Sports Wrap (Union).....yawn.

Rugby Union:

The Springboks proved again that boring rugby wins matches. In a match that was high scoring (32-29), you might be excused to think that there was some running rugby (and tries) involved. Sadly this was not the case as of the combined total of 61 points, only 20 points were from tries (2 tries each). What this game also showed was the Springbok's drive to success no matter how unattractive they play, and how far the All Blacks have got to go to be serious contenders for the world cup in their own back yard in 2011.

The game itself was a little more entertaining than an episode of a nature documentary, but only just. Whilst Francois Steyne proved that he can slot penalty goals from almost anywhere on the pitch (he kicked one from 60 meters out), and Morne Steyne also added his own share of kicked goals, the game was just that, another kick-a-thon. It is no surprise that rugby fans are turning away from the game they used to love in favour of other 'running' sports. Having said that, the game was entertaining in the last 10 minutes when it appeared that the All Blacks might stage a remarkable comeback to pinch the game, and keep the chance of taking Tri Nations trophy from under the Springbok's nose, alive. That did not eventuate and the All Blacks were left ruing a number of bad decisions, poor handling and another unconvincing line out performance.

If you missed the game, you didn't miss much, but here are the highlights....

The All Blacks now await the arrival of the Wallabies in Wellington where both teams will play, or not as the case may be, for the wooden spoon. Lets hope that they throw off the shackles and throw the ball around like a hot potato.