3. Ireland vs. All Blacks was like watching chess against checkers.
I’m not a fan of coaching layoffs: it reduces what is usually a complex issue to a misleading and simple “response”; the new coach arrives and everything is fine with the world. History shows that it is seldom as clear as this.
However, the All Blacks were so complete for Ireland on Saturday that Ian Foster’s position needs to be reviewed. Ireland’s wonderfully coordinated attack made the All Blacks seem three or four years behind in the continuous evolution of the game.
The ability of Ireland’s back and front to create and manipulate space was a breath of fresh air compared to the relentless collision tactics we have become accustomed to in the southern hemisphere.
4. Michael Cheika has brought the fight back to the Cougars.
We all know the history of Argentina in recent years. Very affected by Covid and forced to become the perpetual tourists of rugby. By the end of 2021 they were a shadow of themselves, and even the 2-1 series win over Scotland proved there was a lot of work to be done.
Argentina celebrates after winning the series of tests against Scotland. Credit: AP
But the way they fought Sunday to reach the series with a late rehearsal shows that Michael Cheika has put a bit of truth – and execution under pressure – on the sidelines. This victory will give them a huge sense of belief, because Scotland are not cups.
Argentina’s next rivals? The Wallabies for a mini tour of two tests in Argentina.
5. Isolated Australia and New Zealand cannot afford to face each other.
This weekend’s results should really concentrate Tasman’s minds on both sides with the aim of making Super Rugby Pacific the best competition it can be. Currently, neither the Wallabies nor the All Blacks have a real chance of winning the Rugby World Cup.
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The Herald understands that Rugby Australia receives about $ 5 million a year from NZ Rugby for Super Rugby Pacific, while the Kiwis contribute considerably to the Rugby Championship pot, which is then evenly distributed among Sanzaar members. But there is likely to be a willingness to renegotiate Super Rugby funding, giving the competition the stability it desperately needs.
The two allies / rivals, now separated from South Africa for much of the year and envious spectators of the Six Nations, need them more than ever.
Cully’s Team of the Week
1. Ellis Genge (England)
2. Bongi Mbonambi (South Africa)
3. Tadhg Furlong (Ireland)
4. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)
5. Jonny Hill (England)
6. Courtney Lawes (England)
7. Josh van der Flier (Ireland)
8. Ardie Savea (New Zealand)
9. Jaden Hendrikse (South Africa)
10. Johnny Sexton (Ireland)
11. Emiliano Boffelli (Argentina)
12. Bundee Aki (Ireland)
13. George North (Wales)
14. Tom Wright (Australia)
15. Hugo Keenan (Ireland)