Rugby World Cup 2011: New Zealand vs Tonga match preview
Rugby World Cup 2011 is all set to get underway with the opening game of the All Blacks and Tonga on September 9 in Auckland. The All Blacks have got a great opportunity to start their global campaign with a flying victory against the meagre side from Tonga.
New Zealand has won all three matches played between the two sides since 1999 by monstrous margins.
The Tongan side does not have the depth and experience in their side compared the All Blacks for the up coming match. Most observers believe that Tonga is only expected to resist the attack from the fearsome All Blacks. Under the given circumstances, defeat
is almost certain for the Tongan side. During their last two clashes, New Zealand has managed to thump the pacific nation side by huge differences of 102-0 and 91-7 respectively in 2000 and 2003. However, Tonga is definitely in great form after beating Fiji
by 32-20 in the RWC warm-up match.
The All Blacks, despite having got all the advantages over Tonga, will be required to accumulate as much points as possible in the match. The match will surely show the world their Rugby World Cup preparations for the up-coming games. Furthermore, they are
coming off a stunning defeat by the Wallabies in the final of the Tri-Nations Cup 2011 so a comprehensive victory could bring the confidence back for the squad.
New Zealand, as always, is a hot favourite to lift the Webb Ellis Trophy this year. The mighty home crowd would love to see their side to produce their best in Auckland. A house full Eden Park Stadium is all set to cheer on their national heroes.
All Blacks selectors have made nine changes in their line ups for this particular match from their last match played against the Wallabies last month. Sonny Bill Williams along with four other players has been included in the side for a major role.
Richie McCaw, Dan Carter, Ma’a Nonu and Sonny Bill Williams will be key figures to watch for on the All Blacks. All these players have got everything to disrupt the Tongans with their experience and variety.
Meanwhile, Finau Maka, s**a Hufanga and Andrew Ma'ilei could be the key men for Tonga against the All Blacks.
Tonga would be lucky if they receive a defeat with the difference of less than 40 points.
Teams: New Zealand 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Richard Kahui, 13 Ma'a Nonu, 12 Sonny Bill Williams, 11 Isaia Toeava, 10 Daniel Carter, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Victor Vito, 7 Richie McCaw (capt), 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Ali Williams, 4 Brad Thorn, 3 Owen Franks,
2 Andrew h**e, 1 Tony Woodcock.
Replacements: 16 Corey Flynn, 17 Ben Franks, 18 Anthony Boric, 19 Sam Whitelock, 20 Piri Weepu, 21 Colin Slade, 22 Cory Jane.
Tonga: 15 Vunga Lilo, 14 Viliame Iongi, 13 s**a Hufanga, 12 Andrew Ma'ilei, 11 Siale Piutau, 10 Kurt Morath, 9 Taniela Moa, 8 Viliami Ma'afu, 7 Finau Maka (c), 6 Sione Kalamafoni, 5 Joe Tu'ineau, 4 Paino Hehea, 3 Taufa'ao Filise, 2 Aleki
Lutui, 1 Soane Tonga'uiha.
Replacements: 16 Ephraim Taukafa, 17 Alisona Taumalolo, 18 Kisi Pulu, 19 Sione Timani, 20 Samiu Vahafolau, 21 Samisoni Fisilau, 22 Alipate Fatafehi.
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