Springboks v All Blacks: Sir John Kirwan takes a cheeky dig at TMO after ‘great Test match’
Ex-All Blacks Sir John Kirwan and Springboks hooker Bongi Mbonambi.
All Blacks legend Sir John Kirwan has taken a cheeky dig at the TMO in a short video reviewing the Rugby Championship clash at Ellis Park.
The former winger and ex-Italy head coach is well-known for his controversial views on Sky Sports NZ’s Breakdown show but missed this week’s episode because he was in Italy.
Ahead of the clash at Ellis Park, Kirwan stated that the All Blacks were clear underdogs and that all the pressure was on the Springboks.
Congratulations to South Africa
Following the 31-27 victory for Rassie Erasmus’ charges, Kirwan has posted a video where he referenced Bongi Mbonambi’s controversial try, taking a dig at the TMO while congratulating the Springboks on the win.
He also highlighted the Springboks’ ability to turn to their maul to grind out the win with Kwagga Smith and Grant Williams scoring late tries after their driving maul got South Africa close to the line while he rued the All Blacks’ errors in the final quarter.
“Hey everybody, hello my South African friends, congratulations on your win,” he said.
“You are probably wondering why I wasn’t on the Breakdown, I’m actually in Venice getting a pair of these beautiful reading glasses so that the TMO might wear them next week,” he added with a chuckle.
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“However, congratulations. What a great Test match. Hey, I just love when South Africa play New Zealand. I thought New Zealand were outstanding at times – for 50 minutes – but the great thing about South Africa is, their experience, they know how to win, and they know how to go to things like their maul when they win.
“I thought the inexperienced of this side, the All Blacks side at the next level, kicking game last 20 minutes and a few errors was the difference, but can’t wait for next week.”
@JohnKirwan_14 @skysportnz For legend, JKs contant complaining on THE BREAKDOWN, has become a bore. JK, should the TMO had worn your glasses, D-Mac’s convertion, would have timed out, Bongi’s try would have stood, Sam Cane would have been off with 🟥 for second time and Ardie too pic.twitter.com/0syJhNEfjm
— BvR89 (@Bren_v_R) September 1, 2024
Last try wins
The All Blacks great concluded his video with an old rugby saying.
“I don’t know if my South African friends know this New Zealand saying ‘Next try wins’ – that’s how we grow up. You can win with the last try, so what I’m saying is that if we win next week, we win. Look at that.”
