Control on the Park

The All Blacks have beaten the Springboks in their opening Tri-Nations match 32-12 at Eden Park “with a superbly controlled and aggressive performance”. The All Blacks, who had lost their three previous encounters against the world champions, soaked up wave after wave of green-jerseyed attackers to continue their long unbeaten run at Eden Park and give them an early advantage in their quest to recapture the Tri-Nations crown from the Springboks. “I think it was a pretty special day for All Blacks rugby,” New Zealand coach Graham Henry said. “It was a special day and every guy played well. I think the edge was created by the results from last year and the boys should be very proud.”