The Sports Corner

‘Negative’ All Blacks defeat plucky Scots

The war of words between rivals New Zealand and Scotland continued after the All Blacks 32-6 defeat of Scotland to keep their unbeaten record intact.

Scottish coach Frank Hadden lambasted the All Blacks for using negative tactics in pulling down the scrum when the Scots raised the pressure on the world’s best team.

“I think everyone is aware that as soon as we got the pressure on the scrum was being brought down,” Hadden said. ”It’s a difficult decision for the referee to make if there’s no movement one way or the other. We certainly felt that when we got the hit on they were struggling to cope with that pressure.”

The All Blacks who made 12 changes to their lineup after the Bledisloe Cup battle against the Wallabies were denied the domination they would have otherwise wanted to enjoy against the Scots in what is becoming an ever heated rivalry.

New Zealand saw lock Anthony Boric sin binned for repeated ruck infringements, leading to the allegations the All Blacks went into a ‘negative’ hold on the game awaiting the expiry of Boric’s ten minute exile. Boric had the laugh last though, crossing the line as one of four try scorers.

The match was not without loss as highly rated young All Blacks fullback Isaia Toeava was injured just before half time. Toeava who is battling veteran Mils Muliana did not reappear after the half time break and is doubtful for the remaining tour matches.

Despite some early breaks and enterprising plays by the Scots they were unable to break the New Zealand line, settling for two penalty conversions. Stephen Donald who started at flyhalf while star Dan Carter was rested on the bench made the most of his promotion and kicked the All Blacks clear.

It was a much improved display from Donald who struggled against the Wallabies.

Scrumhalf Andy Ellis saw his return to international rugby end after twenty minutes off the bench with a recurring rib injury. With both halves on the bench coach Graham Henry was forced to make the unusual decision to send in the world’s best flyhalf at the scrum base.

Carter was solid in steering his team around and ably supported the man who would otherwise be wearing his jersey, Donald, in securing in a solid victory.

The All Blacks are looking to secure their first Grand Slam tour of the European nations since 2005. Considering the display their reserves showed against the plucky Scots, it looks a distinct possibility the All Blacks will attain their goals.