FULL GALLOP: All Blacks fullback Israel Dagg finds clear air during their 34-13 win over Argentina to clinch the Rugby Championship for 2014.

Launching pads don’t get much better. With the pressure now off, the All Blacks board a flight to Johannesburg today with strut, swagger and no inhibitions.

Yesterday’s four-try 34-13 win over the Pumas clinched a third successive Rugby Championship title but, more importantly, saw the All Blacks regain their attacking groove.

After two weeks battling New Zealand rain they threw off the shackles in La Plata and now have the freedom to craft a gameplan without worrying about any tournament permutations.

To further enhance their 22-test unbeaten run they will be intent on harnessing that flamboyance for a blockbuster clash of styles rematch with the Springboks.

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The sight of Jerome Kaino taking the gap and leaving Pumas in his wake as he strode out encapsulated the All Blacks’ wide-spread talent. Kaino is noted for his bruising hits and physical presence, but here the brutal blindside emulated a midfielder.

With Beauden Barrett growing in stature, this is how Steve Hansen’s men will attempt to apply a crushing mental blow on the Boks – by running them into the ground.

Why would you not persist with such tactics when the world’s best back three – Israel Dagg, Ben Smith and Julian Savea – are combining magically and continue to give lessons on lethal counter attack?

At Ellis Park, their spiritual home of rugby and scene of probably the greatest test in the professional era last year, the Boks will fancy their chances after their flattering 28-10 bonus point win over the Wallabies in Cape Town. But they haven’t beaten the All Blacks for three years and will be wary of the tourists’ mental resilience, unwavering desire and belief.

“It’s only half the job,” Barrett said.

“We’re at Ellis Park next week.”

The only concern for Hansen surrounds Brodie Retallick. The lock left the field in the 53rd minute looking decidedly groggy after a head knock. He will be assessed in the coming days but his aggressive cleanout, ball carrying efforts and lineout abilities would be a major loss.

Otherwise, Hansen was chuffed to lock away another title and particularly glowing in his praise for the way Barrett, in just his second test start at first five-eighth, orchestrated the team.

After missing four of five kicks in Napier he also made the adjustment and nailed all six for a 14-point haul, despite a laser light being clearly seen shining on his face from the crowd at one stage.

“He played nice and flat and got the ball through his hands when he needed to,” Hansen said.

“His kicking game was good and he silenced all those people who believed he can’t goal kick.

“To come back from having such a poor goal kicking performance and do what he did today that shows a lot about his mental fortitude and the good work he’s done with [kicking coach] Mick Byrne.”

There were minor errors in Barrett’s game but his control and sense of ease stood out. He wasn’t scared to try things – the chip kicks to his wings exploited space – and didn’t let mistakes hinder ambition.

“At times I pushed a few things,” Barrett said.

“I find in order to play well I have to make a few errors because it means I’m in a positive mindset.

“It was pleasing to see the boys throw the ball around and showcase their skills. If I didn’t make any errors and was conservative I wouldn’t be as happy as I am now.”

With Aaron Cruden having opened the door, playing another central role in victory over the Boks would be the next step in Barrett’s continued progression.

“I love every opportunity I get at 10 in the black jersey. If it’s me out there again against South Africa it will be huge.

“I’m definitely growing in confidence and bossing the team around and being a key driver. I’ve learnt a lot from the two starts I’ve had and really looking forward to the next one.”