New Zealand v Wales, Carisbrook, June 19
Thomas calls for discipline
Scrum.com
June 15, 2010
Wales flanker Jonathan Thomas is tackled, Wales v Italy, Six Nations, Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, Wales, March 20, 2010
Jonathan Thomas says it is dificult to assess where the All Blacks are © Getty Images
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Wales veteran Jonathan Thomas said it was difficult to assess where New Zealand are after Jamie Heaslip's red card in last weekend's fixture between the All Blacks and Ireland effectively ended the contest in the opening ten minutes.

Thomas watched the mauling unfold from the comfort of his hotel in Auckland and admitted getting a true reflection of the capabilities of Graham Henry's men had been tough.

"Obviously the red card of Heaslip finished the game as a contest so it's difficult to assess truly where New Zealand are at," said Thomas ahead of this weekend's showdown at Carisbrook. "But they still looked very impressive in attack with their off-loading and their backs were looking sharp so I think we're well aware that we're up against a very good side at the weekend."

The Irish found out to their cost that ill-discipline against New Zealand can lead to humiliation and the Welsh know it is an area they must improve on if they are to register their first ever victory on All Black soil.

"We are all well aware now as a squad that at this level discipline is crucial and definitely something we'll be trying to keep on top of," added Thomas, who is one of only a handful of players who was on the last trip to New Zealand in 2003 when Wales lost by a record 55-3 margin.

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