Opening 20 minutes vital, says Jones

WALLABIES coach Eddie Jones is convinced that whoever dominates the first 20 minutes of today’s Super 12 final in Christchurch will win the title.

Jones said there was little to choose between the Canterbury Crusaders and the NSW Waratahs, who finished first and second respectively after the regular season.

And the national team boss does not believe playing at Jade Stadium in Christchurch is any major disadvantage to Ewen McKenzie’s men.

“I believe it boils down to whoever starts the best,” Jones said. “The first 20 minutes will decide the game. Whoever gets their noses in front will win, I’m sure.”

And he believes Wallaby stars Lote Tuqiri and David Lyons are the danger men the Kiwis will have to monitor closely.

The national boss also described as “a load of rubbish” suggestions that Tuqiri might revert back to rugby league after the 2007 World Cup in France.