New Zealand coaching coordinator Robbie Deans on Tana Umaga’s knee injury:
“It doesn’t look good at this stage. It could potentially rule him out of the tournament.”
“It’s his posterior cruciate (knee ligament)…possibly ruptured.”
New Zealand coach John Mitchell on Tana Umaga’s knee injury:
“He’s our vice-captain. It’s very disappointing but there’ll be plenty more twists and turns before the end of the cup.”
Mitchell on Ali Williams’ recovery:
“His rehab’s going well. He’s about nine days away.”
Mitchell on the All Blacks’ performance:
“We need to be more patient. We were just over-enthusiastic but the guys will be better for it after the game.
Italy captain Carlo Checchinato on the Italian performance:
“I’m really proud of my team.”
Checchinato on the All Blacks:
“There are only two European teams that can play to New Zealand’s level – France and England.”
“The All Blacks are very technical and fast, more so than say the English forwards. A pack like the English forwards is very organised and precise but with the All Blacks you’re faced by a pack where every individual is a game breaker.”
Italy coach John Kirwan on Italy’s performance:
“I thought the boys showed a lot of courage out there today. The All Blacks played very well.”