New Zealand v South Africa

By Loosehead

It is the second Tri Nations match for South Africa as they travel to Wellington to meet competition favourites New Zealand. They fielded a virtually second string side against Australia last weekend and were beaten by 19 points in a score line that largely flattered them.  Worryingly for the visitors, the team selected this weekend looks even weaker and they face a huge task against an excellent All Blacks side.

Whilst their back line appears reasonable, despite talented playmaker Patrick Lambie starting on the wing, it is easy to pick holes in their forward pack.  Their front row looks distinctly average, led by their captain John Smit, a player who appears to be past his prime.  The second row looks weaker still with Gerhard Mostert and Alistair Hargreaves both lacking international experience and the back row is nothing special either.

The New Zealand team selected is typically strong throughout.  They field the likes of Richie McCaw, Adam Thomson and Sam Whitelock behind a front five that have been firing on all cylinders lately.  The back line looks equally strong with Dan Carter at Fly Half to provide quality ball to an electric back line.  With the likes of Sonny Bill Williams to come off the bench late there is unlikely to be any let off and I can see the hosts running up a very big score.

Selection – NZ -18 to beat South Africa 4pts @ StanJames

Loosehead