Re: BBC : Mon Oct 19, 2015 12:45 pm
I understand, although it's not being widely reported, that Craig Joubert also had stuff thrown at him as he left the pitch.In the circumstances, I don't blame him for wanting to get out of there sharpish
The NH nations have only themselves to blame. They promote within their club rugby an emphasis on strong forward play and set-pieces. Forwards are taught only the skills the coaches consider they need to do their primary job, which is win and retain possession. South Africa often used Schalk Burger as an extra centre on Saturday, popping up lovely little passes in midfield. I can't think of a single Home Nations back rower who could have played in a similar style, because they're not encouraged to work on those parts of their game.
The "Big Four" (and I include Argentina, who for many years were the ultimate exponents of ten man rugby) have learned that there is more to be gained from keeping the ball out of contact than from endlessly ploughing into tackles and trying to recycle quick possession. They are essentially playing rugby league under the six tackle rule, while the NH nations are still trying to play under unlimited tackles with two yards and a cloud of dust being considered a good play.
For the sea change that is needed to take place, it needs someone to win the top prizes in European rugby playing an open, handling style and forcing everyone else to take a look at the way they play at club/provincial level. As it stands, the southern hemisphere is way in front and the gap is only increasing.