Superstar Beauden Barrett came off the bench to inspire the All Blacks to a 24-17 comeback victory over England at Eden Park tonight.
Trailing by four points, the two-time world player of the year made an immediate impact by setting up winger Mark Tele’a for his second try of the night, breaking England’s resistance.
England had been on course to become the first team to win at Eden Park in 30 years, with impressive tries by Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Tommy Freeman giving them a slim 14-13 lead at halftime.
Under the guidance of coach Scott Robertson, the Kiwis struggled to regain momentum, and Marcus Smith extended England’s lead with a penalty before Barrett entered the game.
The fullback provided a calming presence, cutting through England’s defense to assist Tele’a, who had already scored in the first half from a breakdown poach. Barrett also managed to hold up Jamie George over the try line in the final play.
The victory maintains the All Blacks’ formidable record at Eden Park and secures a 2-0 series win over England, marking a successful start to Robertson’s tenure as head coach of the former world champions.