Marx v Taylor - Crotty has his say
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All Black centre Ryan Crotty says Codie Taylor has what it takes to best Springbok hooker Malcolm Marx at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.
Codie Taylor has done a stellar job in filling the void of Dane Coles in the All Black squad and has helped the Crusaders to two Super Rugby titles over the last two years.
Marx troubled the All Blacks at breakdowns and scrum in Wellington with the younger front rower being highlighted as one of the Springboks standout performers on the day.
Taylor admitted that the All Blacks have spoken about Marx and what side needs to do to nullify his influence.
"He can really build momentum for them. We’ve previewed the whole team, and he’s one of their strengths," the All Blacks hooker said.
"He’s great over the ball and a threat with ball in hand … as are their locks and loosies if you look at the way Siya Kolisi is playing at the moment. [Marx] is really leading the pack around the field and is a huge confidence-booster for them.
'We won’t focus on one player, though. We have to nullify that whole side.’
Head to Head Stats The Rugby Championship 2018: Malcolm Marx v Codie Taylor
Crotty had his say on the debate:
‘Let me jump in here. Codie doesn’t like talking about himself, so I will do it for him,’ Crotty began.
‘I’ve been watching him grow. I’ve seen his game go to another level this year, especially at the Crusaders. He’s a massive reason why we were so successful, especially on defence.
‘He takes on a lot of leadership with regards to driving the defence. He’s a very intelligent hooker … and I’d take him over Marx every day of the week.’
Quotes via: sarugbymag