Check the calendar.

Counts the days. Mark the weeks. Add the months.

Just when we were getting on so well, the sporting rug; pulled out from under one’s feet; the steady Eddie that was our flight of frequent-worded-fancy now plummeting to terra firma; a mass of nothing; aerated space; all that is left; memories of a Rugby Championship and a cooked goose. Perish the thought.

Rugby, a consuming passion; the joie de vivre of this digital site; the sporting wellspring of this past-time; a lost long friend and traveller. As I write these words with some rhyme and little reason, Bob, is working on his tan in another land; not to forget; playing some rugby in-between refreshment breaks. I, on the other hand, work on a fine brew in a land far from this destination, and likely yours of this reading. Tea; the drink of choice before I call it a night will prepare me for the weekend, as a season of night swimming masquerading as a deep sleeping good time, begins to call me horizontal.

This weekend, as the Internationals again dominate our show, sides 2 through 5, will battle for their spots, as all can potentially, change. For us in All Black, our ranking is as sure as the other side of our 80 against the Italians. The arrogance of the Kiwis. Respect does not equate to a sporting type of submission. They will bristle like a Stallion; there will be much pomp; a little ceremony; anticipation for the contest; a desire to draw swords in the scrum, but then the slow motion scenes of fatmen will go on fast forward as our game gets its flow. This is not the match of the week-end. If it proves as such, we are Samson, and they have stolen our strength. I could also be dead.

England vs Australia will be fascinating, as the land downunder struggles to deal with the only All Black failing at the minute. He must go; he must leave. Some insisting that the price of purchase could be worth the pain. We’ll take the gloating; the lap of celebration; the smug glow, says the fan represented by Campese; just send Robbie home. In the land of valleys, where their rugby history keeps them sane, the Leeks performance last week was worse than a dyke in the dutch. Vamos Los Pumas. Rob Howley has brought that bullet, and the 7 and 10 now sit on the Bench. One can only consider what could potentially take place should the Men of the Manu come hitting home. Samoan-style; cheehooo. We reference the Pumas who have now discovered a key in this modern code. In the Rugby Championship they could stay for an hour, but their fitness would not hold throughout the 80. The northern hemisphere should be rightly concerned about this looming side. Playing annually with the best sides on the planet will do one thing for their game; grow it. We are already witnessing the lessons that have been in less than 12 months, which had been learnt, mostly after the fact, and at a World Cup. Now these will encourage their game to prepare for this event. The contrast of preparation highlighting their potential and its effect. They take on the French this weekend; against the side that announced the loudest in week one. Argentina has proven more than able one-on-one, especially when one considers Le Frog’s tradition of winning one week, while losing into the next.

There are others, but the one that will dominate African eyes is the Springboks attack on the Scots. The Kilts proved what a gritty side they are versus the Blacks. They may not have as much talent as the Irish and the Welsh on paper, but give me their grit and guts for the contest. The Blacks would put them on oxygen for 15 mins of that First Half, and the was enough. Dan Carter; dispensing the air, and it was rarefied. Remember his appearing. He will become the standard measurement for First-fives/Flyhalfs. He already has become in my world. However, I have noted a subtle change in the mediated response to Carter, north. His class has never been questioned, but it has moved to the reflective stage. The real cross-examination of his game has ended. The people believe. The war to win the north is now over. They now sit back, thankful that as his years do not tarry, they have had the grace to witness.

So the Springboks.

I had requested Lambie’s presence before Goosen as I sensed his time was not right, related more to his frame than game. This would prove so. Lambie has subsequently performed at home, but he must raise his voice; his head; his control; his game. He must fight whatever instincts that encourage him to present a man looking for a shell, and take hold on and off this mantle. It is waiting for him. He must be on demand without delay. With the selection of de Jongh in 13, the Bokke are giving signs that an expression backline session could be the order of the day. Check the weather. The All Blacks showed; will the Bokke follow? I have really read nothing from South African sources after the Irish win, so I am uninformed if Meyer was given some grace for the change precipitated after Halftime. Credit to the man that he was able to deal with their minds and rejig the gameplan, as in the 2nd Half, this side came out with hearts aflame and intensity on display, coupled with that good old smash-mouth South African style. The Bokke should not try and replicate the Blacks. They can play with high intensity, but unlike the speed of the Blacks, the Bokke play their best with a high level of torque, which speaks much more about force of their power. Scotland come into this match confident after facing the All Blacks. The scoreboard may tell a story in the end, but my sense is that the Bokke will have to really battle for this result. While they should not have enough, Scotland will stay the course in the contest. If they get on the grind and the weather is unlike last week, they will believe.

That is enough from me. I was actually only going to write a couple of words about how I wanted to share, and so I did… Ya; quite the punchline.

However, if you’ve read me, you know I get caught in the Kevin Curren of words.

Our Rugby reality is that though our hearts be broken on a given weekend, when she comes knocking again, we run to the door and embrace the love, longing to spend some more time at her feet. We will do such only for the one we love. We will suffer for one who owns our sporting affections; those more tangible and real, than merely fleeting. We will journey, when the destination is worth the distance.

No matter what the results, we will do it all again into next. Repeat.

As I tweet on @BackingBlack – I live commentate-tweet all the Blacks Test on the official fan club account; please join me – THIS IS WHAT WE DO. This is it. Let’s embrace it. Enjoy the scenery before the game. Endure the 80 that can test our heart and soul, with the celebrating times of victory worth the dark moments of defeat.

There will be many supporters on this planet who will support a losing side this weekend. We love to win, yet our love for our rugby nation knows more.

Join me on @iamjonnyking; connect; engage; do your best to decipher some of the riddle, and let’s enjoy the moment’s that will get me up in the middle of night, all the while we shall not forget Roberto, @BobSkinstad.

Also, please connect on @RugbyJourney. Bob and I have talked about some grand plans in 2013. Talked. The potential on this site is outrageous. Bob and I have both expressed our sincerest hope and desire that we can join hands, move forward, and make the most. What you see now is only a smidgeon of what we can potentially accomplish. However, we don’t want to do this alone. We don’t want to do this without you. We want to do this with a whole company of rugby supporters who are passionate about their team, but in such a way that it does not divide, but connects.

It has just recently clicked into Saturday in NZ. I have an early morning haircut that had to be rescheduled their end, today; so much for the manly assumptions. Therefore, I best move on as these words will just keep flowing.

RugbyJourney. Feel free to share a picture of your vision for this future. This is what we do.

What Say You?

Until Next Time

iamjonnyking

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When this news filtered through my social media circles out of Africa, there was a perturbed sense that someone had dropped the ball with the Bulls. He had loved us and Loftus, they opined.

His introduction to New Zealand rugby has been everything you expect from someone old skooled in the dark arts in the land of the All Blacks traditional rivals. He has had the eye for contact; hunger to lay down the hurt, and the willingness to talk it up, in your face. The early conflagration with Jimmy “the Knife” Cowan, one that permeated the contest. Ya, the use of “permeated” a little of this paradoxical sense, but so is this man’s story.

If looks could kill, call the paramedics.

Nearing the business end of his first stint in the ITM Cup, we decided it was time to use our words on another’s behalf, and we did. We thought it would be interesting to get some insight into the man and his future that intersects both with iamjonnyking and a RugbyJourney.

Things weren’t so clear-cut as we expected. Who would have thought?!

We go on this record with “The Cleaner” of Counties Manukau, Daniel Adongo. This time together has only been minutely manicured. Enjoy.

It Begins.

Adongo: You’re keeping me from my lunch, huh?

JK: Hey Daniel, how are you doing?

Adongo: All good. All good.

JK: I’ll be as brief as I can. We’ll start with the difficult one first. I have a reasonable South African contingent and when it was announced you were heading to New Zealand, there was some dismay. You were coming through the ranks there; you were signed by the Bulls and then six months later you’re heading to New Zealand. What changed?

Adongo: What changed was I wanted to get more game time, and I think, mostly to get a different feel for rugby, because down here it’s more running rugby, and it can only benefit my game moving forward. I can play what I see; use my feet more, and also have that more physical South African sort of style.

JK: Did you feel like you weren’t getting an opportunity with the Bulls?

Adongo: It’s not really opportunities. This really came up just before the Currie Cup. It’s a tough question as you said, so I think I’ll just leave it there.

JK: You went to Strathmore School, is that where you first started playing rugby? There is talk about your ability to do the 100 metres in under 11 seconds. The running style of rugby, is this the style you grew up with in Kenya?

Adongo: Yeah, definitely. It is more about speed and agility. I mean, everyone’s fast, and just adding a bit more size to the forwards.

JK: The story is you went back home, were playing in the Sevens tournament. Tana Umaga’s there; he see you…

Adongo: No, No, No.

JK: That’s not the story?

Adongo: I don’t know how that is, but that’s not how I got contacted by Tana.

JK: Are you able to share how that came about? Do you want to share?

Adongo: I don’t want to discredit the other media article. It’s awkward.

JK: Now you’re in New Zealand. You’re with Counties, and you’ve signed two years, I believe.

Adongo: I can’t really disclose the duration I’ve signed for at the moment.

JK: SupeRugby in New Zealand… 

Adongo: Sorry that I’m not really being that open.

JK: It’s okay. It’s your prerogative. Just as it one’s prerogative to ask the questions, it’s your prerogative to answer them. What about SupeRugby in New Zealand? Can you give us any insights into the likelihood or possibility that you will be playing SupeRugby?

Adongo: There is a very big chance here or back in South Africa. I’m just focusing on what I have to do now in the ITM Cup campaign. After that, of course everything sorts itself out if you’re playing well.

JK: So it could go either way. It could be South Africa; it could be New Zealand?

Adongo: “laughing” Ya.

JK: We’ll go for some more personal questions. What can you Bench Press?

Adongo: About 180kgs.

JK: What about arm curl? We’ve seen those photos of those guns for Africa. I think you must have been training at the time. What can you arm curl?

Adongo: I can do with reps with 35kg dumbells.

JK: You’ve come from another continent; another culture; how are you finding New Zealand?

Adongo: I’m a people-person, so I’m just enjoying the different type of people, absorbing a different type of culture and way of living. I’m just enjoying it at the moment.

JK: If you weren’t involved in rugby, what would you be doing?

Adongo: Probably studying; medicine to be more specific.

JK: What’s your music on your ipod before a Match?

Adongo: I listen to alot of different things. I’ve got artists like, Florence and the Machine. I’ve got some hip-hop. Whatever gets me in the mood at the time.

JK: Skinny Jeans or Trackpants?

Adongo: Ah, skinneyz.

JK: McDs or KFC?

Adongo: None. I’m a healthy eater.

JK: New Zealand; cold or freezing?

Adongo: Freezing.

JK: Here’s a question in light of my South African contacts. Your opinion of New Zealand women?

Adongo: My opinion of New Zealand women…

JK: The South African’s hassle the beauty of our talent. Any comment?

Adongo: ”laughing” They’re very open. They’re good people.

JK: They’re good people. That’s a safe answer. Big match coming up versus “the Jaffas” as we say in New Zealand. Your thoughts going into that?

Adongo: Do my job, as usual. Not focus on the gravity or the extremity of the game. Just be accurate in what I do. Nothing changes. Just play what I see.

JK: And your core role. If we look at the Manawatu match. The 1st Half for Counties was a little bit here or there, but when you came on; I’ve nicknamed you “The Cleaner” [He laughs] because you hit those rucks; make the ball available. Is that one of the core roles that Tana and the South African context; the physicality; getting in the opposition’s face?

Adongo: I love to run with the ball, but at the moment it’s what the team needs. We need to get the ball back, secure the ball, and get quick ball for our Backs, so they can show what they’ve got and put us on the front-foot. That’s what the team needs, I’m more than happy to do it.

JK: So in terms of position, I’ve read online that you prefer Flanker, but you were also tried in the U19s with the Sharks on the wing.

Adongo: Ya, ya, I started off on the wing, and Rudolph Straeuli, a good mentor of mine, changed my position to Flanker.

JK: So if you had the choice, where would you want to play?

Adongo: I’d like to play my career in Loose Forward. But of course, I’m learning a lot at Lock. I’m learning that they’re the tough guys; the unsung heroes of the game, but I’d like to carry on in my career on the side of the scrum.

JK: New Zealand rugby has been suitably impressed, which is why you are getting a few media calls. I thank you for talking to me today, Daniel, and I wish you all the best. I’d like to see you in a New Zealand SupeRugby side and who knows, even one day playing in the fabled strip of All Black.

Adongo: Thank you. I really appreciate the call.

THE END.

Interesting.

I was going to ask him if he had a dream to now turn out for the All Blacks, but I think he answered this with the conjecture surrounding his SupeHome.

I certainly didn’t quite expect this answer surrounding SupeRugby. People in Africa may be encouraged. If I was to speculate, I would think someone like the Kings would be interested in Daniel Adongo; given their needs heading into this new season, and the requirement to source some talent; he meets many of these.

On the other hand, now that he has done some time in New Zealand, if there is enough of an expression of interest, and this seems likely, a franchise like the Blues would do well to secure his services. Adongo would provide the Blues with something they haven’t always had; have always needed, which is someone to hurt in tight, in close, and someone willing to live there.

It has been about time that I talked with some again, at the coal-face of rugby. We will be seeking to do much more of this into the future.

We have one of the rising stars of New Zealand rugby next. We talk this week. We will seek to put his words up early next week.

Feel free to offer your response or discuss the large context that arises from Daniel’s words; his SupeFuture; even his potential international future that will follow on from this effect.

What Say You?

Shooting from the Lip

iamjonnyking

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You can’t get rid of it off the teamsheet, while consumption with this concept, is proving equally as soiling.

In a sporting context, there is little like failure to massage any sporting selection stuck on repeat. Some reading this will be wondering why this other “beat” is not as animated in his thinking as it is in Meyer’s demeanour in the 80. That could be a little freaky. You don’t want Earl “the Pearl” in 10?!

As we prepare for Test week, the kiwi thought he would offer his thoughts on his starting 15, particularly surrounding numbers 10 & 15.

The Side

15. Frans Steyn. 14. Bryan Habana. 13. Juan de Jongh. 12. Jean de Villiers. 11. Francois Hougaard. 10. Pat Lambie. 9. Ruan Pienaar. 8. Duane Vermeulen. 7. Willem Alberts. 6. Heinrich Brussow. 5. Juandre Kruger. 4. Eben Etzebeth. 3. Jannie du Plessis. 2. Adriaan Strauss. 1. Tendai Mtawarira.

The Explanation

15. Frans has become a staple in 12, but we are not seeing his gifts utilised, or even close to being maximised. I would test him in these last two Rugby Championship Tests at the Back. Given the amount of kicking in a Test, this position allows him to make more of this ability, with the length particularly effective hard on defence. However, perish the thought that he should decide to run it back, this encourages more impact in contact, with that one break near the end vs the Blacks, a sign not nearly enough sighted. Given his physical gifts, returning the ball with an ability to locate the oncoming defence, he would be best placed to expose the weakness.

Also, Jean de Villiers is becoming a spent force in the 13 shirt. He also feels like a coaching waterboy on the field, leading a side with hand signals, advice, and at the water break. He needs a return to 12.

If fit, I would have had JP Pieterson in 13. However, Juan de Jongh deserves a shot; understands this pairing in the midfield, and as long as he leaves his dancing feet to moments before the tryline, this could be ideal. Taute will come, but an End of Year Tour reads more likely.

10. The Grey’s Goose is the obvious future. He has played like the present off the Bench in the past two weeks. You can read where this is heading, which is why I have Pat Lambie starting in 10.

If given the shot, Morne would perform in Pretoria, but he is a cat on his 10th life. He needs some time to regather his roots.

I agree with Meyer’s words in regard to bringing Goosen through with a prudent sense, which for mine, relates more to shoulder than game sense.

The way things are tracking for Lambie, he will retire as a myth with dimensions similar to Nessie. Debate can be had to whether he has had enough of an opportunity; he should be given the ropes for these two Tests; told so before this Test, so that he at least has some security to express himself.

He presently resides with Ron Cribb as those who were believed to be so outrageously talented; only to flicker before they left the scene.

Lambie is the Liam Messam of the Blacks in the Backs; a man stuck between positions. He has played better in 15, but sits better in a side in 10. He realises more than most what it means to sit inside the Springbok squad but outside the starting lineup and has stated as much. This is all the lever Meyer should need to offer the stage so Lambie can pull off the act. He should realise it is now or maybe never. Like a Father who becomes Superman when his child is in danger, this same desperation for success should envelope the man. He needs to take some concrete pills and harden the gehenna up.

6. Hulkrich Brussow. Francois Louw had a strong match in Dunedin. He will be retained in my 22, but off the Bench, much like a Liam Gill for the Gold. Brussow must be given his head to take down Hooper. I am tempted to push Louw to 7, but that mix is likely too much for the Bokke. Louw needs to hit more rucks like Burger to encourage this move. This could encourage a combination with Marcel Coetzee who does play more like this in practice, but he will likely be the extra forward on the Bench, with only two backs required.

Friday the 21st. Less than a week before Meyer’s home stand must turn.

Where do you land?

What Say You?

Shooting from the Lip

iamjonnyking

Much has already been said since this Saturday night in Dunedin, with the following something close to a final word on the matter.

Final Score:

21-11 – All Blacks.

Overview of the 80:

When discussing an 80 such as Saturday night where the more unexpected happens, the tendency is to either land on the underdog’s ability to rise, or the favourite’s failure to reach expectations; supporting side viewing glasses, helping either perspective. In truth; this scribe’s; there is generally a give and take middle between these two extremes, and it would be so in Dunedin.

The Springboks would have dominance at the Breakdown, in so much as they turned over more possession. The All Blacks did not have the edge of the Wallaby clashes in this context. It showed. Advantage, Springboks. On the other hand, 1st Half stats would affirm that the Bokke had near 60% in territory, while 50% possession, but missed 3 times as many tackles as the home side; an area they would have perceived the need to be superhuman, if finally successful. This failure & the All Blacks limited edge in attack, another sign of this interface.

In saying that; the All Blacks attack would win the night, with one more moment post the off-the-cuff individual brilliance from Bryan; even including the shin. Look closely at that chip. The Springboks did not finish, with that GOLDEN moment, early on, out wide to Habana, like stealing the Baby away from the Candy.

In the other phases, there was periodic dominance & failure, but nothing overtly comprehensive.

For example, the destruction of the Bokke scrum in the 2nd Half that was an open door until Liam Messam fumbled, should have been points. Seven.The Springboks will be encouraged with the showing of their Forward pack, but this is contextualised by their assumption of failure heading into this contest. Therefore, the light burns brighter.

While the African side’s gameplan should not have longevity, the methodical parts helped to break the minutes in the match so that momentum was negated. It proved a success. This is a win. You may want to skin a cat, but if you are presented with a dog, you may not be so prepared for the bark, and what if it bites? Sadly, the growling did not grow for the visitors. The All Blacks lacked clarity in the gameplan area. Early on, when the All Blacks gave away a penalty, trying to run the ball from scrum-static-phase just outside their 22, Hansen could be viewed in the box chastising outloud for such a “stupid play.”

There were two areas where the All Blacks were definitively in front, with one, the kicking for posts. There has been talk of the turbulent impact of the Dome. If this is so, it likely only exacerbates or accentuates. On the night, it looked like only one attempt from either side had the trajectory of a shot duck. For all the missed opportunities from Morne and Frans, all except this one came from lack of accuracy or lack of distance. Discipline would be another area, encapsulated by Greyling’s use of his anatomy. Very ugly.

The Bokke will be happy with the roll of their maul, but there was little real return for this endeavour, which was indicative of the lack of real try-line pressure.

This was a Test that did not soar like the restriction above. Any Test win over the Springboks is to be relished, but cherished? Not so much. The return leg in Johannesburg will be fascinating. Both sides will know there is plenty of room for improvement. Expect the intensity, hunger, and desperation to only grow with the waiting of three weeks. Execution the watchword of that night.

Defining Moment:

Not the Greyling yellow card, but the Aaron Smith try, round the 60 minute mark. It was very individual & brilliant; one man against their world. Habana had given hope; this became deflated. The Greyling snap frustratingly followed this curve, but it did not set this trend.

Man of the Match:

Richie McCaw. Honourable mention to Israel Dagg & Francois Louw, but the Captain’s mental strength and ability to perform under pressure, stay calm under fire; underscored by his chase in Cruden’s last minute penalty from near 50, emblematic. McCaw makes things happen by the assertion of his will and self, on the opposition. Still much life in the maturing dawg, yet.

Referee:

I was nervous about the Irishman, George Clancy. The All Blacks have not enjoyed his style, while the Bokke have proved successful. I was given a stat that they had won 4 out of 5. He did blow frequently, which suited their style, but in the end had little direct impact on the board, even if some lasting impact on the overall flow. A pass mark – 6.5-7/10

Player Performance Ratings:

The iamjonnyking scoring system is as follows: 0-4.99 = Poor. 5 = Pass Mark. 7 = Average. 8 = Above Average. 9 = Actually Very Good. 9.01-10 = Atmospherically so – Roofless.

I will add some comment if needed, but this will be sparse. I will also refrain from commenting on the Reserves, excepting those that had a decent amount of time.

15. Israel Dagg – 8.5.
14. Cory Jane – 7.75.
13.  Conrad Smith – 7.
12. Ma’a Nonu – 7.25.
11. Julian Savea – 6.5.
10. Aaron Cruden 7.75. Better night than some are stating in NZ. Goal-kicking comparatively sound. Tackling also along the same lines. Had a decent amount of traffic, and was committed low, with only one significant miss coming across on Frans, from memory. Dan has played with SBW on his outside; the backline looks still to be getting back to this new normal, with the human hypeline now gone, but not forgotten.
9. Piri Weepu – 7.25. Another who completed his key role effectively. Yes, does not offer the spark of the younger generation, but cleared consistently, covered well, with a turnover near Halftime with the Springboks on attack, not an insignificant moment when he was the man standing tall. One kick out on the full through the hands of Habana, a rare moment when he did not execute.
8. Kieran Read – 7.25.
7. Richie McCaw – 9.
6. Liam Messam – 7.75.
5. Sam Whitelock – 7.25.
4. Luke Romano -  7.
3. Owen Franks – 7.
2. Andrew Hore – 6.75.
1. Tony Woodcock – 6.5.

20. Aaron Smith – 8.25.

15. Zane Kirchner – 6.75.
14. Bryan Habana – 8.25.
13. Jean de Villiers – 6.75.
12. Frans Steyn – 7.
11. Francois Hougaard – 7.
10. Morne Steyn – 4.
9. Ruan Pienaar – 7.
8. Duane Vermeulen – 7.25.
7. Willem Alberts – 7.75.
6. Francois Louw – 8.5.
5. Juandre Kruger – 7.5.
4. Flip van der Merwe – 7.25.
3. Jannie du Plessis – 7.25.
2. Adrian Strauss – 6.5.
1. Tendai Mtawarira – 6.75.

17. Dean Greyling – You don’t get points for stupidity.

Thoughts?

Shooting from the Lip

iamjonnyking

#BaDomChing. Just like an old person with technology, don’t you know that hashtags only work on a clothes rack?!

Laughter is a good medicine, and if my reading of your situation is correct, there have been numerous needing some post the Saturday, woe is rugby.

iamjonnyking will offer his own thoughts at an appropriate time, but before the Kiwi runs his rule, I touched base with some of your own. Bob was busy counting his coin, so I offered some contacts a chance to share their own.

Some would direct message, some would tweet, a couple would disown [no reply], while some others would reply freely.

This would all take place through the tweeting connections afforded on the timeline – @RugbyJourney. Brevity has never been a brew that I have freely consumed, but I am in rehab. Wordsmith Synonymous.

Enough from me and over to Hugh, meaning you – the other sources.

I would ask for two things, as follows.

This is what would happen next.

Recreational William @SportBillySays would begin with a note of calm - (1) Not surprised considering recent record against Oz, 6/7 losses is it? Combine that with 5 matches of never getting into 5th gear! (2) Give Lambie a run! 9 minutes in 240 minutes of rugby! At 10, with Goose coming off bench. No kicking away possession! Value the ball!

Morne from @RuggaWorld would speak with heart and head - Quite simply unforgivable given how poor Australia has been in the RC and also SR championships, and SA’s dominance in the latter. As for next week, if you want to stick with the game plan then get the players to execute it. Senior Bok players are failing, not juniors

Tank Lanning on @FrontRowGrunt would helpfully offer - All on http://www.frontrowgrunt.co.za  Many will be hoping to see a Goosen-step like that on Saturday.

Mark Keohane on @Mark_Keohane would consider the following - 1. Not work harder, but be a bit smarter. Start with Louw in fetcher role, Goosen at 10 & approach would be to have a crack. It isn’t about playing cavalier, all risk & stupid rugby, but about backing skills & qualities of our players.

Rob from @Sharksworld would message - Reaction to loss: disappointed but not surprised. The stupid rugby we play would never realistically see us beat a thinking side like Aus. What I would do next? Get Brussow over ASAP and let Lambie play flyhalf next week.

Last, but as you will read, by no means least, Nelio from @RugbyFifteen would get wordy with it – Aussies won’t be satisfied with their performance as such & keeping that in mind, they still beat the Boks. Bad to lose against a team that’s struggling & beating u whilst not even playing a brilliant game. Boks discipline not on par, telling me that players not respecting captaincy of JdV. They offer alot on attack, which we lacking now. I would play Goosen & Lambie. Morne needs a break from rugby, just had new baby arrival & needs a break to refresh & spend time with family, no end of year tour for him; hence all the kicking which is also a gameplan of Heyneke that’s not allowing players to play with free will & feel of game whilst adapting… to opposition. We struggle to play a game where we can adapt & out-smart our opposition, hence when we get bad refereeing we can’t adapt. Beast & Jannie getting tired, too much rugby, time for Gurthro to come help out to give them a rest, Coenie return soon will help. Less kicking more running rugby, the players he selects are running rugby athletes, but they forced to play a game that’s not their strength.

That man can talk.

And then… there was more

Better late than later, Ami, @Biobot, the talking horse at @SI_SouthAfrica- 1) I think it’s becoming increasingly worrying. We’re playing predictable rugby. 2) Drop M Steyn & Kirchner; Goosen and Lambie to start.

Now those not so famed in our game, but willing on the timeline.

Mark Barnard @Trambowil affirmed that the public - must be patient no experience BAKKIES DANIE ROSSOUW FOURIE D PREEZ help youngsters too many injuries DO IT NOW #nopatience

Luise Croeser ‏@Weeziebee85 would be short & sweet - #PlanToPost 1) Drop Morne Steyn and Zane. #PlanToPost 2) Start with Goosen & Lambie

Andrew Edwards ‏@andyed_12 would bluntly state - [1] Completely one-dimensional, flat and unimaginative performance. As we have seen since heyneke took over. Utter s***. [2] Stop kicking the ball away, play an out and out fetcher, introduce goosen, lambie,  F.louw, de jongh wing. Ball in hand.

Magdeline ‏@MagdelineMaggie would join Andrew’s bandwagon - I absolutely agree with @andyed_12, please keep us posted

So there you have it Springbok nation on a RugbyJourney.

Now it’s time for – What Say You?

Your response to statements [1] and [2] from above and in regard to this weak-end.

Come strong. Soon it will be All Black!

Shooting from the Lip

iamjonnyking

While one match looks more straightforward, the forecast of rain and gales – you know Wellington can “bring it” in this regard – not to mention the intrigue with Sir Graham Henry, provides more layers to this contest than may have initially appeared.

It is Friday night in my world. I have just audio called one #ITMcup match online, while tweeting throughout the second, so it is fair to say that I am a little toasted muesli. Therefore, with some famous last words, I will keep this preview brief as a pair of boxers.

All Blacks v Los Pumas

You should really read the following, excepting my perceptions of Hansen’s desire to stay away from change, outlines what I believe will transpire.

The Henry factor will have more impact in the papers than in play. It is one thing to understand what is about to happen. It is an entirely different reality to be able to cease and destroy. Most international sides know what is generally coming from the All Blacks. Most fail. Henry will have some big structural ideas about the All Blacks gameplan, as these take longer to shape. However, the All Blacks defensive structure has developed and so has their lines of attack with ball in hand. The two tries in Sydney from set phase were something new and improved from 2011, a mark of the new Assistant, Ian Foster.

Simply put, Los Pumas can not live with the All Blacks high intensity, rapid recycling, multiple phase, power-expansive type game. The All Blacks have taken their breakdown control to another level in 2012, which was given a stark portrayal at Eden Park, along with a looming defensive line that has now added a greater sense of speed. The result is that Los Pumas must infringe to stop these movements as they did in the Quarter-Final, which slows the bleeding, but does nothing to heal the wound. I expect this continue, but if the conditions are as horrendous as the forecast is “predicting,” this will help the Pumas and further impact on the type of gameplan the All Blacks seek to play.

Considering the conditions, if I were the Pumas, I would target Julian Savea in the air. It will likely be tough under the high ball, and if they can shake his confidence early, he may provide a vehicle for position, possession, and points. Yes, the All Blacks have made some changes, but look at the Bench. If the defence is not where it was, expect an earlier call for Liam Messam, the leader of this phase.

Taking all into account, the All Blacks by 15-25. 

Wallabies v Springboks

For most of the three people reading this, the contest really comes alive with the second, as the Springboks return to Perth with rugby-redemption on their minds.

It is a strange contest, if I am honest, as both sides look better for their recent losses. This is a weird perception that is solely based on what one reads on paper. Out of the pain of the past, the selections have provided more hope for both, and helped to create an anticipation for the contest. Well; for this neutral, anyway.

Those hoping to see an evolution of the Springbok wheel should think again. Yes, there will be some development, but expect to see this in detail and not in design. The Bokke understand the Breakdown was an issue against Los Pumas, and some selections should help, but in saying that, the task will be even greater against a Wallaby unit who will look to use this as their means to get the result. If the Bokke get parity at the Breakdown, they should win, and therein lies the problem. While the Wallabies have been beaten in their two matches versus the All Blacks, they have been sharpened by the contest in this context with the New Zealand unit completing this phase at a level the Springboks opposition in the opening two fixtures can only dream about. The fact that the Bokke struggled so markedly in the fixture in Argentina means there is more hope than any sense of confidence that they can handle the Australian assault. The mix is still not right, but with Louw on the Bench, if he is added for one of the beasts in the Backrow, the Bokke are pointing in a better direction.

With the selection of Ruan Pienaar in 9, the Bokke now have two insides who are both as proficient with the kicking game, which we will likely witness, with an Australian back three susceptible under the high ball, and one on debut. Considering the selection in 10, it would be insane to play a high volume phase style game, particularly with the Loose combination. Yes, as the stats will show, Morne will move the ball, and if he can grasp the courage to stand flatter, even his simple distribution will take away that needed commodity from the opposition at the elite level, which is time. The Bokke will use the ball. The common complaint that it is only ever kicking, is more about this get-out clause after the defensive wall has stopped any other option, and Morne bails with the ball in hand, to ball off boot.

I hope they use Francois Hougaard regularly in close, after the door has been charged down by the large blokes and Hooper is stuck on the floor. He is the ideal man to take on a retiring defence that has yet to set and is still in recovery mode. I hope they have considered this tactic, with Habana also effective in such a role. This does not put stress on the parts of the game that are questionable, even as it allows the Bokke to build momentum, cohesion, and direction, out of their strengths. Etzebeth and Co. will have targets in close proximity, cleaning the breakdown should be a task they can handle, while pulling in the Australian defence for the times when they go wide, and they must; at the right moment; with a back peddling opposition, they can nail it with numbers on the outside.

Taking all into account, one side will win by 2 points. In other words, I expect it to be very close. Tense. For mine, the Wallabies go in as slight favourites, in light of the above factors, and that it is somewhat at home.

I can’t wait for this fixture. While the All Blacks will always speak to my heart, my head is intrigued by the nature of this battle, how the contestants will cope out of the failure in the past, how the coaches will deal with the pressure, how their selections will fare, and how all this will outwork itself throughout the 80.

What Say You?

Shooting from the Lip

iamjonnyking

Now, it is gone.

On the other hand, the Currie Cup continues the good old fight; at least, in name, not in number. She coughs and splutters into life after SupeRugby saying, “Don’t forget about me.” She will not die, but it is a tough sell to presently perceive that her living years are anything else, but very much behind her. A point of conjecture, but what should be pertinent is her need of more than a rugby resuscitation. Call the Rabbi, she needs new life.

This transaction hints at what this scribe, and others, believe must be accomplished in a South African domestic rugby sense, which is a fundamental reshaping of the Currie Cup rugby competition that now effectively assimilates the harlot of SupeRugby into the framework that was once dominated by this bastion of a competition.

The Republic must be bold, courageous, and united. No, not a laughing moment at the end.

If this reads like a looming horizon of words, this is so; this could take some, but you know I have plenty to give, so please settle in for the read. This subject is really too important to remain detached. If change involves doing something, this may be a first small step.

We will begin this appraisal with a journey to middle earth – New Zealand – examining how they have approached their challenging situation in the past that has now become their present. South Africa can learn from their mistakes, adapt their ideas to the local environment, and build on this base. Next, we will shift our gaze to the Republic, looking to identify the key problem areas in the South African game that must be tackled. As most will perceive, the one stroking these keys is a long way from the Republic. Lack of familiarity can breed ignorance; not a recipe for bliss. Therefore, you will have to excuse any failure that exists. Following, we will attempt to provide an array of salient points, identifying a pathway toward a solution. Finally, we may even paint a canvas as to what this Currie Cup can indeed look like if you have the eyes to see. If dreaming is akin to talking change, then the first step is seeing.

However, in the following words in this piece, because of the size, we will only look to complete the first equation, with a trip to New Zealand and analysis of the ITM Cup.

LET US BEGIN!

PART ONE

New Zealand rugby is understandably elevated as a leading force in the Union code. Whatever significance one assigns, her ability to continue near the top is a mark of a growing adaptability. In an environment of change, this is mandatory toward growth. If a rainforest was drastically to turn into a desert, only the living able to adapt would survive in this new worldview.

When professionalism very quickly came on the scene, the NZRU was presented with a new worldview that demanded an answer, which for their part revolved around how to rebuild the structure of the game so that there was enough money to survive; even thrive. Still does.

The Super 10, an attachment on the side, now became much more than an appetiser. With Rupert Murdoch’s dollars, rugby entered a brave new world.

Such a competition would need cattle to graze.

In New Zealand, while it was logical to build the sides around the main centres, New Zealand’s rugby strength had been the comprehensive coverage of its pulse and player potential with no priority for the person to leave his region as a mandated need to make it through the grades toward All Black status. While people would move from smaller to larger provinces, from lower to the upper echelon and Division, the primary motivation to play would not be money, but provincial pride; the fabric of which engendered a strong sense of loyalty; not forgetting the All Black strip, at the end.

When this professional Super form arrived, these 5 teams were for, all intent and purposes, regional teams situated in the main hub.

Reasonable in concept; solid in theory; troublesome in practice.

With the introduction of Five Franchises, decisions were made that solved the new and pressing issues, but in hindsight, would fail to do so in the most effective of ways as these contexts would develop, encouraging some potentially serious consequences.

The Contracting System

When one takes into account the European rugby system, it is easy to see the benefits in New Zealand’s highly centralised example. This is a good thing. The governing body has worked with a top-heavy, trickle down mindset, which has as its paradigm setting goal, the All Blacks. The centralised contracting system has worked well out of this philosophical base.

However, in terms of how this outworked itself in the practical affairs, the contracting system would be structured around the new cash-cow – Super Rugby – with the franchise-cities becoming dominant players. The result was that now playing for a Super team would mean also turning out for that province, in all likelihood. In reality, creating super provinces. The contracting system has missed a floor.

Try doing that in real life.

This mindset could be seen as it was translated into the branding of the sides. Canterbury Crusaders. Auckland Blues. There is still some confusion from those not so familiar with this context, with the Canterbury ITM Cup side called the Crusaders, while the SupeRugby sides only have the final term. While in some respects it was true to the situation, the contracting system lacked empathy with the historic base of NZ rugby that would have serious consequences for supporters, with some still missing the connection at the ITM Cup level.

Consequences

[1] – The lifeblood of growth in New Zealand rugby was very quickly endangered. False bodies, Super sides, which would need time to build relationships were foisted upon supporters and felt very foreign. The one they had loved was raped, pillaged and exiled.

[2] – Where the money lies, so sleep the players. You want to develop in this game, you follow this pathway. The contracting system shaped how this would function. It became a problem if you were from Taranaki, had the gifts to make it, but you were wanted down south at the Super level. You must now move. Province and all. A contracting system that only locked you into the SuperStuff, in contrast to your provincial playing contract had not been introduced. Simple distinction. The lack, having some definitive consequences.

[3] – What to do about the NPC? Good question. These solutions were very much done on the run, so there was the sense of winging it.

[4] – The results for provincial rugby? NPC sides in the 5 main franchises became playing behemoths. Supporters, already detached from their Mother’s milk after being snatched away, became further disinterested as there was too much of the same thing when the provincial stuff started; just more one-sided.

If this situation had not changed, I shudder to think of the impact and the watching of more of the same, SupeRugby.

New Zealand rugby is not the finished article. Many still bemoan how the changes in this structure have affected their enjoyment. Some still compare the present with the past. There still needs to be a greater push toward SupeRugby dispersement of talent into the provinces, so that the 14 team ITM Cup has even greater balance. Sides like Canterbury still have more Super depth, talent, and success. However, they also get beaten by sides like Tasman. Who? Exactly. Have a read of the following piece, and take note of the provincial breakdown of the champion, Chiefs, side.

What has NZ done to Resurrect the Domestic Code?

[1] – Maintained the 14 Provinces at the elite level, with 12 more at the Heartland level. There was a time when it was decided that the 14 provinces should be culled in number. To the NZRU’s credit, they listened to the cry of the people who were witnessing the change and loving it. 14 sides, split in two tiers of 7. You play the other six sides in your tier (3 home. 3 away) while 4 from the other tier (2 home. 2 away). This was an idealistic decision that has hit the right mark, which has translated into the response from the people.

[2] – Potentially the most significant move was bringing in an extra tier in the contracting of players. Or, to put it another way, separating the Provincial and SupeRugby contracts so these would be individually signed. The impact of this change will only grow. For example, Israel Dagg & Zac Guildford both play their provincial rugby out of Hawkes Bay in the ITM Cup, but both play for the Crusaders. Do the geography.

[3] – I have previously written how it was a good thing that Internationals were not playing at this level in New Zealad, while South Africa should follow suit, as it leveled the playing field. This has been the case for some time, which the following should exemplify:

But, if this contracting system continues to work in practice, this is not definitively the case. In 2012, we are seeing the appearance of Rugby Championship squad members, in particular. However, this will always be spasmodic as the All Blacks remains New Zealand’s best asset.

[4] – Financial Stability. It is fine to dream with this idealism, but the pragmatics do not let sleeping dogs lie. Is it viable?Sustainable? It has been tough, as the recently commissioned report on the State of the Unions by Deloitte, indicates. There has been some tough going. Otago, the biggest casualty, but she is on her way back. With a new environment, a new beginning. Recent financial news proves that making the ITM Cup work has been difficult, and if some unions have one shocking year, it could get unsustainable. However, there has been hope.

Nine unions posted profits in 2011, compared with only five in 2010, and the combined deficit had fallen from $2.3m to $630,000 in the same period.

The answers can be right before our eyes.

Jarrold pointed out that a relatively small increase of 500 spectators paying an average of $20 a ticket at each of the regular ITM Cup games would have eliminated the 2011 deficit.

New Zealand is a small market. It will be a perpetual part of the puzzle, with our genius needed for the solution.

”Now more than ever, the unions need to look for innovative ways to build community support and encourage increased attendance to reverse the worrying trend of declining match-related revenues. Otherwise changes to the structure of the game in this country will become inevitable,” he said.

If it is important, we can play some part, and we will seek this in practice.

[5] – The Salary Cap, which you can get a perspective on in the following article, located, HERE. As much as there can be legal issues with such a concept, this is an important, as a means of stabilising the market. In a perfect world of abundance; not needed. However, as you should have read in the article, all the parties seem to grasp that this is a cutting the table to seat the family.

To read more on the salary cap context, the following should suffice – HERE. HERE. HERE

The Future

[1] – Build on the resurgence. Use the momentum. Create strategies that engage the public, pulling them into the journey and the drama. The decision to have midweek matches in 2012, after 2011, has been another win for New Zealand rugby. Comment from around the world is just as positive.

[2] – Return some of the old values that can now thrive as this competition has its own life. This is important, particularly for the generation that has gone through this hectic change from 1996 and on.

[3] – Expand. Grow. Market this code that, presently, has no equal in the world of Union.

Conclusion

The National Provincial Championship, which we now know as the, ITM Cup, and the SupeRugby extravaganza are both finding their individual existence in our rugby world. Talk of too much rugby can really just be a cry for change; for some difference in the monotone rote of this rugby world.

The ITM Cup has found its general niche in the market as a pathway from ClubRugby to SupeRugby. The contests look different than the previous weeks in SupeRugby and when you also factor in the appeal of the Ranfurly Shield, there are plenty of reasons to get excited about New Zealand’s domestic code.

Again, sober reflections mean there is still a long road to travel that continues to offer its share of potholes, but there is a road, and that is the point.

Others would do well to follow.

THE END.

As indicated before, we are only in PART ONE of THREE in all likelihood.

There is a South African point to these words that will rise to the occasion in the coming days.

I appreciated your perseverance.

Feel free to sound on or off in the comments section.

What Say You?

Shooting from the Lip

iamjonnyking

Source Source Source

Confused? Back to the drawing board. Vamos. Lekker.

For all those surprised by the result, an understanding of the tenacious rugby history of this South American side shows how tough they are at home. 2001 & 2006 were both very close confrontations for the All Blacks, with the former only won with a last moment Try.

What am I saying?

This in no way excuses a draw, but it does provide perspective. On the other hand, the Bokke really did perform a jail break in Mendoza. The Frans Steyn Try would in reality play out like a 10 point dropkick. One moment, the 64th, Los Pumas were in prime position to extend their lead to 10; forcing the Bokke into a tighter corner. The next, the 65th, a seemingly innocuous opportunity to clear caught Bosch sleeping at the wheel; no time; charged down; Try. A shocking turn of events.

As I begin to unleash this piece from the choker chain, I have not purposefully read any comment from the Republic post the tweeting timeline surrounding the event. I have steered clear (subtle Bulls reference) & saved myself for these words.

I would tweet after the match that the physical demeanour of Meyer upon his Test elevation had caught me unawares. This still perplexes me. I did not expect to see such a loosening of his cannon. The anxious and flighty mix has left me questioning what is beating below. I would come across one comment about Meyer apologising for the result and my sense of unease grows. I am all for humility, but I confess such words betray a perception of strength. It reeks of a man unsure of himself, his team, and his role. Yes, call the performance for what it is, but come out swinging with resolve.

I have words to offer on the Robbie Deans context on another platform, but I would further tweet about both these successful SupeRugby coaches struggling at the next level. Surely players are not the only ones prone to this weakness when exposed. Is this the reason Gert Smal was talked about as preferred?

Speaking of social media, it would be on fire at the time, with venting like those stuck on some horns for Africa. I would offer my own reflections out of Aotearoa, with the following words more fruit from this fodder.

Let us begin.

Many have talked about Meyer’s Bulls gameplan derisively, carte blanche, like. Frankly put, there is no reason why the bulk of this can not work. Read me carefully O frothing at the mouth fanatic, and while you’re pursing your lips, best you put the safety on and let me elaborate. In short, Rugby has its own evolutionary cycle, but the DNA is still much the same.

For those wanting brisk change in the Republic, best move to a different zip code, as this has been the SA style since – nuanced here and there – since Adam Botha picked up the ball… And kicked it.

Yes, Morne “I have deep pockets on my dax” Steyn should stand flatter and learn to pass with either foot, but he was the general on that growing side in the RWC. His style may be part of the problem, but it is smaller in substance than this other reality.

The Breakdown.

The key in this modern code toward success is this pantheon of energetic men hurtling their manhood in a forward direction more times than you can say, crouch – touch – set? The breakdown is where Meyer’s vision is pink as the Bulls remain blue.

What one must grasp is how this focus outworks itself in every other context. Morne Steyn brandishing a wide open style of rugby is reliant on a structure that can handle this in play. The part must make music with the whole. If the majority of your Forward structure has the natural inclination to run like a battering ram, who is there to continually clean out the rucks, so you can build the phases, stress the defence to not only bend, but break, and maintain this through the 80? At the elite level, completing this attacking structure is now tougher than ever to navigate. It should come as no surprise that when the Boks did move the ball through a number of phases eventually it would breakdown, with the Pumas able to pressure for a penalty.

If I was Morne Steyn, I would be inclined to stand deep and boot it high as well. Why would I play a style where we are presently ill-equipped? Or, at best, not representing this in reality. Sure, he may only be able to offer this one trick pony, which does provide some grist for the reprehensabull, but who is to blame if this is a team game?

Oops.

Let me provide some context and contrast with the following words from All Blacks Coach Steve Hansen, as he pondered their flaws over the weekend. Look for their philosophy and extrapolate this in his selections.

“We’re trying to play a game that has high intensity and high accuracy but we haven’t quite managed the high accuracy ourselves yet.”

“It does ask a lot of questions of the opposition and we’re quite a fit side but it does mean we have to be quite effective as ball carriers and win the collision and make sure we get that quick ball.

“There are permutations right across the park of how we want to play and we’ve just got to get better and better at it and more accurate.”

What would happen if the All Blacks were quite effective as ball carriers, but would often lose the collision so that they did not get quick ball?

Ladies and Gentlemen, exhibit A. The Springboks. Too harsh? Sure, more than compotent as ball runners. As for the rest; not presently good enough.

On the other hand, Hansen selects a side that will complement this style. So do the Springboks, which is why you have a deep standing 10 who kicks like he was born to just do it.

The Springboks do not have to copy the All Blacks. This is not the point. But, if the breakdown is the vital area in the modern game and you know how the opposition is going to play; remember, although Hansen’s words are couched on attack, the same intensity and style will follow in defence, how are you going to compete when you don’t have a side enabled to properly battle in this domain? If the All Blacks, let alone any other side get quick fast ball at the breakdown, with repetition toward impunity, the results are scary for any side on defence.

This reads like a dark scenario, but there are other variables to take into account before it becomes a fait accompli.

To be fair, names like Burger, in particular; even Bakkies have exposed the Bokke, with their hard on the ball style vital to a sides overall performance. However, they are missing a Brussow like a dawg without his home. It is a sporting crime that he has not been picked. Talk about penalties and size just does not wash when you consider names such McCaw and Pocock; not to mention the physical dimensions of Daniel that puts the size in size. This is the biggest tell-tale sign about his understanding of the breakdown. It is true that Bismarck is part of the puzzle, but there is absurdity that he provides the substance where it should only be extra appeal.

In Bledisloe One, Mealamu had 2 turnovers & Hore 1. 3 from the Hookers in one. Test. No doubt more this Mr McCaw, but as the Stats for Bledisloe Two affirm, he had the top number of, in the first 3 to the breakdown. There is the incomplete conceptual thinking in one. It is not turnovers per se. It is about so much more about how you play the game.

This is where the concept of a fetcher is much more than our terminology tends to engender. McCaw getting there first secures quick & clean ball on attack, while doing his best to complete the antithetical in defence.

On the other hand, Meyer has his Loose forwards modus operandi with those who have a mindset to run with the ball. A side like the Sharks have showed in the SuperStuff that should a South African side have the will, there is a way, and while their numbers have filled the ranks, there is a distinction in the flow. Coincidence that the Sharks have a Kiwi coach?

While a rabbit trail is not the purpose, I do wonder about the Springbok fitness levels.

I have yet to view any substantial footage of the Schools game in SA, but my inkling is that the context of this issue starts here. Culture is not really about the exceptions but the narrative of those that rule. South Africa has had its men of the breakdown; she still does, but they are much thinner on the ground. There must be a cultural awakening that grows this talent to the top.

If Meyer can grasp the significance of the breakdown, the intelligence in SA rugby can make it happen. It may only be in part in the present because any living reality takes time, but it can help to transform their game, also better opening up opportunities for selection in 10 that is better equipped to spread the ball.

This is Heyneke Meyer’s moment. His 2008 is now. He can still grasp this moment. He must teach to change or select to change, otherwise the breakdown could very well be his own.

What Say You?

Shooting from the Lip

iamjonnyking

Source

Time will only allow one to touch base on the singular in the titanic battles before my All Blacks and your Springboks take on their opponents on the night.

To help ease any reading issues, we will focus on the main event for the majority on this platform, leaving another to detail the other – well, time and word count willing.

Rugby Championship Match Two – Springboks v Los Pumas – Cape Town

While rugby seeks to be a world code, encouraging this eventuality has been more theory than practice, especially as it relates to the 15s edition.

There was a recent time when Pumas rugby viewed the Six Nations as their future hope of an annual home. With the majority – 18 out of the 26 for this Springbok encounter – plying their trade in France, Barcelona was viewed as the base, thus also growing the game. You will readily perceive that this plan was merely played out on paper. It would be the time post their 2007 success, when men like Agustin Pichot would get involved that the southern hemisphere route started to form a base. These details further underscore why a SupeRugby base must be part of the next.

This last point is all about the future, as today it is all about a beginning into our big time, as their addition now sealed with a name – The Rugby Championship.

We have already welcomed them on this journey. Just as it will be on the field, now we talk game.

While the Pumas have had their annual success against the Frogs in 2012, coverage has been sparse in this part of the world, therefore, we turn to the previous event in 2011, to provide some context to their game.

The strength of this side can be seen in the continuity in their Tight 5. The only man missing is their super Mario Ledesma in 2, who has now hung up his boots. Yes, they will look to their scrum, not only as an area to make progress, but as a means of strengthening their pysche. They have a wonderful capacity to rise to the occasion, but they will understand what this means, and it will move them; potentially in reverse.

While they will miss the athleticism of a, Juan Manuel Leguizamon, the addition from this Quarter-Final side of the inspirational, Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe, in Eight, provides a figurehead who will look to lead by example. He is such a player that should he be South African, you would likely see his name in the starting 15.

7 of the starting 8 play their professional rugby in France. This fact alone should provide an indication of their development and emphases. The fact that this Tournament takes away their pre-season should not cost them early in the Internationals, but could provide some consequences as player and club consider availability after this initial year.

This is no idle issue with the unavailability of their talismanic captain, Felipe Contemponi, choosing club preparation over involvement already a concern.

Nevertheless, as we consider their Generals out back, one name takes us back to 2007 – Juan Martin Hernandez – an artist. Vergallo of Stade Francais should provide the service, but question marks will remain as to how three years in the International abyss have affected his game. One who has also played in 15, he does wear the genius like he was reared on this mother’s milk.

This pivot will not be a prince without his princess, and they do have a back three that can move it. The selection of Amorosino is instructive. Left out of the Quarter-Final, such was a sign of their lack of intent. Today, the destroyer of Scottish hopes, very late, is at the Back, and he can use it. On either Flanks, two England-based wingmen. While one would hope we will see more than their work after a boxkick, they will work hard, can finish, and will look to surprise.

12 of the starting 15 play in France, so this theme continues, the hard working Farias Cabello, the only locally based player starting. However, with three Los Pampas players on the Bench, there could be some question marks about depth. However, when you can bring Marcos Ayerza off the Bench, you know this is not necessarily axiomatic.

To this point, we have said nothing about the Springboks.

All likely familiar, so we will save the pleasantries. There is no need for Confucius to gain a greater insight, as the Bokke gameplan rests on brutal simplicity, which should be the basis once again. However, with more than a hint of the Sharks in the 8, there is an inkling that we may see a better representation of interaction between Forwards and Backs. As the perceptive reader will grasp, this is placing much capital on the impact of Daniel. All reading this will likely hope to see this transpire as long as it translates into winning where it counts, which goes without saying.

What will happen next?

It would seem too much of a Cinderella story to expect the Argentineans to match it with the Bokke through the 80. On the other hand, they have enough Test Match experience to rise to the occasion, but question marks remain as to executing this throughout the 80. They will likely infringe to keep the score close, meaning the Steyns need to be on song. The All Blacks in the Quarter-Final would pull away as the clock ticked near the 80, moving ahead in 3s earlier on, with the Pumas preferring to offend than give up quick ball at the breakdown. Nevertheless, try scoring opportunities would arrive.

If the Bokke stay disciplined in their systems, they will reap the benefit, potentially early, but definitely late.

Yes, the Pumas can use the emotion of this moment to their advantage, and the whole context surrounding their anthem is worth the price of a sleepless night in New Zealand, but they will need to not only ride this wave early, but belt it into submission through scoring points. If they can stand their ground, while building substance on the scoreboard to stay within sight as the clock strikes fulltime, they will make their move into this bigtime a primetime reality.

As a Kiwi thinking through this context, I am more concerned about the Pumas performance than the result. The Bokke could put 30-40 on the Pumas, there is this potential. If they lose the handle on this contest and context, things will go South America very fast. Those connected with the Pumas know this and remain nervously apprehensive like for a first-born. The Bokke will want to use this match as a stepping stone to grander things. This is their first step.

The Anthems. The Scrum. The Pivots. Yes, we know the breakdown is where it is won and lost, but the competition and contrast in these other contexts has one salivating.

I look forward to these moments and will be satisfied for the visitors if they can hold their nerve to something like an 8-10 point defeat; even 12 will give them hope that they can stay afloat.

What Say You?

Shooting from the Lip

iamjonnyking

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However, it is often those who know what it is to invert this reality that also grasp what it means to let it personally flow.

One such sporting example familiar to both our contexts is the now dethroned King Carlos. A man who was known to keep his existence on the downlow off the field, while often playing virtusolo and making taking stage like a virtuoso. His passion for this code would feel at home when it was his freedom to share, like a man transformed in this zone.

As we await and prepare for the entrance of Argentina into the bigtime of southern hemisphere rugby, one of the realities that delights my soul about their addition is that we get to experience their emotion and passion in this sporting pursuit.

The anglo-saxon element in too many gets caught up on the sensibilities. Stiff upper lip. What. Speaking mostly to an African audience, there is likely a local example that may limit this effect.

I have only had the opportunity to witness this team and their supporters live on one occasion. The singing. The body communicating in its own form of sign language, unable to contain the emotional quotient needing a release. The confetti over the players as they entered the arena. Vamos. Las Leonas. Watch on.

On the field this latin temperament provides them with a vacuum we can only hope to fill. The tears that fill the players eyes as they sing for their nation, have more often than not once this song is silent, put the frightners into the opposition.

Interestingly, the French have too often for their liking, been on the receiving end. This is curious considering they are often accused of containing this same inner blaze. Could say something about their attitude and approach. Los Pumas familiarity with the Top 14 – 18 of their 26 presently ply their trade – may have a good deal to do with this success. Nevertheless, what this history should communicate is their ability to raise their game to the occasion.

They have been waiting on this moment for too long. If Rugby Union is NOT besotted with expansive tendencies, she will cede to another. SupeRugby should be next as a logical pathway to the Pumas, which also provides an indigenous local and professional element to this code for the locals to grow to love.

Sevens can also be used throughout the continent of South America that can plant the seed, with the talented in these other regions brought into this SupeFold. An Americas Conference, including the US, in SupeRugby is one legitimate long-term goal, with multiple teams in South America.

This weekend is a celebration of Rugby.

It may not feel like that as Bismarck unloads like the not-so-pocket, but the very-much-rocket, battleship that he is. Again, this is the beginning of a new era that we should all celebrate. This is not the time, but it is the place to break into a wordy analysis of what will take place at Newlands. However, in short, expect the Pumas to play with the same passion that has defined their success on Saturday. This reservoir they can draw on should help them to rise to the occasion, as they traverse new territory. If the attritional nature of this Tournament proves detrimental to their resolve, their depth, and even their passion, this could be a long first year.

On the other hand, if form and fitness hold true, the final match at home versus the Wallabies could be the seal of the deal that was done to introduce this side into the event. Whatever happens. They have arrived. They have much to offer. Much to give. And, will have much to take.

The result on Saturday, SA time, is not as important as this new reality in our rugby, but if it should rain in Cape Town and they can stay close post the 40, they have enough to fully test Meyer’s men at home. Remembering, this is a Test Match, after all.

From the streets of Buenos Aires to the hallways of the IRB, there should be celebrating that Rugby is now better reflecting a potential world in Union.

The passion in the latin dynamic is something we have been poorer without. This year we grow rich.

We all have much to learn.

Let your passion be free.

VAMOS. Welcome Argentina!

What Say You?

Shooting from the Lip

iamjonnyking

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