Henry expects almighty challenge
Thu, 20 Nov 2008 09:49
No easy passage: NZ coach Graham Henry
Former Wales boss Graham Henry expects his old charges to throw "the kitchen sink" at his current ones as New Zealand continue to Grand Slam tour at the Millennium Stadium this Saturday.
Henry has made just one change to his starting XV from the one which beat Ireland 22-3 last weekend, with Richard Kahui replacing Conrad Smith at outside centre, following Tony Woodcock having been cleared to play after facing a disciplinary hearing during the week.
The All Blacks remain overwhelming favourites to win the match this weekend but Henry says he would never himself make the mistake of underestimating the Welsh Dragons at home.
"I am expecting the kitchen sink from Wales. They are a proven side, and we are expecting a tough contest," he said.
"They are Six Nations champions this year, and that is a fine achievement.
"Wales have got good players across the pitch, that's why they won the Six Nations. They play with a wonderful attitude.
"Their forwards are good ball players, and they also defend well. They are a pretty complete package, really."
He continued: "I know it's a cliche, but we take it one game at a time.
"We will talk about the grand slam after England, if it's a reality.
"We haven't talked about it. If things happen because we play decent rugby, then that is a bonus.
"It is a long season. We will have played 15 Test matches by the time we've finished, which is the largest number of Test matches an All Blacks side will have played in a year.
"I thought the guys played some good stuff against Ireland. We seemed to push on further."
How will you welcome Henry back to Wales? Can Gatland get one over his homeland?
