STADE DE FRANCE – New Zealand made a statement of intent when they booked their place in next week’s World Cup Final by thrashing a hapless Argentina by 44-6 in the first semifinal on Friday night.
The All Blacks were full value for their victory by outscoring Los Pumas by seven spectacular tries to nil in front of 77653 fans in the Stade de France in Saint-Denis.
Right winger Will Jordan bagged a hattrick of five pointers thanks to a brilliant attacking display from the Kiwis with their backs and forwards combining brilliantly.
Halfbacks Aaron Smith and RichieM o’unga flourished with the surplus of quality possession provided by their dominant pack who provided quick ruck ball from the rucks.
The Pumas managed to string together many phases throughout the game, but they lacked the necessary finesse to turn promising try scoring opportunities into tries.
All coach Michael Cheika’s team could show for their efforts were two penalties by fullback Emilliano Bofelli.
New Zealand’s Jordie Barrett was named man of the match. The All Blacks will now play the winner of Saturday night second semi-final between South Africa and England.
Scorers: