Wales defeat New Zealand 35-28 to end 73-year winless streak
Wales beat the All Blacks 35-28 in a Nations Championship match at the Principality Stadium, securing their first victory over New Zealand since 1953.
Wales overcame New Zealand 35-28 in a Nations Championship clash at Cardiff's Principality Stadium, ending a 73-year run without a win against the All Blacks. The home side surged ahead with early tries from scrum-half Tomos Williams and captain Dewi Lake, leading 14-0 within six minutes and extending the advantage to 35-21 before withstanding a late New Zealand comeback.
New Zealand narrowed the gap to 21-21 at halftime through scores by Cortez Ratima, Wallace Sititi and Fehi Fineanganofo. In the second half, Wales added tries from centre Eddie James and wing Louis Rees-Zammit, while New Zealand flanker Peter Lakai pulled one back. Wales' defence held firm, denying the All Blacks three line-out attempts in the final quarter.
Coach Steve Tandy made four changes to the side that had beaten Japan a week earlier, including debutant Taine Basham at number eight. New Zealand introduced eight starters and handed full-back Beauden Barrett the Test captaincy for the first time in his 149th international appearance.
"We needed to eliminate the threat of Morgan at the breakdown," New Zealand coach Dave Rennie said before the match, but Wales' flanker James Botham forced a turnover that sparked a try.
Wales' victory marks their first over New Zealand since 1953, breaking a 34-match losing streak. The win was celebrated by the crowd of 55,152, the lowest attendance for a Wales-New Zealand fixture at the stadium, and is expected to boost morale in Welsh rugby.