Scott Robertson’s tenure as head coach of the All Blacks began with a narrow 16-15 victory over England at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin. The game was an intense battle, with the All Blacks holding onto a one-point lead for the final 15 minutes.
The match had dramatic moments, particularly when Damian McKenzie’s penalty attempt was ruled out by Georgian referee Nika Amashukeli for taking too long. England capitalized on this and attacked, but a crucial turnover by All Blacks’ Tupou Vai’a resulted in a penalty that secured their win.
Captain Scott Barrett expressed pride in his team but admitted the penalty call was a “50-50” decision. The All Blacks showed more adventure, guided by McKenzie’s sharp play, though they lost focus at critical times.
Key moments included Sevu Reece scoring from McKenzie’s cross-kick, and Stephen Perofeta’s break setting up Ardie Savea for a try. England responded with tries from Maro Itoje and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, but missed conversions and penalties from Marcus Smith proved costly.
The final test of the two-game series will be held in Auckland next Saturday.
Scorers:
- New Zealand: 16 (Sevu Reece, Ardie Savea tries, Damian McKenzie 2 penalties)
- England: 15 (Maro Itoje, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso tries, Marcus Smith conversion, penalty)
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