Choke

Once again the NZ All Blacks have choked in a big match.  Early this morning they were beaten in a World Cup quarter final, by France, 20-18.   Once again, the All Blacks have failed in the biggest competition in world rugby, keeping going a lack of success since they won the first world cup in 1987.  Of course, they completely dominate most other countries in between world cups, but inevitably fail when they get to the big, important matches at world cup time.

According to Kiwi rugby commentator, Murray Deaker:

“Sadly we are a dumb rugby nation, we don’t play the big matches well,”

“We were a bunch of boofheads playing out there tonight against a French side that isn’t that good. On the big occasions we choke.”

The loss was particularly painful as NZ had lead the match 13-0 in the first half and seemed well in control.  (Thats what I thought when I first heard a progress score on the radio this morning …thought the All Blacks had it in hand, fell back to sleep rather than getting up and watching on TV - only to hear later that France won).

I think that the shitty looking grey jumpers they wore probably contributed to the loss …what is it with some of the colours at this world cup?  They’d have won playing in their traditional all black jumpers, no doubt.

Also last night England knocked Australia out, winning 12-10.  This score didn’t reflect England’s dominance … their forwards completely outmuscled and out-enthused the Wallabies.  Australia did though have its chances to win, but weren’t good enough.  I guess the Wallabies going out at this stage is about right given their fairly ordinary form for most of the last few years.

All I will say now about the rest of the World Cup is, go Los Pumas!!!!