AUCKLAND – The All Blacks have well and truly staked their claim for World Cup glory after dismantling the Wallabies 41-13 in Auckland on Saturday.
The early part of the game was underlined by physical clashes as the Wallabies looked to front up in search for their first victory at Eden Park since 1986. Despite a few mini breaks, the only real highlight was a try to Dane Coles who sprinted 45m and fended Nic White on the try line to open New Zealand’s account.
Going into the sheds 13-6, the Wallabies would have fancied getting back into the game after their performance in Sydney last week however, in the past, they have struggled to get anything out of an Eden Park test and tonight was no different.
Evoking memories of the 51-20 defeat at Eden Park in 2014, the All Blacks clicked up a gear as the Wallabies composure and physicality deserted them in the face of relentless attack. Markers set by Hooper and Pocock last week were brushed aside as a more frantic and hungry All Blacks backrow gained ascendency at the breakdown, underlined by Victor Vito’s strong performance which will most likely see him earn a spot in the RWC squad.
The script was looking all too familiar for the Wallabies half way into the second half as Quade Cooper was yellow carded for a high tackle on Aaron Smith which also saw referee Nigel Owens award a penalty try.
The win sees the All Blacks retain the Bledisloe Cup for another year making it 13 years on the trot that they’ve held the trophy.