The All Blacks triumphed over the Wallabies with a score of 33-13 in the second Bledisloe Cup test held in Wellington, marking their final home game of the year. This victory breaks the All Blacks’ six-year winless streak in the city and concludes their Rugby Championship season with three wins and three losses.
Captain Scott Barrett expressed his relief at securing a win in Wellington, highlighting the team’s improved performance in the second half. “Really pleased to reverse the curse,” Barrett said, noting how they finished strong with solid defense against the Australians. The All Blacks also broke a streak of not scoring in the final quarter of games during the Rugby Championship, with second-half tries from Tamaiti Williams and Caleb Clarke sealing the game.
Former captain Sam Cane celebrated his 100th test cap and reflected on the honor of achieving such a milestone at home. He praised the younger players in the team for their development and talent throughout the championship.
Cane and fellow player TJ Perenara played their final match in black jerseys, with Barrett acknowledging the significant contributions both players made to the team.
Wallabies captain Harry Wilson recognized that while the team had its moments, the campaign was disappointing, stating, “It’s not the result we wanted.”
The Wallabies started strong, scoring first with flanker Fraser McReight’s try in the eighth minute. However, the All Blacks quickly responded with a try from Sevu Reece, followed by another from Will Jordan, giving them the lead. Despite struggling with penalties and errors, the All Blacks managed to score a critical try from Caleb Clarke right before halftime.
In the second half, the All Blacks maintained control, scoring additional tries and suffocating the Wallabies’ attempts to respond. Despite a yellow card for Clarke in the final minutes, the All Blacks held firm, ending the match with a comfortable victory.