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The All Blacks are set to play a midweek Test against Samoa on September 3rd, a ludicrous fixture to say the least. The reasoning was to give the All Blacks a match between the August 17th Cape Town Test and September 13th Brisbane Test.
And when a fixture against Argentina couldn’t be arranged, Samoa stepped in to fill their boots.
Needless to say, the Northern Hemisphere clubs refused to grant releases for a Wednesday night Test in New Plymouth. And who can blame them?
Samoan coach Niko Palamo has been forced to arrange a “trial” in Auckland this week in order to field a side.
It’s understood that Samoa will consist of players from the Islands, and a few Auckland-based Samoans. Palamo has warned that, “I probably will have just one player from the forward pack that played in the Pacific Nations Cup and the situation isn’t looking much better in the backs.”
Henry, on the other hand, is expected to play his full strength side.
Setting aside the obvious, such as this should be an All Blacks “match” played in Samoa not Taranaki, what more can be gained from the All Blacks playing Samoa instead of playing for their provinces?
The injury risks are the same, if not more considering how hard those Samoan players tackle when they wear the jersey. But the lack of structure and defensive organisation is the real killer.
The All Blacks will look to focus on the set pieces and the breakdown and try to continue their methodical, controlled approach.
But the pressure won’t be there.
The game will open up, New Zealand will score easily, and the backs will have a field day.
Will the All Blacks really plug the corners and challenge the lineout if there’s a midfield paradise on offer?
I will be cheering Samoa. A try is worth a gold medal in these lopsided affairs.
Love this article? Nominate it for The Roar’s Armchair Sports Writer Award. Or vote now for this week’s nominated articles.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.