All Blacks wary of emotion in Mendoza

Richie Mo’unga in action against Argentina in 2022
Photo: PHOTOSPORT

All Blacks first five Richie Mo’unga says it’s important they don’t get swept up in the emotion of the Pumas and their fans in the Rugby Championship opener in Mendoza this weekend.

It is the first time the All Blacks will have played a test in Argentina outside of the capital of Buenos Aires.

New Zealand has traditionally had some problems playing in the South America country, while Argentina will have fond memories of their first ever win in New Zealand last year.

Mo’unga, who has played 44 tests, is expected to be named in the match day squad this week.

The 29-year-old says they probably shouldn’t try to match passion with passion.

“We need to be really smart about how we play our footy.

“When you’re playing footy things can get quite heated and so sometimes passion gets the better of you.”

He admits that can distract players from the game plan.

“If you just try and beat up a team that is trying to beat you up then you might miss some things and lose sight of the game plan

“It may hinder in the decisions that you make.

“While we will have passion, playing smarter footy is the better way to go.”

While it’s the first test for the All Blacks in Mendoza, most of them have played there against the Jaguares in Super Rugby.

Richie Mo’unga
Photo: PHOTOSPORT

He says they’ve taken a simple approach to training this week which is important in the first test of the year.

“Things that we know and should be in our DNA in terms of our footy.

“Our carry height, lightning quick ball at the ruck and just little things that we pride ourselves on is a real good focus to have as your first test.”

The All Blacks suffered a set before departing for Argentina with game-breaking Crusaders outside backs Will Jordan and Leicester Fainga’anuku both being ruled of the tour.

Fainga’anuku was ruled out with a calf injury while Jordan is managing migraine symptoms.

Five debutants were initially named in the squad, while outside back Shaun Stevenson and prop Tevita Mafile’o were added ahead for the trip.

Mo’unga says he’s taken centre Dallas McLeod under his wing and generally has been impressed with the newcomers.

“These guys are in for the first time but they’re mature, they get it, they understand that at this level there is a duty to do.

“So I’m really hoping that some of those boys get an opportunity in the next couple of weeks.

The All Blacks-Argentina test is at 7:10am on Sunday.