My view on the weekend’s activity is limited: I was detached from the site of the action, only seeing it on television and knowing the score before watching one of the contests. However, I will not let that deter me expressing my opinion.
I watched the England v Australia game first, though not live. I went to be too late to for me to contemplate rising at a ridiculous hour to watch the game. The game had factors that added to the interest. I was trying to pick Mr T and son from the crowd of 80, 000, while at the same time admiring the size and presence of the stadium. The atmosphere seemed good as compared to the usual intensity in these parts. I was keen also to monitor the performance of Mr T’s “mate”, Ben Alexander. He indeed had a sterling game. He played the full 80, shoved and grunted, and managed to avoid the attention of the commentators all the while he was on the pitch. A true prop’s game? I thought England were better than I had in the recent past. At least the backs looked like they had met each other before the game, and were capable of stringing a set of passes together. For all the praise heaped upon Johnny by the commentary team, I though he played well but was limited. Yes tackled like a demon, but did not kick particularly well from hand, and did not get the lads outside him humming at all. However, I note that the man up north says the alternatives are limited. Australia was the better team and their backs look great. When they have the ball they look dangerous; the likes of Mr Alexander just need to ensure that they have more. Dingo Deans probably smiled for the first time in weeks after the game.
Then, later in the day, I watched a rerun the Wales ABs game. All together different. And better. The atmosphere was fantastic. Thousands of people singing, and the noise noise from the stands was great. The game was intense, fast and skilful and well worth the effort of watching. The All Blacks were again deserved winners but Wales had their chances. The only downer was having to listen to the NZ commentary.
Just to note how much we rub shoulders with the famous in these parts-we have been in the Monteiths in Khandallah with three of the ABs on show during Saturday’s game. I have to say that two of the three looked a lot healthier on Saturday than they did that Sunday earlier in the year!
actually agree with most of your guff….will add that atmosphere at Twickenham was pretty good and completed stadium impressive (Aussie Dad thought best in world)…..