Beauden Barrett yesterday used his explosive pace to rip apart the Welsh defense twice in five minutes in the second half that propelled the All Blacks to a 36-22 victory over the visitors in Wellington and seal their three-match series with a game to spare.
Barrett, who replaced Aaron Cruden in the first half after the flyhalf suffered a neck injury, broke the game open by setting up Ben Smith’s try then scored himself after Wales had fought back to 10-10 at halftime at Wellington Regional Stadium.
The All Blacks scored five tries with Smith and Israel Dagg, both playing their 50th Tests, crossing the line, with Waisake Naholo and Ardie Savea also scoring tries.
England 23, Australia 7
In Melbourne, Owen Farrell broke clear for a late try to fire England to a win over the Wallabies and ensure his team would celebrate their first series win on Australian soil.
The enterprising playmaker soccered the ball over the line before touching down for the winner in the 75th minute to seal the three-match series 2-0 at Melbourne’s Rectangular Stadium.
Playing at inside center, Farrell also slotted five out of six shots at goal, with captain Dylan Hartley scoring the tourists’ only other try in the first half.
Australia were held scoreless for 35 minutes before Stephen Moore touched down in a rolling maul, but they were denied a second try by brilliant English defense.
Scotland 26, Japan 13
In yesterday’s other game, Scotland beat a weakened Japan in the first of two rugby Tests.
Shota Horie scored the opening try for Japan, but Scotland fought back through a penalty try in the first half and another try by Willem Nel just after the break that gave the visitors a 23-10 lead.
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