for a spear tackle on Vincent Clerc - some criticised him for destroying the game as a spectacle while others said he was right to do so under the strict rules governing such tackles.

AFP

Tags: sport, rugby-union, australia

First posted October 04, 2012 09:34:58

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Wallabies have learned their lessons

Updated October 03, 2012 08:18:07

Wallabies forwards coach Andrew Blades says Australia will not fall into the same trap of probing wide too early against a Pumas side which almost skinned them on the Gold Coast.

The Wallabies got out of jail in their first Rugby Championship meeting against Argentina last month, scoring 17 points in the final 20 minutes after trailing 19-6, but know they are true underdogs for the rematch in Rosario.

Argentina is eyeing its maiden win in the tournament and Blades said it was crucial the injury-ravaged Wallabies take the battle to the Pumas' powerful forward pack and build an attacking platform before employing their backs.

On the Gold Coast, Australia passed the ball wide immediately and looked capable of cutting the world number eight-ranked side apart but was often caught and isolated.

The Wallabies were outmuscled in the collisions in their last-start 31-8 drubbing by South Africa and know they must toughen up.

They also aim to take a leaf out of the All Blacks' book after New Zealand ran in seven tries in their 54-15 win over Argentina on Saturday, but only after being patient in setting a platform.

"To play against the Pumas well you first do the hard work and that's where we suffered on the weekend - around the tackle," said Blades, who played prop in the drawn two-match series in Argentina in 1997.

"We need to improve well there to get momentum to play good rugby.

"We had a good look at the All Blacks and saw how the Pumas were able to frustrate them early in the game with their strong defence.

"The All Blacks adjusted well. They made sure they weren't caught short going wide before going forward and that was a lesson for us."

Centre Pat McCabe underlined Argentina's breakdown nous by rating them the most physical team he's played, and rated them "deserved favourites".

On the plus side for the tourists, hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau and Radike Samo are confident they will overcome shoulder problems to play on Saturday night (Sunday morning AEST).

Of the five players carrying injuries from the Pretoria thumping, it appears winger Digby Ioane (knee) and Scott Higginbotham (back) are in most doubt of playing after missing training on Tuesday.

Centre Anthony Fainga'a has been cleared of a head knock and is expected to replace Adam Ashley-Cooper and combine with McCabe in the midfield.

McCabe had been seen as a leading contender for the vacant full-back position but he is not expecting a shift, meaning Mike Harris is set to become the fourth different starting number 15 in five games.

AAP

Tags: sport, rugby-union, argentina, australia

First posted October 03, 2012 08:18:07

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Springboks run Wallabies ragged

Updated September 30, 2012 11:42:25

South Africa changed the emphasis from kicking to running with the ball and scored five tries to crush Australia 31-8 in the Rugby Championship on Sunday morning (AEST).

Veteran right wing Bryan Habana ran in three and there was one each for full-back Zane Kirchner and flanker Francois Louw as the Springboks ended a run of five losses against the Wallabies after leading 14-3 at the break.

The bonus-point triumph before a near-capacity crowd at the 50,000-seat Loftus Versfeld stadium lifted South Africa to 12 points, four behind New Zealand and four ahead of Australia in the southern hemisphere competition.

Scrum half Ruan Pienaar, who took over the placing kicking duties after new fly half Johan Goosen narrowly missed two early shots at goal, completed the scoring with three conversions.

But usually deadly place kicker Goosen shrugged off the disappointments to justify his selection ahead of long-time pivot Morne Steyn and centre Jaco Taute had a satisfactory first start in the green and gold colours.

"It is much nicer to win than to lose and today it all came together this evening," said Springbok centre and skipper Jean de Villiers, referring to a lucky draw in Argentina and losses in Australia and New Zealand.

"The difference in this match was that we executed our game plan much better than in Mendoza, Perth and Dunedin. Gaps opened up and we took full advantage to score those tries.

"But it was not just the backs who deserved credit - the forwards were all outstanding, especially our loose forwards Duane (Vermuelen), Willem (Alberts), Francois (Louw) and Marcell (Coetzee)."

Wallabies lock and skipper Nathan Sharpe admitted the injuries - the catalogue of misery began on six minutes when centre Pat McCabe went off - took its toll on a side that won their last two Championship Tests.

"It is difficult to rejig a side on the run and a good Springbok team fully exploited our problems. We must now bounce back against Argentina and finish the campaign strongly," Sharpe said.

Continuing poor place kicking was the one disappointment as the Springboks got back on the winning trail after a three-match winless run with Pienaar failing to convert four penalty attempts.

South Africa succeeded with only two of nine kicks at goal against New Zealand in Dunedin two weeks ago and chief culprit Steyn was axed by coach Heyneke Meyer after a public and media outcry.

Australia has been plagued by injuries throughout the Championship and it only got worse at Loftus with numerous casualties, including centre Adam Ashley-Cooper, who was taken to hospital with concussion before the break.

The visitors had to play the last eight minutes a man short after making all seven substitutions and were also reduced to 14 men early in the second half when replacement prop James Slipper was sin-binned.

Kurtley Beale, making his first start at fly-half for the Wallabies, kicked a first half penalty and replacement back Mike Harris went over in the corner for a try after the Springboks had built a 23-point advantage.

But razor-sharp Habana had the final say, rounding off another good handling movement in the final minute to raise his career total to 46 tries, against demoralised opponents.

Kirchner and Habana scored first-half tries and Goosen and Kirchner also touched down over the line only to have their efforts disallowed for a double movement and a foot in touch respectively.

South Africa: 31 (B Habana 3, Z Kirchner, F Louw tries; R Pienaar 3/5 cons, 0/2 pens; J Goosen 0/2 cons)

Australia: 8 (M Harris try; K Beale 1/1 pen)

AFP

Tags: sport, rugby-union, south-africa, australia

First posted September 30, 2012 07:51:46

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Wallabies beef up for Argentina

Updated October 05, 2012 07:20:59

Injury-ravaged Australia has gone for greater bulk with five changes for its final Rugby Championship match against Argentina in Rosario on Sunday morning (AEST) while the Pumas are unchanged.

Both sides want to finish on a winning note with Argentina, crushed 54-15 by title winners New Zealand last weekend, looking for its first victory in its debut season in the tournament and fancying its chances after a narrow 23-19 loss to the Wallabies on the Gold Coast three weeks ago.

Winger Nick Cummins will win his first cap for the Wallabies, who went down 31-8 to South Africa in Johannesburg last Saturday, on the right in place of Dominic Shipperley who is on the bench.

Injuries have put Berrick Barnes and centre Adam Ashley-Cooper out of contention to face the Pumas with Mike Harris stepping in for Barnes as full-back and main goal kicker in the side named by coach Robbie Deans.

Ben Tapuai replaces Ashley-Cooper at outside centre for his second cap, completing the three changes made by Deans in the backs.

"We know that the Pumas will be coming straight at us, and will be looking to profit in the collision in the same way that the Springboks did last week," Deans said.

"We've addressed that, both internally in our discussions, but also with our selection, where we have gone for the players we feel are best suited to that approach."

There are two changes in the forwards with Sitaleki Timani coming in for Dave Dennis for his first Test as blindside flanker after winning six caps in the second row and James Slipper in the front row in favour of loosehead Benn Robinson.

"As with the backs, we've looked to increase our physicality to counter the direct force that will undoubtedly be coming the other way," said Deans, who dropped Dennis and Robinson to the bench.

Argentina coach Santiago Phelan has kept faith with the 15 players who started against the All Blacks and scored two tries but paid heavily conceding seven as their effort to attack more had a detrimental effect on their usually tight defence.

However, there are changes on the bench with Nicolas Sanchez, fly half when Argentina held South Africa to a draw in its first home match, coming in for Martin Rodriguez, who has had surgery in a dislocated shoulder, and back row Leonardo Senatore displacing Tomas Vallejos.

Mike Harris; Nick Cummins, Ben Tapuai, Pat McCabe, Digby Ioane; Kurtley Beale, Nick Phipps; Radike Samo, Michael Hooper, Sitaleki Timani; Nathan Sharpe (capt), Kane Douglas; Ben Alexander, Tatafu Polota-Nau, James Slipper

Replacements: Saia Fainga'a, Benn Robinson, Dave Dennis, Scott Higginbotham, Liam Gill, Brett Sheehan, Dominic Shipperley

Lucas Gonzalez Amorosino; Gonzalo Camacho, Marcelo Bosch, Santiago Fernandez, Horacio Agulla; Juan Martin Hernandez, Martin Landajo; Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe (capt), Juan Manuel Leguizamon, Julio Farias Cabello; Patricio Albacete, Manuel Carizza; Juan Figallo, Eusebio Guinazu, Rodrigo Roncero

Replacements: Agustin Creevy, Juan Pablo Orlandi, Leonardo Senatore, Tomas Leonardi, Nicolas Vergallo, Nicolas Sanchez, Juan Imhoff

Reuters

Tags: rugby-union, sport, argentina, australia

First posted October 05, 2012 07:14:19

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All Blacks down Pumas to win Rugby Championship

Updated September 30, 2012 11:51:49

Winger Cory Jane scored three of New Zealand's seven tries as the world champion All Blacks beat Argentina 54-15 to lift the inaugural Rugby Championship title on Sunday morning (AEST).

The other New Zealand winger, Julian Savea, also scored two tries in an open match in which the Pumas also crossed the All Blacks line twice, most notably with scrum half Martin Landajo's opening try of the match.

A noisy 45,000 full house at the Etadio Unico were treated to some exciting, if often error-riddled, running from both back lines with the All Blacks enjoying a clear edge when it came to finishing.

New Zealand took its winning run to 15 since last year's World Cup and travel to Johannesburg for its final match of the tournament next weekend against South Africa, which beat Australia 31-8 earlier on Sunday.

It was a return to regional dominance for the All Blacks, who won 10 of the 16 Tri-Nations titles but lost out to the Wallabies in last year's final version of the competition before it was replaced to allow the addition of the Pumas.

"We wanted to win the championship from day one and to do it so early is a reflection of how hard the boys have worked and how well they've played," New Zealand coach Steve Hansen said in a pitchside interview.

Argentina, whose former prop Omar Hasan - now an opera singer - sung both anthems, showed their intent to run the ball at every opportunity and went ahead within nine minutes.

The Pumas won a lineout on the left inside their own half, the ball was passed inside to full-back Lucas Gonzalez Amorisino, who rode two tackles and set off on a diagonal run towards the right.

He was tackled inside the New Zealand 22 but laid off to Landajo, who darted between two players to touch down. Fly half Juan Martin Hernandez missed the conversion.

New Zealand hit back eight minutes later with the first try conceded by the Pumas in the first half of their championship matches.

Centre Ma'a Nonu broke through the defence at a ruck in the middle and raced for the posts before passing out of the tackle to scrum half Aaron Smith, who touched down.

Carter converted to put the All Blacks ahead and then put over a penalty for a 10-5 lead at the halfway point of the first half.

The All Blacks then scored a second try through Jane in the left corner after a break by number eight Kieran Read, with Carter again converting.

Fly half Hernandez and Carter exchanged penalties before a brief tale of two interceptions.

First the Pumas snapped up a loose ball and moved play out right where wing Gonzalo Camacho dropped the ball to allow Savea to kick ahead, chase and touched down.

Savea scored his second try in the corner as the half was winding down after several phases of All Blacks attacks and, with Carter's conversion, New Zealand went in at half-time 32-8 ahead.

Argentina pinned New Zealand back into their half from the restart and after several phases of attack won a penalty. They chose to run and were rewarded when Camacho picked up from a ruck and scurried over to score their second try.

Again, New Zealand hit right back with Jane's second try at the end of a move that began on the far side after a lineout.

A lot more running of the ball by both teams, amid a myriad of replacements in the final quarter, failed to deliver another try for the home side but Nonu crossed and Jane secured his hat-trick for New Zealand.

New Zealand: 54 (C Jane 3, J Savea 2, A Smith, M Nonu tries; D Carter 3/5 cons, A Cruden 2/2 cons; D Carter 2/3 pens, A Cruden 1/1 pen)

Argentina: 15 (M Landajo, G Camacho tries; J Martin Hernandez 1/2 cons, 1/1 pen)

Reuters

Tags: sport, rugby-union, argentina

First posted September 30, 2012 11:28:28

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