The stakes are high as New Zealand faces South Africa in the third Test of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series. After each team secured a win, the four-match series is tantalizingly poised. The All Blacks aim to recuperate from a recent defeat in Cape Town that halted their impressive unbeaten streak in South Africa.
Locating the upcoming match in the elevated regions of the Highveld, Lienert-Brown sees a unique advantage for his team's style of play. The squad's familiarity with the conditions could play a crucial role.
"As a team we’ve spent a lot of time up at the Highveld, so we know what it brings, and in a way we think it’s an advantage to us,"
The Springboks' powerful kicking game has been a major discussion point for Lienert-Brown and his teammates. Expertise in aerial play could be decisive in overcoming the South African team's strategies.
"In the backs it’s been talked about, making sure that we win more ball in the air, and we’ll tidy that up this week."
Despite a setback in Cape Town, Lienert-Brown highlights the positives from their performances and emphasizes the need for further refinement.
Pushed by the demands of facing a robust South African team on their home turf, the All Blacks are not just physically preparing, but are also mentally gearing up for the challenge.
Lienert-Brown, who boasts 92 caps and has been a pivotal player in this series, is relishing the challenge. As a seasoned player, these high-stakes matchups are exactly what he lives for, and he’s confident in the All Blacks’ preparation.
"As a rugby player, you live for these moments, so we’re really excited about the opportunity … if we put in the work, it will put us in good stead to be where we need to be on Saturday."
The All Blacks are not just battling an opposing team, but also the strategic elements of play. At tempo, Lienert-Brown believes they can secure the necessary advantage to outlast the physical South African side through each critical half of the game.
With the series on the line, the upcoming match at FNB Stadium is more than just another game; it's a significant battle where strategy, physicality, and mental toughness will all play critical roles in determining the outcome. For fans and players alike, Saturday cannot come soon enough.
