HAMILTON, New Zealand – The All Blacks secured a hard-fought 29-19 victory over France in Hamilton, completing a 3-0 series sweep despite an unconvincing performance that saw them trail at halftime.
Loose forward Luke Jacobson was ruled out just before kick-off, forcing a late shuffle to the lineup. Du’Plessis Kirifi stepped into the No. 7 jersey, with Christian Lio-Willie moving to the bench. Kirifi went on to score one of the All Blacks’ four tries.
This result suggests coach Scott Robertson’s decision to field an entirely new 23 for the final test was a gamble that paid off. However, the squad, largely untested and inexperienced, struggled for cohesion and penetration in attack, ultimately wearing down a determined French side at the end of a long season for them.
The All Blacks looked shaky early, falling behind 10-0. France’s scrumhalf Nolann Le Garrec opened the scoring with a dart down the blindside, and the visitors extended their lead thanks to another intervention from Le Garrec. The All Blacks faltered with lineouts, ruck cleanouts, and passing, struggling with fundamental play.
Did you know? Will Jordan’s try was his 42nd in his 44th Test appearance.
Despite the struggles, Will Jordan proved to be the difference-maker. Brought into the starting XV at right wing due to Rieko Ioane’s late injury, Jordan scored another crucial try. This came from a perfectly weighted kick by halfback Cortez Ratima, who spotted a gap in the French defense.
The All Blacks dominated territory but were held up twice over the try line in the first half. They finally broke through just before halftime, with center Anton Lienert-Brown showing great strength to score after being tackled short.
Kirifi’s first Test try after the break gave the All Blacks the lead they wouldn’t relinquish. Despite this, mistakes persisted, with debutant Brodie McAlister having trouble with lineout throws. Ardie Savea also made a vital penalty turnover on his own line.
With 13 minutes remaining, Damian McKenzie’s decision to kick for the corner instead of taking a near-certain penalty kick raised eyebrows. The gamble almost paid off, with Dalton Papali’i being held up over the line.
The victory was sealed late in the game when replacement Jordie Barrett made a strong run, setting up Brodie McAlister for a popular try under the posts.
All Blacks 29 (Tries: Will Jordan, Anton Lienert-Brown, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Brodie McAlister; Cons: Damian McKenzie 3; Pen: Damian McKenzie)
France 19 (Try: Nolann Le Garrec; Con: Nolann Le Garrec; Pens: Nolann Le Garrec 3; Dropped Goal: Antoine Hastoy)
Halftime: France 19-17
