Gordon Tietjens Quotations

Seven out of 10 overall -- a couple of defensive deficiencies to let Australia through early. Once we got hold of it we played well, but we need to get the ball more.

Given the short turnaround to our first game, we had to make a decision.

He was unfortunate to miss out on selection for the tournament in Wellington last month but he has shown great skills and this is his opportunity to display that ability at an international level.

I think they thought they just had to go out, put some points on and play the finals later on. You'd have to feel for Japan, they made all the play.

It hasn't been ideal but injuries are part of the game and we are lucky that we have great depth in our wider squad.

It is disappointing for Doug because he was really excited.

It is disappointing for Doug and the team because he was really excited about going to the Games and playing for New Zealand.

We haven't got the time now, we're very limited so it's very important in the next few days that we're up to speed.

This year we've suffered the biggest loss, a lot of players are gone from the squad.

Even the night before the finals, he wanted to have a big curry or something.

At least we had the composure to win in the end.

The new players have convinced me of their ability to compete at the next level and this is their opportunity to show that on the international stage. This starts next week in Wellington and the guys are excited at the challenge of playing in front of their home crowd.

This is our first game of the year as a new, young side. It takes a little bit to get going, for combinations to get moving. We need a bit more fluency, but 52 points - it's a good result for us.

The game of sevens is quite different. Making the transition to sevens and its challenges can be very tough. In a tournament like this, you have to hit the ground running.