The All Blacks showed what a quality side they are as they achieved a Tri Nations clean sweep by coming from behind to beat the Wallabies 23-22 in the final test in Sydney. New Zealand have now beaten Australia for the tenth time in succession, and have a 15 Test unbeaten run.
The hosts got things off to a good start as they seemed in control with the score at 22-9 following a try from James OConnor after eighthman Ben McCalman broke off the back of the scrum.
Matt Giteau had a poor night with the boot, kicking only three from seven attempts, but extended their lead before Adam Ashley-Cooper went over early in the second half.
New Zealand stayed composed though and gradually fought their way back into the game, first through a Richie McCaw try then later through Kieran Read. Piri Weepu converted, giving them the lead and taking his record on the night to five from five.
Australia had under ten minutes to attempt to recreate another late win as they tried to get within penalty range, but came up short and were resigned to the narrow loss.
“We were on the back foot for a fair bit of the match but we stuck to the gameplan, kept pushing, and to come out on top was very satisfying,” said McCaw.
“It’s easy when you get behind like that to try and throw miracle passes but we kept faith in the game plan. We stuck to the game and we got there in the end.”
McCaw has now surpassed Sean Fitzpatrick as New Zealands most capped skipper, with his record now sitting at an incredible 46 wins from 52 Tests as captain.
The two sides will meet next in Hong Kong on the 30th October.
Time:
05:04
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