Local takes on ABs

As many New Zealanders mulled over the All Blacks' disappointing performance and the end of an unbeaten run spanning 20 games, Oamaruvians could be forgiven for finding some solace in the performance of a former local which, for once, wasn't Richie McCaw.

Ex-North Otago and Valley player Tom Wood faced the All Blacks for the first time at the weekend in a clash even the most ardent England supporter considered a formality.

England were on the back of a loss to South Africa while the All Blacks' relentless crusade of the northern hemisphere had seen them dispose of the Scots, outclass the Italians and walk through Wales.

As Swing low, sweet chariot echoed around Twickenham with 82,000 spectators doing their best to drown out the haka, the North Otago faithful would have noticed a familiar face staring down the world champions.

Wood came to Oamaru in 2006 from the Worcester Academy after recovering from a broken leg.

The Northampton Saints flanker worked at Waitaki Boys' to pay his way, experiencing the "blood matches" against St Kevin's and the area's passion for the game while playing at club level before making the North Otago side under former coach Mike Mullins.

His talent was apparent from the start but North Otago manager Murray Pearson said it was Wood's determination and attitude that ensured his rise to international level.

"He's a great guy with a good head on his shoulders.

"He just had sheer ambition; even at that age he was determined to play for England and play against the All Blacks," he said.

"He was a natural talent, he lived and breathed rugby and was just excited to play. He was one of those players you saw had the X factor, he was a young Richie McCaw."

The 26-year-old showed the controlled aggression and determination that was recognised during his eight-month stay in Oamaru. He helped dominate the breakdown against an All Blacks side that boasted more than 700 caps.

North Otago chief executive Colin Jackson remembered Wood's arrival and attributed his development to hard work.

"We could tell from the moment he arrived. He was enthusiastic and driven," he said. "He was skinny and gangly but now he has a huge physique, you get nothing without hard work. He is a fantastic kid, he's humble and well-mannered. With his success he hasn't forgotten the people behind him."

Despite a heavy defeat for the All Blacks, we can take comfort in the fact that the man of the match was developed in New Zealand.