All Blacks crash out of world cup

11.59pm

AUSTRALIA 22 ALL BLACKS 10

SYDNEY - Australia upset tournament favourites New Zealand 22-10 in the first world cup semi-final tonight.

The defending champions produced a superbly disciplined display to defeat their arch-rivals, centre Elton Flatley kicking 17 points to secure a deserved victory.

Centre Stirling Mortlock gave Australia an early lead when he intercepted a pass by New Zealand first five-eighths Carlos Spencer and ran 80 metres to touch down under the posts.

Two penalties by Flatley put the hosts 13-0 ahead but New Zealand captain Reuben Thorne crashed over for a try to reduce the halftime deficit to 13-7.

Flatley kicked three penalties in the second half as New Zealand became increasingly frustrated by Australia's magnificent defence, with Leon MacDonald's penalty the All Blacks' only score after the interval.

Australia will play France or England, who meet in the second semi-final on Sunday, in the final.

- REUTERS

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