Their 35-28 win was Wales’ first victory over the All Blacks since 1953.  Wales came out of the blocks like a house on fire and led 14-0 within the first six minutes. Everyone who has ever watched the All Blacks play knows a 14-point lead against them means absolutely nothing.

However, it was a different Wales on the field on Saturday. They outscored the All Blacks by five tries to four and, in the process, cost the visitors 2.00 ranking points, sending them below the Springboks.

Wales’ first two tries were scored by Tomos Williams and Dewi Lake, but the All Blacks responded soon after courtesy of Cortez Ratima. Just before the half-time mark, Archie Griffin scored for the home side, but once again the visitors hit back when Wallace Sititi crossed the whitewash. New Zealand’s Fehi Fineanganofo scored again just before the half-time whistle to equalise matters (21-21).

Wales once again struck early in the second half, scoring two tries through Eddie James and Louis Rees-Zammit. The All Blacks regrouped, with Peter Lakai crossing to reduce the deficit. The visitors then piled on the pressure, camping on the Welsh tryline, but were repeatedly denied by a resolute and determined home defence.

1953

Speaking on ITV, Wales back row James Botham, the man of the match, said: “I can’t even describe the emotions. 1953 was the last time we beat the All Blacks.

“It’s come from belief. The crowd was behind us – I just want to thank the energy and the noise behind us – you were unbelievable. It shows how tight we are as a group. It would be rude not to have a celebration tonight.”

The All Blacks coach Dave Rennie also praised Wales’ efforts. “A hell of a defensive effort from them. They were excellent tonight.”

Wales beat the All Blacks for the first time in 73 years. Photo: Facebook/Wales Rugby Online

After the weekend’s matches, New Zealand tops the Southern Hemisphere table with 22 points, followed by South Africa with 21 and Argentina in third place with 11 points. France top the Northern Hemisphere table with 21 points, followed by England and Ireland, both with 20 points.

Next Saturday, England will play New Zealand, while South Africa will take on Ireland. Scotland will face Japan, Italy will come up against Fiji, Wales will play Australia and France, and Argentina will end off the weekend.

OFM Sport/Ilse Smalberger dg