In a fiery exchange during the pre-match press conference ahead of the All Blacks' upcoming game against Wales, head coach Scott Robertson sharply rebuked a journalist for what he perceived as an overly dramatic question. With the team reeling from a third loss this year and their Grand Slam aspirations dashed, the scrutiny on Robertson is intensifying.
The All Blacks, who have already suffered notable defeats this season, including a historic loss to Argentina and a record defeat by the Springboks, failed to clinch the Rugby Championship and are now out of contention for the Grand Slam. This follows their recent 33-19 loss to England, a game that exposed their inconsistency in maintaining performance levels throughout the 80 minutes of play.
When asked about the mounting pressure and the team's morale, Robertson cut off the reporter, remarking,
"You’re really talking this up, you’re quite dramatic aren’t you?"
He did, however, address the question, albeit tersely. "We focus on what we could have done better last week and then get on with it. There’s some really good stuff in there, so you look at that," he explained.
Despite the setbacks, Robertson has not shied away from making bold decisions, offering opportunities to both seasoned players and newcomers in the final Test of the year against Wales. The team’s performance inconsistencies have been a recurring theme, something Robertson acknowledged.
"Parts of that Irish game, parts of the Scottish game, probably in all games we’ve had patches but, to be frank with you, the consistency of it,"
said Robertson. He emphasized the importance of regaining momentum and rhythm in matches, which he views as critical to turning their fortunes around.
This season's results have sparked widespread debate and disappointment among fans and commentators alike, with notable figures like Sir John Kirwan openly criticizing the team's performances as not up to standard.
The All Blacks' lineup for the final Test against Wales includes a mix of experienced players and potential future stars, as Robertson looks to close the year on a high note despite the challenges faced.
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In a fiery exchange during the pre-match press conference ahead of the All Blacks' upcoming game against Wales, head coach Scott Robertson sharply rebuked a journalist for what he perceived as an overly dramatic question. With the team reeling from a third loss this year and their Grand Slam aspirations dashed, the scrutiny on Robertson is intensifying.
The All Blacks, who have already suffered notable defeats this season, including a historic loss to Argentina and a record defeat by the Springboks, failed to clinch the Rugby Championship and are now out of contention for the Grand Slam. This follows their recent 33-19 loss to England, a game that exposed their inconsistency in maintaining performance levels throughout the 80 minutes of play.
When asked about the mounting pressure and the team's morale, Robertson cut off the reporter, remarking,
"You’re really talking this up, you’re quite dramatic aren’t you?"
He did, however, address the question, albeit tersely. "We focus on what we could have done better last week and then get on with it. There’s some really good stuff in there, so you look at that," he explained.Despite the setbacks, Robertson has not shied away from making bold decisions, offering opportunities to both seasoned players and newcomers in the final Test of the year against Wales. The team’s performance inconsistencies have been a recurring theme, something Robertson acknowledged.
"Parts of that Irish game, parts of the Scottish game, probably in all games we’ve had patches but, to be frank with you, the consistency of it,"
said Robertson. He emphasized the importance of regaining momentum and rhythm in matches, which he views as critical to turning their fortunes around.This season's results have sparked widespread debate and disappointment among fans and commentators alike, with notable figures like Sir John Kirwan openly criticizing the team's performances as not up to standard.
The All Blacks' lineup for the final Test against Wales includes a mix of experienced players and potential future stars, as Robertson looks to close the year on a high note despite the challenges faced.