Paulse: All Blacks peaking too early

The All Blacks currently sit top of the Tri-Nations after two superb victories over reigning world champions South Africa, exhibiting a breathless high tempo attacking style.

But they have only one World Cup triumph to their names - winning the inaugural competition on home soil in 1987.

Since then, they have entered almost every tournament as favourites only to fall short of the title, most recently at the 2007 edition where they were dumped out by hosts France in the quarter-finals after looking unbeatable in the build up.

"It's a year before the Rugby World Cup, and normally we don't play well then," Paulse said in defence of the Springboks.

"New Zealand also seem to be peaking early again. Our players are competitive so I'm sure they'll get back to form."

Paulse, who scored 26 tries in his 64 Tests for the Springboks, also called on detractors of Peter de Villiers' team not to despair, saying he expected them to turn the corner soon.

He added: "Of course, like most South Africans, I'm a little bit concerned. South Africans want results, and at the moment the boys are going through a tough phase. We just have to be patient with the team."