Pool D: South Africa v Wales

The wife and I had a great time last night at this game, it was awesome - my best experience at the Cake Tin since All Black Tests a few years ago, back in Tana’s captaincy - there was just such a positivity- inflected edge to it all; pressure & banter but in good spirit. So close, and though Wales sprayed two more chances to win it, I am still surprised that Barnes did not go to the TMO for that kick. This is the World Cup FFS and that game’s result has significant impact on the whole draw, definitely the pool.

I maintain that Wayne Barnes is simply not up to that level. That is not a direct jibe because of Cardiff in 2007. He is just not good enough. Jacques Fourie and Fourie du Preez were constantly offside!!!

Warburton was immense for Wales, as was Jamie Roberts. But Brussouw! What a scrounger, and F Steyn was class. Remains interesting in that Pool as Wales & Sth Africa only have one points differential, that could come into play if Samoa can rack up a win or two close games.

The Bokke fans were in great voice, as were the Welsh ... plus I think most Kiwis were backing the Red Dragons, as I was. That’s not out of any real dislike of the Boks, for me it was more backing the underdog - and frankly, I like the enterprise of the, always have, even if it sometimes falters completely.

The weekend was so good! Japan were real quality. Namibia can play some good rugby. Romania nearly beat a 6N team. Aaargh. And no one has cracked 50 pts against a 'minnow' yet? brilliant.