Rugby Union: Umaga looks awesome for All Blacks
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.NEW ZEALAND'S All Blacks overwhelmed and outclassed France to drive home a 54-7 victory at Athletic Park, Wellington, on Saturday in a one-off Test.
The All Blacks, playing with the benefit of a strong wind in the first half, put up an almost unassailable 30-0 lead by half-time. Early in the second half the French stand-off Hugo Mola finally opened the account with a simple interception try converted by Thomas Castaignede, but apart from occasional flashes of skill it was New Zealand's game.
Just before full-time the replacement French hooker Jean-Jacques Crenca was sent off for stamping. He has been suspended for six weeks.
The All Black stand-off Andrew Mehrtens was accurate with his boot and the wing Christian Cullen got a confidence-raising try early on. But it was the opposite wing, Tana Umaga, who excelled with three tries after being preferred to Jonah Lomu.
New Zealand: Tries Umaga 3, Cullen 2, Marshall 2; Penalties Mehrtens 3; Goals Mehrtens 5. France: Try Mola; Goal Castaignede.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments