Scrum of the Earth /

Wales got ruddy close to a right scalp in the end?

Talismanic skipper Ryan Jones said they finished the "bigger, stronger, and fitter" side but it was scant consolation, especially considering the majority of the Welsh team play together week in week out, and they would've all been much sharper compared to the Springboks.

But it was all a bit too late, no?

Exactly. I thought the most recent Grand Slam might've knocked the [we gave it our best shot and we should've won] stuffing out of them. Clearly second-best is still good enough.

Any stars?

Andy Powell's high & mighty debut at the grand old age of 27 was encouraging. The excitement must've got the better of him as he even started talking up the chances of beating the All-Blacks. Steady on! Canada first.

And the young Halfpenny lad?

Powell's fellow Cardiff Blue stood up well in his baptism of fire against the world's best, Bryan Habana. It's fair to say, Canada won't be as tough and well-drilled in defence so he should enjoy a bit more room to roam.