Capitalising Interest


Posted by Admin

Capitalising Interest

Capitalising Interest

The First Half

Now there is no doubting that Argentina are a dark horse in this world cup. On their day they are capable of upsetting any team in world rugby. Early on in this match it was pretty even, both teams made line breaks but could not capitalise. Discipline was a problem for Argentina, giving away too many penalties in the first half. Piri Weepu was given the kicking duties and he had a perfect record, converting all his attempts. The All Blacks took a 6-0 lead from Weepu's boot, but the speed and agility of the Argentina side showed, when they broke the line on their way to scoring their first try. Julio Cabello powered his way over for the try, following the conversion by Felipe Contepomi the pumas hit the lead 6 – 7. They could not capitalise on the lead however, giving away more penalties and following Weepu’s conversions it was 12 – 7 to the All Blacks at halftime.

The All Blacks held the lead at halftime in this one but were in no way comfortable. Colin Slade suffered a groin injury in the first half and was subbed off. There will be a big concern there. This match could still go either way and Argentina would feel they were still in the game. The All Blacks needed to work on their handling issues and just try to get over the try line. A very interesting second half ahead, Argentina needing to be the next to score if they want to get back into it. This game could go either way.

The Second Half

Discipline was continuing to cost Argentina in the second half. Referee Nigel Owens who has already been under fire in this tournament, failed to pick up on clear foul play from both sides. Nigel Owens seems to not be being effective enough and frankly the Welsh man has had a terrible tournament with the whistle. The All Blacks were bashing away but there was far to many handling errors and they are lucky it did not cost them. A relatively non eventful second half, it was only in the last quarter that things heated up. Kieran Read powered his way over for the match sealing try, converted by Weepu who had a perfect night with the boots. Late in the match things began to open up as Argentina were getting more and more desperate with time running out. Brad Thorn got a rare try and that was the end. Final score was 33 – 10 to the All Blacks at Eden Park.