Habana enjoys 'special' day out
Playing for the Baa Baas is special according to Bryan Habana
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By Alistair Potter. |  |
Saturday, 05, Dec 2009 08:01
By Martyn Thomas at Twickenham.
Bryan Habana admitted it was "special" to play for the Barbarians after he scored a hat-trick of tries in the 25-18 defeat of New Zealand.
The South African winger was ultimately the difference between the two sides as the Barbarians claimed their first win over New Zealand since Gareth Edward's memorable try inspired a 23-11 victory in 1973.
"I don't think that it's really sunk in yet," man of the match Habana said.
"To cross the whitewash three times was special."
Although the All Black side was much changed from the one that beat France last weekend, victory was still a remarkable achievement for a squad that had been together for less than a week.
Wales and Lions centre Jamie Roberts, who drew praise from Baa Baas coach Nick Mallet, was delighted with the win.
"It is unbelievable," Roberts commented.
"To come together last Sunday, have a couple of training sessions and then produce a performance like that. I am hugely grateful to the Blues for releasing me."
And second row Victor Matfield, who skippered the side at Twickenham, echoed those thoughts: "The guys are very happy [to have won]. It's one of the best weeks we've had in professional rugby."
The defeat marked a disappointing end to an otherwise successful tour for the All Blacks, who were looking to complete a whitewash.
However, having beaten Wales, England and France this autumn they have plenty to be pleased with.
Assistant coach Wayne Smith wasn't getting too carried away by the loss, remarking: "It is disappointing, although the Barbarians are a great team and it was a joy to play in that match.
"We gave away a couple of sloppy tries against the run of play and couldn't quite peg it back."