At the beginning of the tournament we didn't think we would win the trophy. But we worked a lot but we are bringing the trophy to France and I am very proud of my players. |
I did something wrong, I was punished and I paid for it. Now I want to think about something else and not talk about it anymore. During all that time I did what I can't do when I have a match at the weekend - that is to say a lot of physical preparation. I have now played three top level matches which gave me a good indication of my form. |
I left because I did not want to take any risks but nothing is serious. |
I'll take it like an adult. I made a mistake and I accept it. |
Physically, the All Blacks were stronger and faster. They gave us a lesson. We did what we could but we know now that the road to the 2007 World is going to be very long. |
Scotland have improved in two areas. I don't know if it's down to their new trainer but their ball carrying has come on immensely and they can get the ball wide. To control the game defensively you have to get the upper hand in those areas and they really hurt us today. |
That adds up to nearly 120 weeks, and two-and-ahalf years spent in squad sessions preparing for matches. |
The trophy is coming back to France so I am very happy about that. The Irish win their Triple Crown so it's a good day for rugby. |
There is not always a 'happy end' a la Hollywood. |
We stayed confident because we have a lot of confidence in this team. So we waited and we know it will be good for us, but it was very hard today. We are very, very happy. |
We will have to smother them for the entire match. They put a lot of width into their game. We will have to manage two halves of what we did last year at the Stade de France for one half. |