Connolly: Judge Eddie on his behaviour
A pragmatic John Connolly has arrived back in Australia following the Wallabies World Cup exit, with the Australian coach again getting involved in a slanging match with previous national coach Eddie Jones.
Jones criticised the choice of Stirling Mortlock as captain instead of half George Gregan, suggesting the outside centre wasn’t close enough to the action to influence matches.
“We beat the All Blacks with Stirling (as captain),” was Connolly’s curt response at the airport.
Connolly also made reference to Jones record in recent years.
“Two years ago we knew we’d lost eight games out of nine, we knew our forwards had to improve.
“People judge Eddie on his last year with Australia and his year at the Reds and his behaviour since then.
“Everyone can make up their own mind.”
The reign of Connolly ends after two years, with the chase for a new leader stretching beyond Australia, something the exiting coach does not agree with.
“My view very strongly is that I‘d prefer an Australian to do it.
“(But) whoever they select, I’d support 100%.”
Connolly also paid little respect to England, which hasn’t lost to Australia in World Cup’s since 1991.
“They flumed a win. We didn’t particularly play well,” Connolly said.
“More or less (only) got across the line.”
Connolly also predicted England’s run would end this weekend
“I definitely think France will get over England.
“France and the Springboks you would have to think would be in the final.”
Subscribe to The Serve by Email
No comments yet.