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'Abysmal': Buck Shelford slams All Blacks' skills
By Chris Jones
Sir Buck Shelford has slammed the All Blacks as they prepare for the deciding test with Ireland in Wellington delivering a withering verdict on the team’s 23-12 defeat in Dunedin that squared the series.
The manner of the defeat left one of the greatest ever All Blacks questioning the skills of the players and this will add to the pressure the team is facing as they head into the third test of a series that started with their 42-19 thumping win. However, Ireland bounced back in Dunedin aided by the All Blacks being reduced to 14 men following the red card for prop Angus Ta’avao.
Shelford was reported by Stuff saying: “We haven't upped our game, in terms of our backs' attack. Our catching and passing, at times, is horrific. For guys of this calibre, I just think it is abysmal.
"We didn't lose by much but it was the way we lost. The turnover rate, the stupid penalties we gave away. Our discipline was terrible."
The former captain has also been left unimpressed by the tactics and selections of head coach Ian Foster who has been given a contract to take the team to the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. The Irish defeat saw the All Blacks drop to fourth in the World rankings – their lowest ever position. He said: "It is a hell of a job but he put his name forward for it. One of the things I thought when Mr Foster got the job was 'what are we going to see that we haven't seen before?' And, to me, not a lot has changed.”
Shelford also pointed out a tactic being used by Ireland he wants the officials to deal with."They [Ireland] are playing quite smart. When they go in for the tackle they always roll out our side of the ruck, trying to slow the ball down.
"We need to tell the referee 'they are rolling out on our side all the time'."
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Latest Comments
Willie will always be the most missed player for me once he retires. He wasn't interested in scoring tries. The ultimate team player. Has the most assists in tries in the Bok team, and his kicks always spot on, at least 95% of the time. He reads the game like no other player can. He wasn't flashy, and people didn't notice him because of that. Great rugby head and knowledge. He should be catapulted into an assistant coach in the rugby system. He should really consider coaching.
Damian Willemse is an excellent fullback and he is the number 1 fullback. He can play the entire backline positions, except maybe 9, but I'm sure he would be able too if he wanted. No one is taking that away from him, only stand in while he is injured. He is world class and you don't swap that out. He also got wicked dancing feet, great eye for openings, and reads a game like few can, like Willie Le Roux. Also very strong on his feet, with absolute great hands and his kicking game is just as good.
As for Aphelele Fassi. What a great find and he has exceptional talent that Rassie will mould into a world class player. Yet.... He is nowhere even close to Damien Willemse. He has a long way to go to get there, but he is surrounded by great team mates from who he will gain lots of advice and support. He can play wing and fullback and Rassie may just try him out as a flyhalf or centre too. He has the abilities to expand his game. He is for sure a future star, but not yet at the stage to take away Damien Willemse's spot. However, DW start and AF on the bench, that is an awesome replacement. Between the 2 they cover all positions in the backline once AF gets that training. The Boks could go 6/2 permanently if they wanted. 6 forwards, a scrumhalf and AF. I may be wrong, but Rassie will spread AF around.
Go to commentsGood grief
Beauden was his usual industrious self mixing deft touches with mindless kicks
6 or 7 max!!
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