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"We need to get back to our game": All Blacks on redemption mission in Bledisloe Cup opener
SENZ • September 20th, 2024 9:35 am
Veteran halfback TJ Perenara says the All Blacksare entering Saturday's first Bledisloe Cup Test with a point to prove, after a difficult tour to South Africa.
The pair of agonising losses to the world champions has left a bitter taste within the squad, which they're desperate to wash out against the struggling Wallabies in Sydney.
Joe Schmidt's team are licking their own wounds heading into the match, on the back of their historic 67-27 demolition at the hands of Argentina.
And while their 22-year drought with trans-Tasman rugby's ultimate prize is well documented, Perenara insists the All Blacks certainly won't be taking their opponents lightly - particularly in Sydney - and are determined to get back in the win column.
"We understand we've come off two tough games in South Africa, where we were right in those games but couldn't get the job done," Perenara told SENZ's Scotty & Izzy.
"We need to get back to our game and do what we need to do.
"Australia coming off a heavy loss, they're going to be a different beast. They don't care what's happened in the past. They've got so much confidence each time they go out on the field, so we need to understand that too.
"It's the second biggest cup we play for. The Bledisloe Cup is one we hold in such high esteem, so we're looking forward to it and the boys are in a good spot."
Perenara will come off the bench this weekend, backing up Cortez Ratima, who gets his second straight nod in the No. 9 jersey.
The Wallabies welcome a handful of key players back into the fold, including weapons Noah Lolesio and Hunter Paisami.
One of the priorities through the past week in training for the All Blacks has been scheming to limit their impact, while ensuring they get the quick, clean ball they need to unleash their own attacking arsenal, Perenara explains.
"They're very good at disturbing offensive ball, so for us it's been about our ability to have quality ball throughout the game," he noted.
"We know that they're win parts of the game - they've got some really good players, so our quality of ball is something we've been focusing on.
"Then you look at their offensive weapons. Our ability to stop them and stunt their momentum before some of those boys get on the front foot has been another focus point for us."
Listen to the full interview below:
