On Top of the World

The All Blacks resumed their world No.1 ranking after a compelling 45-6 victory over European champions France. “I felt powerless,” said French coach Bernard Laporte. “I had the feeling that we could play for hours and hours and not find our way to the line. The All Blacks are well and truly a better side.” The Guardian called the win the “dominant image of a vibrant autumn,” and named Daniel Carter – “the new Johnny Wilkinson and Carlos Spencer rolled into one” – player of the month.The AB’s followed up their French win with a 47-19 defeat of a predominantly Australian Barbarians side.