The All Blacks have survived an almighty scare to their 30-year unbeaten Eden Park record after defeating England 24-17 on Saturday night (AEST).
Beauden Barrett proved the difference between the two sides, coming on in the 50th minute when England led 17-13 before setting up a try and constantly threatening their defence.
“It was a proper Test match and we expected nothing less from a classy side,” Barrett said on Stan Sport’s post-match coverage.
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“That’s Test footy, it comes down to the wire like that, I’m so proud of the boys showing some belief and finishing it off there.”
Beauden Barrett and Fletcher Newell celebrate New Zealand’s win. Getty
The match started with the All Blacks striking first through winger Mark Tele’a who picked the ball up from the ruck and went down the short side.
Moments later in the 14th minute England were on the scoreboard when Immanuel Fevi-Waboso caught a Marcus Smith cross kick.
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Soon after the All Blacks could’ve gone ahead when Damian McKenzie broke the line with Tele’a and Stephen Perofeta passing it back and forth. However, right before the line Smith was involved again, intercepting the ball.
McKenzie kicked two penalty goals to give the All Blacks a 13-7 lead.
However, right before half time Smith’s pinpoint cross kick featured again with Tommy Freeman jumping high and scoring as England led 14-13 at the break.
Tommy Freeman flies high to take a Marcus Smith kick. Stan Sport
England were first on the board in the second half when Marcus Smith hit a penalty goal in the 49th minute.
The injection of Barrett straight after the penalty turned the game on its head.
Barrett was involved soon after his arrival on the field, breaking the line and setting up a Tele’a double to make it 18-17. New Zealand’s lead extended to 21-17 when McKenzie slotted a penalty goal with 11 minutes to go.
England’s discipline continued to impact them, conceding another penalty close to full time with McKenzie adding another three points.
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The Barrett boys were involved again right on full time, holding up hooker Jamie George over the line.
However, any potential try would’ve gone ahead with the TMO ruling Ollie Lawrence had obstructed the defence, delivering a 24-17 victory to the All Blacks.