All Blacks get a 'stepping stone' to dethrone Boks at RWC?
SPOTLIGHT: The amount of knowledge gained by the All Blacks in the Greatest Rivalry series will stand them in good stead as they continue to build a squad under Dave Rennie.
The All Blacks suffered a 1-3 series defeat to the Springboks but showed plenty of signs that they can trouble the world champions if they are clinical.
Speaking after his side’s 28-43 defeat in the fourth and final Test in Baltimore, hooker and captain Codie Taylor said that the Tests over the last month were a huge learning curve for the squad as they put plans in place for the World Cup in Australia next year.
“I think reflecting on the first game, we probably created a few more moments in that second half, applied a lot of pressure and then we probably fell short at a few crucial moments in those last three Tests,” he said.
“South Africa are just a bloody good side, and they will punish you if you give them those opportunities.
“In saying that. There is so much to be excited and proud of in this All Blacks group.
“This is a good stepping stone for us for what’s to come in the future, especially next year.”
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There were a few moments on tour that really stood out for Taylor, who took over the captaincy for the final Test after Ardie Savea was ruled out.
“I think just the culture has been amazing; we’ve sort of grown as a team off the field, and I feel like the connections are amazing.
“We’ve got a few things on the field that we want to get right, and I feel like we’ve made some growth in those areas.
“It’s a special team to be a part of. Everyone’s giving their all each day – the management and the players.
“I feel like we are heading in the right direction. It’s gutting this tour, but still so proud of the men that we have.”
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