Advertisement
New Zealand put on a show at Eden Park in front of an electric crowd, holding off a Wallabies fightback to win 33-24 and retain the Bledisloe for yet another year. From a blistering start, the All Blacks showed structure and composure to weather Australia’s pressure and ultimately close out the game, albiet in less convincing fashion than Razor would have liked. Cam Roigard’s two tries and Damien McKenzie’s game management mastercalss underlined the difference, while discipline and decision-making in key moments the only thing separating the sides.
Ethan de Groot – 6.5
Did his job in the scrum early before being subbed with an HIA. Solid in defence, though didn’t have the chance to dominate in open play.
Codie Taylor – 7
Recalled to steady the lineout. Reliable set-piece work and was very active defensively, though he conceded a few penalties.
Tyrel Lomax – 6
Scrummaged well and made some important tackles, though gave away a couple of penalties. Had limited chances with ball in hand.
Fabian Holland – 7
Lineout work was excellent, and he got through some strong carries. Did well to control the maul platform and help seal dominance up front.
Tupou Vaa’i – 6.5
Defensive consistency and a solid lineout presence, but what he offers is that competitive edge that rattles teams. Had a good ruck steal when the Wallabies threatened.
Simon Parker – 6
Quiet workhorse. Held his position, made key hits, and didn’t let things slip, even if he wasn’t flashy.
Ardie Savea (c) – 7.5
Gritty leadership all night. Won a crucial turnover, made 16 tackles and stood up to the challenge when the game was in the balance that shows why he is such an inspirational figure in this team.
Wallace Sititi – 7
Slowed down Wallaby ball at the breakdown, made strong defensive hits, and delivered solid carries. Didn’t dominate, but he kept things steady.
Cam Roigard – 9.5
What a return. Quick service, excellent pressure relief, and two well-taken tries. Came up with a critical 50-22 to swing momentum when it mattered most.
Beauden Barrett – 6
Started well, controlled tempo, but left injured in the first half, which disrupted their flow. Showed his class before departing.
Caleb Clarke – 7
An emeotional start for the recalled winger, after seeing his dad Eroni sing the national anthem. Put that emotion to good use, scoring the first All Blacks try. Took his opportunity well, finishing strong in attack.
Jordie Barrett – 8
The glue in the backline. Carried, kicked, passed and defended. Made crucial decisions under pressure and showed why he’s indispensable.
Billy Proctor – 6.5
Solid defensive contributions. Didn’t explode the game but held his ground and made the tough calls in tight scenes.
Leroy Carter – 7
Took his chance with a composed finish in the corner and offered clean carries. His presence in attack and defence was a bright spot.
Will Jordan – 6
Steady under the high ball, effectively taking the Wallabies back three out of the contest all night. Despite not breaking the game open, his few counter attacks kept Australia’s defence honest.
Samisoni Taukei’aho – 5
Injected some power late in the game to bring the All Blacks home. Streaked down the sideline for a nice little run.
Tamaiti Williams – 6.5
Made some great impact in scrum time and carried hard after the Men In Black lost De Groot to a HIA.
Flecther Newell – 6
Added some firepower in the scrum when the game was still in the balance.
Patrick Tuipulotu – 6
Came on and held the lock duties with no major misses. Solid rotational performance.
Peter Lakai – 6.5
Could see his explosive potential with this return to the international stage. Made every post a winner with the minutes he was given.
Cortez Ratima – N/A
Didn’t make it on due to Roigard’s stellar performance.
Quinn Tupaea – 7
Made his presence known immediately when he joined the action. His return to the All Blacks has been remarkable. Looked liked scoring again this week only to be stopped by some desperate defence.
Damian McKenzie – 7
The All Blacks didn’t miss a beat with McKenzie coming on for Barrett. Came in and slotted his penalties with percision, keeping scoreboard pressure on the Wallabies late when they were pushing.