Damian McKenzie kicks 17 points as New Zealand beat Wales 52-26 in Cardiff, extending their winning streak against Wales to 34 matches
DAMIAN McKenzie kicked 17 points to guide New Zealand to a 52-26 victory over Wales at Principality Stadium on Saturday.
The All Blacks extended their winning streak against Wales to 34 matches despite a memorable hat-trick from Welsh wing Tom Rogers.
New Zealand scored first-half tries through Caleb Clarke, Ruben Love and Tamaiti Williams before adding four more after the break.
McKenzie had an impeccable day with the boot, kicking all seven conversions and a penalty.
The visitors have now won 35 of 38 Tests between the two nations, with Wales last tasting victory in 1953.
Wallace Sititi, named man-of-the-match, acknowledged the team’s response after last week’s defeat to England.
“We had a tough old week last week,” Sititi told TNT.
“We give credit to a tough Welsh team and hopefully they enjoyed that back home.”
The All Blacks, featuring 12 changes from the previous match, took time to find their rhythm.
A gameplan built around Anton Lienart-Brown and hard-running No.8 Sititi eventually saw New Zealand dominate the second period.
Clarke opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a try in the corner.
Wales responded immediately through Rogers, who crossed after collecting a Dan Edwards pass.
McKenzie’s penalty restored New Zealand’s lead before Love produced a brilliant individual try.
Rogers struck again for his second try, keeping Wales within three points at 17-14.
Williams drove over from close range to give the All Blacks a 24-14 halftime advantage.
Wales started the second half strongly with Rogers completing his hat-trick after smart centre play.
Scottish referee Hollie Davidson ruled out two New Zealand tries through Clarke and Will Jordan.
The All Blacks’ relentless attack eventually produced their fourth try through Rieko Ioane.
Replacement Wales prop Gareth Thomas received a yellow card for a no-arms tackle in the 58th minute.
Sevu Reece crossed twice in the final quarter to secure the comprehensive victory.
Louis Rees-Zammit scored a late consolation try before Clarke grabbed his second to take New Zealand past 50 points. – AFP
