All Blacks See Off Pumas With A Clinical Performance

New Zealand avenged their historic first ever defeat to Argentina two weeks ago with an emphatic 38-0 victory over the Pumas in the second last fixture of the Tri Nations Championship. New Zealand missed an early shot at goal, but a cut out pass from Richie Mounga saw Dane Coles fly over in the right hand corner 12 minutes in to lead 7-0. The All Blacks added a penalty five minutes later to extend their advantage out to ten.

New Zealand dominated much of the first half off the back of a superior scrum, but would be unable to add to their points tally as a late penalty attempt hit the post, 10-0 at the break. The All Blacks were completely dominating both territory and possession, but were being kept out by some outstanding Argentinian defence.

The pressure eventually paid off as a set move from a lineout 5m out saw the ball popped to Ardie Savea coming around the corner and he powered his way over to make it 17-0, which it remained heading into the final quarter. Argentina were still unable to get into the match with ball in hand, but continued to defend valiantly to keep the All Blacks at bay.

A loose pass by Argentina around halfway saw Will Jordan scoop it up and race away to sprint in for the All Blacks third try, pushing the lead out to 24-0 after 68 minutes of play. Just two minutes later and New Zealand had the bonus point try and it was that man Will Jordan again as he intercepted from just inside his own half and cracked on the pace to race away for his double with ten minutes to play. With time up on the clock, Tyrel Lomax was shown his marching orders as his forearm cleanout made direct contact to the head as he received a yellow card.

Both sides continued to play well after the siren, but a superb flat ball saw Patrick Tuipulotu running a great line to break and canter in for the All Blacks fifth try to put the cherry on the cake of an impressive performance. The victory sees the All Blacks take control of the Tri Nations Championship as they hold a five point lead atop the standings with a massively superior points difference ahead of the final fixture between Argentina and Australia.