All Blacks respond in style
New Zealand emphatically ended their two-match losing streak with a 39-10 victory over Australia in a pulsating Bledisloe Cup clash.
Last Updated: 03/08/08 5:36pm
New Zealand emphatically ended their two-match losing streak with a 39-10 victory over Australia in the Bledisloe Cup clash at Eden Park.
The hosts were in rampant mood and cemented their place back at the top of the Tri-Nations table thanks to two tries apiece from Tony Woodcock and Ma'a Nonu.
Adam Ashley-Cooper hit back for the Wallabies in the first half, however Graham Henry's men weren't to be denied and clinically moved through the gears in the second period before sealing the win late on.
The ever-reliable Dan Carter struck 19 points in another ruthless kicking display, as Australia coach Robbie Deans is forced to reflect on his first defeat at the helm.
With influential captain Richie McCaw making his return, the All Blacks played with far more determination than in their 34-19 loss to Australia in Sydney last time out.
Pressure
In contrast the Wallabies saw too little of the ball and spent too much of the match in their own half to mount consistent pressure.
Loosehead prop Woodcock scored a brace of tries within four minutes midway through the first half, doubling the previous amount he had scored in 41 tests, after twice crashing over from close range.
The second was a slick planned move after a lineout on Australia's five metre line. The ball went to Ali Williams at the back of the lineout who immediately knocked it down for Woodcock to force his way over.
New Zealand had stormed inot an 18-3 lead before Australia responded with a classy try through fullback Ashley-Cooper, who was on the end of a slick backline move after a rare period of Australian pressure.
After leading 21-10 at half-time the All Blacks struck early in the second half, with inside centre Nonu crashing over after New Zealand had forced a turnover inside Australia's 22.
Nonu scored again in injury time to give New Zealand a vital four-try bonus point in the battle for the Tri-nations crown. They now lead the table with 10 points from Australia then South Africa.
