Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry: Clinical All Blacks Rout Hollywoodbets Sharks in Durban
by Devesh Jaganath | by Devesh Jaganath
New Zealand Build Momentum Ahead of Boks Clash with Sharks Thrashing
New Zealand took some time to find their rhythm in their second match of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour, but they eventually clicked into gear and confirmed our rugby predictions by cruising to a 54-0 demolition of the Sharks at Kings Park Stadium in Durban on Tuesday night.
A week ago, the Stormers had pushed the All Blacks all the way in Cape Town, but the Durbanites were unable to do likewise. Despite a promising start that saw them remain in the contest at halftime, the hosts were completely blown away in the second period.
The All Blacks broke the deadlock in the 19th minute through Fehi Fineanganofo before Damian McKenzie, who had an earlier try ruled out for a knock-on, made amends by scoring in the 29th minute. Ruben Love added both conversions to give the visitors a 14-0 lead at the break.
New Zealand came out firing in the second half, with Caleb Clarke scoring their third try before Fineanganofo grabbed his second of the night. Jordie Barrett and Kyle Preston then crossed in quick succession as the All Blacks raced to a 42-0 lead just after the hour mark.
The Sharks introduced former All Blacks great Ma’a Nonu for his debut, but it was a move that proved futile, as late tries from Timoci Tavatavanawai and Sam Darry completed a dominant 54-0 for New Zealand.
Ma’a Nonu Solo Haka Against All Blacks Steals Show in Durban
There was a touching moment before kick-off in Durban last night when Ma’a Nonu, who recently joined the Durban-based franchise, performed the famed Haka against the All Blacks he once represented with distinction.
The 44-year-old earned 104 caps for New Zealand between 2003 and 2015 and played a key role in the All Blacks’ 2011 and 2015 World Cup triumphs!
Nonu joined the South African franchise earlier this month in a mentoring role aimed at helping develop the team’s younger players. However, owing to a combination of injuries and Springbok call-ups, he was drafted onto the team bench for last night’s clash.
