New Zealand lock Brodie Retallick expects tough South Africa test
Monday 11 September 2017 11:17, UK
New Zealand lock Brodie Retallick is expecting a tough test when they face a resurgent South Africa side in their top-of-the-table Rugby Championship clash in Auckland next weekend.
Matches between the two sides are usually something to savour but the rivalry lost some of its edge last year after the All Blacks won 41-13 at home and 57-15 in Durban.
South Africa have recovered from their disappointing 2016, however, and go into Saturday's match at the North Harbour Stadium only three points behind their hosts after a 23-23 draw with Australia on Saturday.
"We all know the way the South Africans play," said Retallick.
"We've seen the last couple of weeks how physical they've been, especially up front. As always, they're big boys and they like to come at you.
"Every Test is special, but from what we've seen so far in the Rugby Championship, they've had two great wins over Argentina and they'll be a little bit frustrated with the draw against Australia in Perth.
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"They'll be coming here with a bit of anger, and with the skill and physicality they're playing with, I'm sure it's going to be a good spectacle."
South Africa coach Allister Coetzee said at the weekend he was disappointed with the draw, albeit proud of the way his side fought back from 10 points down early in the second half to remain unbeaten in six Tests this year.
Coetzee was also encouraged by the way Argentina managed to put pressure on the All Blacks in the first 60 minutes of their defeat in New Plymouth.
"I don't see any weaknesses in the All Black side," said Coetzee. "I think they are vulnerable but you still have to be at your best to exploit that.
"They have obviously stepped up when they have needed to. You cannot afford to lose concentration or focus. In the last 20 minutes they can easily score 20 points."
