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Hansen: 'We didn't turn up with the right attitude'

By Online Editors
New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen

New Zealand coach Steve Hansen was full of praise for Jordie Barrett’s performance at fly-half in the 71-9 victory over Namibia, but was disappointed with his team’s attitude during the early stages of the game.

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Barrett has played the majority of his international career at full-back or on the wing but made his first appearance at number 10 for the All Blacks in Tokyo.

New Zealand named only two specialist fly-halves in their World Cup squad in Richie Mo’unga and Beauden Barrett, meaning the utility back was given the opportunity in the pivotal role.

And Barrett responded with a 21-point haul from a try and eight conversions.

Hansen said: “I was really pleased with Jordie Barrett at 10, (he) played very, very well.

“To be the third-choice first-five (fly-half), and our two superstar first-fives not playing. He got us round the back well. We ended up scoring (11) tries so there’s a lot to like about it.”

Despite the comfortable win, Hansen was not happy with his side’s first-half display as they led only 10-9 with 30 minutes played.

He said: “The first half was pretty disappointing. We didn’t turn up with the right attitude and Namibia made us pay for that. It’s a good lesson, isn’t it?

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“Second half, there was pretty good stuff in it. It didn’t happen in the first half because we had a poor attitude. They had more intent than us and played better than us in the first half.

“We came out in the second half and sorted that out at half-time and came out and played well.”

Namibia coach Phil Davies could not have asked any more of his team despite the heavy defeat.

He said: “I’m very proud of the effort we put in. Particularly our ball retention and line breaks in the first half.

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“We knew we were playing against the best team in the competition, the current champions but we gave it all we could. I couldn’t ask any more of our players. We’re very proud of them. The scoreboard looks a bit painful but there was lots to take out of the match.

“To play against New Zealand or at the World Cup is a fantastic opportunity and challenge. That’s what we talked about. Taking on the challenge and embracing the opportunity.”

Watch: Matt Giteau and Mike Tindall pick their World Cup winners

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