Contrary to popular opinion, the Boks did not dominate the first half. They merely had parity with an Australian side that threatened throughout the encounter. The first half was a free running game, and the Boks were clearly up to the task despite some shocking showings on defence, particularly by our 12 and to a lesser degree 13. In the first half Australia struggled to get their attacking game going as they clearly wanted, with the typical wide forwards, usually flank, ala Waratahs getting isolated. It was a problem for the Waratahs this year and they struggled again yesterday. The second half was an entirely different prospect as Australia changed tact. Firstly, they played almost the entire second half in the Boks half of the field. Secondly, they reverted to a more direct game, with one off runners off 9 coming around the corner until Cooper saw an opportunity. From there they applied considerable pressure with a wide passing game working the Boks around from side to side. This is what would have happened in the 2013 Brisbane test had we not fielded Morné and Du Preez. Surprisingly Pienaar's service was very quick and fluid, but his kicking game was anything but. Pollard also failed to apply pressure, so too Lambie. Nobody in the backs to provide the aerial pressure that is the Achilles heel of this Wallaby side. And when we did kick, pressure was weak and it all seemed rather half-hearted. Consequently, we were shut out of the game. However, credit to many players I lambasted for holding out for so long, but clearly much work needs to be done. Our reserve scrummagers were not so good. We missed the power of Duane and Flip, or a Coenie. And Morné was sorely missed. Had he been on the bench, and had Meyer sent him on in the second half, things could have been so different. Note too Damian's capitulation! Constantly exposing his channel yet again, slipping off tackles and provided no thrust to the attack. When he tried to punch the ball up he was shutdown. Every inside attack was shutdown. Kriel had some troubles on defence, but is clearly the stronger of the two head-on. We were essentially playing two 13s. And how much longer will this sham last? Australia applied considerable pressure on Damian and reaped the rewards.
Before I end this, I must applaud Bismarck. He had an outstanding game, very influential. Had he stayed on I don't think it would have changed the complexion of the game, but it was nice to see a clean and effective showing. Finally playing up to his reputation. Lood was phenomenal with powerful tackles and carries. Was very effective. Not sure how he would fare against the stronger packs in world rugby, but yesterday he played very well.
Ratings
15.Le Roux (8)
14.Pietersen (6)
13.Kriel (6)
12.De Allende (2 )
11.Habana (7)
10.Pollard (6)
09.Pienaar (6)
08.Burger (8)
07.Coetzee (5)
06.Louw (6)
05.Matfield (6)
04.Etzebeth (7)
03.Jannie (6)
02.Bismarck (9)
01.Mtawarira (5)
