Semi Final Preview: Australia v New Zealand

Preview by David van der Merwe

These two teams can't be any better match. Both have won semi-finals like these in past tournaments. Both have lifted the William Webb Ellis Trophy before. And they have played so many games against each other that they know the weaknesses and strengths of their opponents very well.

The Wallabies can count themselves very lucky to be playing in this semi-final. On Sunday the Springboks totally out played them. The try that they scored came against the run of play as did the winning penalty. The fact that they weren't penalised for infringements at the rucks as well as two forward passes by the Springboks saved them. Coming Sunday will be a different ball game though. They will have to watch Richie McCaw at the rucks and Sonny Bill-Williams on attack. If they can stop them they might well win the game. They will also have the 23rd player to content with: the crowd.

The All Blacks has had a relatively easy run into the semi-final. The only real test came in the quarter-final where Argentina tested their defence and attack. The All Blacks are well aware that they are weakened by the loss of Colin Slade. Aaron Cruden will probably start in his place. The All Blacks will watch Quade Cooper and Curtley Beale like hawks. If they can control the breakdowns and scrums they have won half the game.

This will be one of the most entertaining matches in this World Cup with either team being able to win. Craig Joubert will referee the game. Both teams know him well from Tri-Nations matches he has officiated. One thing is sure with Joubert as referee the teams will have to watch the offside line. They will also be well warned not to use hands in the rucks and enter through the gate at the breakdowns.

My money is on the All Blacks to take this one by about 8 points.