Rugby: Three questions from the All Blacks v Argentina test

NZ Herald

6 Sep, 2014 06:06 PM2 mins to read

The All Blacks perform the haka ahead of last night's test match against Argentina at McLean Park in Napier. Photo / Getty Images

The Herald's rugby writers answer three questions from last night's All Blacks v Argentina test match at McLean Park.

1. Beauden Barrett's performance at No 10 was _______?

Patrick McKendry: Very good, goalkicking apart. He ran the test with skill and composure, all you can ask for, really. His pace off mark really does set him apart from just about every other No 10 in the game.

Gregor Paul: Probably about eight out of 10. He was decisive which mattered and when he made mistakes, he seemed to learn from them, shrug them off and adapt. He set up Liam Messam's try superbly and the only area of his game he'll be properly upset with ... his goal-kicking.

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Which area will be a bigger concern ahead of the South African test: a less than dominant scrum or a mixed kicking game?

PM: It can't be the scrum because it fared reasonably well against a pack which embarrassed the Boks last time out. That tighthead on halftime was pretty crucial and the scrum which led to Aaron Smith's try was rock solid. The kicking game will always need improvement, but again, that wasn't the worst either.

: Their kicking out of hand was actually good. They put the ball in the right places - they just didn't compete for it well or retain much possession. Their catching and timing has to improve to put the Boks under pressure.

Did Israel Dagg do enough to keep the fullback jersey to face the Springboks?

PM: Yes, Dagg ran and kicked with enthusiasm and confidence. The break hasn't done him any harm. It's a fair bet that back three will be the same in Wellington.

GP: He did enough to give the selectors a tough decision to make. There was one handling error and a wild pass, but other than that, he did all that was asked. He was running smoothly and with more bite than he has and then there was his boot ... boom. That might be what keeps him his place.