Will Jordan broke the All Blacks’ all-time try-scoring record as New Zealand overcame a slow start to defeat Italy 47-17 in Wellington. The fullback’s hat-trick meant he now has 50 tries in 56 Test matches, a new national best.
The victory keeps New Zealand unbeaten after two rounds of the Nations Championship, marking back-to-back wins for new coach Dave Rennie in his first matches. Despite the comfortable final scoreline, the gap between the All Blacks’ ambition and execution was evident at times.
All Blacks Overcome Difficult Start
New Zealand’s performance was marred by errors, particularly in a dismal first-half showing. Italy’s flat and physical defence rushed the home team into mistakes, and they were rocked by an Italian try after only three minutes.
Tommaso Menoncello opened the scoring with a try following an All Blacks turnover. While New Zealand responded within five minutes with a try to Sam Darry, Italy denied them space and possession. The All Blacks limped to halftime with a narrow 14-10 lead.
Italy captain Michele Lamaro reflected on his team’s strong start, stating, “I think we started really well and we were putting the under pressure.” He added, “They were trying to compete around the breakdown and we were really strong in that area.”
Jordan’s Record-Breaking Performance
Will Jordan’s first try, which gave New Zealand the lead for the first time in the 30th minute, came against the run of play. It was orchestrated by a chip kick from Jordie Barrett and a skilful recovery by Leroy Carter.
Jordan’s second try equalled the All Blacks record set by Doug Howlett, before he secured the record on his own with his third try in the 54th minute. This final score came from Barrett’s quick thinking at a tapped penalty.
New Zealand significantly improved after the interval, scoring five tries and 33 points after halftime. This second-half surge was instrumental in securing the victory.
Impact from the Bench
The All Blacks’ second-half resurgence was significantly aided by players coming off the bench. Josh Moorby made a live-wire Test debut on his birthday, entering the match in the 31st minute.
Moorby played a major role in three tries scored by the All Blacks in the first 11 minutes of the second half, which stretched their lead to a comfortable 33-10. He broke off the left wing and combined with his Hurricanes teammate, Cam Roigard, to score two minutes after the resumption.
Later, Moorby won an intercept and went close to scoring before Ethan de Groot crashed over for a try in his 42nd Test. He then outpaced the cover defence to set up Jordan’s second try. Anton Segner also made his debut at halftime, becoming the first player born in Germany to play for the All Blacks, with his parents flying from Frankfurt to witness the occasion.
Despite the strong finish and back-to-back wins, the errors that featured at both ends of the match will worry head coach Dave Rennie as the All Blacks prepare to face Ireland next weekend in Auckland.