Nowadays the All Blacks use the Maori haka as the ultimate intimidatory weapon before kicking off in test matches. It is a challenge to a fight, and the intensity in the eyes of All Blacks of both Maori and European heritage can stir the soul and intimidate opponents.
But way back in the more genteel amateur 1970s, the haka performed by the All Blacks wouldn't have frightened the skin off a creme brulee.
And if the 1970s was the last time the All Blacks performed a poor haka, we all know that the 1980s was the last time they won the World Cup. I'm not in any way insinuating that New Zealand has a history of choking at the World Cup, but here's hoping that history repeats itself at the semi-final this Sunday. Go the Wallabies!
