Joe Rokocoko claims much of the criticism levelled at him is unwarranted after his improved performance in last weekend's Tri-Nations match against South Africa.
The All Blacks wing held off the challenge from Hosea Gear to retain his place in the side to take on Australia in the final match of the series on Saturday, despite coach Graham Henry cutting five of the starting line-up from the defeat to the Springboks.
"At the moment it feels like I've been the sole one responsible for losing the Tri-Nations," said Rokocoko, whose most recent All Blacks try came against Italy in June. "Overall I'm happy with where I am at the moment. The best game I've played was last week, compared to throughout the whole year."
He added: "I'm working hard. I'm not standing on the wing. I'm trying to get involved as much as I can.
"Maybe people are looking at me now because they see me more often with the ball, and that's because I'm trying to work hard.
"When they are saying not enough tries are being scored - I'm only six tries away from having 50 tries, so I've been disappointed with that really."
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Well said Joe, the all blacks have been reknown for bringing in new faces with awesome backs year in and out but have been forced to rely on out of sorts wingers for the last year and more. there is a general weekness round the park but the backs always dug them out of trouble. They need to rethink the guys coming up and I think Sonny bill should be included or given a contract if be it.
Not at all Joe, just the fact your out of form and have been all season...
1 try in 2 International years..That is poor going for a Front rower much a less a World Class Winger!
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