New Zealand wrapped up the Wales series with another comfortable win, despite the visitors being in the game for roughly 50 minutes, after the scores were tied at 10-10 at the break. The All Black machine then kicked into gear, shooting out to 36-10 fifteen mintues later.
Wales scored two consolation tries to take the score to 36-22, before the hosts came within inches of breaking forty points on full time, as center Ryan Crotty stepped out.
New Zealand’s domination continues, despite the rebuilding phase as they deal with the loss of superstars Dan Carter, Richie McCaw, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu and Sonny Bill Williams. Not to mention Julian Savea, who was ‘rested’ due to poor form.
The record over Wales now stretches to 28 games, but coach Steve Hansen still wants more.
“There were big improvements across the board, our line-out was much better and the scrum as well. You’d still expect a lot of improvement [for the third Test],” he said.
Wales coach Warren Gatland however was pleased with his side, after they had the better territory and possession (58%), a first. “I’m pretty proud of that performance. There were two or three key moments in the game and that’s the difference.”
Skipper Sam Warburton says that the late tries to Liam Williams and Jonathan Davies showed they could compete for eighty minutes against the World Champions.
“I was pleased we kept going until the end, I think it showed that we can play for 80 minutes.”
The win means that New Zealand go 2-0 up, claiming the series ahead of the third and final Test in Dunedin, next Saturday.
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