NEEDING only two log points to claim the 2009 Tri-Nations, the Springboks play their final Test against Australia's Wallabies at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium tomorrow.
NEEDING only two log points to claim the 2009 Tri-Nations, the Springboks play their final Test against Australia's Wallabies at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium tomorrow.
The Boks suffered a humiliating 49-0 defeat in the same stadium three years ago, the second worst in Bok history, and the worst of the Jake White era. White came within inches of losing his job, but went to World Cup victory just a year later.
After scoring only three points so far in this year's Tri-Nations, all from losses, the Wallabies have no chance of winning the contest, but after six defeats they are desperate for a win.
Wallaby coach Robbie Deans has had considerable success as a Super 14 coach, leading the Crusaders to four Super 14 victories, but critics are suggesting that he does not have the tactical insight to coach a team in the fierier cauldron that is Test rugby.
New Zealander Deans might also be struggling to adapt to the different rugby culture of Australia. He is desperate to end his team's losing streak, and has made five changes . In the forwards, hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau replaces Stephen Moore, while fetcher flank David Pocock replaces Richard Brown . Pocock will combine with captain and fetcher George Smith, who moves to No 8, meaning that the Wallabies will target the breakdown area, aiming to nullify the Bok attack .
The Wallaby backline will be stabilised by the return of inside centre Berrick Barnes, who has a solid playmaking partnership with flyhalf Matt Giteau. Scrumhalf Luke Burgess rotates with Will Genia, while wing Drew Mitchell replaces Peter Hynes.
The only change to the Bok XV is a well-deserved run-on for right wing Odwa Ndungane. This is arguably the greatest Bok side ever. Their experience and clinical game plan should see them through to victory.
Springboks want revenge in Brisbane
NEEDING only two log points to claim the 2009 Tri-Nations, the Springboks play their final Test against Australia's Wallabies at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium tomorrow.
NEEDING only two log points to claim the 2009 Tri-Nations, the Springboks play their final Test against Australia's Wallabies at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium tomorrow.
The Boks suffered a humiliating 49-0 defeat in the same stadium three years ago, the second worst in Bok history, and the worst of the Jake White era. White came within inches of losing his job, but went to World Cup victory just a year later.
After scoring only three points so far in this year's Tri-Nations, all from losses, the Wallabies have no chance of winning the contest, but after six defeats they are desperate for a win.
Wallaby coach Robbie Deans has had considerable success as a Super 14 coach, leading the Crusaders to four Super 14 victories, but critics are suggesting that he does not have the tactical insight to coach a team in the fierier cauldron that is Test rugby.
New Zealander Deans might also be struggling to adapt to the different rugby culture of Australia. He is desperate to end his team's losing streak, and has made five changes . In the forwards, hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau replaces Stephen Moore, while fetcher flank David Pocock replaces Richard Brown . Pocock will combine with captain and fetcher George Smith, who moves to No 8, meaning that the Wallabies will target the breakdown area, aiming to nullify the Bok attack .
The Wallaby backline will be stabilised by the return of inside centre Berrick Barnes, who has a solid playmaking partnership with flyhalf Matt Giteau. Scrumhalf Luke Burgess rotates with Will Genia, while wing Drew Mitchell replaces Peter Hynes.
The only change to the Bok XV is a well-deserved run-on for right wing Odwa Ndungane. This is arguably the greatest Bok side ever. Their experience and clinical game plan should see them through to victory.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Trending
Latest Videos