Laporte has a slice of humble pie
France coach Bernard Laporte conceded that the All Blacks were a class apart and that they also managed to change his views on this year’s Super 14 after he saw his side demolished 61-10 in Wellington on Saturday.
Having previously questioned the Super 14 and its lack of intensity after the disappointing showing of New Zealand sides in the tournament Laporte was made to eat humble pie.
“When you look at England losing to South Africa and our losing here I was proven wrong today,” said Laporte.
“The All Blacks were too good. There is a big difference – a great difference – between them and us at the moment.”
Meanwhile French manager Jo Maso cited the lack of intensity in defence for the reason why France leaked so many points. He also went on to say young centers Arnaud Mignardi and Lionel Mazars had some big lessons to learn.
“We had 20 and 21-year-olds out there and the power and the strength of the All Blacks hurt us,” said Maso.
“The guys aren’t used to facing that intensity for 80 minutes and that showed in the second half.”
Despite the record defeat on Saturday, and a heavy defeat in the First Test Laporte believed there were some positives to be taken from a largely developmental tour.
“The team spirit was very good. The new players had nothing to lose and I was happy with the way they trained and performed. They now realise what it is like to play at the very highest level against a very good All Blacks team,” concluded Laporte.
