All Blacks Secure Series Sweep After Grit in Hamilton Thriller

Resilient Home Side Overcomes French Challenge for 29-19 Victory

The All Blacks demonstrated remarkable resilience and patience to clinch a 29-19 victory over a determined French outfit in Hamilton, completing a series sweep in a physically demanding encounter. Despite an under-strength and less experienced squad, the team dug deep to overcome a halftime deficit and secure a hard-fought win.

French Surge Repelled in Tense Second Half

France posed their sternest test of the series, leading 19-12 at halftime. However, the All Blacks’ defence tightened significantly after the break, holding the visitors scoreless while mounting their own comeback. The home side’s relentless driving play forced France into an exhausting 279 tackles, a testament to New Zealand’s sustained pressure.

Depth Tested, Key Performances Emerge

New Zealand’s squad depth was truly tested with several players from the wider group featuring, compounded by a late injury to **Luke Jacobson**. Flanker **Du’Plessis Kirifi** stepped into the breach admirably, making crucial turnovers at breakdowns. Skipper **Ardie Savea**, despite early challenges, emerged as a prominent figure in the second half, driving the team forward.

Locks **Patrick Tuipulotu** and **Fabian Holland** also showcased impressive vigour, with **Holland** quickly adapting to the international arena. The turning point came in the 58th minute when **Ruben Love**, who delivered an outstanding performance at fullback, initiated the play for the All Blacks’ third try. His high kick was regathered, leading to a penalty that was kicked to the corner.

Late Try Secures Dominant Finish

From the resulting lineout, **Damian McKenzie**’s kick found the line, and a rare fumble by French fullback **Leo Barre** allowed **Kirifi** to ground the ball for a vital score. Despite some mid-half lineout issues for the All Blacks, solid defence, including a superb cover tackle from replacement **Jordie Barrett**, and French errors helped contain the visitors.

The All Blacks’ superior scrum and the impact of their replacements proved decisive. **Barrett** broke through a gap and offloaded to replacement hooker **Brodie McAlister**, who slid over for the match-winning try with just five minutes remaining. France’s early intent was clear, with **Nolan Le Garrec** scoring the opening try and adding penalties. **Antoine Hastoy** contributed a dropped goal, but ultimately, France’s efforts were not enough.

Scorers

New Zealand: 29 (Will Jordan, Anton Lienert-Brown, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Brodie McAlister Tries; Damian McKenzie 3 conversions, 1 penalty) France: 19 (Nolan Le Garrec try, conversion, 3 penalties; Antoine Hastoy dropped goal).

Halftime: France 19 – New Zealand 12. In 2023, the All Blacks also had a strong winning record at home, winning 8 of their 9 matches played in New Zealand (All Blacks Annual Report 2023).