All Blacks Surpass Pumas with 41-22 Victory, Reach Top Ranking

The All Blacks secured a convincing 41-22 victory against Argentina’s Pumas in Cordoba, showcasing both resilience and skill on March 15, 2024. The win, marked by a strong first-half performance, propelled New Zealand to the top of the World Rugby rankings, following an unexpected upset by the Wallabies over the Springboks earlier that day.

Coach Scott Robertson expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, but also acknowledged areas for improvement during the post-match press conference. “It was a great test match, with a great atmosphere,” he remarked. The All Blacks established a significant halftime lead of 31-10, yet allowed the Pumas to close the gap due to lapses in discipline and execution.

The first half highlighted the All Blacks’ tactical prowess, although several opportunities were squandered due to handling errors. As the match progressed into the second half, defensive weaknesses allowed Argentina to score two tries, narrowing the deficit to just seven points. Despite this, the All Blacks regained control in the final quarter, with Samisoni Taukei’aho scoring two lineout-drive tries to secure the win.

During the press conference, Robertson revealed that neither he nor the players were aware of their new ranking until it was mentioned. “It’s actually something we just learned, because you just told us,” he said. He acknowledged the competitive nature of test rugby, stating, “Look, it shows how tough test footy is and the margins.”

Robertson praised the Pumas for their spirited performance, highlighting their strong defensive efforts and passion on the field. Following the Wallabies’ surprising comeback against the Springboks, Robertson noted how quickly fortunes can shift in rugby: “A moment, discipline, a card, great play, two or three tries back to back can turn test matches.”

While the All Blacks celebrate their ascent to the top ranking, Robertson emphasized the need for continual improvement. “You’re never satisfied as an All Black, because there’s always room to improve,” he said. He expressed enthusiasm about the positive aspects of their game, indicating that they achieved several good plays despite the challenges faced.

Looking ahead to next weekend’s rematch against the Pumas in Buenos Aires, Robertson hinted at potential changes in the lineup. Players Tamaiti Williams and Wallace Sititi are expected to be available, with Williams likely returning to the front row. Sititi’s inclusion may depend on the performance of Tupou Vaa’i, who delivered a solid display at blindside.

As the All Blacks prepare for their next challenge, Robertson remains focused on the task at hand rather than the rankings. The two teams will meet again on Sunday morning, New Zealand time, in what promises to be another exciting encounter.

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