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Like most Australian rugby supporters, I have always been reasonably outspoken among supporters of other nations’ teams. This can be in the work place or wherever else I find Kiwis, South Africans, Poms and our other rugby opponents.
I try to hold myself to an objective position in discussions, but do admit at times I descend into an insular and patriotic position.
Clearly, much has been said about the recent Scotland v Australia game and I must admit that I have struggled to keep up with the vitriol against the Wallabies.
In the wash up from that game, I must say that I am embarrassed to be an Australian, perhaps for the first time in my life. Not because of the result but because of the way that (most) of my fellow Aussies have reacted.
“Restore the faith Robbie Deans“. David Lord’s most recent article sums up the feeling of most opinions that I have read. It astounds me that there is such a developed need for blame around this one game.
Putting this particular game into context, have any of the commentators or writers ever played the game? Did the old adage “train as you play, play as you train” ever get bandied around their playing groups? If it did, and if it was followed through with, then you will have a trophy or two on your mantle piece.
If not, then you may have the experience, and therefore the understanding, that rugby is the ultimate team game. To be successful every piece of the whole needs to know their job and deliver on the expectations of their peers.
If it was a game that you could get 22 blokes together after a couple of hours and expect to win, then it would not be the game I love.
Further, I find it incredibly embarrassing and self defeating that we then tear down the people that gave it the best shot they could in the circumstances presented.
Yes, we lost. It happens. We may lose to Wales.
Whatever. I’ll still be cheering for them.
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.