They've been part of our lives for more than a decade, a bit like that favourite security blanket we had as a kid, and we will miss them: Richie McCaw, Dan Carter, Ma'a Nonu, Conrad Smith, Keven Mealamu and Tony Woodcock. Carter, McCawand Nonu were brilliant again this morning to go out on top on the ultimate high on the biggest stage. Will we ever see the likes of McCaw and Carter again?
2 - In Shag, we trust
Coach Steve Hansen has been one of the most relaxed figures throughout the World Cup and, perhaps now, we see why. His side have taken the game to a new level over the last four years, stitching together one of the most dominant records in all of professional sport. It feels good that he has been locked in by New Zealand Rugby for at least another two years and could well extend that through to Japan in 2019. Next year's All Blacks side still looks strong, despite the retirements of some of New Zealand's finest players. Hansen knew how to get Carter, McCaw et al peaking at the right time of the year. Well played, Shag, well played.
It's never really been the All Blacks' way to go for a dropped goal. Not the way we play, apparently. Well, if it settles the nerves of a nation and ultimately helps win a World Cup, we'll take it. This was Dan Carter's fourth World Cup and he had never scored a dropped goal before last week's 20-18 semifinal win over the Springboks. Another beautifully-struck one from 41m out this morning in the 69th minute out doubled his tally. It was beautiful to watch, too. Kids will be practising on playgrounds around New Zealand - and that's OK.
