Introduction
New Zealand Storms to 43-17 Victory over France in the second test, securing an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. The All Blacks, led by Ardie Savea, delivered a commanding performance in Wellington that was marked by high physicality, rapid ball movement, and improved cohesion. This win not only underlines the All Blacks’ resurgence but also ensures they regain the coveted Dave Gallagher Trophy after seven long years.
Captain Ardie Savea Shines
With regular captain Scott Barrett sidelined due to injury, Ardie Savea took over leadership duties. New Zealand Storms to 43-17 Victory with Savea at the helm, showcasing a dominant forward pack and an inspired backline. Savea’s leadership was instrumental in setting the tone, guiding his side with poise and aggression.
Savea also contributed on the scoreboard, scoring a try in the 23rd minute, despite the team being down to 14 men following Beauden Barrett’s temporary dismissal. His relentless pressure and inspirational play earned him accolades as the standout performer of the day.
First-Half Brilliance
New Zealand Storms to 43-17 Victory built on an electrifying first half in which they scored four tries. The match started with a penalty converted by Beauden Barrett. Shortly after, Cam Roigard found the try line in the 14th minute, capitalizing on a blindside break led by Savea.
Hooker Codie Taylor added another try off a classic lineout drive, and Tupou Vaa’i capped off the first-half onslaught with a try born from excellent ball handling, involving Savea, Ioane, and center Billy Proctor. These efforts sent New Zealand into halftime with a commanding lead.
Strategic Dominance
New Zealand Storms to 43-17 Victory thanks largely to their control over possession and territory. The All Blacks dictated the pace of the game, maintaining pressure through quick ruck speed and offloads that disrupted the French defensive lines. Their forwards made up for a lackluster first test, controlling breakdowns and consistently getting over the gain line.
France, in contrast, struggled with cohesion. With 10 changes to their starting lineup and several Six Nations stars missing, they found it difficult to match the intensity and structure of the All Blacks.
Second-Half Momentum
Though New Zealand Storms to 43-17 Victory was largely established in the first half, the All Blacks didn’t let up entirely. France briefly rallied with a try in the 47th minute by fullback Leo Barre, sparking hopes of a comeback. However, the All Blacks swiftly regained momentum.
Will Jordan and Rieko Ioane both crossed the try line in the 54th and 62nd minutes respectively, executing flawless backline movements that shredded the French defense. While France did score a late try in the 77th minute through lock Joshua Brennan, it was merely a consolation in a match already beyond reach.
Forwards Set the Tone
New Zealand Storms to 43-17 Victory would not have been possible without a monumental effort from the forward pack. After being outmuscled in the first test, the All Blacks forwards returned with purpose. Dominant in scrums, efficient in lineouts, and aggressive at the breakdown, they laid the foundation for the backline to flourish.
Codie Taylor and Tupou Vaa’i were particularly impressive, contributing to both the defensive workload and the scoreboard. Their synergy with the rest of the pack created a platform that France struggled to counter.
Key Stats
- Tries: Roigard, Savea, Taylor, Vaa’i, Jordan, Ioane
- Conversions and Penalty: Beauden Barrett
- Possession: 61% (New Zealand) vs 39% (France)
- Territory: 67% (New Zealand)
- Tackles Missed: 18 (France) vs 9 (New Zealand)
These numbers illustrate just how thoroughly New Zealand Storms to 43-17 Victory with superior discipline and execution across all facets of the game.
Dave Gallagher Trophy Returns
With this result, New Zealand not only wins the series but also reclaims the Dave Gallagher Trophy, a prestigious symbol of rugby rivalry with France. It’s the first time in seven years the trophy returns to New Zealand, adding emotional significance to this dominant display.
Looking Ahead
The third and final test will be played in Hamilton next weekend. Although the series has been decided, New Zealand Storms to 43-17 Victory has set a precedent for continued excellence. The All Blacks will likely look to fine-tune their squad, give opportunities to fringe players, and continue building momentum ahead of future international fixtures.
France, on the other hand, will be hoping for a much-improved performance to salvage some pride. Integrating more experienced players and working on defensive structures will be key to avoiding a whitewash.
Conclusion
New Zealand Storms to 43-17 Victory was not just a win—it was a statement. It showcased depth, leadership, and the ability to respond to criticism with elite performance. Ardie Savea’s captaincy was a masterstroke, and the cohesion between forwards and backs was clinical.
For the All Blacks, this series win is another step toward reasserting themselves as the global rugby powerhouse. The victory also reassures fans that the team remains on track ahead of more competitive fixtures later in the year.
In short, New Zealand Storms to 43-17 Victory has breathed fresh energy into the All Blacks’ campaign and reminded the world of their rugby dominance.