New Zealand rebounds from a correction inflicted on Italy

There is no doubt for the All Blacks. Facing the Italians who dreamed of overthrowing them, New Zealand did not have to force its talent to win, Friday, September 29, at the Groupama Stadium in Lyon (96-17). A remarkable success that included 14 attempts, which puts it in a good position to qualify for the quarter-finals of the current World Cup, before facing Uruguay next Thursday in the last match of the group.

After losing in their opening match to France (27-13), Ian Foster’s men knew they had no room for error or else they would face a surprise elimination from this first group. But they never faltered against the Azzurri, and the score was increasing as the minutes passed. Passed. After just 22 minutes of play, evening captain Ardi Savea scored his team’s fourth try to take the attacking bonus (28-3).

Hat-trick for Aaron Smith

Excelling in all sectors of the game, the Blacks have benefited from the return of some executives from injury. Among them, Jordie Barrett – who missed the historic defeat to South Africa in preparation as well as at the start of the competition – shone, sending a foot pass to the lively Will Jordan to open the scoring (8th place, 7-0). ). The center provided good competition and found touch at 22 meters across the Alps to set up a second attempt (14, 14-3), before finding himself again on the final pass to offer a third personal pawn to Aaron Smith (34, 42). -3).

In the midst of all this, Mark Tilia scored after New Zealand’s 80-metre comeback (19th, 21-3) and second-row Sam Whitelock broke the Heads record among the Blacks (149 picks). Many reasons for satisfaction will allow the Oceanians to forget that the Azzurri saved honor thanks to Ange Capuzzo and Monty Ioane of Toulouse at the end of the match.

The New Zealanders are unbeaten to the Transalpines in 16 matches, reminding all those who buried them that they must be counted on in this World Cup. With this result, the French XV has not yet qualified for the direct elimination stage. Fabian Galti’s men will have to finish the job next Friday against the stunned Italians.