Quote:
Originally Posted by ponrauil
France vs New Zealand
I wished this to be the final in Paris, but thanks to France's poor opening match and the organiser's wisdom to grant the competition host a chance to play a game abroad (how stupider could they be?)... it's a 1/4 final in Cardiff.
Laporte's selection is weird with an inexperience n°10 and full back that hasn't played in that role for years. Chabal, Rougerie & Michalak on the bench. He's prepared a team for a dirty tactical game hoping to keep the All Backs as far away from our line as possible. Maybe maybe not... but everytime France managed to beat New Zealand it was with an attacking team and French flair.
I can't see France getting out of this one... but then again I couldn't see Marseille beating Liverpool at Anfield yesterday so... here's hoping.
In the same way I don't see how England could pass the Australian test, nore Fidji pass the Springboks.
And who ever wins between Scotland & Argentina, it's cool for the sport that one of these two will be in the semis and maybe even further.
Ponrauil
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The French are taking a huge gamble, leaving that lot on the bench. They're obviously looking to destroy the AB lineout, with the team they've picked and I honestly see it as an area of New Zealand weakness. I'd keep an eye on Beauxis; I fancy him to do well if he gets good ball, he was excellent against Georgia. The flip-side of leaving he players out that he has is that the bench is very strong; almost as strong as New Zealand's, in fact. Good luck France, it would be great to see an upset there.