New Zealand Kicks Off Rennie Era with Thrilling Victory Over France
In an exhilarating start to the Dave Rennie era, New Zealand clinched a narrow 34-32 victory against a weakened French team during their opening match of the Nations Championship on Saturday. This first Test was characterized by a flurry of captivating tries that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
Both scrum-half Cam Roigard and winger Will Jordan made significant contributions, each scoring two tries, and Sam Lakai added another for the All Blacks at the newly opened Te Kaha stadium in Christchurch, which was filled to capacity.
Jordan’s second try extended New Zealand’s lead to nine points with just ten minutes remaining. However, France responded bravely with fly-half Matthieu Jalibert scoring in the 77th minute, narrowing the gap to just two points following Antoine Hastoy’s successful conversion, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion. Despite France’s valiant efforts, the All Blacks managed to hold on and emerge victorious, denying France their first win on New Zealand soil since 2009.
“The French team is known for their unpredictability; they thrive on adapting to what they observe on the field,” noted Roigard, expressing pride in his team for their resilience.
The Six Nations champions, France, were without their usual captain Antoine Dupont and several key players who were granted rest after competing in the Top 14 final. Nevertheless, their substitutes showcased commendable performance in a match that unfolded at a breathtaking pace.
Winger Theo Atissogbe and Hastoy both scored during the second half, ensuring that Les Bleus remained competitive as New Zealand threatened to dominate the game.
Rennie’s inaugural Test at the helm of the All Blacks began with difficulties as France quickly took advantage, scoring their first try just a minute into the match through winger Damien Penaud. Fly-half Ruben Love, who was making his debut for New Zealand, also had a rocky start after receiving a yellow card for high contact on full-back Max Spring during the lead-up to Penaud’s try.
However, the home side persevered, propelled by their newly appointed captain, Ardie Savea, who made a pivotal turnover in the scoring zone. Jordie Barrett executed a long pass to Jordan, resulting in New Zealand’s first score just eight minutes in.
New Zealand’s dominance continued as they added another try through Peter Lakai, who skillfully crossed the line after a synchronized play with winger Caleb Clarke. Meanwhile, France’s scrum-half Maxime Lucu successfully converted two penalties, keeping the visitors in contention. By half-time, the All Blacks held a 19-13 lead, establishing pressure through set pieces and exploiting their scoring opportunities effectively.
The second half witnessed further excitement as Hastoy, coming off the bench, scored a swift try shortly after the restart, reminding everyone of the unpredictability of the match. New Zealand retaliated shortly after, with Roigard scoring his second try following an assist from Jordie Barrett.
While France took the lead again with Atissogbe’s try, Love’s penalty kick in the 65th minute and Jordan’s subsequent second try provided New Zealand the breathing room they needed, ultimately allowing them to secure a thrilling victory even as Jalibert’s late surge kept fans hopeful for a French comeback.
