New Zealand were staring down the abyss of a potential first loss at Eden Park since 1994 as England took control of their ongoing test match.
Lead 17 – 13 with just over fifteen minutes to play and firmly in control, England let their intensity dip just a notch, and the All Blacks brutally exposed it.
Taking the initiative was the All Blacks’ most experienced player, Beaudean Barrett, who has had a huge impact since entering the fray. Slotting in at fullback, Barrett has taken the pressure off Damian McKenzie, who has been below his usual brilliant best by covering the backfield masterfully and stepping in at first receiver.
One such instance of Barrett stepping in and taking control would lead to what looks set to be the crucial try in this contest.
Lurking in the wider channels, Barrett, who, whilst he has lost a half yard of pace, is still exceptionally quick, exploded through a gap in the English defence.
Once through the first line, Barrett then had the wherewithal to find an on-rushing Mark Telea, who went over for his second try of the evening.
Adding to the try, McKenzie would moments later add a penalty to put the All Blacks 21 – 17 ahead with ten minutes to play.
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