Kiwis power back in style
IT was sweet revenge for the All Blacks, a week after being humbled by the French.
Their forwards – outplayed the week before – were praised by their coaches as they powered their way to a Second Test win in Wellington to tie the series.
The All Blacks were thrashed 27-22 in the First Test but yesterday loose forwards Jerome Kaino and Tanerau Latimer and hooker Keven Mealamu constantly pilfered French ball.
“We played a lot better right across the park, particularly the tight five,” said All Blacks coach Steve Hansen.
It was a much-improved display all round from New Zealand, who kept their record of not having lost a home series for 15 years.
Ma’a Nonu grabbed the opening try. France hit back with Cedric Heymans scoring a brilliant solo effort down the left wing from 40 metres out.
Kicking was tricky in the rain but Luke McAlister and Stephen Donald slotted in vital penalties for the hosts.
