David Pocock says Australia prepared to win ugly against Barbarians
David Pocock 'prepared to win ugly'
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Saturday, 26, Nov 2011 10:23
By Phil Norris
Australia's David Pocock has said he is happy to win ugly when the Wallabies take on the Barbarians at Twickenham today (November 26th).
The new captain stressed he is prepared for his team to kick penalties all afternoon rather than play running rugby if it means he gets off to a winning start as skipper.
Pocock said Australia, who beat Wales into third place at the Rugby World Cup, are treating the clash with the Baa Baas as a Test and not just an exhibition match.
"It's a quality side that they've put out, we're going to respect them and probably take any points on offer," he declared. "There's plenty of time for running rugby towards the end of the game."
Due to the Barbarians' lack of Test status, supporters have traditionally booed the decision to kick penalty goals in games featuring the all-star team.
The Twickenham clash will see Pocock's Australia come up against England rugby league star Sam Tomkins, who will make his debut in the 15-man form of the game on the wing for the Barbarians, as well as the likes of Danny Cipriani and Bryan Habana.