2024 Rugby Championship: New Zealand Triumphs Over Australia (33-13)
New Zealand wrapped up their Rugby Championship campaign on a high, securing a comfortable 33-13 victory over a much-improved Australia in Wellington. This win not only showcased their resilience but also highlighted their ability to bounce back from earlier setbacks in the tournament.
Match Highlights:
- New Zealand (19) 33
Tries: Sevu Reece, Will Jordan, Caleb Clarke (2), Tamaiti Williams
Conversions: Beauden Barrett (4) - Australia (13) 13
Try: Fraser McReight
Penalties: Noah Lolesio (2)
Conversion: Noah Lolesio
The Wallabies started fast, with flanker Fraser McReight going over for the opening try after sustained pressure. However, this early lead was short-lived, as the All Blacks quickly found their rhythm. Although Australia dominated the early stages, New Zealand capitalized on key moments to shift the momentum in their favor. Sevu Reece’s try came after a brilliant pass from Anton Lienert-Brown, showcasing the All Blacks’ sharp attacking prowess.
An individual score by Will Jordan, who cut a brilliant line to step his way through and score his 35th Test try in just 37 appearances, further punished the Wallabies for not taking their early opportunities. On the other hand, New Zealand had been struggling with scoring second-half points throughout the tournament. Nevertheless, this time, they managed to close out the game with a second-half try by prop Tamaiti Williams, who powered over the line with determination.
Caleb Clarke sealed the victory with his second try, demonstrating his speed and agility. As a result, the All Blacks celebrated a significant win, ensuring they finish the Championship on a positive note.
Victory also moves Scott Robertson’s side up to second in the Championship standings—a position they will finish in if South Africa defeats Argentina later on Saturday. This result is particularly important for New Zealand as they look to regain their status as a dominant force in international rugby.
Two defeats by the Springboks and one by Argentina meant New Zealand was unable to reclaim the Rugby Championship for the first time since 2019. However, this win in Wellington allowed them to end their campaign on a high, which is crucial for their morale moving forward.
For Australia, Joe Schmidt’s side finished at the bottom of the table for the second year running, despite a bright start to the match. Nevertheless, their only victory came against Argentina, and they will now look to bounce back during their upcoming northern hemisphere Tests in November. Schmidt will undoubtedly focus on building a more cohesive unit as they prepare for future challenges.
Both teams will reflect on their campaigns, using their experiences as motivation to improve. New Zealand will aim to refine their game and address issues that arose during the tournament, while Australia will seek to build on the positives and enhance their performance in the Tests ahead.
Line-ups:
- New Zealand:
Jordan, Reece, Ioane, Lienert-Brown, Clarke; B. Barrett, Perenara; De Groot, Taylor, Lomax, S. Barrett (capt.), Vaa’i, Sititi, Cane, Savea.
Replacements: Aumua, Williams, Tosi, Tuipulotu, Jacobson, Ratima, McKenzie, Havili. - Australia:
Wright, Kellaway, Ikitau, Paisami, Pietsch; Lolesio, Gordon; Bell, Faessler, Tupou, Frost, Williams, Valetini, McReight, Wilson (capt.).
Replacements: Paenga-Amosa, Kailea, Alaalatoa, Salakaia-Loto, Gleeson, McDermott, Donaldson, Flook.
Referee: Nika Amashukeli (GRU)
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