All Blacks All Right

Sigh...I had an AMAZING time at the rugby game last night.

To begin with, the sheer number of people making their way to the stadium through Wellington last night was staggering. Wearing black is the norm in NY, but here it really means one thing: support for the All Blacks. So think of thousands of people walking through the streets in one direction clad in as much black as possible, and it's a pretty impressive sight. It was one giant black parade making its way to the bright lights of Westpac Stadium.

Once you get to the stadium, there's a mad crush to get in and seated before the haka started. We got there with about 7 minutes to spare. Which means I had about 7 minutes to take in all the spectacle and enormity of the stadium. And to find my seat. Which was, I have to say, EFFING AWESOME!!!

We were close to the field and even closer to the little tunnel that the players use to make their entrances and exits. Dressed in about five layers of clothing, I was a bit overwhelmed by all the excitement.

First the South African Springboks came out onto the field, without minimal fanfare. Hee.

Then came the big men in black, and I couldn't get over how close they were! Good God, they're stunning.

Players lining up for the National Anthems

Next came the National Anthems. First up was South Africa, which 99% of the crowd tolerated till it was their turn.

All Blacks during NZ National Anthem

The chick who sang the National Anthem (and words for folks like me who needed the help).

Crazy fireworks display after the National Anthem.

Fireworks and marching band!

After the National Anthem(s), it was time for the kickoff. However, as any rugby supporter knows, there's one thing that comes first:

the haka

All Blacks preparing for the haka.

haka part I

haka part II

haka part III

As much as I would have loved to have seen the usual "Ka Mate" haka, this new haka was pretty goose-bump inducing. The high-point is the throat-cutting motion at the end. Yowza.

The game itself was so exciting. I'm still not completely clear on the rules or what everything means, but it was phenomenal just feeding off the vibes of everyone there. Everyone just has such a great time (except for the few South Africa supporters seated near us) and I was lucky to snap a few photos and videos. The rest are below:

Jason Eaton and other players not used in this game on their way out for the second half

The other players make their way onto the pitch for the second half.

That's poster-boy Dan Carter kicking one of his 2 conversions, scoring a total of 25 points, after Richie McCaw's try!

After McCaw's try and Carter's conversion.

Finally, a bit of action down at our end.

More "action"

More action, including jackass telling us to sit down. Say wha???

I love "action"

The players make their exit after the game.

exiting ruggers

Rodney So'Oialo on the left, captain of the Wellington Hurricanes, clapping and waving as he leaves.

MVPs Dan Carter and Piri Weepu

Sigh.....
A recap of the game here.