As the Wallabies just found out., again, Eden Park is an incredibly difficult place to play.
Australia's winless run at the venue now stands at an astounding 35 years -- the Soviet Union was still a thing the last time the Wallabies won there -- after coach Dave Rennie’s side were defeated 33-25 in the opening game of their series, before going down to the All Blacks by a record-setting 57-22 scoreline on Saturday.
But what makes Eden Park such an intimidating place to play? Sekope Kepu has some unique insights.
Capped 110 times for the Wallabies, the prop had his fair share of disappointments at the stadium as a player, but also some good times.
Born in Sydney to Tongan parents, Kepu’s family relocated to Auckland when he was very young; meaning his rugby education took place in the North Island’s largest city. He went on to represent New Zealand at under-17, 19 and 21 levels before making the switch to Green and Gold as a senior.
The 35-year-old sat down with ESPN’s Sam Bruce to discuss the challenge that Eden Park presents, the emotions of returning to the place you grew up wearing the enemies shirt, what Dave Rennie is doing to overhaul the Wallabies, and the current state of Rugby.
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