Razor Reacts: All Blacks Back on Top of World Rugby Rankings

· Lynn McConnell · action press
N2A7447
Unaware that the All Blacks had regained the No1 world ranking, coach Scott Robertson's reaction to the news, after the 41-24 win in the Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship opener against Argentina in Cordoba, was that it was a reminder of the close margins in Test rugby.

Regaining the position the All Blacks dominated in the 2011-20 decade was made possible after their win, and Australia's 38-22 win over South Africa in Johannesburg.

Robertson said, "It just shows you how tough Test footy is, how close it is, and the margins. Argentina were great for a lot of the match. They defended well, they're passionate, just like the Springboks were too.

"And then, it can turn on a moment, a discipline, a card, great play, two or three tries back-to-back, can turn Test matches.

"We're pleased we're No1, but our sights will be set on next week's match than the rankings."

Robertson said Cordoba's atmosphere was tough, as was expected, and after being up 31-10 at halftime, the All Blacks' discipline slipped. However, they found a way to finish well.

"It had a bit of everything, but we're pleased. There were a lot of [pleasing] efforts we can look back on. In a lot of areas, we have to improve, but it was a tough Test.

"We created a lot of pressure and opportunities through holding the ball for long periods, and our skill set was good.


"We didn't get the possession in the second half and we went to our lineout and maul, which was very powerful. So it was pleasing that we could play two different styles and find a way, especially at the back end of Test matches where we know they are won or lost."

When Argentina held the phase ball for long periods, they had some good plays, with little kicks in behind the All Blacks and got good bounces. They showed they are a smart team.

Captain Scott Barrett said Cordoba's stadium was impressive to play in, and if the fans had been any closer to the pitch, it would have been hard to hear his teammates.

"The fans, particularly in that second half, got behind their team. It shows the passion of the local fans."

Barrett was concerned about the second-half penalty count against the All Blacks. Discipline was something they had pride in, and it wasn't what they wanted.

"It's about playing territory and they won the battle off the back of those penalties. We'll make some adjustments to our self-discipline and we want to be cleaner so we have more ball in the right areas of the field."

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