Just had the pleasure of watching the game again. A couple of takeaways for me:
The debutantes
Swinton - was outstanding until the red card, was best on the field until that point. 34 minutes. His work rate and impact were both exceptional, 5 runs and 7 tackles lead both stats at that point. He was also good at lineout time. If he can find the balance in his aggression he will be a long term wallabies enforcer.
T Wright - exceptional. Created a number of chances and half chances. Came in looking for the ball but his awareness and clean up work when the All Blacks dropped it in behind the line was first class. In 65 minutes he ran for more metres than anyone else on the field with 92 metres from only 8 carries, there were no easy metres either, where he was put into a space. Regularly beat the first defender with speed or footwork evidenced by his game high 3 clean breaks and team high 3 defenders beaten. Was noticeably vocal throughout also.
Bell - Thrust in earlier than probably expected but was impressive. Ive always questioned his ability come scrum time as his work around the ground has been first class at every level he has played. He was great at scrum time last week against Argentina and followed it up last night with some impressive performances. Plenty to like about his performance and will be a key cog for Australia. moving forward.
The others -
Paisami - was really impressed with him. Wasn't simply a crash ball 12. He straightened up the attack when needed but often found the pass at the right time, came into first receiver more than once and distributed well. I was worried with a Hodge/Paisami combo that we wouldn't bring the outside men into play but I was wrong. Still needs to find a balance with when to go for the big shot and make a regulation tackle. Did have 4 missed and one gave the field position for the first try and over read when Savea went through the line late. But for a rookie at this level far more upside in the performance.
Philip - Was such a presence everywhere. Seemed to take a real leadership role. He was very vocal, did plenty of work and dominated the lineout for us, obviously had the key steal before halftime. I hope he is back from his stint in France in time for next years test. Probably seen the most growth and development from my perspective out all those who have played for the Wallabies this year.
Tupou - Dominated Super Rugby AU this year. Played huge minutes and contributed throughout. Always thought his greatest contribution for the Reds was in the back end of games. I wonder if the extra pace and intensity of test match football blunts his ability to contribute late when he starts. Last night, off the bench he was massive, could not have done any more to bring Australia home. His work at he scrum, ball carrying, defensively and ultimately the try was the difference late. Tiring defenders could not deal with his combination of power and athleticism. Deserves to start although with performances likes last night might see him as the x-factor which turns games for us.
Well done to all players a great gritty performance particularly after last week. Shows the pride in the Jersey we all want to see.
