The All Blacks soared to a commanding 42-10 victory over Argentina in the Rugby Championship’s second test on Saturday. This win not only showcased New Zealand’s dominance but also extended their unbeaten streak at Eden Park to a remarkable 50 matches over the past 30 years.
Damian McKenzie was instrumental in the All Blacks’ performance, contributing 17 points, including a try. His kicking, both off the tee and out of hand, was flawless, converting all six tries, often from challenging angles. McKenzie opened the scoring in the seventh minute with a well-timed run onto a Jordie Barrett kick.
The All Blacks were relentless from the start. By halftime, they had already notched up five tries, leading 35-3. Argentina struggled to recover from this deficit, failing to build on their surprising victory over New Zealand in the previous test. The Pumas have yet to secure back-to-back wins against the All Blacks.
Winger Will Jordan made a strong return to the All Blacks’ lineup, scoring two tries, one in each half. His impressive performance has now seen him score 33 tries in 33 tests. Jordan’s contribution was a highlight in a match where New Zealand’s precision and power were on full display.
Beauden Barrett also made headlines, scoring his 44th test try and moving up to equal fifth on New Zealand’s all-time try-scoring list. Other scorers included Ardie Savea and winger Caleb Clarke. Despite a quiet final 38 minutes, where New Zealand didn’t add any more points, the All Blacks’ dominance was evident.
Last week’s 38-30 defeat in Wellington had been a wake-up call. On Saturday, the All Blacks responded with a passionate haka and an intense, physical performance. Their control of the game was evident, with Argentina unable to implement their kicking game effectively in the wet conditions.
Ardie Savea was outstanding, scoring a try and contributing significantly to several others. Scrumhalf T.J. Perenara showed a marked improvement from his previous performance, while Jordie Barrett had his best game of the season at inside center. Savea expressed satisfaction with the team’s response, emphasizing the need for consistent performance.
Argentina’s hopes of breaking New Zealand’s Auckland unbeaten streak, which has stood since 1994, faded as the game progressed. They struggled with possession and physicality, and their captain Julian Montoya admitted they fell short of expectations.
In the first 20 minutes, the All Blacks spent more time in the Argentina half than they did in the entire first test. The All Blacks’ scrum was a significant advantage, with Tamaiti Williamson making a strong impact as a loosehead replacement. The precision of their kicking game, a lesson learned from last week’s test, was also notable.
New Zealand’s first-half handling was superb despite challenging conditions. After McKenzie’s opening try, Savea, Clarke, Jordan, and Barrett all contributed tries. Jordan’s second try in the 42nd minute highlighted the All Blacks’ effective use of the scrum and dynamic play.
Argentina’s efforts to gain momentum were thwarted, with their only try coming from fullback Juan Cruz Mallia in the 71st minute. Despite a spirited effort, the Pumas could not match the All Blacks’ performance, leaving New Zealand victorious and their Eden Park record intact.
