This archive report was first published on 6 November 2021.
On a chilly November evening in Rome, the All Blacks faced a determined Italy side at the Stadio Olimpico. The hosts, captained by Flanker Michele Lamaro in his first game, put up a strong fight, but ultimately succumbed to a late surge from the visitors.
Hooker Dane Coles, who took his tally to 20 tries in 79 Tests, scored twice in 10 minutes to seal the win for New Zealand. Coles praised Italy's performance, saying, "Italy have to take a lot of credit for the way they played, they put us under a lot of pressure."
The All Blacks' slow start was a departure from their previous hammerings over the USA and Wales. However, they managed to turn the game around in the second half, with Coles' replacement Asafo Aumua claiming two tries, and No. 8 Hoskins Sotutu crossing unopposed.
Loose-forward Shannon Frizell returned to the team after having criminal charges against him dropped in September. The win marked a significant milestone for the All Blacks, who equalled Argentina's record of 92 Test tries in a year, a feat last achieved in 2003.
Next week, the All Blacks will head to Ireland, while Italy will host Argentina.
