All Blacks-Italy Match: Player Ratings

Tecfai Editorial Team

You need 3 min read

·

Post on Nov 24, 2024

38 visitor like this post

Share

All Blacks vs. Italy: A Player-by-Player Performance Review

The All Blacks' clash against Italy provided a fascinating insight into the team's current form and individual player capabilities. While a comfortable victory was expected, the match offered opportunities to assess both established stars and emerging talent. This detailed player-by-player rating breakdown dissects the performance of each All Black, analyzing their contributions and highlighting areas for improvement.

All Blacks Player Ratings: A Comprehensive Assessment

This rating system uses a scale of 1-10, with 10 being a flawless performance and 1 representing a significant underperformance. Individual player roles and responsibilities are taken into account when assigning these ratings.

Forwards: A Solid Foundation, Room for Refinement

• Sam Whitelock (8/10): A commanding presence in the lineout, Whitelock consistently won crucial ball. His tackling was also impactful, demonstrating his experience and leadership. Minor lapses in the scrum were offset by his overall dominance.

• Brodie Retallick (7.5/10): Retallick's physicality was evident throughout the match. While his ball-carrying was effective, there's room for more dynamism in his offensive game. His defensive contributions remained reliable.

• Ethan Blackadder (7/10): Blackadder showed good work rate and a keen eye for the breakdown. He offered consistent support in the rucks and mauls, showcasing his all-around game. Some opportunities to enhance his ball-carrying were missed.

• Ardie Savea (8.5/10): A constant threat with ball in hand, Savea was a standout performer. His powerful runs consistently breached the Italian defense, and his work at the breakdown was exceptional. A player who makes a noticeable impact on every match.

• Samuel Tuipulotu (7/10): A reliable performance from Tuipulotu, contributing solid tackles and involvement in the scrum. Showed consistency but lacked standout moments.

• Codie Taylor (7.5/10): Taylor's lineout throwing was precise and his work around the field was noticeable. His scrummaging also contributed positively to the All Blacks' dominance in the set piece.

• Tyrel Lomax (6.5/10): A solid debut, showing glimpses of his potential, but needing to further refine his game at this level of international rugby. He should look to increase his impact going forward.

Backs: Clinical Attack, Defensive Consistency

• Aaron Smith (8/10): Smith’s game management was exemplary. His quick service to the backs and ability to dictate play were integral to the All Blacks' attacking success. A truly influential presence.

• Richie Mo'unga (7.5/10): Mo'unga's tactical kicking was excellent, consistently pinning Italy deep within their own half. While his goal kicking was precise, his distribution could be improved for even more attacking opportunities.

• Rieko Ioane (9/10): Ioane was the standout performer amongst the backs, showcasing his electrifying pace and finishing ability. His tries were a testament to his talent and showcased his ability to break the defensive lines.

• Will Jordan (8/10): Jordan's defensive work was commendable, but his impact in the attack was equally impressive. His ability to consistently beat defenders and create opportunities was instrumental in the All Blacks' victory.

• Caleb Clarke (7/10): Clarke displayed bursts of pace and power, but could have been more impactful with his ball-carrying. His defensive contribution was a highlight of his performance.

• Quinn Tupaea (7/10): A solid performance in the midfield, displaying his defensive strength and contributing to the overall flow of the backline.

Overall Team Performance: Areas for Growth

While the All Blacks secured a convincing win, this match highlighted the need for consistent improvement. The scrum, while generally effective, could demonstrate greater dominance. Similarly, while the backs showcased attacking prowess, the team could explore more varied attacking strategies to break down stubborn defenses.

The All Blacks vs. Italy match provided a valuable opportunity for the team to solidify their foundations and identify areas for improvement. With the Rugby World Cup looming, consistency and tactical refinement will be key for future success.