July 31, 2010
Docklands Stadium, Melbourne
HT: 14-32
FT: 28-49
Experience and cool heads ruled over the youthful enthusiasm of Australia as New Zealand ran a mockery in Melbourne, winning 28-49.
Australia were trying to build on a strong start against South Africa last week, but handed the opportunity for the All Blacks to continue their unbeaten streak in the 2010 Tri-Nations through lack of discipline and failure to perform the basics. Their opposition were clinical in their finishing and oozing confidence as they extend their streak of Bledisloe Cup wins to 14 in 16 attempts.
Drew Mitchell was sent off due to two questionable yellow cards issued by South African referee Craig Joubert just inside the second half which scuppered Australia’s chances, but embarrassing mistakes at the restart in particular is what coach Robbie Deans will be most worried about.
