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'Flush the toliet': All Blacks fans not convinced after struggle over Japan
By Sam Smith
The All Blacks have copped a truck load of flak after a poor showing in the first Test of their end of year tour against Japan.
Ian Foster's men beat Japan 38-31 in an unimpressive performance which has been widely criticised at home and has led to suggestions the three teams the All Blacks will play in the UK over the next three weeks will be relishing an opportunity.
Former Kiwi commentator Keith Quinn led the charge in criticism, labelling Sam Cane's captaincy 'average' and said the team looked 'lifeless' against Japan.
The All Blacks meet Wales in Cardiff on Saturday, Scotland at Edinburgh on November 12 and England at Twickenham on November 19. Wales haven't beaten New Zealand since 1953 and Scotland are yet to do so.
Those teams may have hope of making history, encouraged by the comments of Japan's New Zealand-born former captain Michael Leitch who played in Saturday's Test. Leitch sai d the All Blacks no long have a fear factor for most opponents.
additional reporting AAP
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Latest Comments
No, bugger off Schmidt, stop interfering in Australian rugby to keep us down
Your selections are rubbish and your game plan is unAustralian. Go back to NZ. Oh wait, you're actually still there ......
Go to commentsWhich is why more depth needs development. There are are several players waiting in the mix who will be good to great ABs. Our bench replacements this year were not always up to the mark
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