Wenslus Murape
All Blacks lock Sam Darry said yesterday they are “excited” about the chance to redeem themselves after their shock defeat to Argentina, as New Zealand prepare to face the Pumas again.
Following their 38-30 loss in Wellington, the All Blacks play Argentina once more in The Rugby Championship this Saturday at Auckland’s Eden Park, where New Zealand have not lost a test for 30 years.
They were outplayed in Wellington last Saturday, but Darry says the New Zealand team is relishing the chance to show an improved display.
“We have got to own our mistakes,” he told reporters in Auckland.
“It’s on everyone. Everyone has got to have a bit of a look in the mirror – at their prep, how they turned up for the game and how we can be better.
“We are really excited about the opportunity at Eden Park against a quality Argentina side. It’s a great test to see what we are made of.”
The 24-year-old made his debut against Fiji in San Diego last month. He claimed his first international try in Wellington against Argentina, only to then taste his first defeat in the famous black shirt.
“That really hurt,” he admitted.
Darry said there is no panic in the All Blacks camp and the squad saw plenty of positives to build upon, despite the defeat.
“We are really clear with how we want to play,” he said.
“There are a few things we want to tweak, but also a few things we are really happy with so it’s not throwing the baby out with the bath water.
“We still know what works for us and we will stick with that.” – SuperSport
Online Reporter