All Blacks whip Australia in Rugby Championship clash

Accusations of eye gouging by the New Zealand prop Owen Franks soured their 29-9 victory over Australia in the Rugby Championship on Saturday, which also ensured the world champions retained the Bledisloe Cup.

Franks appeared to use his hand to make contact with the face of Australian lock Kane Douglas, with Australian coach Michael Cheika commenting that he hoped the incident would result in punishment for the 81 Test All Black. “I’m sure the match review [officer] will pick that up”.

Hansen – who, along with McCaw, called for New Zealand fans to get over their hatred of Cooper a year ago – said he expected the Wallabies to look to kick more and play a territory game as a result of his selection.

“We appreciate those who were considerate and responsible and contributed to what was a fun and enjoyable night for many”, says Mr Banks. It’s got to be dealt with, because it can’t be that the opponent can have every player discussing with the referee.

It was a far closer game than their previous encounter in Sydney last weekend after Australia displayed a much tighter defence compared to their performance last weekend.

Cheika doesn’t give the impression he believes that he and the team and captain Stephen Moore get the rub of the green from officials and made comments after the match that could make his own immediate future a little precarious.

That lack of depth has forced him to stick with largely the same side as last week, while injuries have necessitated a recall for fly-half Quade Cooper with Bernard Foley shunted to inside centre.

“I know in the past in New Zealand it has created a bit of a stir and a lot of our guys probably weren’t involved in those moments so it’s just another name on the team sheet for them”.

“I was bitterly disappointed, to be honest”, Cheika said, questioning whether referees had a “pre-determined position” about the Australians.

The All Blacks won plaudits for the near flawless first half they played to rout Australia in their Rugby Championship opener last week, though captain Kieran Read has hammered into his team the need to improve even further.

There is also the fact they have won 15 of the last 15 in Wellington, 18 of the previous 18 at home against the Wallabies, who have conceded 40 points in consecutive games.

All Blacks captain Kieran Read said they would be prepared to adjust to whatever conditions came about when it came to trying to score points. They were keen to play rugby against whoever was in the opposition.

“I think that attitude showed right through”.

While the scoreline was not as emphatic as last week, it was more than enough to send the Wallabies to a sixth successive loss.

“Six games in a row now and it is a bit of a crisis”, said Lynagh.