Leicester Fainga'anuku runs the ball in Perth. Photo / Getty Images
How Scott Robertson’s side rated in their 28-14 win over the Wallabies in Perth.
1. Tamaiti Williams – 8
A big shift for the All Blacks’ biggest player. Strong early hit on Will Skelton. Pinged for a ruck infringement, which led to three points. Good work in the scrum and around the field right up until he left in the 65th minute.
2. Codie Taylor – 7
A few wobbly throws early on, including one in attacking area. But was his usual best around the field, including an interception. Also showed off his kicking skills.
3. Fletcher Newell – 8
Like Williams, put in a big shift, staying out there for 65 minutes. Led the All Blacks in tackles completed with 19 in a very strong defensive effort. Scrum held up well. Proven this year he’s not just a bench player.
4. Scott Barrett – 6
Penalised a few times, one which led to points. Lineout didn’t look great in first half. Much better second-half effort and finished with 15 tackles. Ended up being penalised three times. Not ideal from the skipper.
5. Fabian Holland – 6
Lost an early lineout but then stole one, which led to the All Blacks’ second try. Was busy on the defensive end in the first half.
6. Simon Parker – 6
Seems to be doing all the grunt work well, with a high tackle count and some heavy hits, but would like to see him make more of an impact at the breakdown.
7. Ardie Savea – 7
Penalised in the first half for offside, which saw the Wallabies put three points on the board. Won a breakdown penalty in the second half, which got converted into points. Made 15 tackles.
8. Peter Lakai – 7
Got involved early and provided much needed go-forward when All Blacks had little ball in the first 30 minutes. Finished with 14 tackles and seven carries in a 60-minute effort.
9. Cam Roigard – 7
A mixed night. Great passing and kicking game in wet conditions including a crafty kick into the Wallabies corner. But got caught a number of times at the end of sniping runs.
10. Damian McKenzie – 5
Not a great night off the tee, missing a penalty and two relatively easy conversions – he also missed touch and missed a few tackles as well. Directional play was fine and he got on target late with the boot, which was vital.
11. Leicester Fainga’anuku – 7
Great to see him back in the black jersey, as he can make an impact. Made a strong tackle but did lose a high ball. Made a busting run at end of first half, bouncing off a hit, and gave the ABs a real threat out wide. Turned the ball over four tries in wet conditions.
12. Jordie Barrett – 6
Smart chip into space led to try off a falcon assist with his head. Busy night with eight carries and 11 tackles. Was a constant threat in the air, even if New Zealand failed to nab a couple.
13. Quinn Tupaea – 8
One of his best games in black. Strong run in lead-up to Leroy Carter try. Good chase for his opening try and then all power and speed. Also won a key breakdown penalty.
14. Leroy Carter – 7
Got a try burrowing deep near the line, which shows he’s hungry and keen to get involved in the action. Also lost a high ball. Not sure it’s a tactic but tends to come quite far in off his sideline on defence, which leaves him turning and scrambling a bit. Did earn a steal with Savea.
15. Will Jordan – 6
A busy night finishing with 11 carries, the most of the All Blacks. Penalised for not rolling away. Quick-thinking tap led to Tupaea try. Got caught with no teammates to support in the tackle which led to turnover.
Reserves:
16. Samisoni Taukei’aho – 4
17. George Bower – 5
18. Pasilio Tosi – 5
19. Patrick Tuipulotu – 5
20. Wallace Sititi – 5
21. Cortez Ratima – 5
22. Rieko Ioane – 5
23. Ruben Love – 5