Rugby
Scott Barrett Leads Fired-Up All Blacks in Search of Redemption Against Springboks
Scott Barrett and the All Blacks aim for redemption against the Springboks in Cape Town after their narrow defeat, seeking to overcome past losses and show their strength in The Rugby Championship.
Image Credit:Dave Rowland/Getty Images
The All Blacks are still in South Africa for the next round of The Rugby Championship.
They come off a resounding 42-10 win over Argentina in Eden Park, however they were narrowly defeated at the hands of the Springboks 31-27 at Ellis Park last weekend.
Speaking on their preparations for their second encounter in Cape Town, Scott Barrett is highly motivated to put on a show this weekend.
History vs South Africa
The All Blacks are not only seeking revenge from last weekend, but also the Rugby World Cup final last year, where the Springboks also got the better of them. Barrett was asked whether the clash this Saturday was personal.
“I can’t change anything that happened from the final. Probably won’t get ever get over that. It’s really about this group [All Blacks] turning up Saturday night against the Springboks and there is no test like it, and we are excited about it,” Barrett told SportsBoom.com.
Preparation Without Coach Leon McDonald
Prior to departing for South Africa, the All-Blacks attack coach McDonald, left his post as the attack coach.
Head coach Scott Robertson and McDonald had different views on the approach to the game. He left on mutual terms.
We have adapted, the coaches have shuffled in. Certainly, we have bounced this week, the boys have been energized. I felt for Raggi [Mcdonald] but obviously those conversations have been had behind the scenes and we have moved forward as a group.
Scott Barrett
All Blacks New Members
“This week, particularly Tuesday training. We certainly felt it [altitude factor] and as the week has gone our preparations have improved. We have adapted to the conditions. It is the same for both teams and we will look to play for 80 minutes and take the Springboks deep.”
Nathan has over a decade of knowledge and experience, both as a former professional sportsperson and journalist. Nathan, a former radio sports presenter and producer is an award-winning community radio sports producer/presenter.