http://www.rugbyheaven.com.au/news/news/new-zealand-claim-grand-slam/2008/11/30/1227491922190.html
November 30, 2008 - 4:19AM
England 6 New Zealand 32
New Zealand completed their second grand slam in three years and third overall with a 32-6 win over England at Twickenham.
New Zealand full-back Mils Muliaina scored two tries in quick succession midway through the second-half before centre Ma'a Nonu broke away for a third as the All Blacks recorded their seventh successive victory over England.
This win also meant New Zealand had defeated Scotland, Ireland, Wales and England this month without conceding a try.
Their margin of victory would have been greater had not the normally reliable Dan Carter missed five of his 11 goalkicks.
"I lost a little rhythm in the warm-up. I didn't kick well today but thankfully the team were great and the result didn't come down to kicking," said Carter."We played well and showed great character in the way we pulled away."
England, beaten by Australia, world champions South Africa the All Blacks on successive weekends, didn't help themselves by having four players sin-binned as they conceded too many needless penalties. After a lacklustre first-half, New Zealand were only 12-3 ahead. But they showed their customary ruthlessness after the break.
"There was not enough composure and we made mistakes when we were under pressure," said England manager Martin Johnson. "The sin-bins didn't help. Four in one game is a little unusual. We had them under pressure at times but we still have to do better. When they made mistakes we didn't take our opportunities and we have to learn that Test match rugby is all about pressure."
England, now denied a top four seeding in Monday's 2011 World Cup draw, almost caught the All Blacks cold when No 8 Nick Easter burst through only to be ankle-tapped in sight of Muliaina.
However, the try-chance disappeared and England, briefly back up to 15, were a man down again when Toby Flood was sin-binned for a high tackle on Jimmy Cowan as the New Zealand scrum-half broke clear. With Flood off, full-back Delon Armitage took over kicking duties and his first goal-kick in Test rugby sailed between the posts.
It was the first time New Zealand had conceded points in the second-half against any of the Home Nations this month. New Zealand's lead was now 12-6 and after Nonu had squandered a potential try-scoring chance, the centre scored. The New Zealand pack superbly turned an England scrum, allowing Cowan to feed Nonu. He then fed Joe Rokocoko, cutting off his wing, and he passed to the onrushing Muliaina, in at the right corner.
Carter, in his last match before joining French club Perpignan, sent Muliaina in for a second try with a well-weighted, defence-splitting chip that the full-back collected. And after England prop Tim Payne was turned over, quick hands between Cowan, hooker Neemia Tialata and Rokocoko sent Nonu in for a try before replacement Tom Rees was binned by Irish referee Alain Rolland, who'd seen his warnings to England repeatedly ignored.
Home fans had done their best to rouse England before kick-off by singing their anthem, 'Swing Low, Sweet Chariot' as the All Blacks performed the haka. England then had the chance to take a sixth minute lead when New Zealand captain and openside flanker Richie McCaw was penalised for breaking too early off the back of a scrum. But Flood, brought in at outside-half for the dropped Danny Cipriani, pulled the 42 metre chance well to the left of the posts.
England, as they'd done during their record-breaking 42-6 home loss to the Springboks last weekend, had a decent share of early possession and Easter drove strongly down the right touchline. However, when the ball came back it never looked as if England, rendered try-less by the Springboks, were about to break the line and New Zealand-born centre Riki Flutey was penalised for holding on. Fly-half Carter and Flood exchanged penalties to leave the scores at 3-3.
England though were a man down when hooker Lee Mears was sent to the sin-bin in the 24th minute for lying on the wrong side of a ruck. And when England scrum-half Danny Care infringed minutes later, Carter made no mistake and New Zealand were 6-3 ahead.
Worse followed for England when they were briefly reduced to 13 men after blindside flanker James Haskell was sin-binned for a swinging arm on All Black No 8 Rodney So'oialo. Carter add two more penalties before the break as the All Blacks, adding this slam to go with their 1978 and 2005 triumphs, handed out another harsh lesson to Martin Johnson's new-look England.
NEW ZEALAND 32 (Mils Muliaina (2), Nonu tries; Dan Carter 5 pens, con) bt ENGLAND 6 (Toby Flood, Delon Armitage pens)
Saturday, November 29, 2008
GRAND SLAM.........YOU-HOU!!!!!!!!!
on the field & in the changing rooms after victory in the Investec Challenge match between England and New Zealand at Twickenham on November 29, 2008 in London, England. (Photo by Ross Land/Getty Images) 
Siska, here is the DC vs. DC showdown!!!!
Justin? weren't you supposed to play with Montpellier tonight?
??
All Blacks triumph at Twickenham
http://www.allblacks.com/index.cfm?layout=displayNews&newsArticle=9230
Sportal.co.nz - 30/11/2008
It was mission completed for the All Blacks with a 32-6 win over England at Twickenham to claim the Hillary Shield and complete a third Grand Slam to end its tour of Britain without having conceded a try to the four Home Nations.England did nothing to help its cause when having four players sin-binned at various stages of the game and it could be thankful that first five-eighths Dan Carter had an off day with the boot, despite his 17-point haul, and achieving 200 Test points during the season.But it was a successful culmination of pressure sustained throughout the first three-quarters that saw three tries in quick succession, two of them to fullback Mils Muliaina, that allowed the All Blacks to claim the victory.
While the 57th minute destruction of an England scrum finally broke the home resistance to allow the first try, it was indicative of the pressure mounted earlier in the game.Heading the way in contributing to that effort was an inspirational effort from halfback Jimmy Cowan. He was relentless in applying pressure, running from the base and scrapping for the ball throughout in his best game in an All Blacks' jersey.Hooker Keven Mealamu was another to show the advantage of consistently starting for the side in the absence of Andrew Hore and his work in setting up second five-eighths Ma'a Nonu's try typified his game.
It took a long time for the game to achieve any continuity as referee Alain Rolland whistled a penalty symphony, largely at England's expense.It was a penalty ridden first half and Carter was able to take advantage to land penalty goals in the 15th, 27th, 33rd and 37th minutes, although he missed two other attempts while Jamie Flood landed a 17th minute penalty goal for England.The first half penalty count favoured New Zealand 10-5 and represented an ill-disciplined approach by the home team desperate to put its rout by South Africa behind it. The final penalty count was 16-8.
The ill-discipline was further demonstrated with England having hooker Lee Mears and flanker James Haskell each being sin-binned, with a slight overlap leaving England with only 13 men on the field.England made a superb start to the second half when running the All Blacks short kick-off right back down field and it was only a desperate ankle tap by Muliaina that denied No.8 Nick Easter a try.
England pounded the All Blacks line but magnificent defence denied it any openings from pick and goes around the ruck and then when it tried to move the ball through its backs. In running the ball out from the line Cowan was taken in a head high tackle by Flood who was promptly sin-binned.Rain made handling difficult and with Flood off the field a penalty conceded by the All Blacks resulted in fullback Delon Armitage landing a handy shot at goal to get England back to 6-12.Carter had another shot miss the mark in the 50th minute, but it was a fine-placed kick to the corner that opened up a lineout chance for the All Blacks 15m from the England line but in moving the ball across the field, lock Ali Williams was penalised for holding onto the ball.
England had a chance to build another attack but flanker Michael Lipman dropped the ball. At the resulting scrum, So'oialo fed Cowan and he raced into a gap and fed Nonu who broke strongly downfield and into England's 22. However, Brad Thorn dropped the ball and the scrum was called.But any disadvantage was immediately rectified by a powerhouse All Blacks scrum which rocked England and it was Cowan who flicked the ball out to the backline where centre Conrad Smith tidied, fed Nonu who doubled around, and then passed to wing Joe Rokocoko and he quickly provided Muliaina with a run at the line.
He made no mistake in the 57th minute to score his 23rd try for the All Blacks.Five minutes later Carter landed his fifth penalty goal which also registered 200 Test points for New Zealand in 2008.It was Carter again, with a break to drive into a tackle and set up of a series of ruck which then opened up for Carter to deftly place a kick-pass to the corner where Muliaina again pulled it in to score in the 65th minute.New Zealand went back onto the attack as Muliaina chased a kick downfield and was only denied his hat-trick by a cruel bounce which allowed England to touch down, although a five-metre scrum went to New Zealand.
However, it couldn't clear the ball and England won some respite, albeit temporary.Prop Tim Payne ran onto tapped ball at an England free kick but he was robbed of the ball in the tackle by Williams. The ball was flicked wide where Mealamu ran like a midfield back into space, fed wing Sitiveni Sivivatu who then found Nonu who raced 60 metres to score and with Carter's conversion the All Blacks led 32-6.England didn't help its cause when flanker Tom Rees was sin-binned leaving it to finish the game with 14 men.
Scorers:New Zealand 32 (Mils Muliaina 2, Ma'a Nonu tries; Dan Carter con, 5 pen) England 6 ( Toby Flood pen, Delon Armitage pen). HT: 12-3
Sportal.co.nz - 30/11/2008
It was mission completed for the All Blacks with a 32-6 win over England at Twickenham to claim the Hillary Shield and complete a third Grand Slam to end its tour of Britain without having conceded a try to the four Home Nations.England did nothing to help its cause when having four players sin-binned at various stages of the game and it could be thankful that first five-eighths Dan Carter had an off day with the boot, despite his 17-point haul, and achieving 200 Test points during the season.But it was a successful culmination of pressure sustained throughout the first three-quarters that saw three tries in quick succession, two of them to fullback Mils Muliaina, that allowed the All Blacks to claim the victory.
While the 57th minute destruction of an England scrum finally broke the home resistance to allow the first try, it was indicative of the pressure mounted earlier in the game.Heading the way in contributing to that effort was an inspirational effort from halfback Jimmy Cowan. He was relentless in applying pressure, running from the base and scrapping for the ball throughout in his best game in an All Blacks' jersey.Hooker Keven Mealamu was another to show the advantage of consistently starting for the side in the absence of Andrew Hore and his work in setting up second five-eighths Ma'a Nonu's try typified his game.
It took a long time for the game to achieve any continuity as referee Alain Rolland whistled a penalty symphony, largely at England's expense.It was a penalty ridden first half and Carter was able to take advantage to land penalty goals in the 15th, 27th, 33rd and 37th minutes, although he missed two other attempts while Jamie Flood landed a 17th minute penalty goal for England.The first half penalty count favoured New Zealand 10-5 and represented an ill-disciplined approach by the home team desperate to put its rout by South Africa behind it. The final penalty count was 16-8.
The ill-discipline was further demonstrated with England having hooker Lee Mears and flanker James Haskell each being sin-binned, with a slight overlap leaving England with only 13 men on the field.England made a superb start to the second half when running the All Blacks short kick-off right back down field and it was only a desperate ankle tap by Muliaina that denied No.8 Nick Easter a try.
England pounded the All Blacks line but magnificent defence denied it any openings from pick and goes around the ruck and then when it tried to move the ball through its backs. In running the ball out from the line Cowan was taken in a head high tackle by Flood who was promptly sin-binned.Rain made handling difficult and with Flood off the field a penalty conceded by the All Blacks resulted in fullback Delon Armitage landing a handy shot at goal to get England back to 6-12.Carter had another shot miss the mark in the 50th minute, but it was a fine-placed kick to the corner that opened up a lineout chance for the All Blacks 15m from the England line but in moving the ball across the field, lock Ali Williams was penalised for holding onto the ball.
England had a chance to build another attack but flanker Michael Lipman dropped the ball. At the resulting scrum, So'oialo fed Cowan and he raced into a gap and fed Nonu who broke strongly downfield and into England's 22. However, Brad Thorn dropped the ball and the scrum was called.But any disadvantage was immediately rectified by a powerhouse All Blacks scrum which rocked England and it was Cowan who flicked the ball out to the backline where centre Conrad Smith tidied, fed Nonu who doubled around, and then passed to wing Joe Rokocoko and he quickly provided Muliaina with a run at the line.
He made no mistake in the 57th minute to score his 23rd try for the All Blacks.Five minutes later Carter landed his fifth penalty goal which also registered 200 Test points for New Zealand in 2008.It was Carter again, with a break to drive into a tackle and set up of a series of ruck which then opened up for Carter to deftly place a kick-pass to the corner where Muliaina again pulled it in to score in the 65th minute.New Zealand went back onto the attack as Muliaina chased a kick downfield and was only denied his hat-trick by a cruel bounce which allowed England to touch down, although a five-metre scrum went to New Zealand.
However, it couldn't clear the ball and England won some respite, albeit temporary.Prop Tim Payne ran onto tapped ball at an England free kick but he was robbed of the ball in the tackle by Williams. The ball was flicked wide where Mealamu ran like a midfield back into space, fed wing Sitiveni Sivivatu who then found Nonu who raced 60 metres to score and with Carter's conversion the All Blacks led 32-6.England didn't help its cause when flanker Tom Rees was sin-binned leaving it to finish the game with 14 men.
Scorers:New Zealand 32 (Mils Muliaina 2, Ma'a Nonu tries; Dan Carter con, 5 pen) England 6 ( Toby Flood pen, Delon Armitage pen). HT: 12-3
Concentration on defence pays off
http://www.allblacks.com/index.cfm?layout=displayNews&newsArticle=9232
Sportal.co.nz - 30/11/2008
Successful All Blacks captain Richie McCaw said after the side's 32-6 triumph over England that the team's concentration on defence paid big dividends on its Grand Slam tour - its second in three years.It was 57 minutes before the first try of the game was scored, to fullback Mils Muliaina, but having finally subdued a fizzed-up England side, the All Blacks played the sort of rugby they wanted in the final quarter, he said.While there had been no try-scoring action earlier, McCaw told Sky Sports that what happened in the second half was often the result of work done in the first half.The turnover scrum which produced the first try of the game had been indicative of the pressure the All Blacks could bring to bear during the second half of games.
"It indicates the attitude and heart of the team is defence," he said."Defence is what wins games."
That defence was never more tested than during the electrifying break from the second half restart when England No.8 Nick Easter was able to penetrate the defences and looked headed for a certain try only to fall at Muliaina's ankle tap just short of the line.The All Blacks absorbed England's assaults for the line and then cleared the ball perfectly to keep their line uncrossed during all four internationals of the tour.All Blacks coach Graham Henry said the success was 'outstanding'.
"The boys came through in the second half. It was very enjoyable and was top rugby. I'm delighted."They are difficult teams to play, they kill the ball. It is very difficult."
Henry said the team had grown during the season but added that it had more growing to do yet."They are a very special group. New Zealanders should be very proud of the team," he said while also thanking the selection team which had reappointed himself and Steve Hansen and Wayne Smith after the disappointment of the World Cup.
Sportal.co.nz - 30/11/2008
Successful All Blacks captain Richie McCaw said after the side's 32-6 triumph over England that the team's concentration on defence paid big dividends on its Grand Slam tour - its second in three years.It was 57 minutes before the first try of the game was scored, to fullback Mils Muliaina, but having finally subdued a fizzed-up England side, the All Blacks played the sort of rugby they wanted in the final quarter, he said.While there had been no try-scoring action earlier, McCaw told Sky Sports that what happened in the second half was often the result of work done in the first half.The turnover scrum which produced the first try of the game had been indicative of the pressure the All Blacks could bring to bear during the second half of games.
"It indicates the attitude and heart of the team is defence," he said."Defence is what wins games."
That defence was never more tested than during the electrifying break from the second half restart when England No.8 Nick Easter was able to penetrate the defences and looked headed for a certain try only to fall at Muliaina's ankle tap just short of the line.The All Blacks absorbed England's assaults for the line and then cleared the ball perfectly to keep their line uncrossed during all four internationals of the tour.All Blacks coach Graham Henry said the success was 'outstanding'.
"The boys came through in the second half. It was very enjoyable and was top rugby. I'm delighted."They are difficult teams to play, they kill the ball. It is very difficult."
Henry said the team had grown during the season but added that it had more growing to do yet."They are a very special group. New Zealanders should be very proud of the team," he said while also thanking the selection team which had reappointed himself and Steve Hansen and Wayne Smith after the disappointment of the World Cup.
Richie McCaw combines substance with style
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/rugby_union/article5248244.ece
The Times
November 28, 2008
Mark Souster
It is difficult to know quite where to start with Richie McCaw. If a writer had invented him as a character in a novel, he might be dismissed as too good to be true. Yet that is exactly what McCaw is.
Women love him and lust after him - Richie McPhwoar is one sobriquet - while men respect, admire and wish they could be him. He is the best open-side flanker of his era, a national icon in New Zealand where No 7s are revered as fly halves are in Wales.
In the rugby-playing world, only Dan Carter holds similar status among All Blacks. He has a gorgeous girlfriend, Hayley Holt, the dancer who was Mark Foster's partner on Strictly Come Dancing, and an income that in New Zealand terms is huge, but which could be doubled or trebled in Europe should he choose to move . He will not.
Even though he has a sabbatical clause in his contract, if he exercises it, it will be to get away from rugby not to play more, as Carter has chosen to do with Perpignan. As his country's captain, he is a marketing man's dream: smart, clean-cut and good-looking, with the odd rugby scar on his face.
Above all, he is well rounded, but also to his credit well grounded. The only occasion his feet leave “Planet Earth” is when he pilots his own glider, his passion for the skies nutured by his childhood contact with J.H. “Jim” McCaw, his grandfather who flew more than 300 missions in the Second World War.
If he were not a man of substance and real character, it would be easy for McCaw's head to turn. The accolades and awards have been heaped upon him during his illustrious career, which began at international level in 2001, although his failure to win, let alone be shortlisted in the IRB's player-of-the-year category last week, mystified Graham Henry, the All Blacks head coach.
His ability on the field and particularly at the breakdown has led to accusations that he cheats.
He laughs off such charges as he does the suggestion that there is “one law for McCaw”. “I don't listen to that stuff because it's been said so many times,” he said. “I don't know why it comes about. Good No7 s can be bloody annoying and if I'm doing that, then I'm not doing a bad job.”
Since the ignominy of the World Cup, when they lost to France in the quarter-finals, which he admits was not his finest hour as captain, New Zealand have regrouped around their talisman, won the Tri-Nations, retained the Bledisloe Cup and are poised to secure a grand slam at Twickenham tomorrow.
There could be no better riposte. Of the 14 internationals the All Blacks have played this year, they have lost twice; perhaps it is only coincidence that on both occasions McCaw was missing. Then again, perhaps not. He has not lost in any competition this year; Canterbury won the Air New Zealand Cup and the Crusaders the Super 14, on top of New Zealand's Tri-Nations success.
McCaw, who has won 69 caps and led New Zealand 32 times, believes that such honours should be cherished and dismissed the view that only a World Cup matters. “You have to be able to gain lasting fulfilment without winning the World Cup,” he said yesterday when the Hillary Shield, for which the teams will play tomorrow, was unveiled in the presence of both captains and June Hillary, Sir Edmund's widow. “It's not easy when you have disappointments but hopefully we can put them into context,” he said. “We can be proud of what we've accomplished this year. It would be awful to have finished your career having achieved some of the things we have, even up to now, and not feel like you've done good.”
Insert his name into the Google search engine and almost 200,000 items are listed. There are tributes to him on YouTube and websites debate just how good he is and whether Michael Jones and Josh Kronfeld were better in their heyday.
Bart Campbell, the chief executive of Essentially Group, which looks after McCaw's interests on and off the field, is effusive about his client. “He has everything,” Campbell said. “I am not sure he gets the level of respect on the international stage that he deserves. Maybe that's because forwards do not get the glory. There is no one to touch him as a player. He has committed to the All Blacks to 2011 and if they manage to win the World Cup, then perhaps after ten years' service to his country he will be recognised as one of the great warriors of the game in the same category as Martin Johnson.”
How ironic if McCaw were to rub further salt into the wounds of England's fledgeling manager tomorrow.
The Times
November 28, 2008
Mark Souster
It is difficult to know quite where to start with Richie McCaw. If a writer had invented him as a character in a novel, he might be dismissed as too good to be true. Yet that is exactly what McCaw is.
Women love him and lust after him - Richie McPhwoar is one sobriquet - while men respect, admire and wish they could be him. He is the best open-side flanker of his era, a national icon in New Zealand where No 7s are revered as fly halves are in Wales.
In the rugby-playing world, only Dan Carter holds similar status among All Blacks. He has a gorgeous girlfriend, Hayley Holt, the dancer who was Mark Foster's partner on Strictly Come Dancing, and an income that in New Zealand terms is huge, but which could be doubled or trebled in Europe should he choose to move . He will not.
Even though he has a sabbatical clause in his contract, if he exercises it, it will be to get away from rugby not to play more, as Carter has chosen to do with Perpignan. As his country's captain, he is a marketing man's dream: smart, clean-cut and good-looking, with the odd rugby scar on his face.
Above all, he is well rounded, but also to his credit well grounded. The only occasion his feet leave “Planet Earth” is when he pilots his own glider, his passion for the skies nutured by his childhood contact with J.H. “Jim” McCaw, his grandfather who flew more than 300 missions in the Second World War.
If he were not a man of substance and real character, it would be easy for McCaw's head to turn. The accolades and awards have been heaped upon him during his illustrious career, which began at international level in 2001, although his failure to win, let alone be shortlisted in the IRB's player-of-the-year category last week, mystified Graham Henry, the All Blacks head coach.
His ability on the field and particularly at the breakdown has led to accusations that he cheats.
He laughs off such charges as he does the suggestion that there is “one law for McCaw”. “I don't listen to that stuff because it's been said so many times,” he said. “I don't know why it comes about. Good No7 s can be bloody annoying and if I'm doing that, then I'm not doing a bad job.”
Since the ignominy of the World Cup, when they lost to France in the quarter-finals, which he admits was not his finest hour as captain, New Zealand have regrouped around their talisman, won the Tri-Nations, retained the Bledisloe Cup and are poised to secure a grand slam at Twickenham tomorrow.
There could be no better riposte. Of the 14 internationals the All Blacks have played this year, they have lost twice; perhaps it is only coincidence that on both occasions McCaw was missing. Then again, perhaps not. He has not lost in any competition this year; Canterbury won the Air New Zealand Cup and the Crusaders the Super 14, on top of New Zealand's Tri-Nations success.
McCaw, who has won 69 caps and led New Zealand 32 times, believes that such honours should be cherished and dismissed the view that only a World Cup matters. “You have to be able to gain lasting fulfilment without winning the World Cup,” he said yesterday when the Hillary Shield, for which the teams will play tomorrow, was unveiled in the presence of both captains and June Hillary, Sir Edmund's widow. “It's not easy when you have disappointments but hopefully we can put them into context,” he said. “We can be proud of what we've accomplished this year. It would be awful to have finished your career having achieved some of the things we have, even up to now, and not feel like you've done good.”
Insert his name into the Google search engine and almost 200,000 items are listed. There are tributes to him on YouTube and websites debate just how good he is and whether Michael Jones and Josh Kronfeld were better in their heyday.
Bart Campbell, the chief executive of Essentially Group, which looks after McCaw's interests on and off the field, is effusive about his client. “He has everything,” Campbell said. “I am not sure he gets the level of respect on the international stage that he deserves. Maybe that's because forwards do not get the glory. There is no one to touch him as a player. He has committed to the All Blacks to 2011 and if they manage to win the World Cup, then perhaps after ten years' service to his country he will be recognised as one of the great warriors of the game in the same category as Martin Johnson.”
How ironic if McCaw were to rub further salt into the wounds of England's fledgeling manager tomorrow.
England not ready to raise the white flag
http://allblacks.com/index.cfm?layout=displayNews&newsArticle=9223
Sportal.co.nz - 28/11/2008
With morale battered by its record 42-6 defeat by South Africa, England is expected to provide flimsy opposition to the world's best team fielding its strongest line-up, including McCaw and Dan Carter. But McCaw does not expect Martin Johnson's side to raise the white flag.
"They'll be hurting and will want to come out and get it right and show they're a good team," he said."We've been in a similar situation ourselves this year. We were beaten twice by the Aussies in July and it was a horrible time. When you get a chance to put it right, and luckily they have a chance seven days later, that's what you have to do. We're expecting them to throw everything into it and they will de desperate. We have to match that intensity or else it will be a long day."
McCaw has raised an eyebrow at England's decision to drop Tom Rees, one of their few outstanding players against the Springboks, for Michael Lipman at openside.
"I'm a little bit surprised, he's a damn good player," said the 27-year-old."All of England's loose forwards played well when they toured in June. It was a physical confrontation with them. I'm sure England have their reasons why they dropped him but the guy who has replaced him must be raring to go."
Not for the first time McCaw has been dogged by claims he treads a fine line, with respected former Australia coach Bob Dwyer claiming he is a serial offender at the breakdown. But the Crusaders back row, who has won 32 of his 69 caps as captain, denied there is 'one law for McCaw'.
"I don't listen to that stuff because it's been said so many times. I don't know why it comes about," he said."Good number sevens can be bloody annoying and if I'm doing that then I'm not doing a bad job."
Sportal.co.nz - 28/11/2008
With morale battered by its record 42-6 defeat by South Africa, England is expected to provide flimsy opposition to the world's best team fielding its strongest line-up, including McCaw and Dan Carter. But McCaw does not expect Martin Johnson's side to raise the white flag.
"They'll be hurting and will want to come out and get it right and show they're a good team," he said."We've been in a similar situation ourselves this year. We were beaten twice by the Aussies in July and it was a horrible time. When you get a chance to put it right, and luckily they have a chance seven days later, that's what you have to do. We're expecting them to throw everything into it and they will de desperate. We have to match that intensity or else it will be a long day."
McCaw has raised an eyebrow at England's decision to drop Tom Rees, one of their few outstanding players against the Springboks, for Michael Lipman at openside.
"I'm a little bit surprised, he's a damn good player," said the 27-year-old."All of England's loose forwards played well when they toured in June. It was a physical confrontation with them. I'm sure England have their reasons why they dropped him but the guy who has replaced him must be raring to go."
Not for the first time McCaw has been dogged by claims he treads a fine line, with respected former Australia coach Bob Dwyer claiming he is a serial offender at the breakdown. But the Crusaders back row, who has won 32 of his 69 caps as captain, denied there is 'one law for McCaw'.
"I don't listen to that stuff because it's been said so many times. I don't know why it comes about," he said."Good number sevens can be bloody annoying and if I'm doing that then I'm not doing a bad job."
Lipman relishes rematch with McCaw
http://www.3news.co.nz/News/SportsNews/Lipman-relishes-rematch-with-McCaw/tabid/415/articleID/81893/cat/71/Default.aspx
Fri, 28 Nov 2008 8:42a.m.
All Blacks captain Richie McCaw admitted he didn't know much about his opposing open-side flanker ahead of the season finale against England - though Michael Lipman has vivid memories of their first rugby encounter.
The Bath co-captain was playing for Australia's under-19 team back in 1999 when the young Wallabies secured a 20-16 victory - and featured in a back row including McCaw's long-time rival George Smith and former No 8 David Lyons.
McCaw was supported by Jerry Collins at the breakdown while Mils Muliaina and Aaron Mauger were among the backs. The New Zealand under-19 first five-eighth that day was Riki Flutey, who also finds himself playing for England at Twickenham on Saturday (0330 Sunday NZT).
Lipman also made his test debut against the All Blacks at Eden Park four years ago but since then has been used sparingly as the presently injured Lewis Moody initially monopolised the English No 7 jersey.
McCaw had been expecting to go to ground with Tom Rees, of London Wasps, and was taken aback to see Lipman on the team sheet.
"I'm surprised, Tom's a damn good player," he said of an adversary that played both tests on England's tour of New Zealand in June. "All their loose forwards played pretty well together, the challenge we had down home was pretty physical."
Rees was arguably England's best player during their record 42-6 loss to South African last weekend but team manager Martin Johnson has decided an All Blacks side on a Grand Slam quest could be a game to far for Rees, who has been pitted against Tongan captain Nili Latu (Pacific Islanders), Australian Smith and the Springboks Schalk Burger in consecutive weekends. He is, however, on the bench.
Lipman was a relative mystery to McCaw who had no recollection of the under-19 match:
" I don't remember back that far, I don't remember too much about them."
The 28-year-old hopes to leave a greater impression on the All Blacks captain when he earns his 10th cap, thanks to a promotion he had not been expecting. I think Tom has been playing very well over the last three weeks and I don't usually say that about a guy who plays in the same position," he said. "I spoke to him after the team was named, but I have to recognise that this gives me an opportunity."
Lipman was upset not to be given a chance during England's 2-0 series loss six months ago in Auckland and Christchurch, given he had started four tests in this year's Six Nations.
"I'm looking to make things right now and it will be a great challenge against Richie, one I'm looking forward to," Lipman told The Times newspaper. "When you play New Zealand it's tough, from the first minute to the 80th, you have to come out and play them at their own game. You can't be intimidated by the black jersey. If you set the tempo, create your own opportunities, set the standard, you're in with a chance."
Lipman's leadership experience is also seen as an asset as under-fire lock Steve Borthwick struggles with the captaincy role.
Borthwick has been criticised in wake of the defeat to South Africa and Lipman was eager to lend his voice to the on-field decision makers.
"Dealing with things on the pitch is an issue," he said. "You need to fix things straight away and I think we were a bit quiet out there, we let things happen. Steve may have been out there by himself. You need voices, you need people to direct, work out what's going wrong and put them right on the spot."
NZPA
Fri, 28 Nov 2008 8:42a.m.
All Blacks captain Richie McCaw admitted he didn't know much about his opposing open-side flanker ahead of the season finale against England - though Michael Lipman has vivid memories of their first rugby encounter.
The Bath co-captain was playing for Australia's under-19 team back in 1999 when the young Wallabies secured a 20-16 victory - and featured in a back row including McCaw's long-time rival George Smith and former No 8 David Lyons.
McCaw was supported by Jerry Collins at the breakdown while Mils Muliaina and Aaron Mauger were among the backs. The New Zealand under-19 first five-eighth that day was Riki Flutey, who also finds himself playing for England at Twickenham on Saturday (0330 Sunday NZT).
Lipman also made his test debut against the All Blacks at Eden Park four years ago but since then has been used sparingly as the presently injured Lewis Moody initially monopolised the English No 7 jersey.
McCaw had been expecting to go to ground with Tom Rees, of London Wasps, and was taken aback to see Lipman on the team sheet.
"I'm surprised, Tom's a damn good player," he said of an adversary that played both tests on England's tour of New Zealand in June. "All their loose forwards played pretty well together, the challenge we had down home was pretty physical."
Rees was arguably England's best player during their record 42-6 loss to South African last weekend but team manager Martin Johnson has decided an All Blacks side on a Grand Slam quest could be a game to far for Rees, who has been pitted against Tongan captain Nili Latu (Pacific Islanders), Australian Smith and the Springboks Schalk Burger in consecutive weekends. He is, however, on the bench.
Lipman was a relative mystery to McCaw who had no recollection of the under-19 match:
" I don't remember back that far, I don't remember too much about them."
The 28-year-old hopes to leave a greater impression on the All Blacks captain when he earns his 10th cap, thanks to a promotion he had not been expecting. I think Tom has been playing very well over the last three weeks and I don't usually say that about a guy who plays in the same position," he said. "I spoke to him after the team was named, but I have to recognise that this gives me an opportunity."
Lipman was upset not to be given a chance during England's 2-0 series loss six months ago in Auckland and Christchurch, given he had started four tests in this year's Six Nations.
"I'm looking to make things right now and it will be a great challenge against Richie, one I'm looking forward to," Lipman told The Times newspaper. "When you play New Zealand it's tough, from the first minute to the 80th, you have to come out and play them at their own game. You can't be intimidated by the black jersey. If you set the tempo, create your own opportunities, set the standard, you're in with a chance."
Lipman's leadership experience is also seen as an asset as under-fire lock Steve Borthwick struggles with the captaincy role.
Borthwick has been criticised in wake of the defeat to South Africa and Lipman was eager to lend his voice to the on-field decision makers.
"Dealing with things on the pitch is an issue," he said. "You need to fix things straight away and I think we were a bit quiet out there, we let things happen. Steve may have been out there by himself. You need voices, you need people to direct, work out what's going wrong and put them right on the spot."
NZPA
Friday, November 28, 2008
Pix from England
CEO and Chairman of adidas AG Herbert Hainer (C) and New Zealand 
Rugby Union CEO Steve Tew (R) and All Black captain Richie McCaw hold a commemorative All Black rugby shirt during a press conference held at the Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington to announce the extension of the NZRU adidas long term agreement until 2019 on November 28, 2008 in London, England. (Photo by Getty Images for adidas)
Richie McCaw (L) Dan Carter of the All Blacks chat during a New Zealand All Blacks training session at Latymer Upper School on November 27, 2008 in London, England. (Photo by Ross Land/Getty Images) one of the last training session with DC... USAP is waiting!!!
Rugby Union CEO Steve Tew (R) and All Black captain Richie McCaw hold a commemorative All Black rugby shirt during a press conference held at the Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington to announce the extension of the NZRU adidas long term agreement until 2019 on November 28, 2008 in London, England. (Photo by Getty Images for adidas) 
Richie McCaw (L) Dan Carter of the All Blacks chat during a New Zealand All Blacks training session at Latymer Upper School on November 27, 2008 in London, England. (Photo by Ross Land/Getty Images) one of the last training session with DC... USAP is waiting!!!All Blacks' captain Richie McCaw (L), England rugby team captain Steve Borthwick (R) a
nd Lady Hillary pose with the Hillary Shield, unveiled by Lady Hillary, at Twickenham rugby ground on November 27, 2008 in London, England. The Hillary Shield, named in memory of the late Sir Edmund Hillary who made the first successful ascent of Mount Everest with Sherpa Tenzing Norgay in 1953, is contested between the New Zealand All Blacks and England in every rugby union match or series between the two nations other than at World Cup tournaments. (Photo by Ross Land/Getty Images)
nd Lady Hillary pose with the Hillary Shield, unveiled by Lady Hillary, at Twickenham rugby ground on November 27, 2008 in London, England. The Hillary Shield, named in memory of the late Sir Edmund Hillary who made the first successful ascent of Mount Everest with Sherpa Tenzing Norgay in 1953, is contested between the New Zealand All Blacks and England in every rugby union match or series between the two nations other than at World Cup tournaments. (Photo by Ross Land/Getty Images) 
Richie McCaw of the All Blacks in action during a New Zealand All Black training session at Latymers Upper school on November 25, 2008 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ross Land/Getty Images)
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
I love Matty but disagree with the following article (coz I'm me!)
Giteau, Smith rated better than Carter, McCaw
By GREG GROWDEN, SMH
Wednesday, 26 November 2008
Former Welsh test five-eighth Jonathan Davies believes Matt Giteau has edged ahead of Daniel Carter as the world's best No 10.
And former Wallabies coach Eddie Jones maintains George Smith is in front of Richie McCaw as international rugby's No 1 openside breakaway. So if the Wallabies have supposedly the best playmaker and the top breakdown ball scavenger going around, one could assume they would be virtually unbeatable. They aren't, and still suffer major form fluctuations.
And that is why the Six Nations champions rate themselves a big chance of beating Australia at Millennium Stadium on Saturday, even gaining the support of the All Blacks coaching staff following New Zealand's 20-point win last weekend.
All Blacks coach Graham Henry and his assistant, Steve
Hansen, a former coach of Wales, believe that the Welsh were in with "a good shout" of beating the Wallabies in Cardiff. This would have something to do with Henry and Hansen wanting to keep Robbie Deans on edge, which was probably why their comments were laughed off by the Wallabies.They were naturally more intrigued by Davies's remarks on BBC Wales Television about Giteau. Davies said Giteau, following his French test performance, was "maybe slightly better than Carter at the moment", arguing the Wallabies five-eighth alone could keep the Welsh at bay this weekend.
Jones also said earlier this month that he believes Smith has eclipsed his New Zealand arch-rival to become the game's pre-eminent player at the breakdown. "I think he's better than (Richie) McCaw at the moment," the former Wallabies coach told a UK newspaper.
According to the International Rugby Board, neither Giteau, McCaw nor Smith are anywhere near the best performers in the international game, with all three being overlooked by the judges of the world player of the year award.
Instead, the IRB came up with a hilarious shortlist of Welsh captain Ryan Jones and winger Shane Williams, Carter, Italian skipper Sergio Parisse and Scotland's halfback, Mike Blair. Not surprisingly, with the blatant northern hemisphere bias, Williams won the award, which brought excitement to Wales but was met with a nonchalant shrug everywhere else.
Nonetheless, the Wallabies rate Williams highly, arguing that if he's not contained in Cardiff, Henry, Hansen and co could easily be proved correct. Wallabies fullback Drew Mitchell said he hadn't forgotten how Williams showed him up in a test a few years ago, and warned wingers Peter Hynes and Digby Ioane he was the most unforgiving of opponents.
Mitchell said Williams' extraordinary footwork, which has even befuddled the likes of South Africa's Bryan Habana, made him very dangerous.
"It's not just his stepping, it's his acceleration out of the step. Some guys may beat you with the step initially and they don't quite accelerate out of it, and you can recover a little bit. But there's no time for recovery when you're opposing Shane and you don't quite read his footwork. He is also quite hard to tackle because he's such a small guy and is actually quite strong. Unless you get a good shot on him, he's hard to bring him down."
Mitchell said swamping him was vital. "That's the key with someone like Shane Williams – you don't give him too much space. You have to get in his face as soon as you can, so he can't step too much. You are almost trying to hit him as soon as he gets the ball."
What do you think of these claims? Is Giteau now the world's best five-eighth? And can Eddie Jones be serious rating Smith ahead of McCaw? Post your comments below.
All Blacks dismiss claims haka gives them advantage
http://www.3news.co.nz/All-Blacks-dismiss-claims-haka-gives-them-advantage/tabid/415/articleID/81457/cat/70/Default.aspx
Tue, 25 Nov 2008 5:15p.m.
We almost made it through a season without a haka story. But rather sadly, with just one test remaining, calls to end the All Blacks' haka are reverberating around the British Isles ahead of this weekend's test against England.
It is no surprise given the standard of their rugby team the English are again on the wind-up.
London is not famous for its warm welcomes, and today the All Blacks felt the weather's wrath. The rain and snow held off, and the team hopes it will stay that way.
"You always want to play in dry conditions," says All Black lock Brad Thorn. "We've been lucky. We had the roof closed in Wales and had a beautiful night in Ireland, so we'll see how it goes."
There is also a storm of opinion brewing here and it centres on the haka. Some British television commentators and columnists say the haka in international rugby has had its day. The controversy is growing following the death stare dished out by the Welsh before last weekend's test, and the English, perhaps eager to divert attention away from their record loss to the Springboks, say the haka gives the All Blacks an unfair psychological advantage.
"We have in the past tried to use the haka as a motivation to make sure we start well," says All Black prop Neemia Tialata, "but with teams now facing up to the challenge and making sure there's five minutes break before we kick off, it has been a little bit challenging for us."
Thorn thinks it is just sour grapes, and says the English would be better off worrying about the 80 minutes that follow the haka.
"I'm not really about standing trying to looking tough, I'm about kicking off and getting in to it and that's what pushes my buttons."
On the field, Conrad Smith took little part in training today. Whether he or Richard Kahui starts at centre against England seems to be Graham Henry's only selection headache this week.
Tue, 25 Nov 2008 5:15p.m.
We almost made it through a season without a haka story. But rather sadly, with just one test remaining, calls to end the All Blacks' haka are reverberating around the British Isles ahead of this weekend's test against England.
It is no surprise given the standard of their rugby team the English are again on the wind-up.
London is not famous for its warm welcomes, and today the All Blacks felt the weather's wrath. The rain and snow held off, and the team hopes it will stay that way.
"You always want to play in dry conditions," says All Black lock Brad Thorn. "We've been lucky. We had the roof closed in Wales and had a beautiful night in Ireland, so we'll see how it goes."
There is also a storm of opinion brewing here and it centres on the haka. Some British television commentators and columnists say the haka in international rugby has had its day. The controversy is growing following the death stare dished out by the Welsh before last weekend's test, and the English, perhaps eager to divert attention away from their record loss to the Springboks, say the haka gives the All Blacks an unfair psychological advantage.
"We have in the past tried to use the haka as a motivation to make sure we start well," says All Black prop Neemia Tialata, "but with teams now facing up to the challenge and making sure there's five minutes break before we kick off, it has been a little bit challenging for us."
Thorn thinks it is just sour grapes, and says the English would be better off worrying about the 80 minutes that follow the haka.
"I'm not really about standing trying to looking tough, I'm about kicking off and getting in to it and that's what pushes my buttons."
On the field, Conrad Smith took little part in training today. Whether he or Richard Kahui starts at centre against England seems to be Graham Henry's only selection headache this week.
Royals tip All Blacks to have 'easy time' against England
http://www.3news.co.nz/Video/Sports/tabid/317/articleID/81642/cat/71/Default.aspx#video
The royals even talked footy with the boys, Prince Philip telling captain Richie McCaw he thought they would have an easy time with England this weekend But that did not stop Graham Henry from naming his number one side for the final match of the year.
The only change from Cardiff is centre Conrad Smith returning from injury to replace Richard Kahui despite the mooloo man's strong showing against Wales last weekend. The bench remains the same as last week, with Kahui missing out altogether.
The All Blacks and the royals met to promote the 2011 World Cup, and the Queen's husband Prince Phillip had a word in McCaw's ear.
"He was asking me how the grounds were and what it's like to play at Twickenham actually," says McCaw. "We talked about t
he game last week and he reckoned it'll be quite easy this week, but I don't know about that."
The royals, it seems, were not amused by England's record loss to the Springboks at the weekend. Regardless of what the royal family may think, Henry wants a season finale at Twickenham and the team he has selected reflects that.
"Conrad Smith has been playing good rugby all year," says Henry. "He's the number one centre coming over here and hasn't done anything to change that. He wasn't selected last week because of a groin strain, so he's back. We're back to our number one line up basically."
Smith's gain is Kahui's loss, but he is also grateful to the young midfielder for making him work hard for the jersey.
"It's a reality of being an All Black," says Smith. "We've got used to it over the last few years. There are a lot of great players, you know they're going to play well, you get used to it. You don't get surprised or anxious, but when you do get your chance you do yourself justice as well."
The All Blacks are just one win away from a northern hemisphere grand slam, but that is not the number one motivating factor. This weekend they will be playing to honour Sir Edmund Hillary.
"It's really significant for the team," says McCaw. "He's one of the greatest Kiwis there has ever been, put New Zealand on the map. To play for the Hillary Shield is something we've talked about. It'd be cool to bring it home and we don't want it to stay here. He's an iconic man, and as an All Black to play for something with his name on it is awesome."
Should they win this weekend, the Hillary Shield would join the IRB team of the year award and the Bledisloe and Tri-Nations Cups in a crowded 2008 All Black trophy cabinet.
Wed, 26 Nov 2008 5:08p.m.
The current kings of world rugby have taken time out from training today in London to meet the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.
The royals even talked footy with the boys, Prince Philip telling captain Richie McCaw he thought they would have an easy time with England this weekend But that did not stop Graham Henry from naming his number one side for the final match of the year.
The only change from Cardiff is centre Conrad Smith returning from injury to replace Richard Kahui despite the mooloo man's strong showing against Wales last weekend. The bench remains the same as last week, with Kahui missing out altogether.
The All Blacks and the royals met to promote the 2011 World Cup, and the Queen's husband Prince Phillip had a word in McCaw's ear.
"He was asking me how the grounds were and what it's like to play at Twickenham actually," says McCaw. "We talked about t
he game last week and he reckoned it'll be quite easy this week, but I don't know about that." The royals, it seems, were not amused by England's record loss to the Springboks at the weekend. Regardless of what the royal family may think, Henry wants a season finale at Twickenham and the team he has selected reflects that.
"Conrad Smith has been playing good rugby all year," says Henry. "He's the number one centre coming over here and hasn't done anything to change that. He wasn't selected last week because of a groin strain, so he's back. We're back to our number one line up basically."
Smith's gain is Kahui's loss, but he is also grateful to the young midfielder for making him work hard for the jersey.
"It's a reality of being an All Black," says Smith. "We've got used to it over the last few years. There are a lot of great players, you know they're going to play well, you get used to it. You don't get surprised or anxious, but when you do get your chance you do yourself justice as well."
The All Blacks are just one win away from a northern hemisphere grand slam, but that is not the number one motivating factor. This weekend they will be playing to honour Sir Edmund Hillary.
"It's really significant for the team," says McCaw. "He's one of the greatest Kiwis there has ever been, put New Zealand on the map. To play for the Hillary Shield is something we've talked about. It'd be cool to bring it home and we don't want it to stay here. He's an iconic man, and as an All Black to play for something with his name on it is awesome."
Should they win this weekend, the Hillary Shield would join the IRB team of the year award and the Bledisloe and Tri-Nations Cups in a crowded 2008 All Black trophy cabinet.
All Blacks rub shoulders with Royalty
http://www.stuff.co.nz/4773307a1823.html
The Queen and Duke arrived to be met by New Zealand Prime Minister John Key, All Blacks captain McCaw and a Maori welcome. After briefly greeting the team they went inside the ball where they watched a 10-minute video promotion of New Zealand and talked informally for a further 20 minutes or so.
McCaw said he had a decent chat with the Duke.
"He was asking me what the grounds were like and what it was like to play at Twickenham," said McCaw as conversation centred around the All Balcks clash with England there this weekend in a test that will complete the All Blacks' year and offers them the chance to snare a rare Grand Slam. England's 42-6 loss to the Springboks was also raised – at the Prince's insistence.
The ball will be in London for a week and is now open to the public.
Early next week it will be the base for the draw for the 2011 Rugby World Cup to be held in New Zealand.McCaw and Henry along with New Zealand Rugby Union chairman Jock Hobbs and New Zealand's World Cup boss Martin Snedden – who were all present today – will be at the draw.
By DUNCAN JOHNSTONE in London, Fairfax Media
Wednesday, 26 November 2008
Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, told captain Richie McCaw he's in for an easy game against England while coach Graham Henry was chuffed to be remembered by the Queen as the All Blacks rubbed shoulders with the British 
royalty today.
royalty today.The players had to endure a half hour wait in bitterly cold conditions but it didn't take long for them to warm to their famous hosts once the formalities got under way in a Kiwi-flavoured setting next to the Tower Bridge here. The royals came to meet the All Blacks and inspect The Rugby Ball, the giant expo centre that has been erected in the capital to promote The 2011 Rugby World Cup and New Zealand tourism.
With a large media throng assembled an hour and half before the Queen's arrival and the All Blacks taking up their position about an hour later, standing in formation three-deep outside the ball, they copped a decent blast off the Thames. Officially the temperature was two degrees but the wind-chill factor had to be much lower.
The Queen and Duke arrived to be met by New Zealand Prime Minister John Key, All Blacks captain McCaw and a Maori welcome. After briefly greeting the team they went inside the ball where they watched a 10-minute video promotion of New Zealand and talked informally for a further 20 minutes or so.
McCaw said he had a decent chat with the Duke.
"He was asking me what the grounds were like and what it was like to play at Twickenham," said McCaw as conversation centred around the All Balcks clash with England there this weekend in a test that will complete the All Blacks' year and offers them the chance to snare a rare Grand Slam. England's 42-6 loss to the Springboks was also raised – at the Prince's insistence.
"He reckons it will be quite easy (for the All Blacks) this weekend but I don't know about that," chuckled McCaw.
McCaw said it was an experience to treasure.
"I remember we got the c
hance to meet them a couple of years ago but it wasn't till we got home and I said we had got to meet the Queen and Duke and people were blown away by it. The guys really enjoyed it and the ball and display inside was cool."
McCaw said it was an experience to treasure.
"I remember we got the c
hance to meet them a couple of years ago but it wasn't till we got home and I said we had got to meet the Queen and Duke and people were blown away by it. The guys really enjoyed it and the ball and display inside was cool."Henry appeared delighted that the Queen had remembered him.
"I have been fortunate to meet the Queen twice and she remembered the last time ... so she told me," he said."It was great for the young guys to meet her. They were very relaxed and had good conversations."
"I have been fortunate to meet the Queen twice and she remembered the last time ... so she told me," he said."It was great for the young guys to meet her. They were very relaxed and had good conversations."
Henry was also impressed with the giant ball.
"It's very special ... marvellous New Zealand technology and it sends out a very good message," he said.
"It's very special ... marvellous New Zealand technology and it sends out a very good message," he said.
The ball will be in London for a week and is now open to the public.
Early next week it will be the base for the draw for the 2011 Rugby World Cup to be held in New Zealand.McCaw and Henry along with New Zealand Rugby Union chairman Jock Hobbs and New Zealand's World Cup boss Martin Snedden – who were all present today – will be at the draw.
*ben si Phiphi le dit, c'est peut ere que c'est vrai! --if Prince Philip says so, it must be true :)
*note to mister Henry : this ball was last year in Paris during the RWC, and according to Cécile and I (and I'm sure the other Frogs agree), it was way better looking at 'our' place!!! just for the record!!!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
McCaw relishing Wembley prospect
http://www.allblacks.com/index.cfm?layout=displayNews&newsArticle=9206
New Zealand captain Richie McCaw is relishing a chance to team up with newly-crowned International Rugby Board player of the year Shane Williams at Wembley next month.McCaw, the revered All Blacks leader, has led tributes to Wales' wing wizard following his award success.Williams, Wales' record Test try-scorer with 43 touchdowns in 60 Tests, beat his international skipper Ryan Jones, All Blacks first five-eighths Dan Carter, Scotland's Mike Blair and Italy No.8 Sergio Parisse to land the prestigious honour.And McCaw, whose team fought back to beat Williams and company 29-9 in Cardiff two days ago, is now eagerly anticipating the London Olympic Centenary match on December 3, when both players are due to feature in a star-studded Barbarians team against Australia.
McCaw said: "It will be a good experience. It will be nice to have him on my team - I will just stand and watch."There are some great wingers in the world, and winning this trophy shows where he sits."When we [New Zealand] play against him, he is a big threat. We rate him pretty highly."When you do your preparation to play Wales it is always 'keep an eye on Shane'."When you see little fellas like that, all the big boys think: 'Right, I'm going to get this guy', but he is so difficult to get your hands on."That is the way rugby should be. Hopefully, it always remains like that."He is tough to play against when you give him space. You just don't want to give him room to move - that is when he is most dangerous."He is fast, he is good on his feet and he makes teams pay when he has good ball to operate with."Williams was back at Wales' training base in the Vale of Glamorgan on Monday after collecting his award at a glittering ceremony in London last night.
And as he begins preparations for next Saturday's Millennium Stadium clash against Australia, Williams admits it is an honour that is still sinking in."Any one of the lads nominated could have won it," he said."I don't think I believed it, even when my name was mentioned. It is a massive accolade."Williams is now officially tagged the best player in the world following his memorable exploits for Wales last season, which included scoring six tries during their Grand Slam-winning Six Nations title campaign.
But the 31-year-old recalled: "When I was playing for the Amman [Williams' first club Amman United], I just wanted a game for the firsts every weekend."I would have taken a start for the Amman firsts several years back, so to get this award is overwhelming. It really has blown me away."Certainly, the success Wales have had with the Grand Slam has helped."I am able to get a lot of ball and get involved in the game a lot, and the fact I am still enjoying my rugby."There were times in the past when I have been injured, or things haven't gone my way, and I really haven't enjoyed my rugby and I haven't played well."The massive turning point for me was the [former Wales coach] Steve Hansen era, when I was getting injured quite a lot and wasn't getting picked."I was in a bad place, and I started to question my own ability."The good thing about that is that I gave myself the shove I needed, continued to train hard, started to get some good games under my belt and it went on from there."Prior to the 2003 World Cup, I wasn't in a good place rugby-wise."I told myself really to grow up and I began to play some good rugby again and play with a smile on my face. That is what it is all about for me. If I am enjoying it, I play well."
Alan Phillips, Wales team manager since 2002, has seen Williams' Test career develop at first hand, and he said of his IRB recognition: "I think it's outstanding."The little fella has gone and done it, and rightly so. He has played some fantastic rugby for us."I remember when he first came on the scene with Wales."He is a different bloke and a different player now, and it has all come through hard work, a lot of skill, daring and plenty of bottle to do some of the things he does."
New Zealand captain Richie McCaw is relishing a chance to team up with newly-crowned International Rugby Board player of the year Shane Williams at Wembley next month.McCaw, the revered All Blacks leader, has led tributes to Wales' wing wizard following his award success.Williams, Wales' record Test try-scorer with 43 touchdowns in 60 Tests, beat his international skipper Ryan Jones, All Blacks first five-eighths Dan Carter, Scotland's Mike Blair and Italy No.8 Sergio Parisse to land the prestigious honour.And McCaw, whose team fought back to beat Williams and company 29-9 in Cardiff two days ago, is now eagerly anticipating the London Olympic Centenary match on December 3, when both players are due to feature in a star-studded Barbarians team against Australia.
McCaw said: "It will be a good experience. It will be nice to have him on my team - I will just stand and watch."There are some great wingers in the world, and winning this trophy shows where he sits."When we [New Zealand] play against him, he is a big threat. We rate him pretty highly."When you do your preparation to play Wales it is always 'keep an eye on Shane'."When you see little fellas like that, all the big boys think: 'Right, I'm going to get this guy', but he is so difficult to get your hands on."That is the way rugby should be. Hopefully, it always remains like that."He is tough to play against when you give him space. You just don't want to give him room to move - that is when he is most dangerous."He is fast, he is good on his feet and he makes teams pay when he has good ball to operate with."Williams was back at Wales' training base in the Vale of Glamorgan on Monday after collecting his award at a glittering ceremony in London last night.
And as he begins preparations for next Saturday's Millennium Stadium clash against Australia, Williams admits it is an honour that is still sinking in."Any one of the lads nominated could have won it," he said."I don't think I believed it, even when my name was mentioned. It is a massive accolade."Williams is now officially tagged the best player in the world following his memorable exploits for Wales last season, which included scoring six tries during their Grand Slam-winning Six Nations title campaign.
But the 31-year-old recalled: "When I was playing for the Amman [Williams' first club Amman United], I just wanted a game for the firsts every weekend."I would have taken a start for the Amman firsts several years back, so to get this award is overwhelming. It really has blown me away."Certainly, the success Wales have had with the Grand Slam has helped."I am able to get a lot of ball and get involved in the game a lot, and the fact I am still enjoying my rugby."There were times in the past when I have been injured, or things haven't gone my way, and I really haven't enjoyed my rugby and I haven't played well."The massive turning point for me was the [former Wales coach] Steve Hansen era, when I was getting injured quite a lot and wasn't getting picked."I was in a bad place, and I started to question my own ability."The good thing about that is that I gave myself the shove I needed, continued to train hard, started to get some good games under my belt and it went on from there."Prior to the 2003 World Cup, I wasn't in a good place rugby-wise."I told myself really to grow up and I began to play some good rugby again and play with a smile on my face. That is what it is all about for me. If I am enjoying it, I play well."
Alan Phillips, Wales team manager since 2002, has seen Williams' Test career develop at first hand, and he said of his IRB recognition: "I think it's outstanding."The little fella has gone and done it, and rightly so. He has played some fantastic rugby for us."I remember when he first came on the scene with Wales."He is a different bloke and a different player now, and it has all come through hard work, a lot of skill, daring and plenty of bottle to do some of the things he does."
Munster v All Blacks - see the All Blacks learn how to play hurling & Gaelic Football
www.morethanjustagame.ie
thanx FSS
McCaw still 'the best' in coach's view
Tuesday, 25 November 2008
While Graham Henry was delighted to accept a third International Rugby Board coach of the year gong last night, it was tempered by his captain Richie McCaw's absence from the supreme players' award nominees. Henry regained the award he previously won in 2005-06 during what was practically a benefit night for New Zealand rugby at the IRB's annual gala in central London.
But he shared the praise liberally, claiming: "I was just the guy to go up and get the trophy".
Henry, whose 2008 season has always been one of personal and professional redemption, credited assistants Wayne Smith and Steve Hansen with helping rebuild the team after the devastation of last October's quarterfinal exit at the World Cup.
Kicking expert Mick Byrne, scrum guru Mike Cron and manager Darren Shand also received honourable mentions along with a core of senior players – where McCaw was obviously at the head of the queue.
The skipper also copped severe criticism for the manner of the All Blacks 18-20 loss to France in Cardiff 13 months ago, but Henry was lavish in his praise of the world's premier openside flanker as the team prepare for the final test of the season against England at Twickenham on Saturday (3.30am Sunday NZT).
"Richie's captaincy has always been very good and it's getting better and better as he gets more experienced, gets a bit older," Henry said."He's captained the side outstandingly this year and I think he captained very well over the last two years."
Henry was disappointed McCaw's outstanding contribution was not reflected in his joining Daniel Carter on the IRB's shortlist for player of the year. McCaw took the coveted award in 2006; Carter the previous year.
"I think Richie's the best player in the world," Henry said."I guess these things happen from time to time. I'm sure he just shrugs his shoulders and gets on with it."
Ultimately, Wales wing and his country's record try-scorer Shane Williams was chosen by a panel of former test stars convened by two-time World Cup winner John Eales. His six tries in Wales' triumphant Six Nations campaign tipping the balance over Carter, Wales' captain Ryan Jones, Scotland halfback Mike Blair and Italian No 8 Sergio Parisse. Williams' success was well received by Henry, who gave the 31-year-old his first cap when head coach of Wales in 2000.
"Shane's a finisher – he's scored some magnificent tries over the last year," Henry said."He's a quality athlete with some great skills, he's a pretty special player but not as influential as a Richie or a Daniel because he's not in those positions – seven and 10 are very influential on how the team plays."
The All Blacks' success in retaining the Tri-Nations and Bledisloe Cup gives credence to Henry's view. New Zealand were at their best while Carter and McCaw were on the pitch together. When losses were suffered against South Africa in Dunedin and the Wallabies in Sydney, an injured McCaw was a notable absentee. — NZPA
Where do you rate Richie McCaw on the world scene? Was he ripped off by the IRB? Post your comments below.
Pix from England (and wales)
Richie McCaw, (R) the New Zealand All Black captain holds the the IRB Team of Year Award with his coach Graham Henry (L) who won the Coach of the Year flank Shane Williams of Wales who won the IRB Player of the 
Year award during the IRB Annual Awards at Old Billingsgate on November 23, 2008 in London, England. (Photo by Getty Images for IR
B) 
the All Blacks on the pitch during a New Zealand All Black Captain's Run at the Millennium Stadium on November 21, 2008 in Cardiff, England. (Photo by Ross Land/Getty I
mages)
mages) 
the All Blacks enjoy a swim with their team matesduring a New Zealand All Black rugby recovery session at Harrow school sports centre on November 24, 2008 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ross Land/Getty Images) Sunday, November 23, 2008
Henry and McCaw laud `huge` second half
http://www.planet-rugby.co.za/Story/0,18259,3551_4536597,00.html
Graham Henry and Richie McCaw both pointed to the second half as the key in their victory over Wales on Saturday. The All Blacks scored 23 unanswered points in a devastating second-half display, having gone into the break 9-6 behind and coming off second-best for long periods of the first half.
"I thought they had a huge second half, well led by Richie [McCaw] and the leaders, probably the best half of rugby we have played all year," said Henry. "It was a good test match, a highly competitive Welsh side playing good rugby stretched us a lot and they will be disappointed with the result, but they should be proud of their advancement in the game. I think they played well and I think they are a very good side. We are really pleased to have such a win. It takes time. It shows a lot of heart and character that they can hang in there under pressure and then come through in the latter part of the game. That's been a mark of this side all year that they have been under pressure and come through and won games. We scored 23 points in the second half and that is huge."
McCaw is now looking forward to getting down to Twickenham next week, before heading off on a deserved six-week break before pre-season starts in Christchurch. England, having lost 42-6 at home to South Africa on Saturday, are now seemingly staring down both barrels at a team at the top of its game.
"We came over here and knew that we had four tests over here," a confident McCaw said after the game. "It was never going to be easy. But if we do it right next week, get over this game, then there is nothing better than playing at Twickenham. We came over here to play four good tests and we are three-quarters of the way through. We will get over tonight, there will be some sore bodies, but we will look forward to England. It is always a tough one in Twickenham."
The team is yet to concede a try in international matches - indeed, they have conceded only 21 points in the three matches so far (not counting Munster), an average of seven per game. However, they have scored nearly 28 a game. Again, after a tight start, it was the second half where the team pulled through, after Wales had led at the break.
"We have been in those situations before this year," McCaw said. "We just had to keep our composure and perhaps there were times when we lost it a little bit in the first half. But we regrouped at half-time and there was a lot to play for, and occasions like this, in a stadium like this, are just awesome. We expected Wales' passionate start. They had us a little bit rattled just before half-time. But the composure held in the second half and we got on top of the game."
Graham Henry and Richie McCaw both pointed to the second half as the key in their victory over Wales on Saturday. The All Blacks scored 23 unanswered points in a devastating second-half display, having gone into the break 9-6 behind and coming off second-best for long periods of the first half.
"I thought they had a huge second half, well led by Richie [McCaw] and the leaders, probably the best half of rugby we have played all year," said Henry. "It was a good test match, a highly competitive Welsh side playing good rugby stretched us a lot and they will be disappointed with the result, but they should be proud of their advancement in the game. I think they played well and I think they are a very good side. We are really pleased to have such a win. It takes time. It shows a lot of heart and character that they can hang in there under pressure and then come through in the latter part of the game. That's been a mark of this side all year that they have been under pressure and come through and won games. We scored 23 points in the second half and that is huge."
McCaw is now looking forward to getting down to Twickenham next week, before heading off on a deserved six-week break before pre-season starts in Christchurch. England, having lost 42-6 at home to South Africa on Saturday, are now seemingly staring down both barrels at a team at the top of its game.
"We came over here and knew that we had four tests over here," a confident McCaw said after the game. "It was never going to be easy. But if we do it right next week, get over this game, then there is nothing better than playing at Twickenham. We came over here to play four good tests and we are three-quarters of the way through. We will get over tonight, there will be some sore bodies, but we will look forward to England. It is always a tough one in Twickenham."
The team is yet to concede a try in international matches - indeed, they have conceded only 21 points in the three matches so far (not counting Munster), an average of seven per game. However, they have scored nearly 28 a game. Again, after a tight start, it was the second half where the team pulled through, after Wales had led at the break.
"We have been in those situations before this year," McCaw said. "We just had to keep our composure and perhaps there were times when we lost it a little bit in the first half. But we regrouped at half-time and there was a lot to play for, and occasions like this, in a stadium like this, are just awesome. We expected Wales' passionate start. They had us a little bit rattled just before half-time. But the composure held in the second half and we got on top of the game."
Defiant Wales unmoved by haka
http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/rugby/news/article/-/5165417/defiant-wales-unmoved-haka
Minor victories seem Wales' lot when assessing their rugby encounters with the All Blacks over the last half century. And they secured another one at the Millennium Stadium last night when defiantly standing their ground after staring down the haka.
The Wales players stood shoulder to shoulder while the All Blacks performed Kapa O Pango before 74,067 raucous fans and then made no attempt to disperse after it was completed -- a bold act which prompted New Zealand to also refuse to budge.
An eyeballing confrontation continued for about a minute as South African referee Jonathan Kaplan struggled to get the players to take their positions for kick-off. The match eventually started two minutes later than scheduled after Kaplan had to manhandle All Blacks from their formation near halfway.
Kaplan also had to implore the Welsh to also break ranks, which they did after All Blacks Richie McCaw instructed his players to end the stalemate. Wales' stubborn response adds another footnote to the tapestry of the haka -- and how teams choose to react to it.
One of New Zealand's long-standing rugby rivals secured another pre-match victory when the All Blacks last played Wales in Cardiff two years ago. Then match organisers decreed the haka would be performed before the national anthems -- in an attempt to dilute the All Blacks traditional challenge.
They refused to comply and instead performed the haka in their dressing room before management and players not included in the 22-man squad. The Wales Rugby Union ruled out invoking a similar policy for this game but the home team was always expected to treat the haka slightly differently.
Wales' New Zealand-born coach Warren Gatland joked in the lead-up to the game that his players would perform their own haka -- a tongue-in-cheek comment taken out of context by local media. Instead his squad decided to stand their ground and make the All Blacks move into their positions first.
"It's something we came up with during the week, essentially what we were trying to show is it's our stadium, our fans and we weren't prepared to give up the ground," explained Wales' captain Ryan Jones.
His counterpart McCaw said the Welsh belligerence added to an already electric atmosphere inside the enclosed citadel of the country's national sport.
"I didn't know when we were going to get started to be honest," said McCaw after the All Blacks' 29-9 triumph."I think it's great, it really showed both teams were ready to play -- there was a great intensity in the way both teams started."
All Blacks blindside flanker Jerome Kaino said McCaw had warned the players that Wales might attempt to do something unique.
"We were expecting something. After we do our haka we stand our ground and wait for the opposition to go. Obviously they weren't going to go, neither were we until the ref had to step in there and push the sides away."
Veteran hooker Keven Mealamu said he would cherish the memory of the Welsh reaction.
"I thought it was very respectful, just a great way to face a haka and then stand proud. I thought it was awesome."
The haka, and how the opposition choose to accept the challenge, has been a staple topic of conversation and cause for speculation since the All Blacks arrived in Scotland for their opening test on November 8.
That 32-6 win at Murrayfield in Edinburgh was preceded by Australian-born Scottish lock Nathan Hines staring down Ali Williams who deliberately places himself closer to the opposition.
Ireland kept their distance a week later before Munster added to the haka's folklore when their New Zealand contingent of Rua Tipoki, Doug Howlett, Lifeimi Mafi and Jeremy Manning pre-empted the All Blacks' Ka Mate in Limerick last Tuesday by performing their own version before a baying capacity crowd at Thomond Park Stadium.
It is now England's turn to debate what, if anything, to do when the teams meet at Twickenham on Saturday (3.30am Sunday NZT).
http://www.allblacks.com/flash/video.cfm?ws=33&prog=1&mediaType=video&myFlvID=5470&myType=hi&myCFCPath=functions.&serverName=www.allblacks.com&webPath=http://www.allBlacks.com&mediaProviderID=0&returnQty=5&siloID=1&extension=
Minor victories seem Wales' lot when assessing their rugby encounters with the All Blacks over the last half century. And they secured another one at the Millennium Stadium last night when defiantly standing their ground after staring down the haka.
The Wales players stood shoulder to shoulder while the All Blacks performed Kapa O Pango before 74,067 raucous fans and then made no attempt to disperse after it was completed -- a bold act which prompted New Zealand to also refuse to budge.
An eyeballing confrontation continued for about a minute as South African referee Jonathan Kaplan struggled to get the players to take their positions for kick-off. The match eventually started two minutes later than scheduled after Kaplan had to manhandle All Blacks from their formation near halfway.
Kaplan also had to implore the Welsh to also break ranks, which they did after All Blacks Richie McCaw instructed his players to end the stalemate. Wales' stubborn response adds another footnote to the tapestry of the haka -- and how teams choose to react to it.
One of New Zealand's long-standing rugby rivals secured another pre-match victory when the All Blacks last played Wales in Cardiff two years ago. Then match organisers decreed the haka would be performed before the national anthems -- in an attempt to dilute the All Blacks traditional challenge.
They refused to comply and instead performed the haka in their dressing room before management and players not included in the 22-man squad. The Wales Rugby Union ruled out invoking a similar policy for this game but the home team was always expected to treat the haka slightly differently.
Wales' New Zealand-born coach Warren Gatland joked in the lead-up to the game that his players would perform their own haka -- a tongue-in-cheek comment taken out of context by local media. Instead his squad decided to stand their ground and make the All Blacks move into their positions first.
"It's something we came up with during the week, essentially what we were trying to show is it's our stadium, our fans and we weren't prepared to give up the ground," explained Wales' captain Ryan Jones.
His counterpart McCaw said the Welsh belligerence added to an already electric atmosphere inside the enclosed citadel of the country's national sport.
"I didn't know when we were going to get started to be honest," said McCaw after the All Blacks' 29-9 triumph."I think it's great, it really showed both teams were ready to play -- there was a great intensity in the way both teams started."
All Blacks blindside flanker Jerome Kaino said McCaw had warned the players that Wales might attempt to do something unique.
"We were expecting something. After we do our haka we stand our ground and wait for the opposition to go. Obviously they weren't going to go, neither were we until the ref had to step in there and push the sides away."
Veteran hooker Keven Mealamu said he would cherish the memory of the Welsh reaction.
"I thought it was very respectful, just a great way to face a haka and then stand proud. I thought it was awesome."
The haka, and how the opposition choose to accept the challenge, has been a staple topic of conversation and cause for speculation since the All Blacks arrived in Scotland for their opening test on November 8.
That 32-6 win at Murrayfield in Edinburgh was preceded by Australian-born Scottish lock Nathan Hines staring down Ali Williams who deliberately places himself closer to the opposition.
Ireland kept their distance a week later before Munster added to the haka's folklore when their New Zealand contingent of Rua Tipoki, Doug Howlett, Lifeimi Mafi and Jeremy Manning pre-empted the All Blacks' Ka Mate in Limerick last Tuesday by performing their own version before a baying capacity crowd at Thomond Park Stadium.
It is now England's turn to debate what, if anything, to do when the teams meet at Twickenham on Saturday (3.30am Sunday NZT).
http://www.allblacks.com/flash/video.cfm?ws=33&prog=1&mediaType=video&myFlvID=5470&myType=hi&myCFCPath=functions.&serverName=www.allblacks.com&webPath=http://www.allBlacks.com&mediaProviderID=0&returnQty=5&siloID=1&extension=
McCaw: Now let's bring on England
http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/rugby/news/article/-/5164978/mccaw-lets-bring-england
Richie McCaw and his triumphant All Blacks are now taking aim at England as they look to record just their third-ever successful Grand Slam campaign. The 29-9 win over a brave Wales at Millennium Stadium means the All Blacks are just one win away from the rare achievement.
They travel to England on Monday, ahead of next Sunday morning's showdown against the Martin Johnson-coached England at Twickenham.
England was on the receiving end of a 42-6 hammering at the hands of the Springboks shortly before the All Blacks/Wales clash kicked off. McCaw was a star turn for the men in black in their 20-point win over Wales. That included operating expertly in tandem with loose forward colleagues Jerome Kaino and Rodney So'oialo.
And the inspirational captain said the All Blacks were determined to end their season on a high.
"We came over here and knew that we had four tests over here," a confident McCaw said."It was never going to be easy. But if we do it right next week, get over this game, then there is nothing better than playing at Twickenham. We came over here to play four good tests and we are three-quarters of the way through. We will get over tonight, there will be some sore bodies, but we will look forward (to England). It is always a tough one in Twickenham, we will look forward to it."
It was anything but plain sailing for the All Blacks at Millennium Stadium. They went into halftime down 9-6 at the break, with the fired up Welsh dominating the attacking stakes in the first 40 minutes. Again it was the All Blacks' outstanding defence, which is yet to leak a test try on the UK leg of their season-ending tour, that shone.
The All Blacks then gained dominance in the second half, again keeping test opposition on tour scoreless in the second 40 minutes.
"We have been in those situations before this year," McCaw said."But we just had to keep our composure and perhaps there were times when we lost it a little bit in the first half. But we regrouped at halftime and there was a lot to play for. And occasions like this, in a stadium like this, are just awesome. We expected that (Wales' passionate start). They had us a little bit rattled just before halftime. But the composure held in the second half and we got on top of the game."
Veteran hooker Keven Mealamu said the opposition offered by Wales was by far the strongest the All Blacks had faced in the past three weeks in the UK. Part of a well-performing All Black line-out, he said it was a matter of soaking up the Welsh pressure while also building the foundations for the match-winning second 40 minutes.
"That first half was hard work," he said."We talked about it at halftime and knew we had to keep working hard. The boys did that. (In the second half) we had a bit more control. In the first half we were a little bit pushed and weren't playing the sort of rugby we are used to. Our defence always comes down to passion and the boys wanted to play for each other and played really well. It was a great way to finish."
Meanwhile, Welsh captain Ryan Jones said their reaction to the All Blacks' pre-match haka had helped fire up the hosts. Following the end of the haka, Wales stood arm-in-arm on their own side of the field and refused to be the first team to prepare for kick-off. The All Blacks also stood their own ground, with numerous players looking on in amazement at Wales' defiant stance.
The stand-off was eventually ceased by South African ref Jonathan Kaplan who ordered both sides to prepare for the start of the match.
Jones said as the All Blacks had the right to do the haka, their opposition also had the right to stand their own ground.
"We thought about it during the week," Jones said."Opposition teams always seem to walk away first. This is our home ground, our home pitch and we were determined to take the ground.
"It is part and parcel of it, we came out firing."
The loss has maintained Wales' 55-year failure since they last triumphed over the All Blacks.
Jones said he couldn't have asked for more from his charges or the way the Warren Gatland-heading coaching staff had prepared the team.
"We came out and certainly gave it everything," Jones said."We certainly pressured this team and I think we made it difficult for them for large periods. But the scoreboard says it was not good enough."
Richie McCaw and his triumphant All Blacks are now taking aim at England as they look to record just their third-ever successful Grand Slam campaign. The 29-9 win over a brave Wales at Millennium Stadium means the All Blacks are just one win away from the rare achievement.
They travel to England on Monday, ahead of next Sunday morning's showdown against the Martin Johnson-coached England at Twickenham.
England was on the receiving end of a 42-6 hammering at the hands of the Springboks shortly before the All Blacks/Wales clash kicked off. McCaw was a star turn for the men in black in their 20-point win over Wales. That included operating expertly in tandem with loose forward colleagues Jerome Kaino and Rodney So'oialo.
And the inspirational captain said the All Blacks were determined to end their season on a high.
"We came over here and knew that we had four tests over here," a confident McCaw said."It was never going to be easy. But if we do it right next week, get over this game, then there is nothing better than playing at Twickenham. We came over here to play four good tests and we are three-quarters of the way through. We will get over tonight, there will be some sore bodies, but we will look forward (to England). It is always a tough one in Twickenham, we will look forward to it."
It was anything but plain sailing for the All Blacks at Millennium Stadium. They went into halftime down 9-6 at the break, with the fired up Welsh dominating the attacking stakes in the first 40 minutes. Again it was the All Blacks' outstanding defence, which is yet to leak a test try on the UK leg of their season-ending tour, that shone.
The All Blacks then gained dominance in the second half, again keeping test opposition on tour scoreless in the second 40 minutes.
"We have been in those situations before this year," McCaw said."But we just had to keep our composure and perhaps there were times when we lost it a little bit in the first half. But we regrouped at halftime and there was a lot to play for. And occasions like this, in a stadium like this, are just awesome. We expected that (Wales' passionate start). They had us a little bit rattled just before halftime. But the composure held in the second half and we got on top of the game."
Veteran hooker Keven Mealamu said the opposition offered by Wales was by far the strongest the All Blacks had faced in the past three weeks in the UK. Part of a well-performing All Black line-out, he said it was a matter of soaking up the Welsh pressure while also building the foundations for the match-winning second 40 minutes.
"That first half was hard work," he said."We talked about it at halftime and knew we had to keep working hard. The boys did that. (In the second half) we had a bit more control. In the first half we were a little bit pushed and weren't playing the sort of rugby we are used to. Our defence always comes down to passion and the boys wanted to play for each other and played really well. It was a great way to finish."
Meanwhile, Welsh captain Ryan Jones said their reaction to the All Blacks' pre-match haka had helped fire up the hosts. Following the end of the haka, Wales stood arm-in-arm on their own side of the field and refused to be the first team to prepare for kick-off. The All Blacks also stood their own ground, with numerous players looking on in amazement at Wales' defiant stance.
The stand-off was eventually ceased by South African ref Jonathan Kaplan who ordered both sides to prepare for the start of the match.
Jones said as the All Blacks had the right to do the haka, their opposition also had the right to stand their own ground.
"We thought about it during the week," Jones said."Opposition teams always seem to walk away first. This is our home ground, our home pitch and we were determined to take the ground.
"It is part and parcel of it, we came out firing."
The loss has maintained Wales' 55-year failure since they last triumphed over the All Blacks.
Jones said he couldn't have asked for more from his charges or the way the Warren Gatland-heading coaching staff had prepared the team.
"We came out and certainly gave it everything," Jones said."We certainly pressured this team and I think we made it difficult for them for large periods. But the scoreboard says it was not good enough."
Saturday, November 22, 2008
ARC Website Update
New Audio: All Blacks VS Wales
First Half: http://www.arcrugby.co.nz/audio/68_first.mp3
Second Half: http://www.arcrugby.co.nz/audio/68_second.mp3
First Half: http://www.arcrugby.co.nz/audio/68_first.mp3
Second Half: http://www.arcrugby.co.nz/audio/68_second.mp3
Sublime McCaw undone only by IRB this year
http://www.rugbyheaven.co.nz/4770148a22363.html
By JIM KAYES in Cardiff, Fairfax Media
By JIM KAYES in Cardiff, Fairfax Media
Sunday, 23 November 2008
It has to be the question of the year. Why was Richie McCaw not nominated for the IRB's player of the year?
McCaw led the All Blacks for the 11th time this year and they won again on Sunday, this time a 29-9 victory against Wales at the Millennium Stadium. It continues a perfect run for the skipper as the All Blacks' two defeats came while he was out with an ankle injury.
That statistic and Sunday's test exemplify McCaw's qualities as a player and how he has developed as a leader. When the going gets tough – as it was against a spirited Wales – McCaw comes to the fore.
Without doing anything particularly special, McCaw was impressive on Sunday, picking up the man-of-the-match award. He was strong on defence, effective in short bursts with the ball and, as ever, a menace at the breakdown.
It is the same every time he plays. He never seems to have a bad game. And this year he has collected titles along with the way. As ever, there was the Super 14 trophy, then the Tri-Nations and Bledisloe Cup, and he spared some time to help Canterbury win the Air New Zealand Cup.
Now McCaw is a game away from leading the All Blacks to only their third Grand Slam. By most people's measure he has had another impressive year, yet not by the standards of the former internationals who apparently spent 47 hours watching 35 games to come up with a list of five finalists for Sunday night's awards dinner in London.
You have to wonder how they missed him. Daniel Carter, who won the title in 2005 and had a rather average game on Sunday but still contributed a valuable 19 points, will be at the swanky affair.
Shane Williams, the Welsh wing whose diminutive stature is in contrast to the massive contribution he made to Wales' Six Nations triumph, will be there too. The other finalists are Wales skipper captain Ryan Jones, Italian skipper Sergio Parisse and Scotland halfback Mike Blair.
They were picked by former internationals Tana Umaga, Raphaël Ibanez, Will Greenwood, Francois Pienaar, Agustin Pichot, Gavin Hastings, Scott Quinnell, Paul Wallace and convenor John Eales. The five were picked before the November tests and the winner will be selected from this month's games.
Carter and Williams are the favourites though neither gave their hopes much of a boost on Sunday. Carter kicked two penalties in the first half and had another bounce off the posts. Without standing out, he was tidy, kicking reasonably well and making the odd dab.
He was, by his standards, very subdued in the second half and lost the ball forward late in the match when the try was definitely on. Jones was Wales' main source of lineout ball and sound on defence while Williams had a couple of sparkling runs from the left wing in the first half, but did little in the second.
The trio were out shone by Jerome Kaino, Ma'a Nonu and Joe Rokocoko for the All Blacks, and fullback Lee Byrne, among several others, for Wales. And of course by McCaw, whose opposite on Sunday, Martyn Williams, said he was the best player in the world.
Strangely though, the judges didn't agree and McCaw won't have the chance on Monday to add to the title he collected two years ago.
Do you think it's a travesty that Richie McCaw isn't in the running to be IRB's player of the year? Post your comments below.
Friday, November 21, 2008
McCaw hits back at critics
http://www.allblacks.com/index.cfm?layout=displayNews&newsArticle=9188
Sportal.co.nz - 21/11/2008
All Blacks captain Richie McCaw has delivered an emphatic message to the critics who question his style of play. Bob Dwyer, Australia's 1991 World Cup-winning coach, recently weighed into McCaw with some outspoken comments published in the New Zealand media. Dwyer said McCaw effectively refereed Test matches he played in, and there appeared to be one law for New Zealand's openside flanker and one for every other player. But McCaw, who will lead the All Blacks into battle against Wales on Saturday, said:
"I don't even worry about it any more. I go into games believing I am doing what is the right thing. You do what you are allowed to. The breakdown is really simple when you look at the laws. But because it happens all at once, the referee is only able to look at one guy - he can't see everything. That is why I don't envy referees. They have got the power there, and you have got to adapt to how they are refereeing it quickly. If you do the best you can, you can be effective. The ruck is quite simple if you get it right. If you get across the advantage line, it's simple to see. When it becomes more of a wrestle, it turns into a bit of a lottery. You help yourself out by going forward."
McCaw will skipper New Zealand for a third time against Wales this weekend, with the All Blacks targeting their 20th successive victory since losing 13-8 in Cardiff 55 years ago. After disposing of Scotland and Ireland without conceding a try, McCaw and company are clear favourites to successfully complete the third stage of a potential grand slam tour. But the skipper believes reigning Six Nations champions Wales possesses the potential to make life difficult, and he knows the back-row contest will be a tough one.
McCaw added: "I have got a lot of respect for the Wales back row, especially Martyn Williams. He has been around a long time. The fella at No.8 [Andy Powell] is a big man, pretty good with ball in hand. As is the case with all good sides, if their front five functions, they have got the ability to run amok. Winning the Six Nations isn't easy. Wales have always had the ability. They can counter-attack pretty well, if you give them space, and score tries. I think they have shown that."
New Zealand's preparations, meanwhile, are not proving trouble-free, with hooker Corey Flynn ruled out of the Wales clash and next week's Twickenham showdown with England. Flynn suffered a fractured left arm during the All Blacks' 18-16 victory over Munster in Limerick on Tuesday night, and he will be replaced on the bench against Wales by Hikawera Elliott. All Blacks doctor Deb Robinson said: "Corey complained of soreness yesterday, and an X-ray in Cardiff yesterday evening confirmed that he has suffered a fracture to his left forearm."
Elsewhere, Tony Woodcock will start at loosehead prop against Wales after avoiding a ban following his disciplinary hearing in Dublin last night. Woodcock was cited for striking an opponent with his hand during New Zealand's 22-3 win against Ireland last weekend.He admitted committing an act of foul play, but International Rugby Board judicial officer Professor Lorne Crerar considered it did not warrant a red card and therefore no further sanction was appropriate.
Sportal.co.nz - 21/11/2008
All Blacks captain Richie McCaw has delivered an emphatic message to the critics who question his style of play. Bob Dwyer, Australia's 1991 World Cup-winning coach, recently weighed into McCaw with some outspoken comments published in the New Zealand media. Dwyer said McCaw effectively refereed Test matches he played in, and there appeared to be one law for New Zealand's openside flanker and one for every other player. But McCaw, who will lead the All Blacks into battle against Wales on Saturday, said:
"I don't even worry about it any more. I go into games believing I am doing what is the right thing. You do what you are allowed to. The breakdown is really simple when you look at the laws. But because it happens all at once, the referee is only able to look at one guy - he can't see everything. That is why I don't envy referees. They have got the power there, and you have got to adapt to how they are refereeing it quickly. If you do the best you can, you can be effective. The ruck is quite simple if you get it right. If you get across the advantage line, it's simple to see. When it becomes more of a wrestle, it turns into a bit of a lottery. You help yourself out by going forward."
McCaw will skipper New Zealand for a third time against Wales this weekend, with the All Blacks targeting their 20th successive victory since losing 13-8 in Cardiff 55 years ago. After disposing of Scotland and Ireland without conceding a try, McCaw and company are clear favourites to successfully complete the third stage of a potential grand slam tour. But the skipper believes reigning Six Nations champions Wales possesses the potential to make life difficult, and he knows the back-row contest will be a tough one.
McCaw added: "I have got a lot of respect for the Wales back row, especially Martyn Williams. He has been around a long time. The fella at No.8 [Andy Powell] is a big man, pretty good with ball in hand. As is the case with all good sides, if their front five functions, they have got the ability to run amok. Winning the Six Nations isn't easy. Wales have always had the ability. They can counter-attack pretty well, if you give them space, and score tries. I think they have shown that."
New Zealand's preparations, meanwhile, are not proving trouble-free, with hooker Corey Flynn ruled out of the Wales clash and next week's Twickenham showdown with England. Flynn suffered a fractured left arm during the All Blacks' 18-16 victory over Munster in Limerick on Tuesday night, and he will be replaced on the bench against Wales by Hikawera Elliott. All Blacks doctor Deb Robinson said: "Corey complained of soreness yesterday, and an X-ray in Cardiff yesterday evening confirmed that he has suffered a fracture to his left forearm."
Elsewhere, Tony Woodcock will start at loosehead prop against Wales after avoiding a ban following his disciplinary hearing in Dublin last night. Woodcock was cited for striking an opponent with his hand during New Zealand's 22-3 win against Ireland last weekend.He admitted committing an act of foul play, but International Rugby Board judicial officer Professor Lorne Crerar considered it did not warrant a red card and therefore no further sanction was appropriate.
Pix from Wales
adidas All Blacks Grass Roots Event : Anthony Boric of the All Blacks gives coaching to youngsters during the adidas All Blacks Grass Roots Event, on November 20, 2008 in Cardiff, Wales. (Photo by Getty Images for adidas) 
New Zealand Training & Press Conference : All Blacks in action during a New Zealand All Black training session at Sophia Gardens on November 20, 2008 in Cardiff, United Kingdom (Photo by Ross Land/Getty Images)
New Zealand Press Conference : New Zealand All Blacks arrive at Cardiff airport after a flight from Ireland on November 19, 2008 in Wales,
United Kingdom. (Photo by Ross Land/Getty Images) 
United Kingdom. (Photo by Ross Land/Getty Images) 
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