Thought it was what my grandparents used to tell me when you hear roosters crow in the night back in the village.
They would say it’s the ‘ciri’ or two believed to be drifting past the village out at sea.
Last night it was a lone Rooster that sounded so loud and clear. Not only in France but around the world of rugby.
They plucked the Kiwi feathers and won the battle of the big birds as the 2023 Rugby World Cup kicked off in style.
France won the hearts of their fans in a game that saw them also win with pressure, 27 – 13.
The All Blacks gave away 12 penalties while the French were penalized four times only.
They ran the ball harder than the ABs did. They scored two tries in the last quarter.
The ABs looked lethargic with the ball in hand in the second spell and almost looked lost for options. They kicked away at will. The ball going back straight to the French.
Watching the ABs and France clash reminded me of Foreman fighting Frazier for the World heavyweight title.
A young boxer searching for big time glory against the defending champion out to protect his title.
Frazier started well, had the upper hand and almost looked like he was going to successfully defend his title.
But then Foreman, who was working hard with his jabs and trying to land some combinations finally hit the champion with some telling punches.
History tells that Foreman won the fight.
Last night the Rooster plucked time and time again at the Kiwis feathers. It took its toll slowly.
Mo’unga stood out with some good runs and a try saving tackle in the corner. Savea made some good runs and worked hard. Telea tried hard out wide.
However, the French took all in and countered. In the end they managed to knock the former champion out.
It’s the first game. Am sure the ABs will return with more passion in the next game.
I said in my last post they needed the win more than the hosts. France now have their tails up.
