It’s been 56 years since Wales last beat New Zealand, and with the All Blacks not quite at their best recently, there is optimism amongst the Welsh that they could cause an upset.
However, England aren’t the only ones with injury problems – Wales have suffered too. Prop Adam Jones is a huge loss as he’s been a cornerstone of recent success, whilst full-back Lee Byrne will also be sorely missed.
Byrne’s injury does mean that James Hook will start in a side that also features Stephen Jones, so for those that trumpet the ‘get your best 15 players on the pitch’ philosophy may not be too disappointed. The backline has ability all the way through and the power of Jamie Roberts and Tom Shanklin should complement the elusiveness of Shane Williams and Leigh Halfpenny.
Things are looking good, you might think. However, take a look at what they will face on Saturday. Richie McCaw remains at the top of the rugby tree at openside, Dan Carter needs no introduction, and the midfield of Ma’a Nonu and Conrad Smith is enough to give any Welshman sleepless nights.
I’ll be cheering on Wales as I’d love to see them beat the All Blacks at the Millennium Stadium, but I don’t actually think it will happen – my SportGuru prediction is New Zealand by 13.
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I just can’t see it happening, and the reason is beacuse of Adam Jones. I fear with out our full front row we’re going to be pushed back in the scrum and everything else that will stem from that. As for Lee Burn, he has an allmighty boot and is fairly safe under the high ball, Hook is slightly less consistant in both departments.
Jones is a massive loss unfortunately, particularly for this game. What’s your winning margin prediction Paynie?
I’m actually backing Wales for the win in this game. NZ have not looked good for a while now, where Wales having been improving consistently. Granted, Byrne and Jones are big loses, but Hook is a good player and adds another good kicking option if S Jones is having a bad day. Roberts and Shanklin is a great 12/13 combination that should be able to outclass Ma’a Nonu and Conrad Smith – in my opinion anyway. Wales by 8
I think this is Wales’ best chance in a good number of years. Having said that, I still think AB’s will nick it. A lot depends on whether Carter plays (and if so, if he’s actually fit). Bad memories for the AB’s in the Millennium stadium – let’s see if Wales can put in the performance.