New Zealand’s All Blacks delivered a resounding response to last week’s unexpected loss to Argentina with a commanding 42-10 victory at Eden Park on Saturday. The match, broadcast live on Sky Sports, was a showcase of New Zealand’s rugby prowess as they avenged their previous defeat with a scintillating first-half performance.
Under the challenging conditions of heavy rain and strong winds, the All Blacks surged to a 35-3 lead by halftime, capitalizing on a series of tries from Damian McKenzie, Ardie Savea, Caleb Clarke, Will Jordan, and Beauden Barrett. This impressive first-half display ensured New Zealand’s dominance, as they extended their remarkable 30-year unbeaten streak at Eden Park to 50 tests.
McKenzie, playing as fly-half, was flawless with the boot, converting all six of New Zealand’s tries and further cementing his pivotal role in the team’s success. New Zealand captain Ardie Savea expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, highlighting the importance of consistency. “Very happy to get the win and respond the way we did,” Savea said. “We’re the All Blacks, we’ve got to bring that every week and not rely on a loss to get that response from us.”
The All Blacks showed significant improvements from their previous 38-30 defeat to Argentina. Their enhanced precision, execution, game management, and physicality were evident in their play. The Pumas’ rush defense was first breached by a deft Jordie Barrett chip that allowed McKenzie to score the opening try in the sixth minute. Savea followed with a powerful try of his own 11 minutes later, signaling New Zealand’s intent to dominate.
Lock Tupou Vaa’i’s smart interception set up winger Clarke for a try in the 24th minute. Scrumhalf TJ Perenara then provided a brilliant offload that enabled Jordan to score his first try of the match. The All Blacks’ relentless pressure continued, culminating in Barrett’s superbly executed try, which left the Pumas trailing 32 points at the break, with only a Santiago Carreras penalty to their name.
The second half saw Jordan adding his second try, bringing his tally to 33 tries in 33 internationals. Argentina’s attempts to break through New Zealand’s defense were thwarted when replacement prop Joel Sclavi knocked on during a crucial phase near the try line. Despite this setback, the Pumas managed to secure a consolation try through full-back Juan Cruz Mallia in the 72nd minute.
In the final minutes, the All Blacks faced a temporary disadvantage when hooker Asafo Aumua received a yellow card, leaving them short-handed for the last four minutes. However, New Zealand’s defense held firm, ensuring that Argentina could not capitalize further on their reduced numbers.
Argentina captain Julian Montoya acknowledged the gap between the teams and the need for consistency. “We weren’t good enough this week, we need to be more consistent, week in, week out,” Montoya said. “I’m proud of the team that we went to look for the game until the last minute. But against this team, you can’t give them one half.”
The victory not only avenged last week’s shock defeat but also underscored New Zealand’s resilience and capacity to perform under pressure. As the All Blacks continue their campaign in the Rugby Championship, their dominant performance against Argentina sets a high standard for the remainder of the season.
Read the following article about what Arslanbek Mahmudov promises to ensure a fight for the title of world champion.