Over one month of intense battle in the Rugby World Cup brings thirty men close.
Though New Zealand prop Dave Hewett does not want to leave the Tournament in defeat, it is the camaraderie of his All Black team mates that will be the main driving force behind beating France this Thursday night at Sydney’s Telstra Stadium.
"I am excited that we have got a game, it is a chance to finish on a positive note," said the 21 test capped prop.
"But the reality is, this is the last time this team will play together, so that's the reason to play well tomorrow night."
The current New Zealand team has long been considered the benchmark in world rugby, the most complete rugby team whose flawless yet devastating play is the envy of all and earned them the RWC 2003 favourites tag.
Yet one poor match and New Zealand were ousted from the hunt for the Webb Ellis Cup, losing to Australia 22-10.
The 3rd/4th play off against France represents a chance for the same starting New Zealand side to make amends with an optimum performance.
According to Hewett they intend to win.
"Mitch (John Mitchell - coach) has given this side a chance to show what it can do," said Hewett.
"It is a waste of the tournament if we don't try and win this game."
Mitchell is strongly backing his players from the Semi Final, a strong contrast to France, where coach Bernard Laporte has decided to give game time to other members of his squad.
But history favours Les Bleus.
France has appeared in one playoff, beating England 19-9 in 1995.
The All Blacks on the other hand struggled to beat Scotland 13-6 for third place in 1991 and in 1999 was forced into fourth spot, losing 18-22 to South Africa.
But according to the All Black powerhouse prop history won't be repeated because his side will be determined to win and win in the spectacular form the world has come to expect.