adminLONDON. — A final-quarter surge saw New Zealand open their World Cup defence with victory over an impressive Argentina at Wembley. A first win for the Pumas over the All Blacks at the 22nd attempt would not have been the biggest of surprises in the tournament after Japan’s defeat of South Africa, but it would have sent a message that the 2011 winners were beatable.
Once Aaron Smith scored New Zealand’s first try after 57 minutes, to put his side ahead for the first time in nearly 30 minutes, the All Blacks never looked like relinquishing victory in their Pool C opener. Sam Cane also touched down and Dan Carter scored 16 points in an immaculate kicking display as the two-time winners of the Webb Ellis Trophy prevailed.
It was far from straightforward, though, with Puma resistance and All Black indiscipline playing a part before the late flourish, when Sonny Bill Williams was influential.
Referee Wayne Barnes has history with New Zealand – it was the Englishman who was blamed for the favourites exiting the 2007 tournament to France – and they were reacquainted in front of a record World Cup crowd of 89 019.
Few Kiwis could argue Barnes was wrong to sin bin first Richie McCaw — for tripping Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe — and next Conrad Smith — for hands in the ruck — temporarily reducing the All Blacks to 13 players. It contributed to the Pumas taking a 13-12 half-time lead, with the only try from Guido Petti, who could not continue after sustaining a blow to the head in touching down.
Nicolas Sanchez kicked three more points in a tally of 11, but Argentina could not breach the black wall again in the second half. Minnows Namibia are next up for the All Blacks at the Olympic Stadium on Thursday, while Georgia play Argentina in Gloucester on Friday. Tonga are also in the group.
Three Carter penalties — the second after Pablo Matera was sin-binned for offside, preventing a likely try – appeared to show the holders were in control. — MailOnline.
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