All Blacks v South Africa: Ian Jones on fortress Eden Park and why he’s confident Scott Robertson’s side will win
Former All Blacks lock Ian Jones is confident New Zealand’s record at Eden Park will remain intact this weekend.
Jones was a member of the last All Blacks side to lose a test at the ground, when they were defeated 23-20 by France.
Since that loss, the All Blacks have gone 50 tests unbeaten at the ground, 48 wins and two draws.
“I was unfortunately in the team that lost in 1994. It hurts every day. You look back and think what could have you done better,” Jones told Herald NOW.
The All Blacks haven’t played South Africa at the ground since 2013 while the Boks last won at Eden Park in 1937.
But recent results are in favour of the reigning World Cup winners.
The All Blacks have lost four straight tests to the Springboks, all outside of New Zealand, and are coming off a defeat to the Pumas two weeks ago.
Jones said the pressure of retaining the Eden Park record won’t be new to this side.
“Yes, it’s under threat, but it’s under threat every time you play a test match at Eden Park. They’ve defended it, it’s crazy, since 1994. That is our fortress. That is our home. And not just the All Blacks but every former All Black and All Blacks supporters will be connected on Saturday night. All that energy of this nation up against only 15 Springboks - we don’t lose those odds when there’s five million vs 15 Springboks - we’re going to win that game,” a confident Jones said.
“Right now, the All Blacks are looking at ‘we lost to Argentina two weeks ago. What did I do personally, what’s my reflection and my preparation that I have to do better this time?’. Collectively the team will come together. But it’s not just about the team, we talk about the connection of this whole nation. It really does make a difference.
“There will be 50-60-odd-thousand people at Eden Park on Saturday and believe me the 16th person, the crowd, they do make a difference. So if you get along on Saturday night you absolutely throw all your energy behind the All Blacks. They’ll need it because we’re up against our great foe and this is an amazing occasion for this country.”
If they do win on Saturday, they’ll then face the resurgent Wallabies at the ground in three weeks’ time.