Smells Like Teen Spirit: The year in review (Part 8 AKA #TheGrandFinaleII (My 100th & final blog of 2017 (MMXVII)

Well, it all has come down to this, it's new years eve today with 2018 fast approaching by tomorrow so this is part 8 of my year in review so here's another of those best blogs with the most views of the month from the December period this month (Excluding the 8 part year in review) beginning with I Stay Away/No Excuses: 2018 FIFA World Cup draw review:

Well, the draw for the 2018 FIFA World Cup has been announced so it gives me great pleasure to reveal the draw & matches for the 2018 FIFA World Cup (Well I wrote it down on a piece of paper):

Group stage

Group A

Russia
Saudi Arabia
Egypt
Uruguay

Russia Vs Saudi Arabia: Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow
Egypt Vs Uruguay: Ekaterinburg Stadium, Ekaterinburg
Russia Vs Egypt: Saint Petersburg Stadium, St. Petersburg
Uruguay Vs Saudi Arabia: Rostov-on-Don Stadium, Rostov-On-Don
Uruguay Vs Russia: Samara Stadium, Samara
Saudi Arabia Vs Egypt: Volgograd Stadium, Volgograd

Group B

Portugal
Spain
Morocco
IR Iran

Morocco Vs IR Iran: Saint Petersburg Stadium, St. Petersburg
Portugal Vs Spain: Fisht Stadium, Sochi
Portugal Vs Morocco: Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow
IR Iran Vs Spain: Kazan Arena, Kazan
IR Iran Vs Portugal: Saransk Stadium, Saransk
Spain Vs Morocco: Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad

Group C

France
Australia
Peru
Denmark

France Vs Australia: Kazan Arena, Kazan
Peru Vs Denmark: Saransk Stadium, Saransk
Denmark Vs Australia: Samara Stadium, Samara
France Vs Peru: Ekaterinburg Stadium, Ekaterinburg
Denmark Vs France: Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow
Australia Vs Peru: Fisht Stadium, Sochi

Group D

Argentina
Iceland
Croatia
Nigeria

Argentina Vs Iceland: Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow
Croatia Vs Nigeria: Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad
Argentina Vs Croatia: Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novogrod
Nigeria Vs Iceland: Volgograd Stadium, Volgograd
Nigeria Vs Argentina: Saint Petersburg Stadium, St. Petersburg
Iceland Vs Croatia: Rostov-on-Don Stadium, Rostov-On-Don

Group E

Brazil
Switzerland
Costa Rica
Serbia

Costa Rica Vs Serbia: Samara Stadium, Samara
Brazil Vs Switzerland: Rostov-on-Don Stadium, Rostov-On-Don
Brazil Vs Costa Rica: Saint Petersburg Stadium, St. Petersburg
Serbia Vs Switzerland: Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad
Serbia Vs Brazil: Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow
Switzerland Vs Costa Rica: Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novogrod

Group F

Germany
Mexico
Sweden
Korea Republic

Germany Vs Mexico: Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow
Sweden Vs Korea Republic: Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novogrod
Korea Republic Vs Mexico: Rostov-on-Don Stadium, Rostov-On-Don
Germany Vs Sweden: Fisht Stadium, Sochi
Mexico Vs Sweden: Ekaterinburg Stadium, Ekaterinburg
Korea Republic Vs Germany: Kazan Arena, Kazan

Group G

Belgium
Panama
Tunisia
England

Belgium Vs Panama: Fisht Stadium, Sochi
Tunisia Vs England: Volgograd Stadium, Volgograd
Belgium Vs Tunisia: Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow
England Vs Panama: Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novogrod
Panama Vs Tunisia: Saransk Stadium, Saransk
England Vs Belgium: Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad

And last but not least, Group H

Poland
Senegal
Colombia
Japan

Colombia Vs Japan: Saransk Stadium, Saransk
Poland Vs Senegal: Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow
Japan Vs Senegal: Ekaterinburg Stadium, Ekaterinburg
Poland Vs Colombia: Kazan Arena, Kazan
Japan Vs Poland: Volgograd Stadium, Volgograd
Senegal Vs Colombia: Samara Stadium, Samara

Knockout stage

Round of 16

1st Group C Vs 2nd Group D: Kazan Arena, Kazan
1st Group A Vs 2nd Group B: Fisht Stadium, Sochi
1st Group B Vs 2nd Group A: Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow
1st Group D Vs 2nd Group C: Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novogrod
1st Group E Vs 2nd Group F: Samara Stadium, Samara
1st Group G Vs 2nd Group H: Rostov-on-Don Stadium, Rostov-On-Don
1st Group F Vs 2nd Group E: Saint Petersburg Stadium, St. Petersburg
1st Group H Vs 2nd Group G: Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow

Quarter-finals

Winner 49 Vs winner 50: Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novogrod
Winner 53 Vs winner 54: Kazan Arena, Kazan
Winner 55 Vs winner 56: Samara Stadium, Samara
Winner 51 Vs winner 52: Fisht Stadium, Sochi

Semi-finals

Winner 57 Vs winner 58: Saint Petersburg Stadium, St. Petersburg
Winner 59 Vs winner 60: Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow

Play-off for 3rd place

Loser 61 Vs loser 62: Saint Petersburg Stadium, St. Petersburg

Final

Winner 61 Vs winner 62: Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow

And the last one is taken from Sultans Of Swing: New Zealand's history at the America's Cup:

Well, with Auckland (Or not) set to host the next America's Cup in 2021, here is some of the evolution of New Zealand's America's Cup yachts over the years:

1986/87 - Plastic Fantastic

Protagonist: Chris Dickson (New Zealand Challenge)
Designer: Bruce Farr
Key innovation: Fibreglass
Antagonist: Dennis Conner (Stars & Stripes)

1988 - Big boat

Protagonist: David Barnes (New Zealand Challenge)
Designer: Bruce Farr
Key innovation: It was big - very, very big
Antagonist: Dennis Conner (Stars & Stripes)

1992 - NZL 20

Protagonist: Rod Davis (New Zealand Challenge)
Designer: Bruce Farr
Key innovation: Outrigger on bowsprit, steered by flaps on the keel, tandem keel with a nine ton lead bulb between.
Antagonist: Paul Cayard (Il Moro De Venezia)

1995 - Black Magic

Protagonist: Russell Coutts (Team New Zealand)
Designer: Doug Peterson & Laurie Davidson
Key innovation: Red socks
Antagonist: Dennis Conner (Young America (Stars & Stripes merged with PACT 95 syndicate)

2000 - NZL 60

Protagonist: Russell Coutts (Team New Zealand)
Designer: Laurie Davidson & Clay Oliver
Key innovation: Kink-bow & Millennium mast
Antagonist: None (Friendly rivalry against Luna Rossa Challenge)

2003 - NZL 82

Protagonist: Dean Barker & Bertrand Pace (Team New Zealand)
Designer: Mike Drummond, Clay Oliver & Tom Schnackenberg
Key innovation: Hull appendage & keel bulb
Antagonist: Russell Coutts (Alinghi)

2007 - NZL 92

Protagonist: Dean Barker (Emirates Team New Zealand)
Designer: Mike Drummond, Clay Oliver & Tom Schnackenberg
Key innovation: Buzzy bee bulb
Antagonist: Brad Butterworth (Alinghi)

2013 - Aotearoa

Protagonist: Dean Barker (Emirates Team New Zealand)
Designer: Nick Holroyd
Key innovation: Foiling upwind
Antagonist: Jimmy Spithill (Oracle Team USA)

2017 - AC50

Protagonist: Glenn Ashby (Emirates Team New Zealand)
Designer: Dan Bernasconi
Key innovation: Cyclors
Antagonist: Jimmy Spithill (Oracle Team USA)

2021 - Foiling monohulls

Designer: Dan Bernasconi

So that is my 180th blog of the year 2017 (MMXVII) & my 100th this year (Wow! Unbelievable! My 100th blog this year! Oh my goodness, this is fantastic! Absolutely incredible! Another 20 blogs to hit the double ton).

P.S. I went with Dad (Although he went to a hospital because his nose was bleeding after he collided with another surf board 2 days ago) to New Plymouth on a camper van (I had to bring my America's Cup book to read it during the trip) from the 28th of December until yesterday so I did enjoy that trip because it was quite so good (We went to Opunake yesterday from New Plymouth because we had lunch there).

And I would like to say thanks to my whole friends & family such as Pops, Dad, Jansen, Raewyn, Aunty Tania, Rejean, Uncle Bryan, Aunty Viv, Ashley, Charlotte, Leon Benbaruk, Hanne, Sophia Ong, John Coburn, Lim Chin Keong, Cathey Middelplaats, Paige Williams, Kathryn, Ken Branch & Ben Blain as well as Diana Kent for all my support, thank you...As we will see you in 2018.

A Place For My Head/Crawling/Points Of Authority: The year in review (Part 7 + My blog before Christmas tomorrow)

Well, this is part 7 of my year in review so here's another of those best blogs with the most views of the month from the November period beginning with Monkey Wrench: France XV Vs All Blacks review, All Blacks starting lineup against Scotland, RWC 2023 host announced & list of teams qualified for the 2018 FIFA World Cup:

Well, the All Blacks have beaten the French XV side by 5 points in a midweek game at Groupama Stadium over in Lyon in preparation for the test this Sunday morning against Scotland over in Murrayfield in Edinburgh with a news report:

The All Blacks have beaten a rugged French selection XV 28-23 in Lyon and laid the foundation for future success in the process, according to coach Steve Hansen.

A hugely inexperienced New Zealand team trailed 15-14 at halftime in a physical contest before gaining some control soon after the break.

Hansen was delighted his team held its nerve as the final quarter descended into a testy affair and the French scored to close the margin while debut centre Jack Goodhue was in the sin bin for taking out a support runner.

Hansen wanted to assess his next wave of talent in an international cauldron and got the acid test he wanted from a committed home team. That a New Zealand side featuring nine uncapped players and boasting just 150 caps between them clung on could only be positive for the future, he said.

"Everyone put their hand up. You can go right through the group and I think everybody did what we asked them to do and enhanced their reputations," Hansen said.

"The confidence that will give some of those guys, you can't buy. Some of these guys may not get their opportunity until after 2019."

Among New Zealand's best was halfback Tawera Kerr-Barlow, in possibly his last game before taking up a French club contract. Hansen said the nuggety Chiefs No.9 he will be missed.

"He's been in outstanding form most of his All Blacks career, I reckon. Do we want him to leave? No. But he's made that decision so then we've got to decide what we do."

Burly flanker Liam Squire shook off the effects of a virus which ruled him out Saturday's 38-18 Test win over France in Paris and unleashed a muscular display to prove he is ready to face Scotland in Edinburgh this weekend.

"I thought he was really physical and punishing with his defence," Hansen said.

The All Blacks' first-half tries were fine team efforts, with both converted from the sideline by first five-eighth Lima Sopoaga.

Squire crossed in the left corner in the 11th minute and Matt Duffie in the right in the 24th, the first All Blacks try for the former Melbourne Storm NRL winger. On both occasions France responded with a try to winger Gabriel Lacroix, the second a 70m intercept effort following a long, loose pass from Ngani Laumape.

Playing with more precision in the third quarter, the visitors create close-range tries to lock Patrick Tuipulotu and Laumape to power 28-15 ahead. The 14-man All Blacks couldn't stop centre Henry Chavancy crossing but were able to hold out the passionate hosts over the final seven minutes.

And the All Blacks team has been named to take on Scotland at Murrayfield in Edinburgh so here is the starting lineup:

FRONT ROW
1 (Loose head prop): Kane Hames (Tasman/Chiefs)
2 (Hooker): Codie Taylor (Canterbury/Crusaders)
3 (Tight head prop): Nepo Laulala (Counties Manukau/Chiefs)

SECOND ROW
4 (Lock): Luke Romano (Canterbury/Crusaders)
5 (Lock): Sam Whitelock (Canterbury/Crusaders)

BACK ROW
6 (Blindside Flanker): Vaea Fifita (Wellington/Hurricanes)
7 (Openside Flanker): Sam Cane (Bay Of Plenty/Chiefs)
8 (Number 8): Kieran Read (Captain, Counties Manukau/Crusaders)

HALVES
9 (Half-back): Aaron Smith (Manawatu/Highlanders)
10 (First five eighth): Beauden Barrett (Taranaki/Hurricanes)

MIDFIELD
12 (Second five eighth): Sonny Bill Williams (Counties Manukau/Blues)
13 (Centre): Ryan Crotty (Canterbury/Crusaders)

OUTSIDE BACKS
11 (Left Wing): Rieko Ioane (Auckland/Blues)
14 (Right Wing): Waisake Naholo (Taranaki/Highlanders)
& 15 (Fullback): Damian McKenzie (Waikato/Chiefs)

And in the reserves are:

16. Nathan Harris (Who replaces Asafo Aumua with Codie Taylor being elevated into the starting lineup to replace the injured Dane Coles who had to return home)
17. Wyatt Crockett (Who replaces Atu Moli for this clash)
18. Ofa Tu'ungafasi
19. Liam Squire (Who replaces Scott Barrett for this one after a comfortable performance against France XV by overcoming a virus)
20. Matt Todd (Who replaces Akira Ioane to take his place back by covering the openside flanker position)
21. TJ Perenara (Who has replaced Dillon Hunt to cover at halfback)
22. Lima Sopoaga (Who is dropped to the bench to replace Mitchell Drummond to cover at first five)
& 23. Anton Lienert-Brown (Who has replaced Richie Mo'unga to cover at the midfield position).

And the hosts for the 2023 Rugby World Cup goes to France (For only the 2nd time because they 1st hosted it in 2007 a decade ago) as announced by the sport's governing body World Rugby as favourites Ireland had been eliminated during the 1st round of voting before France outperformed the other favourite South Africa in the last round of voting then the decision came from World Rugby as France (Who were clear outsiders to host the 2023 tournament) revealed that they are hosting the 2023 Rugby World Cup (And the French were like: Vive la France! Oui, oui, oui (Yeah, yeah, yeah), merci beaucoup (Thanks very much). Because they were ecstatic & happy about it, so relieved especially the legend of the game, Sebastian 'Caveman/Seabass' Chabal (He was part of France's world cup bidding mastermind for 2023) because it was in fact a shock decision I have to say because not only favourites Ireland were out in the 1st round of voting then another favourite South Africa crashed out in the last round of voting).

And finally here are the list of national teams qualified for the 2018 FIFA World Cup next year in Russia (And their star men):

Argentina (Lionel Messi)
Australia (Tim Cahill)
Belgium (Eden Hazard)
Brazil (Neymar)
Colombia (James Rodriguez)
Costa Rica (Giancarlo Gonzalez)
Croatia (Luka Modric)
Denmark (Christian Eriksen)
Egypt (Mohamed Salah)
England (Harry Kane)
France (Antoine Griezmann)
Germany (Toni Kroos)
Iceland (Gylfi Sigurdsson)
Iran (Sardur Azmoun)
Japan (Keisuke Honda, Shinji Kagawa & Shinji Okazaki)
Korea Republic (Son Heung-min)
Mexico (Hirving Lozano)
Morocco (Mehdi Benatia)
Nigeria (John Mikel Obi)
Panama (Luis Tejada)
Peru (Jefferson Farfan)
Poland (Robert Lewandowski)
Portugal (Cristiano Ronaldo)
Russia* (Igor Akinfeev)
Saudi Arabia (Nasser Al Shamrani)
Senegal (Sadio Mane)
Serbia (Branislav Ivanovic)
Spain (Isco)
Sweden (Marcus Berg)
Switzerland (Xherdan Shaqiri)
Tunisia (Aymen Abdennour)
& last but not least, Uruguay (Luis Suarez)

*: Hosts

And the 2nd one is taken from Anna Molly/Talk Shows On Mute: All Whites failure against Peru & Kiwis early exit in the Rugby League World Cup:

Anna Molly/Talk Shows On Mute: All Whites failure against Peru & Kiwis early exit in the Rugby League World Cup:

Well, the All Whites & Kiwis rugby league team are in sporting crisis (So too are the US men's soccer team who lost to Trindad & Tobago during the FIFA World Cup qualifiers (1986 was the last time that the USA has failed to qualify) as well as Italy who went down to Sweden in the UEFA qualification playoff (And 1958 was the last time Italy failed to qualify) followed by The Netherlands & Chile) as the All Whites fail to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, losing to Peru (Who had to score both goals to book their golden ticket) in Lima then the Kiwis rugby league team went down to Fiji by 2 points in the Rugby League World Cup quarterfinals in Wellington (After surprisingly losing to Tonga in the final pool game over in Hamilton, producing the biggest upset in rugby league history), producing our worst result in the history of the Rugby League World Cup (And it is one of our darkest days in New Zealand rugby league although Pops isn't a rugby league fan at all).

And 2017 wasn't our year for All Blacks standards because they missed out on winning the Lions series as well as the 2 defeats against both the British & Irish Lions in the 2nd test of the Lions series in Wellington & the Wallabies in the 3rd & final Bledisloe Cup test in Brisbane but let's hope that the Warren Gatland coached Wales doesn't become the 3rd team to down the All Blacks.

And the 3rd one is taken from Perfect Insanity/Stricken: Scotland Vs All Blacks & 2017 end of year rugby internationals week 5 review:

Well, the All Blacks held on to win against the brave Scotland team (Who were on the verge of making history until a forward pass by man of the match Stuart Hogg ended their hopes of claiming their 1st victory against us) by 5 points over in Murrayfield in Edinburgh with the match commentary being provided:

Hello and welcome to live updates of Scotland hosting the All Blacks at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh, Scotland.

It is the second Test match of the All Blacks northern tour after beating France 38-18 last weekend.

We bring you live streaming written commentary, and all the action.
Commentary will start from around 5:45 am (NZT). In the meantime check out the video above as All Blacks captain Kieran Read talks about what it means to play at Murrayfield Stadium.
Lineups

Scotland

1. Darryl Marfo, 2. Stuart McInally, 3. Zander Fagerson, 4. Ben Toolis,  5. Jonny Gray, 6. John Barclay (c), 7. Hamish Watson, 8. Cornell du Preez, 9. Ali Price, 10. Finn Russell, 11. Lee Jones, 12. Alex Dunbar, 13. Huw Jones, 14. Tommy Seymour, 15. Stuart Hogg

Reserves

16. George Turner, 17.  Jamie Bhatti, 18. Simon Berghan, 19. Grant Gilchrist, 20. Luke Hamilton, 21. Henry Pyrgos, 22. Pete Horne, 23. Byron McGuigan

All Blacks

Kane Hames, 2. Codie Taylor, 3. Nepo Laulala, 4. Luke Romano, 5. Sam Whitelock, 6. Vaea Fifita, 7. Sam Cane, 8. Kieran Read, 9. Aaron Smith, 10. Beauden Barrett, 11. Rieko Ioane, 12. Sonny Bill Williams,13. Ryan Crotty, 14. Waisake Naholo, 15. Damian McKenzie

Reserves

16. Nathan Harris, 17. Wyatt Crockett, 18. Ofa Tu'ungafasi, 19. Liam Squire, 20. Matt Todd, 21. TJ Perenara, 22. Lima Sopoaga, 23. Anton Lienert-Brown

Match facts and stats

Referee: Matthew Carley (ENG)

Sideline officials: Romain Poite (FRA) and Ian Davies (WAL)

Review officials: Graham Hughes (ENG)

Past meetings

Head to head: Played 30, Scotland 0, All Blacks 28, Drawn 0

Last time played: All Blacks 24 def Scotland 16, November, 15 2014

5:45 am: Scotland will be wearing their white jersey for this match which means the All Blacks will be in... well, all black.

5:51 am: It is a beautiful, clear afternoon in Edinburgh. Only 4:50 pm and it is dark. Great condition for counter-attacking rugby - something both teams are really good at.

5:52 am: I also better mention that it is a cool five degrees at the ground.

5:56 am: Both teams are finishing their final warm-ups and will head to the locker rooms very shortly.

5:58 am: Last time the All Blacks and Scotland squared off, the All Blacks scraped past with a 24-16 win.

6:00 am: England have just beaten Australia 30-6 in Twickenham. They scored three tries in the last 10 minutes to get the win.

6:01 am: The lights have gone out at the stadium and all you can see is a sea of blue thundersticks.

6:03 am: The teams are back out in the sheds and will be heading out shortly. The atmosphere is incredible. Can't wait to hear Flower of Scotland as it always sounds amazing.

6:05 am: Not long to go now!

6:08 am: Both teams are out on the field to a massive roar by the crowd.

6:09 am: Time for the national anthems. God Defend New Zealand is first.

6:11 am: Anthems are done. As always they sound amazing in Edinburgh. Haka time!

6:13 am: The All Blacks go with Ka Mate! and the Scotland crowd is singing so loud you can't even hear it! Magical scenes at Murrayfield.

6:16 am: Former Scotland international Doddie Weir brings the match ball out. He is well loved by the Scots and sadly was diagnosed with motor neurone disease this year.

KICKOFF: We are underway at Murrayfield. The All Blacks get the match started.

1min: Scotland gets an early penalty as Waisake Naholo obstructed and they kick to touch. Attacking lineout 22 out.

2min: Vaea Fifita comes through the middle of the maul and wins the turnover. Great play by the blindside flanker. All Black scrum.

3min: Aaron Smith clears the ball away. A great clearance kicks off a strong carry by Sonny Bill Williams. Scotland win the lineout and Stuart Hogg breaks the line but Cornell du Preez drops the pass.

5min: Stuart Hogg causing problems early on. Scotland just outside the 22.

6min: The home side has a penalty advantage and the referee blows his whistle. The All Blacks have had little ball and the Scotland chant starts around the stadium.

7min, PENALTY GOAL SCOTLAND: The home side is the first to score as Finn Russell slots the penalty goal. They lead early in this clash.

8min: The All Blacks have the ball on the halfway line and are taking their time as the Scotland defence holds strong.

9min: Finn Russell goes for an intercept and nearly get his hands to the ball but it goes forward. He is one of the best at intercepts.

10min: Stuart Hogg puts in a great kick and it goes into touch 5 out from their line.

11min: Scotland just outside the 22, but a loose pass forces them back and Ali Price has to clear the ball away but it drifts into touch on the full.

12min: All Blacks not rolling away and Scotland get the ball back and they will go for goal again.

13min: 45 out and it misses just to the right. A Missed opportunity with that one.

14min: Stuart Hogg with another deadly run making good ground. He is tackled and Sam Cane gets over the top or the ball and they win the turnover.

15min: This will be the All Blacks first real attacking chance and the ball has been turned over. But the ball pops out and the All Blacks have a scrum 25 out from the line.

16min: Brilliant start to the game I must admit. Both sides playing well but Scotland's defence will be tested here.

18min: The Scotland defence rushes up and they win the turnover Big play by John Barclay. The All Blacks honestly look stunned so far.

19min: Another penalty to Scotland just outside the 22. Will they kick for touch or go for goal?

They kick for touch. Five metres out.

20min: Scotland go for it and have a overlap. But the ball goes to ground, and the All Blacks survive again.

21min: All Blacks attack down the left wing and Aaron Smith throws the ball back infield but it is intercepted by Jonny Gray.

22min: Ali Price kicks the ball into touch and they will have a throw in 10 out from their line. cotland will be wanting to steal the lineout here.

23min: A mistake by Tommy Seymour and the All Blacks have an attacking lineout and now the All Blacks have a penalty advantage also.

24min: The All Blacks throw a forward pass but they had a penalty advantage. They have a chance to go for goal but they opt to go for touch. Five out.

26min: Scotland's defence is just holding on here. The All Blacks are inches from the line and they go wide, but Beauden Barrett throws a forward pass.

27min: The crowd loves it as another Scotland chant starts around the stadium.

Luke Hamilton comes on for Hamish Watson who will go for a HIA.

28min: Scotland get a free kick and the boot the ball downfield but but it doesn't go into touch.

Waisake Naholo could be in serious trouble here for taking Stuart Hogg out in the air. Time is off.

Waisake Naholo is lucky and stays on the field. The crowd are not happy with that at all. Naholo is very lucky.

29min: Scotland is now five out from the line as the Scotland chant starts again, but they are heading backwards now.

30min: The All Blacks defence is holding strong and is like a brick wall. Hogg attacks the line and they are five out again.

Another missed opportunity as Zander Fagerson knocks the ball on after 19 phases on attack. The All Blacks look puffed. The need to really score as they keep blowing chances inside the All Blacks 22.

31min: The All Blacks win a penalty at the scrum.

33min: Scotland carries the ball back by accident it looks like. All Blacks scrum five out from the line.

34min: Penalty to the All Blacks five out from the line and they go for the scrum. After dominating the match, Scotland are on the back-foot.

36min: Scotland survives again as they get a turnover at the scrum. But they kick the ball straight to the All Blacks instead of into touch and the All Blacks are back on the attack.

37min: Another penalty to the All Blacks, will they go for goal this time?

38min, PENALTY GOAL ALL BLACKS: Beauden Barrett lands the penalty goal from right in front and the game is tied.

39min: From the restart, Vaea Fifita makes a break down the right wing and the momentum is now with New Zealand.

40min: Codie Taylor drops the ball into touch just before the halfitme siren, so the home side get one last chance before the break.

42min: Play still goes on as the All Blacks win a penalty. They will now have a chance to score before the break.

HALFTIME: What a first half. Scotland, yes Scotland have been the better of the two teams in the first 40 as the game is all square at the break. Scotland has had a number of chances to score, but have failed to capitalise. No tries in the opening 40.

40min: Scotland get the second half started at Murrayfield. The All Blacks let the ball bounce straight into touch.

41min: The All Blacks win the lineout and Vaea Fifita knocs the ball out. Scotland scrum 15 out from the try line.

42min: Scotland five metres from the line... Now inches from the line. But the ball is trapped and the All Blacks win the penalty.

43min: Rieko Ioane causing problems for Scotland as he makes a break down the wing. Now it is the All Blacks who are hot on attack.

44min, TRY ALL BLACKS: As all hookers do in 2017, Codie Taylor just stands on the wing and dives over in the corner. New Zealand leads for the first time in the match. It was bound to happen.

46min: The conversion goes wide, so the All Blacks hold a five point lead.

47min: Scotland on the attack are just outside the 22. They need to score here.

48min: The All Blacks in a penalty. Scotland let the away side off the hook again. But good defence by New Zealand once again.

49min: Time is off as Luke Hamilton is down injured. It looks like the guy on debut has a broken leg. Which is disappointing because Hamilton has been great since coming on.

Due to the injury, George Turner will come on, meaning Stuart McInally will shift to the back row.

The All Blacks are doing some drills to keep the blood flowing as it is only four degrees.

50min: The All Blacks dominate the scrum and win a penalty.

51min: Another penalty advantage to the All Blacks who look like they will score.

TRY ALL BLACKS: New Zealand go over for their second. Sonny Bill Williams puts a grubber kick through and Damian McKenzie dives on the loose ball to score by the posts.

52min: Scotland just outside the 22 and now they really need to score next.

53min: Another knock-on inside the All Blacks 22 and the Scots will rue another missed opportunity.

55min: Scotland back with the ball as Finn Russell clears the ball away.

56min: Another loose carry by Scotland and the All Blacks go on the counter-attack.

57min: The All Blacks looked like they were about to score try number three, but the king of intercepts Finn Rusell coms up with a big play and now the All Blacks are all the way back on their line and the crowd loves it.

59min: Ryan Crotty comes off for what appears to be an HIA. Scotland has the ball just inside New Zealand's 22.

60min: 20 minutes remain and the All Blacks lead by 12 points. Scotland has a lineout five out from the line.

YELLOW CARD ALL BLACKS: Sam Cane is off to the sin-bin for killing the play right in front of the posts as Scotland were about to cross the line.

61min, TRY SCOTLAND: Scotland makes the All Black pay right away as Jonny Gray powers his way over the line.

62min: Finn Russell lands the conversion and it is a five point ball game. The crowd is loving this.

64min: That try has sparked Scotland as they make a break down the muddle but the double knock on lets the All Blacks off the hook. Ryan Crotty is back on the park. TJ Perenara is also on for Aaron Smith.

66min: The All Blacks have just kiled about three minutes with scrum resets.

TRY ALL BLACKS: Beauden Barrett sprints over the line for try number three. Sonny Bill Williams attacks the line and offloads to his five-five who dives over to counter Scotlands try.

68min: Barrett converts his own try as the All Blacks restore their 12 point lead. Sonny Bill Williams heads off for Anton Lienert-Brown.

69min: Scotland gets the match back underway and the All Blacks five-way another penalty. Lineout five out from the line.

70min: Penalty to Scotland right in front and they take a quick tap.

71min, YELLOW CARD ALL BLACKS: Wyatt Crockett goes to the bin for taking out the halfback (And remember that halfbacks are protected species) just as Sam Cane is about to come back on for killing the play.

With Crockett in the bin, Kane Hames has to come back on and Vaea Fifita heads off.

72min: Another penalty to Scotland right in front. The Scots wanted to take it quickly but the referee brings the playback which the crowd doesn't like.

The All Blacks win a penalty at the scrum which is a let down for Scotland.

74min: Liam Squire makes a break and is tackled, but they turn the ball over and Scotland clear the ball downfield quickly as possible.

75min: Another blown chance by Scotland.

76min, TRY SCOTLAND: It is not over yet! Huw Jones scores in the corner. Stuart Hogg stabs a grubber through and Tommy Seymour gathers and finds Jones on the inside.

77min: Three minutes to go and it is a five point ball game.

79min: One minute to go. Scotland with the ball.

FULLTIME: Stuart Hogg makes a break down the wing and throws it back infield but it goes forward and the referee blows his whistle and that is it. Heartbreak for Scotland as Stuart Hogg is in tears knowing he could have made history.

SCOTLAND 17 - 22 ALL BLACKS

And what do I think of the game? Well, it was scrappy I would have to say. But our discipline has been a bit of a letdown because we conceded most penalties as well as both yellow cards handed out from the English referee to both Sam Cane (For killing the ball) & Wyatt Crockett (For taking out the opposing halfback) which proved to be costly. And what about patriotic Scottish fullback Stuart Hogg, because he was their star performer of the game for his heroic performance (And he was the hero of Scottish rugby) but the Scots missed out on making history (As Hogg's pass drifted forward when the ref blew the final whistle, effectively ending the match in front of a sell-out crowd at Murrayfield).

And finally in other rugby news such as England continue their dominance against the Wallabies in a highly controversial fashion (Even the Wallaby coach Michael Chieka isn't so happy with the all important decisions such as a no try from Wallaby captain Michael Hooper because he was clearly offside then Hooper getting sent to the sin bin due to multiple cynical infringements from the maul followed by Kurtley Beale who joined Hooper in the bin for a deliberate knock down then a try scored by long range goal kicking winger Elliot Daly whether it's out or not when the ball touched the sideline then Marika Koroibete crossed over but former Wallaby captain Stephen Moore obstructed one of the English players as he made his tackle but Chieka is facing disciplinary action for his conduct which is currently under investigation by World Rugby but he was cleared for that) with a win over in Twickenham in London then South Africa topple France by 1 at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis then Argentina scraped past Italy over in Firenze (Which is located in the Tuscany region) then Ireland win by 3 against Fiji at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin & the under strength Wales side win against Georgia by 13 points in another scrappy game during their 1st meeting between the 2 nations at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

And the 4th one is taken from Bridge Burning: Abu Dhabi Grand Prix preview:

Well, the Formula 1 circus is heading to Abu Dhabi in the UAE (United Arab Emirates) for the last time this year in 2017 as the F1 season is coming to a close, what a year (And what a season for all the drivers (Especially the 4 time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who had enjoyed his stellar, roller coaster season) & constructors (Especially Mercedes who have had an incredible season after winning their 4th consecutive constructor's title) they have had so far) so here's the circuit guide which will host the 20th & final round of the 2017 championship:

''Built at huge cost on an island, close to Abu Dhabi airport. Facilities second to none but track layout disappointing with too many slow & medium-speed corners. Racing from dusk into darkness, & marina back-drop, adds to atmosphere. Settled the championship more than once since introduction in 2009.''

And the 5th one is taken from Prayer: All Blacks starting lineup against Wales:

Well, the All Blacks team has been named to play against Wales in our final test match of the year at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff so here is the starting lineup:

FRONT ROW
1 (Loose head prop): Kane Hames (Tasman/Chiefs)
2 (Hooker): Codie Taylor (Canterbury/Crusaders)
3 (Tight head prop): Nepo Laulala (Counties Manukau/Chiefs)

SECOND ROW
4 (Lock): Patrick Tuipulotu (Auckland/Blues)
5 (Lock): Sam Whitelock (Captain, Canterbury/Crusaders)

BACK ROW
6 (Blindside Flanker): Liam Squire (Tasman/Highlanders)
7 (Openside Flanker): Sam Cane (Bay Of Plenty/Chiefs)
8 (Number 8): Luke Whitelock (Canterbury/Highlanders)

HALVES
9 (Half-back): Aaron Smith (Manawatu/Highlanders)
10 (First five eighth): Beauden Barrett (Taranaki/Hurricanes)

MIDFIELD
12 (Second five eighth): Sonny Bill Williams (Counties Manukau/Blues)
13 (Centre): Ryan Crotty (Canterbury/Crusaders)

OUTSIDE BACKS
11 (Left Wing): Rieko Ioane (Auckland/Blues)
14 (Right Wing): Waisake Naholo (Taranaki/Highlanders)
& 15 (Fullback): Damian McKenzie (Waikato/Chiefs)

And in the reserves are:

16. Nathan Harris
17. Wyatt Crockett
18. Ofa Tu'ungafasi
19. Scott Barrett (Who replaces Liam Squire (Who is elevated to the starting lineup to replace Vaea Fifita) to cover the second row position)
20. Matt Todd
21. TJ Perenara
22. Lima Sopoaga
& 23. Anton Lienert-Brown.

And finally the 6th one is taken from I Am The Fire/Something From Nothing: Wales Vs All Blacks, 2017 end of year rugby internationals week 5 & Abu Dhabi Grand Prix review:

Well, the All Blacks end the year with a win against Wales at the Millennium Stadium over in Cardiff so here's the live commentary provided & taken from Newshub:

Hello and welcome to live updates of Wales hosting the All Blacks at Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, Wales.

The match is the last match for 2017 for the All Blacks and the fifth and final on their northern tour.

We bring you live streaming written commentary.

Commentary will start at 5:40 am (NZT).

Lineups

Wales

1. Rob Evans, 2. Ken Owens, 3. Tomas Francis, 4. Jake Ball, 5. Alun Wyn Jones (c), 6. Aaron Shingler, 7. Josh Navidi, 8. Taulupe Faletau, 9. Rhys Webb; 10. Dan Biggar, 11. Steff Evans, 12. Owen Williams, 13. Scott Williams, 14. Hallam Amos, 15. Leigh Halfpenny

Reserves: 16. Kristian Dacey, 17. Wyn Jones, 18. Leon Brown, 19. Cory Hill, 20. Justin Tipuric, 21. Gareth Davies, 22. Rhys Priestland, 23. Jamie Roberts

All Blacks

1. Kane Hames, 2. Codie Taylor, 3. Nepo Laulala, 4. Patrick Tuipulotu, 5. Samuel Whitelock (c), 6. Liam Squire, 7. Sam Cane, 8. Luke Whitelock, 9. Aaron Smith, 10. Beauden Barrett, 11. Rieko Ioane, 12. Sonny Bill Williams, 13. Ryan Crotty, 14. Waisake Naholo, 15. Damian McKenzie

Reserves: 16. Nathan Harris, 17. Wyatt Crockett, 18. Ofa Tu'ungafasi, 19. Scott Barrett, 20. Matt Todd, 21. TJ Perenara, 22. Lima Sopoaga, 23.  Anton Lienert-Brown

Match facts and stats

Referee: Wayne Barnes (ENG)

Sideline officials: Jérôme Garcès (FRA) and Frank Murphy (IRE)

Review officials: Rowan Kitt (ENG)

Past meetings

Head to head: Played 33, Wales 3, All Blacks 30

In Wales: Played 19, Wales 3, All Blacks 16

Last time played: All Blacks 46 def Wales 6 June 25, 2016

Last time played in Wales: All Blacks 34 def Wales 16 November 22, 2014

5:47 am: Thanks for tuning in for live updates for the last All Blacks test match of 2017. Millenium Stadium has sold out and fans are starting to fill the second.

5:55 am: If you missed the news, Sam Whitelock will captain the All Blacks with Kieran Read out with hip/back injury.

6:03 am: Both teams are in the sheds and will head out to the field very shortly for the national anthems.

6:07 am: Both team are out on the field under the roof.

6:12 am: The anthems are done and now it is time for the last haka of 2017 by the All Blacks.

6:15 am: The All Blacks go with Kapa o Pango and as always in Wales, there was a very intense stare-down between the two teams.

KICKOFF: We are underway in Wales. The All Blacks get this match started to a massive roar by the sell-out crowd.

1min: Wales clear the ball early and the All Blacks let it bounce but they get to the ball. But then Alun Wyn Jones comes over the top and the Welsh get the ball back.

2mins: Wales continue to go forward and eventually get inside the 22.

3mins: Now Wales have gone backwards and after 18 phases, they kick the ball and once again they let it bounce. Beauden Barrett eventually clears the ball away.

5mins: Wales hot on the attack and they stab a kick through, but Beauden Barrett gets to the ball first but is tackled back in-goal and now the Welsh have a scrum five out from the line.

6mins: Wales very close to the line, but the All Blacks defence holds strong.

8mins: After 16 phases, Wales win a penalty and actually made no grand at all. What will the Welsh do?

9mins, PENALTY GOAL WALES: Leigh Halfpenny lands a penalty goal right in front and Wales lead early.

11mins: Wales back with the ball as the dominate early possession. The All Blacks knock the ball forward so Wales now with scrum.

14mins, TRY ALL BLACKS: First chance with the ball and the All Blacks make a break and Wiasake Naholo goes over. They want to check the grounding. It started all from a Rieko Ioane break.

15mins: From the sidelines, Beauden Barrett kicks the ball straight over the black dot.

17mins: Wales make a break down the wing, but Beauden Barrett makes another great defensive play as Hallam Amos goes into touch.

18mins: Time is off as Jake Ball is down in pain with what appears to be a serious shoulder injury. Meanwhile, Ryan Crotty is heading off for an HIA injury.

19mins: Time is currently off. The All Blacks lead 7-3 thanks to a try to Waisake Naholo.

21mins: Wales back with the ball and they attack through the middle through Gareth Davies. They re close to the line.
The All Blacks survive a close scare as Taulupe Faletau goes over the line and goes to put the ball down but Sam Cane knocks the ball out of his hands.

23mins: Wales going for goal once again. Thy trail despite having over 80% possession.

24mins: The penalty goal goes wide of the mark. The score remains 7 - 3.

25mins: The All Blacks finally have some ball but they need to clear it away into touch.

26mins: Leigh Halfpenny goes on a run and is smashed by Rieko Ioane. Wales still have possession - a very common sight this half.

27mins: Wales hot on the attack and they have a overlap, but the ball doesn't go to hand and once again the All Blacks survive.

28mins: Scrum time and the All Blacks put the ball in. They clear the ball downfield and into touch and Wales go quickly.

30mins: Waisake Naholo with a break down the wing and he cuts back infield and does a 'Benji Marshall' but Damian McKenzie drops the ball. A few plays later, Wales get a penalty as one of their players was taken out by Kane Hames.

32mins, PENALTY GOAL WALES: Leigh Halfpenny kicks his second penalty goal and now Wales trail by one point despite dominating the match.

34mins: Wales with a lineout and Patrick Tuipulotu steals the ball in the air and now New Zealand with some rare possession.

35mins: Waisake Naholo with another strong run as the All Blacks get a penalty advantage.

37mins: The All Blacks go over the line and Rieko Ioane claims a try but he is held up.

38mins, TRY ALL BLACKS: Waisake Naholo has his second as he goes over in the corner. He is falling into touch but gets the ball down. Great try!

39mins: From the sidelines once again but this time Beauden Barrett pulls it wide.

40mins, TRY WALES: As the siren sounds, wales go over for their first try of the game. Scott Williams the scorer, but it started from a break from a set piece. Fantastic try to the Welsh who have a chance to take the lead at the break.

HAFLTIME: Leigh Halfpenny misses the conversion and the All Blacks lead 12-11 at the break despite having little to no ball.

40mins: Nepo Laulala is off and Ofa Tu'ungafasi will start the second half. Wales get the final 40 minutes started.

41mins: Wales with the ball early as they look to go wide.

42min: The All Blacks get the ball and kick it away. Wales still looking to attack and hold the ball.

44mins: Liam Squire wins the ball back for New Zealand as the All Blacks look to go on the counter-attack and all of a sudden they get inside the Wales 22.

46mins: Patrick Tuipulotu and Luke Whitelock both off the field for the All Blacks. Scott Barrett and Matt Todd both come on as the replacements.

48mins: The All Blacks with some rare attacking ball, as they go wide again. Waisake Naholo stabs a kick through and it goes dead in goal.

50mins: Wales with a lineout only five from the line. Can they score here and reclaim the lead?

51mins: It comes to nothing as the All Blacks turned the ball over.

53mins: The All Blacks now inside Wales' 22.

55mins: Wales turn the ball over and clear it into touch. This has been a vey physical game so far. All Blacks just leading.

57mins, TRY ALL BLACKS: Wow what a try! Rieko Ioane makes a break down the wing and as he was tackled, he offloads the ball back infield and Anton Lienert-Brown goes over for the try.

59mins: The All Blacks right back on the attack and they look to put the nail in the coffin.

60mins: Aaron Smith throws a forward pass and Wales now have a scrum.

61mins, TRY ALL BLACKS: Rieko Ioane goes over for the try. He intercepts the ball and dives over.

64mins: A bounce of the ball goes in favour of Wales and now they are five metres from the line.

66mins: Penalty to Wales who have opted for a scrum five metres from the line.

67mins: Wayne Barnes give the All Blacks a warning and one more penalty, somebody will be carded.

68mins, YELLOW CARD ALL BLACKS: Captain Sam Whitelock is off to the bin as Matt Todd makes a try-saving tackle on Taulupe Faletau. Beauden Barrett takes over the captaincy.

70mins, TRY WALES: Gareth Davies goes over for the try as they make the All Blacks pay for being a man down. The crowd loves it.

71mins: The All Blacks have cleared their bench as Wales now trail by eight points.

74mins, TRY ALL BLACKS: Rieko Ioane scores his second for the All Blacks. He makes a break and busts through a tackle to go over.

75mins: Five minutes remain as Beauden Barrett lands another conversion.

78mins: Sam Whitelock is back on the field.

80mins: Tensions flare as the clock ticks over 80. Nothing coems of it.

82mins: Wales still hunting for one last try. They will face South Africa next week.

FULLTIME: The match is over. The All Blacks beat Wales again 33-18 the fulltime score.

8:40 am: That is all from us here in Cardiff. Thanks for tuning in.

WALES 18 - 33 ALL BLACKS

And what do I think of the game. Well, it was a blockbuster but how good is that barnstorming rookie All Black winger Rieko Ioane? He is a sensational player not only because he was man of the match because he got a double, scoring both tries along with fellow winger Waisake Naholo as well as he set the try up scored by Anton Lienert-Brown (Who just came on for Ryan Crotty during the 1st half) during the 2nd half...& he was the breakthrough player of the year (Man what a player that he is because he is known for his lightning speed) at the World Rugby Awards over in Monaco although star first five Beauden Barrett is still best rugby player in the world (And he is such a fantastic player indeed).

And in other rugby news such as Scotland (Who were without star fullback Stuart Hogg due to injury during a warm-up) trashing the Wallabies 53 - 24 after a Wallaby prop got sent off for that dirty hit (It was shades of Sonny Bill Williams's cheap shot on Anthony Watson during the 2nd test of the Lions series over in Wellington in July this year) at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh then the Springboks got revenge against Italy in Padua then Ireland also got payback against Argentina over at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin followed by England's victory against the struggling Samoa at Twickenham in London & France had another disappointing game with a draw against Japan at the new Racing 92 stadium.

And finally Finland's Valtteri Bottas in the Mercedes has effectively ended the 2017 Formula 1 season (It is all over rover so see you in 2018...watch this space) with a win (His 3rd of the season) at the season ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after starting on pole with 4 time world champion Lewis Hamilton finishing in 2nd & Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel rounded out the podium in 3rd (And New Zealander Brendon Hartley in the Toro Rosso has finished in 15th).

And here's the points standings for both the drivers & constructors but 1st here's the drivers standings:

1st: Lewis Hamilton (Great Britain, Mercedes), 363 points
2nd: Sebastian Vettel (Germany, Ferrari), 317 points
3rd: Valtteri Bottas (Finland, Mercedes), 305 points
4th: Kimi Raikkonen (Finland, Ferrari), 205 points
5th: Daniel Ricciardo (Australia, Red Bull Racing TAG Heuer), 200 points
6th: Max Verstappen (The Netherlands, Red Bull Racing TAG Heuer), 168 points
7th: Sergio Perez (Mexico, Force India Mercedes), 100 points
8th: Esteban Ocon (France, Force India Mercedes), 87 points
9th: Carlos Sainz (Spain, Toro Rosso/Renault), 54 points
10th: Nico Hulkenberg (Germany, Renault), 43 points
11th: Felipe Massa (Brazil, Williams Mercedes), 43 points
12th: Lance Stroll (Canada, Williams Mercedes), 40 points
13th: Romain Grosjean (France, Haas Ferrari), 28 points
14th: Kevin Magnussen (Denmark, Haas Ferrari), 19 points
15th: Fernando Alonso (Spain, McLaren Honda), 17 points
16th: Stoffel Vandoorne (Belgium, McLaren Honda), 13 points
17th: Jolyon Palmer (Great Britain, Renault), 8 points
18th: Pascal Wehrlein (Germany, Sauber Ferrari), 5 points
19th: Daniil Kvyat (Russia, Toro Rosso), 5 points

And then the constructors to wrap up the Formula 1 report:

1st: Mercedes (Germany), 625 points
2nd: Ferrari (Italy), 522 points
3rd: Red Bull Racing TAG Heuer (Austria), 368 points
4th: Force India Mercedes (India), 187 points
5th: Williams Mercedes (Great Britain), 83 points
6th: Renault (France), 57 points
7th: Toro Rosso (Italy), 53 points
8th: Haas Ferrari (USA), 47 points
9th: McLaren Honda (Great Britain), 30 points
10th: Sauber Ferrari (Switzerland), 5 points

So that is my 179th blog of the year 2017 (MMXVII) & my 99th this year (Only 1 day to go (And 1 more blog left until my 100th this year which I will be doing on New Year's Eve 2017) until Christmas tomorrow so I'm getting pumped up, all fired up for tomorrow!).

P.S. And Paige has sent me an incredible email (Well, she hasn't sent me since 2 months ago) so here's her full email in it's entirety:

Hi Whetu,

Sorry I didn't see your last email!

I don't actually like the Star Wars movies so I haven't seen the new one but jarrod has and he loved it!

I am going to spending Christmas at my mums in the morning and then will go to my dads in the afternoon which should be nice!

What are your plans for Christmas?

Mum has all the photos so I will get her to send them to you.

Have a lovely day tomorrow and Merry Christmas.

Lots of love,

Paige

Meant To Live/Ugly: The year in review (Part 6)

Well, this is part 6 of my year in review so here's another of those best blogs with the most views of the month from the October period beginning with Everybody Wants To Rule The World/Shout: Rugby Championship round 3, Mitre 10 Cup round 7 & Malaysian Grand Prix review (My 1st blog of October):

Welcome to Estadio Jose Amalfitani for the match between Argentina and New Zealand.

1ST MINUTE, 1ST HALF: The All Blacks kick off and we are under way.

2ND MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): The Pumas have not had a great run of form, going into this game.

4TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), PENALTY GOAL ALL BLACKS: (Beauden Barrett) 0-3 NZ - Barrett takes the penalty kick after a silly penalty by the Pumas. He guides it through to score the first points of the day.

5TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), PENALTY GOAL ARGENTINA: (Nicolas Sanchez) 3-3 - The Pumas take it into attack pretty quickly on the counter and they are awarded a penalty after some sloppy play from the All Blacks. Sanchez takes the kick and he levels the scores.

7TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), TRY ALL BLACKS: (Kieran Read) 3-8 NZ - Read runs along the sideline, as Naholo releases the ball over to him. Read shrugs the tackle to ground the ball over the line.

8TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), MISSED CONVERSION ALL BLACKS: Barrett kicks it across the face of goal, failing to add the extra points for the All Blacks.

10TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): It has been a quick fire start from the All Blacks, who have been quick to add to the scoreboard.

12TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): It has been a bit of a scramble in the last couple of minutes, with both teams wrestling for possession of the ball.

14TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The All Blacks have been spending a lot of time inside their forward half without any reward on the scoreboard.

16TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The mistakes are coming through thick and fast for the Pumas.

17TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), TRY ALL BLACKS: (Damian McKenzie) 3-13 NZ - A penalty is paid to the All Blacks, they play on instantly as McKenzie hops over the line under the uprights for a try.

18TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), CONVERSION ALL BLACKS: (Beauden Barrett) 3-15 NZ - Barrett takes an easy kick on goal and picks up the extra points.

20TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), TRY ALL BLACKS: (Waisake Naholo) 3-20 NZ - Barrett breaks one tackle, then another, as he flicks it over to Naholo, who runs the ball over the line, running to the middle to ground it past the middle of the uprights.

21ST MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), CONVERSION ALL BLACKS: (Beauden Barrett) 3-22 NZ - Barrett kicks it through for the easy points and the All Blacks are really starting to dominate.

22ND MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), YELLOW CARD ARGENTINA: Tomas Lavinini is awarded a yellow card after a high attempt of a tackle. The job just gets that little bit harder for the Pumas.

24TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The All Blacks aren't able to secure their own line out, close to the line.

26TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), TRY ALL BLACKS: (Kieran Read) 3-27 NZ - McKenzie puts on the after burners, as he gives the ball over to Read, to score a try beside the uprights.

28TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), CONVERSION ALL BLACKS: (Beauden Barrett) 3-29 NZ - Barrett squeezes it through, going just inside the left upright.

30TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Here come the All Blacks again, as they pass the ball around their attacking half. This could be very dangerous for the Pumas.

32ND MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The Pumas just need to score something before half time, just to give them a shot of confidence.

34TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): A slight delay as Hames is attended to by the trainers. He seems to be fit to continue.

36TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Argentina have done well in the last few minutes, as they haven't conceded any more points.

38TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), YELLOW CARD ALL BLACKS: Matt Todd has been sin binned, after a rough tackle. The All Blacks now have a turn with only having 14 on the field.

40TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Argentina have a golden opportunity to score a try deep inside their attacking half.

HALF TIME: The whistle sounds for half time and the All Blacks go into the break holding a 29-3 lead over the Pumas.

41ST MINUTE, 2ND HALF: Argentina kick off to get us back under way for the second half.

42ND MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): Play is held up once again, as the trainers attend to Barrett, he looks to be fine to continue in the game.

44TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Argentina continue their good patch of form, from late in the first half.

46TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The All Blacks force the turnover from deep inside the Pumas attacking half. The All Blacks are away.

48TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Lavanini attempts to force his way over the try line, but the ball is lost forward over the line. So close, but yet so far away for the Pumas.

50TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), YELLOW CARD ALL BLACKS:  It appears that Read is in a lot of trouble hear, as he puts in a high tackle, with direct contact to the head. He is awarded a yellow card by the ref.

52ND MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Barrett takes possession of the ball in the middle of the ground and he kicks it into touch.

54TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), TRY ARGENTINA: (Juan Manuel Leguizamon) 8-29 NZ - Leguizamon manages to to wrangle his way down inside the pack as he looks to have grounded the ball. The ref sends it to the video ref and he confims it is a try.

55TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), CONVERSION ARGENTINA: (Nicolas Sanchez) 10-29 NZ - Sanchez kicks it through for the extras as the Pumas are finally getting some reward for the effort.

57TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The All Blacks have gone quiet, as they have not scored in just under 30 minutes of the match.

59TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The Pumas are on the better side of the penalty count, for the first time in the rugby championship.

61ST MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Naholo takes the pass from Taylor along the sideline, he runs in and scores a try in the corner. The ref sends it upstairs and the TMO rules that the Taylor pass was forward. No try.

63RD MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Argentina are still having the better of the All Blacks at the moment, but they are not scoring quick enough to concern the All Blacks.

65TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Fifita gets up gingerly from the pack and he limps around. He doesn't look too bad.

67TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), YELLOW CARD ARGENTINA: Ramiro Herrera has been sent off with a yellow card after an over eager tackle attempt.

69TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The error count continues to increase for both teams, as fatigue starts to affect both teams.

71ST MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Havili makes his international debut for the All Blacks, after plying his trade with the Tasman Makos in the Mitre 10 Cup.

73RD MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The game is predominantly being played in the middle of the ground, with neither side looking like they can score at the moment.

75TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Havili with a scintillating break from the middle. He is starting to show the big boys that he belongs in this team.

77TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): There is still time left on the clock for a late consolation try for Argentina, if they are good enough.

79TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The All Blacks push it into attack, as they look to add more points to their score line.

80TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): Play is held up as Lezana is helped off the ground.

80TH MINUTE + 1ST MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), TRY ALL BLACKS: (David Kaetau Havili) 10-34 NZ - Havili with a slick run to score a try in the corner on debut for the All Blacks.

80TH MINUTE + 3RD MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), CONVERSION ALL BLACKS: (Beauden Barrett) 10-36 NZ - Barrett kicks it through the middle and that will be the last play of the day.

FULL TIME: The All Blacks run out 26 point winners over the Pumas, after a quickfire start to the game. They faded in the second half, scoring the final try of the match.

And what do I think of the game? There were great tries being scored especially All Black captain Kieran Read getting a double but discipline has been a bit of a letdown as a result so both teams picking up both yellow cards each such as Tomas Lavanini & Ramiro Herrera for Argentina & Matt Todd & Read for the All Blacks (Well let's hope Kieran Read doesn't get suspended just like Malakai Fekitoa did last year (Fekitoa could've been sent off for a high shot on Irish winger Simon Zebo during the test against Ireland last year in Dublin (Not in Chicago because Ireland were the clear favourites to win the match (Well, the Irish managed to break their 111 year stranglehold to register their 1st win against the All Blacks) because the All Blacks had a locking crisis with world class locks Brodie Retallick & Sam Whitelock unavailable due to concussion (Retallick) & injury (Whitelock) as well as Luke Romano who had to be sent home for a family bereavement) under the new laws which resulted in a 1 match ban/suspension therefore Fekitoa wasn't available for selection against France but now he's still playing for Auckland in the Mitre 10 Cup & is no longer playing for both the Highlanders & the All Blacks because he's heading over to France to play for Toulon) because he copped a head high tackle (It's a direct contact to the head but it would've been a penalty only under the old laws) but he was lucky not to get sent off because he only received a yellow but he might've got possibly cited for that one).

And the match between the Springboks & Wallabies at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein again ended in a draw resulting the All Blacks to retain the Rugby Championship for another year so here's the news report about the match:

South Africa and Australia could not be separated as they played out a highly entertaining 27-27 draw in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

In a fast-paced and thrilling encounter, in which the lead changed hands several times, both sides gave the ball plenty of air throughout and each team scored three converted tries.

With the All Blacks on course to win the Rugby Championship again, this Test was a shootout for second place in the standings and both sides were competitive throughout although like the corresponding Test in Perth, they had to settle for a share of the spoils.

The Springboks showed their intent from the outset and opted to run the ball from all areas of the field. This tactic seemed to surprise their opponents initially, but the Wallabies adapted quickly and soaked up the early pressure with a solid defensive effort.

And in the 11th minute, the Wallabies caught the Boks by surprise with a brilliant move which saw Israel Folau crossing for the opening try.

This, after an attacking scrum on the edge of South Africa's 22 saw Tevita Kuridrani running a superb dummy line, before Bernard Foley threw an inside pass to the on-rushing Folau, who glided through a huge gap in the Bok back-line before scoring next to the posts.

Foley added the extras, but the Boks were soon camped inside the visitors' 22 and five minutes later, they were rewarded when Ruan Dreyer shrugged off a couple of tacklers before barging over for his first Test try.

Elton Jantjies converted before a Foley penalty in the 23rd minute gave the Wallabies a 10-7 lead but Jantjies restored parity two minutes later with a penalty of his own, after Jack Dempsey was blown up for deliberately knocking down the ball when South Africa were on the attack deep inside Australia's half.

The Wallabies regained the lead in the 35th minute - Foley slotting a penalty after Dreyer was penalised for illegal scrummaging.

Both sides continued to show attacking intent as the half drew to a close, but no further points were scored during this period. Folau was fortunate not to be yellow carded, however, as a rough challenge - in which he pulled Dillyn Leyds by the hair - led to some pushing and shoving off-the-ball between several players, just before the break.

The Boks made a superb start to the second half when, three minutes after the restart, Jan Serfontein crossed for his side's third try after Leyds and Siya Kolisi combined brilliantly in the build-up.

That score meant the Boks held the lead for the first time and although Jantjies slotted the conversion, the Wallabies gave the perfect response shortly afterwards when Foley made a telling break before offloading to Marika Koroibete, who outpaced the cover defence before crossing for his first Test try.

The topsy-turvy nature of this game continued as two minutes later, Serfontein made a telling break before getting a pass out to Courtnall Skosan, who crossed for his side's third try despite the attentions of two defenders.

Five minutes later, the Wallabies struck back - Koroibete rounding off in the left-hand corner after the ball was taken through several phases in the build-up.

Foley showed his class as he calmly slotted the conversion from close to the touchline which meant the Wallabies were now leading 27-24 with just over 20 minutes left on the clock.

The Boks were desperate to strike back and they did just that courtesy of a long range penalty from Jantjies in the 71st minute. That meant the score was level again and although Jantjies had a chance to win the game for the hosts, he pushed a difficult penalty attempt wide of the posts in the dying moments.

And here is the review of round 7 in the 2017 Mitre 10 Cup season:

Week seven action in Mitre 10 Cup rugby has seen Waikato slip into the relegation zone after Counties Manukau and Auckland both managed wins.

They now share 17 points, three more than last-placed Waikato who went down to competition leader Canterbury 37-17 in Saturday's Ranfurly Shield challenge in Christchurch.

Auckland showed some overdue form in securing a four-try bonus point 38-19 win over Bay of Plenty at Eden Park on Saturday while Counties Manukau got up to beat Northland 25-16 at Pukekohe on Sunday afternoon.

It doesn't get any easier for Waikato either as they play North Harbour in the last game of week eight in Hamilton. North Harbour, who beat Hawke's Bay 33-30, also have to face a trip to Palmerston North to play Manawatu on Wednesday. North Harbour are sitting in third place on the ladder with 27 points.

Ahead of them are Canterbury on 35 and Taranaki on 31, the sides to meet in the Ranfurly Shield challenge of the season in Christchurch on Friday evening.

Taranaki warmed up with a 40-26 win over Tasman on Thursday.

In the Championship, Wellington is well out in front on 37 points after their 27-24 win over Otago in Wellington on Sunday. Otago, by virtue of their points differential, hold second place back on 21 points and would be a worthy finalist on the basis of their effort against Wellington.

Manawatu, who beat Southland 25-20 on Saturday, share 21 points and have a game in hand. Northland are in fourth place in spite of their loss to Counties Manukau while Bay of Plenty are two points further back. Manawatu have still to play Counties Manukau, Taranaki and Hawke's Bay. Otago have Southland and Bay of Plenty to play while the Bay side's last game is against Waikato.

Two games in the round allowed Otago fullback in Wellington, Fletcher Smith, to boost his scoring to 111 points. Canterbury's Richie Mo'unga is the only other player to have three figures with 108. Next highest is North Harbour's Bryn Gatland on 91 with Jackson Garden-Bachop from Wellington on 85.

Canterbury's three-quarter Braydon Ennor leads the try scoring list with eight tries while Otago's Jona Nareki has seven. Those with six tries are: Jordan Manihera (Waikato), Ben Lam (Wellington), Vince Aso (Auckland), Tevita Li and Shaun Stevenson (North Harbour), Tim Bateman, Josh McKay and Mitch Drummond (Canterbury).

And the now 20 year old Max Verstappen in the Red Bull has won the last ever Malaysian Grand Prix (Although he hasn't won since Spain last year in which he became the youngest driver to win a Grand Prix at the relatively, young tender age of 18), ending Lewis Hamilton's 3 race winning streak but Hamilton still leads the championship anyway (And Lewis Hamilton was on pole but he lost the lead from Verstappen so he had to settle for 2nd).

And the 2nd one is taken from Immortality/Not For You/Shout 2000/Stupify: All Blacks team naming against South Africa & Japanese GP preview:

Well, the All Blacks team has been named to play against old rivals the Springboks at DHL Newlands (Flashback hint: It was the site of our 19 - 0 victory for New Zealand against South Africa during the old Tri Nations way back in 2008 (And the Olympics was still on in Beijing (Which is China's capital) over in Cape Town (Which is South Africa's safest city to live) after successfully retaining the Rugby Championship so here is the starting lineup:

FRONT ROW
1 (Loose head prop): Kane Hames (Tasman/Chiefs)
2 (Hooker): Dane Coles (Wellington/Hurricanes)
3 (Tight head prop): Nepo Laulala (Counties Manukau/Chiefs)

SECOND ROW
4 (Lock): Sam Whitelock (Canterbury/Crusaders)
5 (Lock): Scott Barrett (Taranaki/Crusaders)

BACK ROW
6 (Blindside Flanker): Liam Squire (Tasman/Highlanders)
7 (Openside Flanker): Sam Cane (Bay Of Plenty/Chiefs)
8 (Number 8): Kieran Read (Captain, Counties Manukau/Crusaders)

HALVES
9 (Half-back): Aaron Smith (Manawatu/Highlanders)
10 (First five eighth): Beauden Barrett (Taranaki/Hurricanes)

MIDFIELD
12 (Second five eighth): Sonny Bill Williams (Counties Manukau/Blues)
13 (Centre): Ryan Crotty (Canterbury/Crusaders)

OUTSIDE BACKS
11 (Left Wing): Rieko Ioane (Auckland/Blues)
14 (Right Wing): Nehe Milner-Skudder (Manawatu/Hurricanes)
& 15 (Fullback): Damian McKenzie (Waikato/Chiefs)

And in the reserves are:

16. Codie Taylor
17. Wyatt Crockett
18. Ofa Tu'ungafasi
19. Patrick Tuipulotu
20. Matt Todd (Who replaces Ardie Savea who has gone home)
21. Tawera Kerr-Barlow (Who replaces TJ Perenara to play his 2nd game of the year on the bench & possibly his last test for the All Blacks because he's heading off to France to play for La Rochelle)
22. Lima Sopoaga (Who returns from child birth by replacing Ngani Laumape to cover at first five)
& 23. David Havili.

And the Formula 1 circus heads to Suzuka in Japan with Lewis Hamilton in the Mercedes still leading the championship but his 3 race winning streak came to an abrupt halt with Max Verstappen in the Red Bull, scored an impressive win at the last ever Malaysian Grand Prix...But here is the circuit guide which will host the 16th round of the 2017 Formula 1 season at the Japanese Grand Prix before it heads to the USA (Austin) then Mexico (Mexico City), Brazil (Interlagos) & the season finale at Abu Dhabi (And it's only 5 races left in the 2017 season) in the UAE (United Arab Emirates):

''A design dating back to the early 1980s helps Suzuka stand alone as a fascinating & difficult track in the modern era. Challenging combination of every type of corner, gradient & camber. The only figure-of-eight layout in F1. Remains hugely popular among drivers & the quietly passionate Japanese fans.''

And finally the 3rd one is taken from Ace Of Spades/Bad To The Bone/Dude (Looks Like A Lady)/Know Your Enemy: Rugby Championship round 6, Mitre 10 Cup round 8 & Japanese Grand Prix review:

Well, the All Blacks ended our Rugby Championship campaign undefeated for the 2nd year in a row & for only the 4th time since it began in 2012 after a close but narrow victory by a single point against the rampant & brave Springboks at DHL Newlands in Cape Town in one of their greatest tests of all time compared to the Dunedin test against the Wallabies for the Bledisloe Cup so here is the match commentary:

It's a very warm welcome to Newlands in Cape Town where the Rugby Championship enters the final week with the heavyweight clash between South Africa and New Zealand.

We are very close to a start with both sides making their way out onto the field and lining up for the singing of the national anthem.

The formalities are complete and so that all remains is for kick off to get us underway on a perfect Saturday afternoon in Cape Town.

1ST MINUTE, 1ST HALF: Beauden Barrett sends the ball deep for the All Blacks and we are underway in the first half!
There is plenty of feeling out there in the middle of Newlands - the Springboks are still very much hurting from the pounding they received at the hands of the All Blacks just three weeks ago.

3RD MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The two packs will set up for the all important first scrum of the match - it is South Africa with the feed right on their 10m line.

4TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): A huge victory for the Springboks' pack! The home side have been awarded the first penalty of the match after the All Blacks went down at scrum time.

5TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): So close for the All Blacks!  Brilliant counter-attacking rugby from the visitors turns defence into attack in the blink of an eye however Aaron Smith, who had a look at the line, has been shut down short of the paint.

7TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): There is no doubt that the Springboks are here to play this afternoon - all of the elements that let them down so badly in Albany appear to be working well for the home side.

10TH MINUTE (3 MINUTES LATER), PENALTY GOAL!: South Africa (Elton Jantjies) 3-0 South Africa
It's first points to South Africa! lLton Jantjies, from as good as straight in front, strikes truly from the tee to give the Springboks an early advantage.

12TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), PENALTY GOAL!: New Zealand (Beauden Barrett) 3-3
A quick response from the All Blacks! Beauden Barrett sweetly strikes his penalty goal attempt to put the All Blacks on the scoreboard.

13TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): Terrific ball retention from the All Blacks under enormous pressure - the visitors have recycled the ball through several phases and edged their way inside the Springboks' 22.

14TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): Outstanding defence from the Springboks! Under fierce pressure, the home side have held on and are rewarded with a penalty on the last line of defence.

16TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Try or no try?!?! Rieko Ioane makes a desperate lunge for the line after a brilliant dash down the touch line but did he get the ball to ground - referee Jérôme Garcès refers the decision upstairs.

17TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), NO TRY!: The video replay shows that the ball was dislodged from the hand of Rieko Ioane as he reached out in his attempt to score - a huge let off there for the Springboks.

19TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The All Blacks are on the verge once again however some outstanding work at the breakdown from Malcolm Marx has won the home side a timely penalty.

20TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): Beauden Barrett flies high under the kick however the ball bounces off his chest and straight into the arms of Steven Kitshoff.

22ND MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The intensity that this match is being played at is absolutely incredible - there's no doubt these two sides are leaving nothing out there in this first half!

23RD MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): We have a break in play whilst Malcolm Marx receives treatment in back play - a chance for everyone to catch their breathe after an action packed opening to this test match!

24TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): A penalty has been awarded to the Springboks and so Elton Jantjies will line up from just a slight angle.

26TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), MISS!: The penalty goal attempt from Elton Jantjies looks ok off the boot however fades away to the left and the flags stay down - scores remain tied up with 15 minutes left until half time.

27TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): Penalty to the All Blacks! A chance for New Zealand to relieve some pressure inside their own half after the South African pack were penalised at scrum time.

29TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Malcolm Marx has been outstanding at the breakdown in this opening stanza! The Springboks' hooker has won his side an important penalty just short of the half hour mark in this test match.

31ST MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Beauden Barrett somehow manages to find some space out to the right however he has mistimed the pass to Nehe Milner-Skudder with the ball crossing the line and into touch.

32ND MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): We are going upstairs! Ryan Crotty makes a desperate lunge for the ball which is bouncing loose inside the in-goal area - did he ground it cleanly? The final decision is referred to the TMO.
TRY!: New Zealand (Ryan Crotty) 8-3 New Zealand

33RD MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), MISS!: With Beauden Barrett off the field for a Head Injury Assessment, Damian McKenzie steps up to the tee however his conversion attempt swings away to the left.

34TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): Controversy at Newlands! After a lengthy review of the tape by the TMO, the try is awarded to Ryan Crotty although the replay shows it could be claimed that he had knocked the ball forward. It's New Zealand ahead deep in this first half.

36TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Scrum feed to South Africa - the two sets of forwards will pack down virtually on the half way line in the shadows of half time.

37TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): A bulldozing run from skipper Eben Etzebeth has the Springboks on the front foot approaching the All Blacks' 10m line.

39TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): News from the All Blacks' bench is that Beauden Barrett has passed his HIA however, with half time not far away, the visitors are taking no chances and he will be reassessed during the break.

40TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): We are inside the last minute of the first half and the Springboks have the scrum feed in what will be the last play before the break.

40TH MINUTE + 5TH MINUTE (5 MINUTES LATER): After a gut wrenching passage of play after the half time siren has sounded, the Springboks are rewarded with a penalty for some outstanding defence - the resultant kick for touch from Elton Jantjies finds the touch line right on half way.

40TH MINUTE + 6TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): We have played nearly six minutes of additional time with neither side prepared to take a backward step - incredible stuff from Newlands in what has been an absorbing first half!

40TH MINUTE + 9TH MINUTE (3 MINUTES LATER): A massive blow for the All Blacks! Nehe Milner-Skudder crashes to the ground heavily after being tackled by Courtnall Skosan and the winger will leave the field clutching at his right shoulder.

40TH MINUTE + 10TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): We have had almost ten minutes of additional time played in this first half and the Springboks are hammering away at the All Blacks' defence.

HALF TIME: The first half, which had everything including an additional ten minutes, finally draws to a close with Lima Sopoaga sending the ball into touch. There was very little between the two sides in the opening stanza and it is only a controversial try to Ryan Crotty that separates the two sides at half time. Don't go too far away - at the break, it is New Zealand leading South Africa by 8-3.

40TH MINUTE, 2ND HALF: Elton Jantjies kicks off to get the second half under way - if the first half is any indication, we are set for a grandstand finish in Cape Town!

41ST MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): Some bad news from the New Zealand rooms during the break with confirmation that neither Nehe Milner-Skudder or Beauden Barrett will be returning to the field in this second half.

43RD MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): A brilliant start to this second half from the Springboks! The home side is hot on attack deep inside the All Blacks' 22 - the New Zealand defence is hanging on but only just.

44TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), TRY!: South Africa (Ross Cronje) 8-8

45TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), CONVERSION!: South Africa (Elton Jantjies) 10-8 South Africa

46TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): The Springboks have taken the lead! Brilliant continuity from South Africa who recycled the ball through 18 phases to have the All Blacks on the back foot right on their own line - Ross Cronje picks and drives from close range to find the paint and send the home crowd into a frenzy.

47TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): The All Blacks, looking for fresh legs, swing a number of changes including a completely new front row - New Zealand are under the sort of pressure at the moment that they haven't felt in a very long time!

50TH MINUTE (3 MINUTES LATER): An important penalty at scrum time is awarded to the All Blacks and so it will be Lima Sopoaga to line up the posts from 45m out to try and put the visitors back into the lead.

52ND MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), MISS!: The penalty goal attempt from the boot of Lima Sopoaga has faded out to the right and the flags stay down.

53RD MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): A net territorial gain for the All Blacks - Elton Jantjies has time at the back but very little angle to work with and his kick for touch only just reaches the South African 22m line.

54TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): The All Blacks win a crucial turnover and the visitors will look to launch a counter attack from right on half way.

57TH MINUTE (3 MINUTES LATER): Excellent defence from South Africa prevents the All Blacks from forming a ruck from the maul and so the scrum feed will be awarded to the home side.

58TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): Jan Serfontein looks to be away down the right after a delightful step however he is brilliantly chased down from behind by Scott Barrett - a try saving tackle from the All Blacks' lock!

60TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), TRY!: New Zealand (Rieko Ioane) 13-10 New Zealand

61ST MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), CONVERSION!: New Zealand (Lima Sopoaga) 15-10 New Zealand

62ND MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): The All Blacks have taken the lead! The loose ball falls into the arms of Rieko Ioane - with just open space between him and the try line, the winger puts his foot down and explodes 70m downfield leaving the defence in his wake on his way to scoring a crucial five-pointer.

64TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): The ball is well and truly back in the Springboks' court. The home side have been superb in this test match but will that try to Rieko Ioane take the wind out of their sails?

66TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), TRY!: South Africa (Jean-Luc du Preez) 15-15

67TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), TRY!: South Africa (Handré Pollard) 17-15 South Africa

68TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): What a test match and what a try! Handré Pollard, fresh onto the field, releases Malcolm Marx who has been superb for the home side from start to finish - the Springboks' hooker in turn shifts the ball to Jean-Luc du Preez and the replacement goes all the way to bring the crowd to its feet. The conversion from Handré Pollard has South Africa back into the lead.

70TH MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER), TRY!: New Zealand (Damian McKenzie) 20-17 New Zealand

71ST MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), CONVERSION!: New Zealand (Lima Sopoaga) 22-17 New Zealand

73RD MINUTE (2 MINUTES LATER): Just when you thought this test match could not get any better, it somehow goes to another level! Damian McKenzie has just a fraction of space to work with but that is all the All Blacks' full back needs - with unbelievable acceleration, he slices through the defence on his way to the try line. The conversion from Lima Sopoaga never looked like missing and New Zealand have put their noses ahead with just under 8 minutes left on the clock.

74TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): The All Blacks are in possession and are at the right end of the field inside the Springboks' 22.

75TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), MISS!:  Lima Sopoaga drops back into the pocket before unloading a drop goal attempt - he has struck the kick well but the ball lands out to the left hand side.

76TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): We have a lengthy break in play with Eben Etzebeth leaving the field due to injury and with the referee wanting to look at the replay of the Lima Sopoaga drop goal attempt - the All Blacks' first five-eighth was felled after the ball had left his boot.

77TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), RED CARD!: A sensation at Newlands with the referee pulling out the red card for Damian de Allende for an elbow to the face of Lima Sopoaga - just as importantly, the All Blacks' first five-eighth will line up for a penalty goal from directly in front of the posts.

78TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), PENALTY GOAL!: New Zealand (Lima Sopoaga) 25-17 New Zealand

79TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER): The flags are up! Lima Sopoaga drives his penalty goal attempt right through the middle to stretch the visitors' lead beyond a converted try with just on two minutes left on the clock.
TRY!: South Africa (Malcolm Marx) 25-22 New Zealand

80TH MINUTE (1 MINUTE LATER), CONVERSION!: South Africa (Elton Jantjies) 25-24 New Zealand
It's game on at Newlands! Malcolm Marx who has played the test match of his life breathes life back into the contest with a try right at the death - the resultant conversion drags the Springboks within a point with under a minute left to play.

FULL TIME: What an incredible test match - players from both sides are out on their feet as the final whistle sounds to end a pulsating, action-packed 80 minutes! A chance for everyone to catch their breath and reflect on one of the truly great contests. The match went right down to the wire but in the end it was New Zealand who have got to the line with a thrilling 25-24 victory over a gallant South Africa.

And what do I think of the game? It was tight but intense close game compared to that tough game in Albany in which we trashed the Boks by 57 points but the not so moment of the game goes to Ryan Crotty's opening but highly controversial try in which he knocked the ball on in the in goal area but the referee thinks that he scored so the try was given because Crotty's body managed to ground the ball but Dad told me that it went back. And it looked like all 3 All Black backs have scored a try such as Crotty, Rieko Ioane off a brilliant intercept & Damian McKenzie off a beautiful pass from David Havili who just came on to replace the injured Nehe Milner-Skudder who damaged his shoulder (His season looks to be far from over) after a front on tackle made by Springboks outside back Courtnall Skosan. But what about the Boks especially their 1st choice hooker Malcolm Marx who was probably their star of the game (He was the hero for South Africa & possibly man of the match/player of the game (Although McKenzie was actually player of the game according to Wikipedia) because he made several turnovers (He was an additional back rower or should I say a loose forward because he used to play that position during his 1st XV school days), set up a try scored by reserve flanker Jean-Luc du Preez & even perhaps, scored a single try off a rolling maul (The Springboks main strengths compared to Argentina's scrum) with several minutes left on the clock (Although Springbok halfback Ross Cronje was the only back to score a try in that game). But the villain of the match had to be Springbok reserve back Damian de Allende (Who had to come on to replace second five-eighth Jan Serfontein), because he was red carded by the French referee Jerome Garces (The man who sent off Sonny Bill Williams, who is about to send off Damian de Allende) for that unacceptable challenge on Lima Sopoaga (And yes it was thoroughly deserved to be a cheap shot (Although de Allende flattened Sopoaga with a elbow to the face whilst Sopoaga attempted a drop goal just like Stephen Perofeta did for Taranaki during the Ranfurly Shield game against Canterbury) just like SBW did on Anthony Watson with a shoulder charge to the head during the 2nd Lions series test in Wellington but World Rugby (The sport's governing body), is laying down the law on head high tackles/high shots in an effort to reduce concussion throughout the players head & neck area since the current laws was already introduced (Or should I say being in effect) from the 3rd of January this year) but he managed to escape suspension just like Bismarck du Plessis did 4 years ago because that cheap shot was worthy of a yellow card (Well he should've & could've been sent to the bin for 10 minutes rather or instead of than getting sent off the field in disgrace).

And the Wallabies finished runner up ahead of the Boks in the 2017 Rugby Championship standings after a 17 point win against the hapless/luckless Argentinians over in Mendoza with a news report:

Australia secured second spot in the Rugby Championship as they beat Argentina 37-20 at Estadio Malvinas Argentinas on Saturday.

Tries from Marika Koroibete, Reece Hodge (2), Bernard Foley and Will Genia saw them to the five points as they finish one point ahead of the Springboks and 13 behind champions New Zealand, who ended with five wins from five.

The Pumas are bottom of the pile as despite a spirited performance that saw Matias Alemanno and Santiago Gonzalez Iglesias score, it was loss number five for them, ending another dismal campaign in the southern hemisphere.

In an entertaining opening 40 minutes there was nothing to separate the sides as they went into the break locked up at 13 points apiece.

Argentina were chasing their first win of the Rugby Championship campaign while Australia only had one themselves, plus two draws.

Foley put his side in front on 15 minutes after the home side infringed in front of their posts, but he was off-target soon after with a sitter.

Fortunately for the Wallabies they made amends in perfect style a minute later when Koroibete finished well down the left from 30 metres out. Again though Foley couldn't add points to the tally although this was a much more difficult attempt from the touchline. Australia were 8-0 up.

On 25 minutes the Pumas suddenly clicked and a series of strong carries led to Alemanno barging his way over near the uprights for seven. Argentina looked confident at this point and edged in front with a Nicolas Sanchez penalty, after Michael Hooper went off his feet at a ruck.

However, the hosts switched off on 34 minutes to allow Hodge to have a simple run in from eight metres out that put Australia 13-10 up.

Sanchez would level matters off the tee four minutes later before team-mate Joaquin Tuculet rightly had his try chalked off for a knock-on. That meant the teams went into their respective dressing room with honours even on the scoreboard which was a fair reflection of the half.

Foley's night didn't improve from the tee upon his return as he missed another attempt on 45 minutes, this time following a scrum offence.

The Wallabies were now desperately hunting a try as their next form of score, proved by their decision to snub three points from in front in favour of a scrum. It paid off with Foley throwing a dummy and slicing through to make it 20-13 for a try he thoroughly enjoyed of course.

But the lead was shortlived as a solid Pumas scrum set-piece led to Iglesias cutting back inside to go in near the posts to level matters.

Australia though just seemed the more likely to cut loose in the final quarter and so it proved with a slick move off the back of a lineout seeing Hodge bust through near halfway before finding Genia on his shoulder. The Wallabies were looking strong with a bonus-point in sight.

However they couldn't shake off the Pumas, who were denied a try from Juan Martin Hernandez because of an earlier forward pass. That was compounded soon after when Marcos Kremer was yellow carded for a tip tackle that meant they'd end the game down to 14 players.

Foley also added to Argentina's woes by extending the lead to 10 points following Kremer's indiscretion, leaving them with plenty to do. And it proved far too much with the Wallabies in fact putting the seal on an impressive victory with a bonus-point try coming from Hodge on the left.

And here is the review of round 8 in the 2017 Mitre 10 Cup season:

In a perfect scenario interest in the Mitre 10 Cup Premiership and Championship races will continue until the last act of the final round of play at the weekend.

In the Premiership, Ranfurly Shield holder Taranaki, who beat Canterbury 55-43 in one of the great Shield challenges, and defending champion Canterbury are tied at the top of the table on 36 points with North Harbour and Tasman clear holders of third and fourth place.

However, Taranaki have their double schedule of games to get through which if they were successful in both could see them qualify in first place.

They defend the shield against Manawatu on Wednesday and then play North Harbour in Albany on Sunday afternoon.

North Harbour made life difficult for Waikato when claiming a 13-11 win in Hamilton. While lifting North Harbour to third, it left Waikato needing to beat Bay of Plenty at Tauranga on Saturday to decide the relegation race.

Auckland, who lost to Tasman 18-31 on Sunday, play host to Canterbury on Friday and will need a win to send Waikato to relegation even before they meet Bay of Plenty. However, if Auckland can't win the pressure goes on Waikato.

Counties Manukau are eight points behind fourth-placed Tasman after their 29-24 win over Manawatu and fifth place is the best they can hope for when playing Tasman on Saturday.

In the Championship, Wellington, who thrashed Southland 61-12 are clear front runners when they face what will be an interesting contest with second-placed Northland. The Northland side beat Hawke's Bay 34-7.

Just who will reach the top four with Wellington will depend on Manawatu who face two games, Taranaki on Wednesday and Hawke's Bay on Sunday. Manawatu warmed up for their tough week with a 29-24 loss to Counties Manukau.

Bay of Plenty will have plenty to play for when meeting Waikato because their own hopes of making the top four could depend on a win.

Otago are sitting in fifth place, after their 28-36 loss to Bay of Plenty in Dunedin but only four points separate second from fifth.

And finally championship leader Lewis Hamilton in the Mercedes has won the Japanese Grand Prix after successfully starting on pole as he finishes ahead of Red Bull's young 20 year old driver Max Verstappen who has finished in 2nd & Verstappen's Red Bull teammate Daniel Ricciardo rounding out the podium in 3rd but Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel's form is deteriorating as he retires from the race due to a spark plug problem but 1 more race win for Hamilton at the next Grand Prix at Austin, Texas in America will guarantee the title (Just like 2 years ago in 2015 when he last did it at Circuit Of The Americas).

So that is my 178th blog of the year 2017 (MMXVII) & my 98th this year (4 days to go until Christmas, I repeat, 4 more days).

P.S. It was on Tuesday that we went to Pita Pit for lunch (I had a chicken falafel while I had a to drink a smoothie) a day before we went out for lunch again yesterday (I had to get a Playstation Network $30 wallet top-up at EB Games because the 2017 Rugby League World Cup downloadable content for Rugby League Live 4 cost about $22.45 so I had to get that (Well I've got 6 PS4 games now such as the rugby league one as well as 2 Formula 1 games (F1 2016 & F1 2017), a FIFA one which is FIFA 18 (The last time I played a FIFA game before I got that game was FIFA 12 on the PS3 so I said that I was originally going to get FIFA 18 once the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia ends), a rugby one which is Rugby Challenge 3 & a racing game which is Gran Turismo Sport), this time at the Cactus Creme Cafe (I had burritos while I had to drink a smoothie again just like Tuesday) & I do enjoy a good time as a nightwatchman at the Christmas lights.