Like a dress rehearsal a few weeks before the World Cup in France. After a wide entry victory (41-12) against Argentina, New Zealand did it again. Success 35-20 against South Africa, world champion in the last edition in 2019. The All Blacks took a big step towards their 20th title in the rugby championship, before a last match in Australia.
There was no photo in this part, dominated from start to finish by New Zealand in Auckland. South Africa has never led in this confrontation. Aaron Smith’s teammates set up a very high pace from the start by stinging in the 5th minute with the scrum half try, well helped by the good work of Will Jordan. Jostled, the Springboks suffered more afterwards, unable to avoid the second try scored ten minutes later by Highlanders third row Shannon Frizell, in force after a new inspiration from Crusaders winger Will Jordan.
The South Africans had to wait until the 35th minute to register their first points thanks to the boot of Faf de Clerk which allowed his team to return to the locker room with at least three points and a score of 20 to 3 in their favour.
After the break, South Africa came back with better intentions, inspired by the starters, after the 50th minute. The Blacks took their foot off the accelerator and the Boks took the opportunity to come back close. First thanks to the test of Malcom Marx (53rd) after an effective carried ball then with that in corner of Kolbe (62nd). Allowing Jacques Nienaber’s players to be only eight points behind (23-15).
But behind, the Blacks again activated their march forward to show that they were the strongest on the field today. After a little doubt, they set the record straight with two tries in a few minutes, from Will Jordan in great shape (69th) after a pass at the foot of Beauden Barrett and finally from Richie Mo’Unga well served by Ardie Savea at the end of a scrum at five meters (76th). Kwagga Smith’s try at the very end of the match (79th) did not change anything, Ian Foster’s men recited their rugby and deserved their victory.
The two teams will meet at the end of August at Twickenham for a friendly match in preparation for the World Cup where things will be completely different. Fabien Galthié and the XV of France undoubtedly observed the meeting closely. They who will find the All Blacks at the opening of the World Cup before perhaps challenging the Springboks in the quarterfinals, if there is qualification.
