NEW ZEALAND 26 AUSTRALIA 24

October 13, 2018

New Zealand has hung on to beat Australia 26-24 in the one-off test match played in Auckland.  The home side got off to a shaky start when Latrell Mitchell carved up the defence to set up a try for Valentine Holmes after just three minutes.

Australia had to adjust their game after losing five-eighth Luke Keary to a head injury after thirteen minutes.  Twelve minutes before halftime, New Zealand got on the board through a try from winger Ken Maumalo.  The Kiwis went ahead seven minutes later when Joseph Manu crossed.  After spending much of the first half defending their line, Australia found a way to be back in front, when Tom Trbojevic, playing in the uncustomary position of centre, set up a try for Dane Gagai in the final minute.  Australia went to the break with a 12-8 lead.

Melbourne hooker Brandon Smith burrowed over for a try for New Zealand in the 55^th minute, and Shaun Johnson’s conversion gave the home side a 14-12 lead.  Eight minutes later, Esan Marsters crossed, and the Kiwis were up by eight.

New Zealand made it three unanswered tries when Joseph Manu set up a try for winger Jordan Rapana.  With ten minutes to go, the Kiwis looked home at 26-12.  However, Australia fought back with tries to Felise Kaufusi and James Tedesco; but it was not enough to deny the home side, who were deserving winners.  Shaun Johnson was named Man of the Match.

You can read more about the Kangaroos here.