News

McCaw praises his troops

August 02 2008

Richie McCaw praised the resolve of his players after they answered their critics with a resounding 39-10 victory over Australia in the Tri-Nations on Saturday.

The final game at Eden Park before it gets a facelift proved to be a step too far for Robbie Deans' unbeaten Wallabies.

McCaw, back from injury to captain the side, was in outstanding form as he inspired his under-fire troops to a bonus-point victory.

What pleased McCaw most was the way his side responded after last week's 34-19 reversal in Sydney - a game he sat out through injury - to level the Bledisloe Cup at one game each.

"We got out-muscled last week, so the boys really wanted to put in a good performance," McCaw said after the game.

"We talked about the little things that let us down last week. We focused on starting well today and making sure we kept that up for eighty minutes."

New Zealand built a healthy 18-3 lead inside the opening twenty-five minutes that proved to be the perfect platform from which to win the game in fine style.

"As our confidence grew it became easier," McCaw added.

"We got the first couple of line-outs then scored a couple of tries, one anyway from a good set move.

"As your confidence grows it helps put pressure on the opposition."

McCaw stressed the importance of winning this game, having lost their previous two outings, and ensuring that the All Blacks now adhere to the standard they set here.

"When you lose two in a row it's crucial to get back on the horse," said McCaw.

"We've set a standard now, we can't afford to go back so we've got to carry on from here and continue to improve."

The win came on the back of a fine team performance, with two tries each to Tony Woodcock - all four of his Test tries have come against Australia now - and Ma'a Nonu, who answered his critics with a good display.

But McCaw was quick to praise the tight five for their impressive display, a display that allowed Dan Carter to run his backs with precision.

"How we operate obviously depends on how the boys are tidying out in the tight five - it was a good performance from them," McCaw said.

"We were going forward and the backs got us on the front foot and made it easier for us.

"With our backs against the wall, the boys came out today and showed what they're capable of - I'm pretty proud."