I'm not a fan of the new scrum laws at all. On the evidence of two test matches, plus a few ITM games, they don't improve things. Sure there is less impact as the hit is cushioned but it also leads to folding and dismantling of the scrum after the ball is fed. Hopefully it is another IRB experiment that we look back on with bemusement, rather than a rule that is here to stay.
I know the Australian tight five comes in for a lot of criticism but there were positive signs last night. Ben Alexander and James Slipper both started well and Stephen Moore was his usual consistent self.
They tend to fall down when they go to their replacements and improving the depth of the men in green and gold remains a major work-on for Ewen McKenzie.
This wasn't a great match after the highs of last week. It was as combative as ever but both teams had done their homework - and credit to the Wallabies in particular, as they managed to nullify the All Blacks for extended periods of the match. They will take some heart from this game though the All Blacks have plenty of improvement in them, which will worry the Pumas and Springboks.
Tom Taylor showed great composure on debut and my old team-mate Warwick will be suitably proud. Another having a fairly quiet game last week Julian Savea was all purpose last night and his battle with Israel Folau was, for me, one of the highlights of the match. Ma'a Nonu probably had his best 80 minutes of the season.
