28 Oct 2010

France coach backs new style of rugby

5:56 am on 28 October 2010

The France coach Marc Lievremont says rugby is changing fast thanks to new rules and the 2011 World Cup will be won by the team that adapts best to an attacking and enterprising game.

He says there was an astronomical difference between the 2009 and 2010 Tri-nations, in terms of rhythm, tries scored, and balance between kicking and handling.

This year, referees in the Tri-Nations tournament between New Zealand, Australia and South Africa were instructed to let the game flow and favour the attacking sides with their interpretations.

The France coach, who has been pushing his players to revert to a more flowing game since he was appointed after the 2007 World Cup, is all in favour of the new style of play and concedes the All Blacks are a step ahead of their northern rivals.