Wales vs NZ

by Guest Mon 17 Nov 2014 - 12:09

First topic message reminder :

Wales vs NZ - Page 3 10686940_10152559056293722_8429509000126913409_n

Team announced
15. Leigh Halfpenny (Toulon)
14. Alex Cuthbert (Cardiff Blues)
13. Jonathan Davies (Clermont Auvergne)
12. Jamie Roberts (Racing Metro)
11. George North (Northampton Saints)
10. Dan Biggar (Ospreys)
9. Rhys Webb (Ospreys)

1. Paul James (Bath)
2. Richard Hibbard (Gloucester)
3. Samson Lee (Scarlets)
4. Jake Ball (Scarlets)
5. Alun Wyn Jones (Ospreys)
6. Dan Lydiate (Unattached)
7. Sam Warburton (Cardiff Blues, CAPT)
8. Taulupe Faletau (Newport Gwent Dragons)

Replacements:
16. Scott Baldwin (Ospreys)
17. Nicky Smith (Ospreys)
18. Rhodri Jones (Scarlets)
19. Luke Charteris (Racing Metro)
20. Justin Tipuric (Ospreys)
21. Mike Phillips (Racing Metro)
22. James Hook (Gloucester)
23. Liam Williams (Scarlets)

by Cyril Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 10:14

SecretFly wrote:Oh...watched on Skype or something....

He arranged for Robbie Williams to do the Haka at the bedside.

by mckay1402 Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 10:44

gavstar wrote:my man of the moment is biggar 100%, BUT Henson is the magic man who has the crucial combination we are all seeking at 10, slight of hand ,drop shoulder glide pass, backed by a1 defence. also long range kicking no problem he did it this week, yes age on paper may be against him , but hours on the pitch show a different story. injured, between clubs, disputes, have all taken a substantial slice off the of the cumulative hours he would have put in . I reckon bringing him and owen Williams in as combo 10,12,15 cover for the future would be great news . he looked ace against Newcastle, working well within his limits but somehow managing to see that pass, slip that tackle , I'm in love with rugby again gav !!!!!!!

I would tend to agree with that. Don't care how old he is or what he's done in the past he's playing really well at the moment and would be a great asset to the welsh set up. I do agree that Owen Williams should also be in there but what about Shingler? I think people are overlooking him because of the Scotland shambles but he is still a quality 10. worth a look for sure.

by SecretFly Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 10:48

Cyril wrote:
SecretFly wrote:Oh...watched on Skype or something....
He arranged for Robbie Williams to do the Haka at the bedside.

Classy.

by Guest Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 11:02

mckay1402 wrote:
gavstar wrote:my man of the moment is biggar 100%, BUT Henson is the magic man who has the crucial combination we are all seeking at 10, slight of hand ,drop shoulder glide pass, backed by a1 defence. also long range kicking no problem he did it this week, yes age on paper may be against him , but hours on the pitch show a different story. injured, between clubs, disputes, have all taken a substantial slice off the of the cumulative hours he would have put in . I reckon bringing him and owen Williams in as combo 10,12,15 cover for the future would be great news . he looked ace against Newcastle, working well within his limits but somehow managing to see that pass, slip that tackle , I'm in love with rugby again gav !!!!!!!

I would tend to agree with that. Don't care how old he is or what he's done in the past he's playing really well at the moment and would be a great asset to the welsh set up. I do agree that Owen Williams should also be in there but what about Shingler? I think people are overlooking him because of the Scotland shambles but he is still a quality 10. worth a look for sure.

Shingler has to compete with the other 10s, IMO Patchell has probably the most potential, he can attack the line, has pace and can kick long range goal kicks.

Still needs to work on his defence and sometimes his kicking out of hand is inconsistent.

by jimmyinthewell68 Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 11:18

Some 15s can play at 10 or vice verser , has half penny or liam Williams ever played there for a club

by The Saint Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 11:19

Shingler isn't that good, probably club standard at best. And yes if he was good enough I think he should be overlooked because of the Scotland shambles, and what a shambles that whole scenario was.

by mckay1402 Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 11:31

The Saint wrote:Shingler isn't that good, probably club standard at best. And yes if he was good enough I think he should be overlooked because of the Scotland shambles, and what a shambles that whole scenario was.

He was a young player who was offered the chance to play international rugby. He was badly advised. Bit harsh to hold it against him for the rest of his career

by bedfordwelsh Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 12:38

IronMike wrote:
mckay1402 wrote:
gavstar wrote:my man of the moment is biggar 100%, BUT Henson is the magic man who has the crucial combination we are all seeking at 10, slight of hand ,drop shoulder glide pass, backed by a1 defence. also long range kicking no problem he did it this week, yes age on paper may be against him , but hours on the pitch show a different story. injured, between clubs, disputes, have all taken a substantial slice off the of the cumulative hours he would have put in . I reckon bringing him and owen Williams in as combo 10,12,15 cover for the future would be great news . he looked ace against Newcastle, working well within his limits but somehow managing to see that pass, slip that tackle , I'm in love with rugby again gav !!!!!!!

I would tend to agree with that. Don't care how old he is or what he's done in the past he's playing really well at the moment and would be a great asset to the welsh set up. I do agree that Owen Williams should also be in there but what about Shingler? I think people are overlooking him because of the Scotland shambles but he is still a quality 10. worth a look for sure.

Shingler has to compete with the other 10s, IMO Patchell has probably the most potential, he can attack the line, has pace and can kick long range goal kicks.

Still needs to work on his defence and sometimes his kicking out of hand is inconsistent.

IM,

It doesn't seem that Anscombe will have to compete with others, I have a horrible felling he will be rushed into the set up (already in line for a DC) sooner rather than later.

What message will that then send out to the likes of Patchell?

by aucklandlaurie Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 12:45

bedfordwelsh wrote:
IronMike wrote:
mckay1402 wrote:
gavstar wrote:my man of the moment is biggar 100%, BUT Henson is the magic man who has the crucial combination we are all seeking at 10, slight of hand ,drop shoulder glide pass, backed by a1 defence. also long range kicking no problem he did it this week, yes age on paper may be against him , but hours on the pitch show a different story. injured, between clubs, disputes, have all taken a substantial slice off the of the cumulative hours he would have put in . I reckon bringing him and owen Williams in as combo 10,12,15 cover for the future would be great news . he looked ace against Newcastle, working well within his limits but somehow managing to see that pass, slip that tackle , I'm in love with rugby again gav !!!!!!!

I would tend to agree with that. Don't care how old he is or what he's done in the past he's playing really well at the moment and would be a great asset to the welsh set up. I do agree that Owen Williams should also be in there but what about Shingler? I think people are overlooking him because of the Scotland shambles but he is still a quality 10. worth a look for sure.

Shingler has to compete with the other 10s, IMO Patchell has probably the most potential, he can attack the line, has pace and can kick long range goal kicks.

Still needs to work on his defence and sometimes his kicking out of hand is inconsistent.

IM,

It doesn't seem that Anscombe will have to compete with others, I have a horrible felling he will be rushed into the set up (already in line for a DC) sooner rather than later.

What message will that then send out to the likes of Patchell?

Whars a DC?

by bedfordwelsh Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 12:47

Laurie,

Dual Contract that the WRU and Regions have come up with for trying to keep our players in Wales.

by Guest Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 12:49

I guess Patchell can either knuckle down and work his socks off to the point where he cannot be ignored like Biggar, or become a very steady club player at the Blues, like a Stephen Myler.

by rainbow-warrior Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 12:53

aucklandlaurie wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:
IronMike wrote:
mckay1402 wrote:
gavstar wrote:my man of the moment is biggar 100%, BUT Henson is the magic man who has the crucial combination we are all seeking at 10, slight of hand ,drop shoulder glide pass, backed by a1 defence. also long range kicking no problem he did it this week, yes age on paper may be against him , but hours on the pitch show a different story. injured, between clubs, disputes, have all taken a substantial slice off the of the cumulative hours he would have put in . I reckon bringing him and owen Williams in as combo 10,12,15 cover for the future would be great news . he looked ace against Newcastle, working well within his limits but somehow managing to see that pass, slip that tackle , I'm in love with rugby again gav !!!!!!!

I would tend to agree with that. Don't care how old he is or what he's done in the past he's playing really well at the moment and would be a great asset to the welsh set up. I do agree that Owen Williams should also be in there but what about Shingler? I think people are overlooking him because of the Scotland shambles but he is still a quality 10. worth a look for sure.

Shingler has to compete with the other 10s, IMO Patchell has probably the most potential, he can attack the line, has pace and can kick long range goal kicks.

Still needs to work on his defence and sometimes his kicking out of hand is inconsistent.

IM,

It doesn't seem that Anscombe will have to compete with others, I have a horrible felling he will be rushed into the set up (already in line for a DC) sooner rather than later.

What message will that then send out to the likes of Patchell?

Whars a DC?

Nothing against Anscombe playing for Wales, he has a Welsh mam after all. I do not like this fast tracking and his form in NZ was nothing to write home about. He should be judged on merit although I guess he will be part of the 6 Nations squad and get a few games as he will in the few pre world cup tests we will have. I d believe the 'blue eyes boys of Warran' has to come to an end and he has to pick entirely on merit and form.

by aucklandlaurie Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 12:57

bedfordwelsh wrote:Laurie,

Dual Contract that the WRU and Regions have come up with for trying to keep our players in Wales.

Thanks Bedford I'd never have known. Surely the best way to keep him in Wales is for Gatty to select him for Wales and put him out on the field?

I ve alsways liked him as a player, he has always been a part of Auckland rugby growing up, and his Dad has always been a solid stalwart for both Provincial and club rugby.

by bedfordwelsh Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 12:57

rainbow-warrior wrote:
aucklandlaurie wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:
IronMike wrote:
mckay1402 wrote:
gavstar wrote:my man of the moment is biggar 100%, BUT Henson is the magic man who has the crucial combination we are all seeking at 10, slight of hand ,drop shoulder glide pass, backed by a1 defence. also long range kicking no problem he did it this week, yes age on paper may be against him , but hours on the pitch show a different story. injured, between clubs, disputes, have all taken a substantial slice off the of the cumulative hours he would have put in . I reckon bringing him and owen Williams in as combo 10,12,15 cover for the future would be great news . he looked ace against Newcastle, working well within his limits but somehow managing to see that pass, slip that tackle , I'm in love with rugby again gav !!!!!!!

I would tend to agree with that. Don't care how old he is or what he's done in the past he's playing really well at the moment and would be a great asset to the welsh set up. I do agree that Owen Williams should also be in there but what about Shingler? I think people are overlooking him because of the Scotland shambles but he is still a quality 10. worth a look for sure.

Shingler has to compete with the other 10s, IMO Patchell has probably the most potential, he can attack the line, has pace and can kick long range goal kicks.

Still needs to work on his defence and sometimes his kicking out of hand is inconsistent.

IM,

It doesn't seem that Anscombe will have to compete with others, I have a horrible felling he will be rushed into the set up (already in line for a DC) sooner rather than later.

What message will that then send out to the likes of Patchell?

Whars a DC?

Nothing against Anscombe playing for Wales, he has a Welsh mam after all. I do not like this fast tracking and his form in NZ was nothing to write home about. He should be judged on merit although I guess he will be part of the 6 Nations squad and get a few games as he will in the few pre world cup tests we will have. I d believe the 'blue eyes boys of Warran' has to come to an end and he has to pick entirely on merit and form.

RW,

Like yourself I have nothing against him coming here and proving himself but I totally dis-agree with this fast tracking and him getting a DC over someone like Patchell as for me it sends out the totally wrong message.

I still think Gatland has his 'blue eyed boys' though. Jenkins would have been involved if not injured and he used a coaches BS excuse about Liam Williams carrying a knock which allowed him to bring Halfpenny straight back into the team after an injury of his own.

by The Saint Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 13:02

mckay1402 wrote:
The Saint wrote:Shingler isn't that good, probably club standard at best. And yes if he was good enough I think he should be overlooked because of the Scotland shambles, and what a shambles that whole scenario was.

He was a young player who was offered the chance to play international rugby. He was badly advised. Bit harsh to hold it against him for the rest of his career

I don't see how it is, he wasn't forced to do it. If he had broken the rules it could have been worse for him and our union.

by bedfordwelsh Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 13:08

aucklandlaurie wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:Laurie,

Dual Contract that the WRU and Regions have come up with for trying to keep our players in Wales.

Thanks Bedford I'd never have known. Surely the best way to keep him in Wales is for Gatty to select him for Wales and put him out on the field?

I ve alsways liked him as a player, he has always been a part of Auckland rugby growing up, and his Dad has always been a solid stalwart for both Provincial and club rugby.

Laurie,

I just think he should prove himself here as well rather than just waltzing straight in ahead of players already in the system. We went through that years back with Henry when the like of JJ Hughes, Marinos and Luscombe (not to mention Harris, Howarth and Sinkinson) were all brought hear and then rushed into the set up.

by aucklandlaurie Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 13:25

He is probably due for a good rest, he's just completed a full season of super XV and ITM, trial games commenced in January, thats not far off a year.

by Taylorman Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 20:51

SecretFly wrote:Oh...watched on Skype or something....

disney channel...

by Seagultaf Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 21:46

No9 wrote:With Gethin being injured, the only surprise there is Priestland dropped and Hook on the bench. Otherwise, its the exact team most predicted... Unfortunatly, reckon the ABs predicted this as well

Saying that, apart from the discussed option of Liam at 15 and Halfpenny to wing, not sure there was that many options.

Think Scott Williams can be duly gutted to be dropped for a untested Davies in such a big game.

The only reason that Hook is on the bench is that he will cover 10 and centre where JD2 is only expected to play 60mins. If Davies was fully fit or if Scott Williams had been picked at centre, then Priestland would be on the bench. Lets hope Biggar does not get injured and JD2 lasts longer than Gatlnad expects!

by Taylorman Wed 19 Nov 2014 - 23:42

bedfordwelsh wrote:
aucklandlaurie wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:Laurie,

Dual Contract that the WRU and Regions have come up with for trying to keep our players in Wales.

Thanks Bedford I'd never have known. Surely the best way to keep him in Wales is for Gatty to select him for Wales and put him out on the field?

I ve alsways liked him as a player, he has always been a part of Auckland rugby growing up, and his Dad has always been a solid stalwart for both Provincial and club rugby.

Laurie,

I just think he should prove himself here as well rather than just waltzing straight in ahead of players already in the system. We went through that years back with Henry when the like of JJ Hughes, Marinos and Luscombe (not to mention Harris, Howarth and Sinkinson) were all brought hear and then rushed into the set up.

Yes he should at least be playing club rugby first. I like him as a player, just can't work out if he's best at Fullback or 10. He went well at FB for the Chiefs and I always thought he should be playing test rugby. Has very good instincts and can create from nothing.

by blackcanelion Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 4:03

AB's named. Standard lineup. Big calls are Barrett at 10, Williams at 12, Piutau u at 14 and B Smith at 15.

by blackcanelion Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 4:05

Reserves surprises are Moody and Faumuina at prop, Tuipolotu at Lock, Slade and Crotty in the backs.

No Carter, Cruden or Dagg......

No B Franks, Thrush or Romano in the forwards.

by blackcanelion Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 5:03

Here's the NZ heralds article:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=11361764

Barrett gets nod for All Blacks

By Patrick McKendry in Cardiff

Warren Gatland was right - Beauden Barrett will start at first-five for the All Blacks against Wales on Sunday morning.

Wales coach Gatland was keen during his midweek press conference to state Barrett would get the nod over Aaron Cruden, Dan Carter and Colin Slade, but his opposite Steve Hansen, a fellow New Zealander, has shrugged off the attempt at gaining the upper hand by saying: "I don't care - he still has to stop us. We have to stop what they do. You can get caught up in it."

Hansen, who appeared relaxed when announcing the team to the New Zealand media in Cardiff ahead of the test against his former team at the Millennium Stadium, said Barrett deserved his shot ahead of the others despite having played only about 25 minutes in the past three weeks.

The other key selection was fullback and right wing, with Ben Smith and Charles Piutau winning those respective positions. Israel Dagg has been left out of the squad.

Barrett, who last started a test on October 18 against Australia in Brisbane, wasn't required for the test against the USA in Chicago, played the final quarter against England at Twickenham, and again wasn't named in the squad for Scotland at Murrayfield last weekend. This is a big opportunity to consolidate himself over Cruden in the pecking order.

Cruden started against the USA and England, with Carter starting against the Scots, where his lack of recent game time showed in a rusty performance.

"We've seen Crudes on this tour in one of the big games against England and we wanted to see Beauden against one as well," said Hansen.

The versatile and in-form Slade will provide cover at No10 on the reserves bench, with neither Cruden nor Carter required there.

"We're using this tour to find out more about the guys we've got and previously we've shown that when we've picked Beauden it's difficult for Crudes to come off the bench because we don't think he's got enough versatility," Hansen said.

Asked if he had considered putting Carter on the bench, Hansen said: "If he had come through the other day probably a little bit better he might have been on the bench but it's impossible to ask a guy who has played the amount of rugby he's had to not be rusty.

"For him it's great that he's got confidence that his body is right, we've got confidence his body is right. He just needs to go home now and play some Super Rugby and lots of it."

Hansen said of Piutau, back in top form following his knee injury suffered while playing for the Blues this year: "Charlie is someone last year who took the international stage by storm, injured himself and took a long time to come back. In fact it took a little while once he did come back to find his confidence. We saw enough in the Scotland game to say 'let's see what he looks like against the big boys'. Once we did that, Ben had to go back to fullback and unfortunately Izzy missed out."

Hansen said he had had no hesitation in selecting Sonny Bill Williams and Conrad Smith, both whom have undergone significant events off the field, in the midfield. Williams became a father for the first time during the week and Smith returned from a flying visit home to deal with a personal issue.

All Blacks team to play Wales at Millennium Stadium on Sunday, kick-off 6.30am NZT is: Ben Smith, Charles Piutau, Conrad Smith, Sonny Bill Williams, Julian Savea, Beauden Barrett, Aaron Smith, Kieran Read, Richie McCaw (C), Jerome Kaino, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Owen Franks, Dane Coles, Wyatt Crockett. Reserves: Keven Mealamu, Joe Moody, Charlie Faumuina, Patrick Tuipulotu, Liam Messam, TJ Perenara, Colin Slade, Ryan Crotty.

by blackcanelion Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 5:15

My take on it. It's close to top. I think Barrett is playing because he's hardly played on tour, SBW, Piatau and Ben Smith are there as part of the bedding in process. I think the same goes for many of the reserves. I think it's a chance to see Moody and Tuipolotu against a good 6 nations side, and a chance to see how Slade and Crotty go. I wouldn't be surprised to see the backline change around a bit as Most of the players can cover multiple positions. It'll be interesting to see how the AB's manage things in the last 30 minutes.

by Luckless Pedestrian Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 7:05

bedfordwelsh wrote:It doesn't seem that Anscombe will have to compete with others, I have a horrible felling he will be rushed into the set up (already in line for a DC) sooner rather than later.

What message will that then send out to the likes of Patchell?

The message is, if you were up to standard, we wouldn't need to fast-track anyone.

I don't have a problem with it. Anscombe's mum is Welsh, he's eligible to play, let's get the best players on the pitch.

by offload Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 7:17

Webb has rightly got the starting Jersey at 9. Just wish he didn't feel the need to mouth off. NZ "there for the taking" ? Really. Confidence is one thing.....

by bedfordwelsh Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 8:16

Luckless Pedestrian wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:It doesn't seem that Anscombe will have to compete with others, I have a horrible felling he will be rushed into the set up (already in line for a DC) sooner rather than later.

What message will that then send out to the likes of Patchell?

The message is, if you were up to standard, we wouldn't need to fast-track anyone.

I don't have a problem with it. Anscombe's mum is Welsh, he's eligible to play, let's get the best players on the pitch.

LP,

I not got a problem with him coming over here and proving himself but let him to that first. Not wanting to be rude or anything as unsure of your age Wink

but if like me you remember the whole JJ Hughes affair he was fats tracked over here as the new messiah and well look how that worked out.

by Guest Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 8:31

offload wrote:Webb has rightly got the starting Jersey at 9. Just wish he didn't feel the need to mouth off. NZ "there for the taking" ? Really. Confidence is one thing.....

They might be there for the taking if they're struck down with the Norovirus Run

by maestegmafia Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 8:51

bedfordwelsh wrote:
Luckless Pedestrian wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:It doesn't seem that Anscombe will have to compete with others, I have a horrible felling he will be rushed into the set up (already in line for a DC) sooner rather than later.

What message will that then send out to the likes of Patchell?

The message is, if you were up to standard, we wouldn't need to fast-track anyone.

I don't have a problem with it. Anscombe's mum is Welsh, he's eligible to play, let's get the best players on the pitch.

LP,

I not got a problem with him coming over here and proving himself but let him to that first. Not wanting to be rude or anything as unsure of your age but if like me you remember the whole JJ Hughes affair he was fats tracked over here as the new messiah and well look how that worked out.

I think we all agree that proving yourself in new Zealand is probably a lot harder than proving yourself in Wales. Why does he have to do more If we need him next week then we need him.

I think it is good to make the competition for spots tougher, makes players like Patchel work harder.

by disneychilly Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 9:10

NZ is always there for the taking. You've just got to be good enough.

4-9 are our first choice no doubt and are ridiculous. If Carter had played better last week I'd have started him with Barrett on the bench but he played the worst in black I'd seen him. Can see Hansen's logic-Barrett hasn't really done much wrong. I do see him as having better impact off the bench though. I like Romano but can also see why Tuipolutu is there as he can run amok if the game opens up. Slade to be honest deserves his spot and well done to the guy. Crotty can cover more and is more level headed than Fekitoa but we lack a line buster on the bench. Mind you if the guy playing 12 does the full 80 along with the guy playing 11 we should be right.

by bedfordwelsh Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 9:15

maestegmafia wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:
Luckless Pedestrian wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:It doesn't seem that Anscombe will have to compete with others, I have a horrible felling he will be rushed into the set up (already in line for a DC) sooner rather than later.

What message will that then send out to the likes of Patchell?

The message is, if you were up to standard, we wouldn't need to fast-track anyone.

I don't have a problem with it. Anscombe's mum is Welsh, he's eligible to play, let's get the best players on the pitch.

LP,

I not got a problem with him coming over here and proving himself but let him to that first. Not wanting to be rude or anything as unsure of your age but if like me you remember the whole JJ Hughes affair he was fats tracked over here as the new messiah and well look how that worked out.

I think we all agree that proving yourself in new Zealand is probably a lot harder than proving yourself in Wales. Why does he have to do more If we need him next week then we need him.

I think it is good to make the competition for spots tougher, makes players like Patchel work harder.

Again for those at can remember I refer back to the JJ Hughes affair haven't we learnt our lessons? Obviously not.

by Guest Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 9:25

disneychilly wrote:NZ is always there for the taking. You've just got to be good enough.
.

True

This is more like what he said. I don't think it's too bad really, just the headline makers and readers make something out of it. It's much like Fiji probably saw us as there to be taken.

Rhys Webb wrote:
“They are a world-class team, top of the rankings at the moment, but I think they are to be taken as well,” declared the in-form Ospreys star.

“Australia nearly pipped them, Scotland put a real tough performance against them. They’ve been getting a bit flustered when people have been going at them.

“You have got to be physical with them. If we can play our game plan and not take a backward step and really get into them, I think we can put on a good show.

“It excites me, really. You want to test yourself against the best teams in the world.

“I’ve been given the chance this weekend, and it’s a dream come true after so many years of watching the All Blacks on the television and basically just admiring the way they play and the philosophy they have in their camp of winning games.

“They are a special team, and to be given the chance to play against them this weekend is something I am really looking forward to.”

by blackcanelion Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 9:46

Just reposting the lineup:

15. Ben Smith
14. Charles Piutau
13. Conrad Smith
12. Sonny Bill Williams
11. Julian Savea
10. Beauden Barrett
9. Aaron Smith
8. Kieran Read
7. Richie McCaw (C)
6. Jerome Kaino
5. Sam Whitelock
4. Brodie Retallick
3. Owen Franks
2. Dane Coles
1. Wyatt Crockett

Reserves:
16. Keven Mealamu
17. Joe Moody
18. Charlie Faumuina
19. Patrick Tuipulotu
20. Liam Messam
21. TJ Perenara
22. Colin Slade
23. Ryan Crotty

by Guest Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 11:16

'They're there for the taking' has connotations in sport.

by bedfordwelsh Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 12:29

15. Ben Smith 37
14. Charles Piutau 13
13. Conrad Smith 84
12. Sonny Bill Williams 22
11. Julian Savea 32
10. Beauden Barrett 27
9. Aaron Smith 37
8. Kieran Read 71
7. Richie McCaw (C) 136
6. Jerome Kaino 55
5. Sam Whitelock 61
4. Brodie Retallick 35
3. Owen Franks66
2. Dane Coles 26
1. Wyatt Crockett 35

Halfpenny 53
North 44
JD 41
Roberts 62
Cuthbert 28

Biggar 26
Webb 7

Lydiate 39
Faletau 38
Warburton 47
Ball 6
AWJ 82
James 56
Hibbard 32
Lee 7

Just a quick comparison in caps and experience between the two side the ABs have 737 caps whilst Wales themselves have 568.

Neither side are short on experience but we just not in the same league as thew ABs when it comes to securing wins and taking chances.

In the past certain individuals in the Welsh set up have come in for more than their fair share of stick but when you look at the experience in our side we should be doing a lot better than we have done

by BamBam Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 12:43

disneychilly wrote:NZ is always there for the taking. You've just got to be good enough.

4-9 are our first choice no doubt and are ridiculous. If Carter had played better last week I'd have started him with Barrett on the bench but he played the worst in black I'd seen him. Can see Hansen's logic-Barrett hasn't really done much wrong. I do see him as having better impact off the bench though. I like Romano but can also see why Tuipolutu is there as he can run amok if the game opens up. Slade to be honest deserves his spot and well done to the guy. Crotty can cover more and is more level headed than Fekitoa but we lack a line buster on the bench. Mind you if the guy playing 12 does the full 80 along with the guy playing 11 we should be right.

BIB - Try being an England fan seeing Farrell and Barritt in midfield !!!! steam

by Guest Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 16:37

George North has 44 caps, for his age that's remarkable. He could well break the test record if he maintains his form into his early 30s

by offload Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 17:21

IronMike wrote:George North has 44 caps, for his age that's remarkable. He could well break the test record if he maintains his form into his early 30s

Yes - just goes to show how much test rugby is played these days. His debut for Wales was almost exactly 4 years ago.

by bedfordwelsh Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 17:27

IM,

When you think that Faletau is under 25 still they could both get a shed load still in fact the average age of our back line is still only 25, take Doc out the equation and it drops even more.

That's what I mean by how experienced this side actually is but we can't seem to follow it through. If we were to drop some of these players its not as if we would be replacing them with anyone more experienced.

by Taylorman Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 18:06

Picked the side bar Barrett who Hansen said was always going to tandem Cruden vs England and Wales. Carter's proved he needs more grassroots rugby before he can perform at this level again. Having to watch this match will spur his summer on.

Not sold on Barrett as starting 10 after Ellis and I think Hansen's still undecided on that one. Cruden will feature prominently next year with SBW and a stronger Chiefs side where I think the Canes are really going to struggle if the Wellington side is most of the squad.

Piataus worked hard to get back and if he gets stronger we'll have a strong back 3. Wales will do well to keep up with this side.

by maestegmafia Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 18:12

bedfordwelsh wrote:
maestegmafia wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:
Luckless Pedestrian wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:It doesn't seem that Anscombe will have to compete with others, I have a horrible felling he will be rushed into the set up (already in line for a DC) sooner rather than later.

What message will that then send out to the likes of Patchell?

The message is, if you were up to standard, we wouldn't need to fast-track anyone.

I don't have a problem with it. Anscombe's mum is Welsh, he's eligible to play, let's get the best players on the pitch.

LP,

I not got a problem with him coming over here and proving himself but let him to that first. Not wanting to be rude or anything as unsure of your age but if like me you remember the whole JJ Hughes affair he was fats tracked over here as the new messiah and well look how that worked out.

I think we all agree that proving yourself in new Zealand is probably a lot harder than proving yourself in Wales. Why does he have to do more If we need him next week then we need him.

I think it is good to make the competition for spots tougher, makes players like Patchel work harder.

Again for those at can remember I refer back to the JJ Hughes affair haven't we learnt our lessons? Obviously not.

JJ Hughes was an Aussie not a kiwi. Very different story.

by bedfordwelsh Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 19:14

maestegmafia wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:
maestegmafia wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:
Luckless Pedestrian wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:It doesn't seem that Anscombe will have to compete with others, I have a horrible felling he will be rushed into the set up (already in line for a DC) sooner rather than later.

What message will that then send out to the likes of Patchell?

The message is, if you were up to standard, we wouldn't need to fast-track anyone.

I don't have a problem with it. Anscombe's mum is Welsh, he's eligible to play, let's get the best players on the pitch.

LP,

I not got a problem with him coming over here and proving himself but let him to that first. Not wanting to be rude or anything as unsure of your age but if like me you remember the whole JJ Hughes affair he was fats tracked over here as the new messiah and well look how that worked out.

I think we all agree that proving yourself in new Zealand is probably a lot harder than proving yourself in Wales. Why does he have to do more If we need him next week then we need him.

I think it is good to make the competition for spots tougher, makes players like Patchel work harder.

Again for those at can remember I refer back to the JJ Hughes affair haven't we learnt our lessons? Obviously not.

JJ Hughes was an Aussie not a kiwi. Very different story.

So just because he's a kiwi he has a god given right to be brilliant and walk into any team that wants him does he? If he was that good then he would be in the ABs squad and wouldn't give a monkeys about playing for Wales.

by No9 Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 19:23

McCaw's 100th cap.... What a pity that will be marred with the 4th loss to Wales... Whistle

by Luckless Pedestrian Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 20:07

bedfordwelsh wrote:
Luckless Pedestrian wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:It doesn't seem that Anscombe will have to compete with others, I have a horrible felling he will be rushed into the set up (already in line for a DC) sooner rather than later.

What message will that then send out to the likes of Patchell?

The message is, if you were up to standard, we wouldn't need to fast-track anyone.

I don't have a problem with it. Anscombe's mum is Welsh, he's eligible to play, let's get the best players on the pitch.

LP,

I not got a problem with him coming over here and proving himself but let him to that first. Not wanting to be rude or anything as unsure of your age but if like me you remember the whole JJ Hughes affair he was fats tracked over here as the new messiah and well look how that worked out.

The point is that if we were overflowing with Test-standard outside halves in Wales, we wouldn't be bringing Anscome over because we wouldn't need him. Needs must. No offence, but Jason Jones-Hughes has nothing to do with it.

by Taylorman Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 20:07

No9 wrote:McCaw's 100th cap.... What a pity that will be marred with the 4th loss to Wales...

100th as Captain...2 points made and both wrong... Whistle

by Guest Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 20:12

It might be his 88th win as captain. I read during the week that the ABs want to honour McCaw the only way they can. No fancy presentations or speaches. Just by playing out of their skins. I think Wales are there for the taking, if you catch my drift Wink

by Taylorman Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 20:18

On paper this AB side looks one of the best ever fielded but for some reason similar sides like it haven't really fired. Still rather see Cruden there as he has a better knack on the line and with SBW so seeing that pairing is a missed opportunity.

Next year Hansen's going to have to start establishing his 10 as Barrett and Cruden are very different and its about continuity. Part of our problem since England is ever changing 10's and midfield- everyone's had a go. Cruden and Nonu's absences have certainly upset the rhythm.

by Guest Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 20:22

Not feeling confident at all (never do against the ABs). Ok, I'll be the honest pessimist and come out and say what I think: I think we might get mullered. As in a 20 point plus loss. Sorry.

by Guest Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 20:41

Luckless Pedestrian wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:
Luckless Pedestrian wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:It doesn't seem that Anscombe will have to compete with others, I have a horrible felling he will be rushed into the set up (already in line for a DC) sooner rather than later.

What message will that then send out to the likes of Patchell?

The message is, if you were up to standard, we wouldn't need to fast-track anyone.

I don't have a problem with it. Anscombe's mum is Welsh, he's eligible to play, let's get the best players on the pitch.

LP,

I not got a problem with him coming over here and proving himself but let him to that first. Not wanting to be rude or anything as unsure of your age but if like me you remember the whole JJ Hughes affair he was fats tracked over here as the new messiah and well look how that worked out.

The point is that if we were overflowing with Test-standard outside halves in Wales, we wouldn't be bringing Anscome over because we wouldn't need him. Needs must. No offence, but Jason Jones-Hughes has nothing to do with it.

Is he really test quality though? Nobody knows, his form at the Hurricanes meant he wasn't getting near the All Blacks jersey.

I'm chuffed that he's coming to the Blues because we do genuinely lack depth at 10 and 15, but he cannot just get fast tracked into test rugby. Give him some caps off the bench in the 6 Nations if his form is actually better than other players.

by bedfordwelsh Thu 20 Nov 2014 - 21:10

IronMike wrote:
Luckless Pedestrian wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:
Luckless Pedestrian wrote:
bedfordwelsh wrote:It doesn't seem that Anscombe will have to compete with others, I have a horrible felling he will be rushed into the set up (already in line for a DC) sooner rather than later.

What message will that then send out to the likes of Patchell?

The message is, if you were up to standard, we wouldn't need to fast-track anyone.

I don't have a problem with it. Anscombe's mum is Welsh, he's eligible to play, let's get the best players on the pitch.

LP,

I not got a problem with him coming over here and proving himself but let him to that first. Not wanting to be rude or anything as unsure of your age but if like me you remember the whole JJ Hughes affair he was fats tracked over here as the new messiah and well look how that worked out.

The point is that if we were overflowing with Test-standard outside halves in Wales, we wouldn't be bringing Anscome over because we wouldn't need him. Needs must. No offence, but Jason Jones-Hughes has nothing to do with it.

Is he really test quality though? Nobody knows, his form at the Hurricanes meant he wasn't getting near the All Blacks jersey.

I'm chuffed that he's coming to the Blues because we do genuinely lack depth at 10 and 15, but he cannot just get fast tracked into test rugby. Give him some caps off the bench in the 6 Nations if his form is actually better than other players.

LP,

I not got a problem with him coming over here and I not got a problem with him playing for Wales BUT what I do have a problem with is the way he has just been, if rumours are true been handed a DC without even pulling on a Blues shirt and then more than likely walking straight into the Welsh side.

As Iron Mike said we don't really know if he's test quality and of course Hughes is relevant as he was brought here and thrust upon the Welsh scene supposedly being this great SH star and he done nothing really. If Anscombe set the Guinness alight with fantastic performances for the Blues or even performances better than what the current Welsh No10s are doing then like said I have not got a problem with it but let him produce the goods firat.

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