Rugby World Cup - Semi-Final Preview
Wales vs France - 15 October 2011, Auckland.
Wales have shown great form this tournament thus far. After finishing second in Pool D, they faced off against Ireland in the quarter-finals where they were considered underdogs. They showed the talent in their youthful side winning 22-10, and showed that they are serious contendors to win the trophy this year.
France have been the least consistant team this world cup, after shock defeat to Tonga in the pool stages many people thought it would be a blow out against England. This was not the case when France through great team rugby played their best game of the tournament and defeated England 19-12. France will need to keep this new found pashion if they want to win against a determined Welsh side.
Australia vs New Zealand - 16 October 2011, Auckland.
Australia have had a shakey tournament after losing to Ireland in the pool stages, they barely made it through the quarter-finals in a match dominated by South Africa. Flanker David Pocock has shown his worth winning many balls at the breakdown in controversial fashion. Australia are going to need to step up if they are going to make it any further in this competition.
New Zealand have had a strong tournament, but after losing Dan Carter and now Colin Slade at number 10 their game has taken abit of a hit. They beat Argentina in rather convincing fashion, however were behind at one point and didn't seem to have their usual flowing running game. In order to beat Australia they are going to need to have their usual starting line-up in top form.
Follow Technorati