All Blacks v Wales Test #3
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Of the three 10s , I now see Barrett as the first one picked ,<br><br>Even if he comes off the bench , he is the one I least want to lose in the 23.
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<p>Though Crotty did nothing wrong, I would like to see a Ngatai - Moala combo in midfield. Crotty is solid in defense but does not bring much in attack because he is not fast nor strong enough. Ngatai's kicking and eye for the gap could be useful additions to an already deadly backline.</p>
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<blockquote class="ipsBlockquote" data-author="Mokey" data-cid="591634" data-time="1466850632">
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<p>Gatland has a lot of thinking to do - maybe it is time for some fresh blood in the coaching box.</p>
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<p>All got contracts through to 2019 :(</p> -
Did the selectors get it wrong not picking moala first up?
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<blockquote class="ipsBlockquote" data-author="MN5" data-cid="591666" data-time="1466852020"><p>Moala. Not only did he not attempt a stupid chip kick and get handed off like a bitch in the same movement, he also did some extremely good stuff.<br> <br>That boy sure looks like a keeper to me.</p></blockquote><br>And the fact that he plays wing as well , increases his value as a squad selection
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<blockquote class="ipsBlockquote" data-author="hydro11" data-cid="591669" data-time="1466852130"><p>Also Squire did enough to make the next squad. Didn't see much of Ofa.</p></blockquote>
Ofa tuungafasi was good at scrum time I thought<br><br><br>
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<blockquote class="ipsBlockquote" data-author="Billy Tell" data-cid="591680" data-time="1466852674">
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<p>Did the selectors get it wrong not picking moala first up?</p>
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<p>No. Earlier in the season he wasn't even making the Blues starting XV.</p>
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<p>To be honest, if everyone is available for the Championship, I'd expect them to pick SBW, Fekitoa, Crotty and Ngatai - in that order.</p> -
<blockquote class="ipsBlockquote" data-author="Billy Tell" data-cid="591680" data-time="1466852674"><p>Did the selectors get it wrong not picking moala first up?</p></blockquote><br>No<br><br>Consistency in selection is a hallmark of All Blacks policy over the past gazillion year's. We always respect the incumbents until they stop performing<br>in the test match arena, Fekitoa and Crotty were higher on the pecking order and deserved to start the series.<br>Our selection policies make our players know where they stand and give the players security.<br><br>Also I thought his performance was mixed. Overall yes he gets an 8 out of 10 and looks promising. But there was a bit of hungus about his play.<br>On his first line break he delayed his pass too long and then the moment was lost. Secondly on his first missed try he should have shovelled it along<br>the line or drawn and passed.<br><br>My humble opinion only.
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Months ago we had a thread on here with everyone putting their 23 out there. I had Moala in my 23 based on what I thought was a good performance last year in black, some improvements to his game and other personnel availability and form. <br><br>
His Super form however has been up and down. Moved positions a bit and in and out of the starting lineup. <br><br>
Tonight he looked sharp and I'm not sure it's because black is a slimming colour, but he looks to have dropped a few kegs around the midsection. <br><br>
As for what happens next, well I think he's still on the fringe so to speak. It was after all a 3rd test 'dead rubber'. The Welsh tactics of just kicking us ball really did help spring our boys into attack in broken play. That really wasn't a feature in the first 2 tests as the Welsh tried to keep ball in hand more. <br><br>
So I think the coaches will take those factors into consideration when comparing performances of certain players, particularly those on the fringe eg Moala, Tamanivalu, Dixon, Ofa, Squire, TJP. -
Some players take their opportunities, some don't. Moala has played well twice when given an AB chance and he also covers wing. The only midfielder guaranteed selection in the squad is SBW. Crotty, Moala, Seta, Fekitoa, Ngatai, Ioane will be fighting for 3 max 4 more spots. It's what helps keep NZ strong, no token selections.
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Sbw,ngatai combination I want to see as I think that will be lethal but crotty and moala did well <br><br><br>
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<blockquote class="ipsBlockquote" data-author="Mokey" data-cid="591784" data-time="1466856968"><p>Bugger.</p></blockquote>
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There's over one million signatures on an online petition to try to overturn the EU referendum. I reckon if they added "rescinding the new contracts offered to Howley and McBryde" to the list of demands, they might get even more signatures. -
Barrett was fantastic, best game in black. Led the team excellently around the track and showed great distance placement kicking from hand. Surprising, but woooo!<br><br>
Moala gets a bit lost once he makes a break, which is easily trained. Look to link earlier and find the space. He was very good I thought, handy defence too. <br><br>
Still not sold on Crotty...what's with the shitty chip kicks? Mind you wasn't just him. <br><br>
Delighted to see Read reemerge, getting back to his psycho body on the line self. The brothers Smith just keep finding another level. Dagg, how about that pace! <br><br>
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I still maintain there is little to be gained from a 3rd test and Wales had already checked out. Would far rather have seen ABs play Ireland or England. That said strong display from ABs, And a lot to like. Barrett is bigger and faster than Cruden and it really makes such a difference when he attacks the line or when he is covering at the back, if he keeps his kicking boots he should start imho. Moala had a powerful game though some work ones as far as decision making and distribution go. If he can't force his way in the team at center worth either a spot on the wing or the bench. Sam Cane is a tackling machine but still a way to go mentally, some bad decisions and lack of concentration with hands. Dixon and Squire belong at this level though the gap between Read and everyone else seems massive.
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<p>The next year or two is going to be interesting , </p>
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<p>While i am more than happy with our depth when everyone is available , </p>
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<p>Im no closer , perhaps even more confused to working out what our best backline is ,</p>
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<p>After the series compared to before </p>
