A Victory for Plucky Welsh Defiance
by Graham Davies

I fit the Welsh sporting stereotype: I'm a passionate fan of the national game.

In Saturday’s match against the All Blacks, after leading 9-6 at half time, Wales were outplayed in the second half. It was hardly surprising, as New Zealand are a vastly superior team.

One of the most important weapons in the All Black armoury is the Haka. They say that it is merely a traditional challenge to their opponents. Frankly, this is rubbish. It is intended to be ritualised intimidation. Most teams do not know how to react: they turn into a disparate group mammoths, with an average weight of 16½ stone, shifting uncomfortably from foot to foot like little lost boys, desperately trying not to look scared in front of Mum watching on telly.

Wales were different. They just stood motionless and stared at the All Blacks during the Haka…..and after it. Their statuesque statement said, "And? Your point is?"

In fact, it was the All Blacks who ended up not knowing what to do. They tried to re-form and out-match the Welsh Silent Stare. But the damage was done. The Haka and the response ended up unsettling New Zealand and inspiring Wales. It certainly accounts for such a blandly adequate first half display by a team which should always be 20 points better than their hosts.

Never forget the power of body language, even in the most intimidating of situations. It can set you up for a superb presentational performance, even before you open your mouth for the first time.

The final score on Saturday was Wales 9, New Zealand 29. It was also Defiance 1, Intimidation Nil.