April Ieremia at the Rugby World Cup: Party atmosphere clouding with intensity

All Blacks Aaron Cruden in action. Photo / Dean Purcell

Only two more hurdles and we are there! The intensity has gone up five notches - the carefree party frivolities of the earlier rounds have been replaced with an air of trepidation.

Even the fervour and voice lent to visiting teams has been reclaimed and is firmly refocusing in one direction - towards the All Blacks.

Neither France nor Wales will get the same crowd support they earlier enjoyed.

Previously, cheering for them and others like them gave us a stake in their game.

It gave us something to do while we waited for the All Blacks to play again. It gave us a connection if we lacked a bloodline, residency or amorous interest. The local adoption policy has made this event unique, fun and incredibly memorable.

But in all honesty, did we really want those adopted teams to win or did we just want to play dress-up and party?

Or, as in the case of Aussie v Ireland, did we just want the other team to lose? Irrespective of our motivation, the men in black need it all now.

The skies have darkened and the climate is serious, with people getting more uppity about everything.

Already the barbs are starting and everyone is an expert, with comments from who should take over the former backline maestro's role to who is best on the wing. Everyone's two cents is being thrown in from everywhere but seriously, is it helping?

Ted is a good coach and he knows what he's doing so leave him to do it.

I firmly believe all the negative vibes should be left at the door until the All Blacks actually lose. Then, by all means, make a pig of yourself. But until then, shut it ...

We all know that the only beneficiaries of negative vibes are the opposition. They love it because it takes the spotlight off them.

I was interested to hear how much Warren Gatland was enjoying being home because it meant his team was out of a constantly gruelling spotlight in Wales.

Don't get me wrong - the carnival atmosphere we have fostered will be to the fore and fans will still be looking for huge celebrations and a mighty good time. However, now we need to be mindful that all roads lead back to Rome and whoever we give our spirit and passion to may turn around the following week and destroy us.

My money is still on New Zealand dispatching Wales in the final.