Giteau lands new record
Mon, 17 Nov 2008 17:11
Ace Australian playmaker,Matt Giteau discreetly earned himself a new record during Saturday’s Test against England at Twickenham.
Giteau's six penalties equalled Michael Lynagh's record as the most by an Australian in a Test against England and ultimately proved the difference in a desperately tight encounter that was only decided in the final 15 minutes.
Giteau is renowned for getting the Wallabies out of trouble with his attacking prowess, but it has been his kicking that has earned the 26-year-old the accolades on this tour.
"Gits has been in great form all year. He keeps banging them over," Wallabies coach Robbie Deans told AAP.
His 41-point contribution, including another 20 against England, represents more than half Australia's total of 72 points for the tour thus far.
While the Wallabies pack received most of the credit for their dominant display against the English, hooker and man of
the match Stephen Moore said Giteau's contribution should not be taken for granted.
"Gits' kicking was outstanding, as it's been all year," Moore said.
"He puts the points on the board. We just try to provide the platform. And they weren't easy kicks, most of them, so full credit to him."
Giteau said he relished the goalkicking responsibility and realised the importance of the role to the side.
"I feel like I'm starting to strike the ball really well consistently and that's probably the biggest thing," he said.
"If sides are ill-disciplined and giving away penalties, you've got to be able to capitalise on it."
