Sept 22 (Askume) – All Blacks coach Scott Robertson admitted his joy at winning the Bledisloe Cup for the first time in his career was not dampened by the fact his side were still a work in progress after their narrow win over Australia in Sydney on Saturday .
Robertson, who is leading New Zealand in the annual series against the Australians for the first time as head coach , was never involved in the All Blacks team that lifted the trophy during his playing career but did oversee the 31-28 victory at Stadium Australia.
“We found a way, I’m really pleased,” Robertson said after his side retained the Trans-Tasman Trophy despite playing with 13 men for the final stages of the game.
“The last three Test matches have been about passes, referee calls, decision making. That’s what Test football is all about. We are learning fast, we are getting group experience to win these tough matches.
“It all sounds sweet.”
The win was the All Blacks’ first of the current Rugby Championship campaign following two straight defeats to South Africa and these results mean Robertson’s side have no chance of retaining the Southern Hemisphere title.
Instead his team will play the final round of the tournament against the Wallabies in Wellington next week and hope to overtake Argentina and move into second place behind the world champion Springboks.
Centre Jordie Barrett’s availability is doubtful as he will undergo scans on his injured knee before being included in the squad for Saturday’s match.
Meanwhile, outside back Beauden Barrett is expected to return after being ruled out of the Sydney clash due to illness.
“I’m optimistic, but I’m also realistic,” Robertson said. “We have to be better. I think we’re clear about that.
“We’re thrilled to have the chance to perform in front of our people again in our capital, Wellington, and tickets for Bledisloe 2 are sold out.
“The cup will be missed but we have to perform well, that’s probably the main thing. We’ll be excited to play some good football again and score some good tries.”
