This archive report was first published on 6 October 2019.
On Sunday, October 6, 2019, the All Blacks, defending champions of the Rugby World Cup, showcased their dominance by securing the biggest points tally of the tournament so far, defeating Namibia 71-9 in Tokyo.
The match saw the All Blacks run in 11 tries, with Anton Lienert-Brown, Sevu Reece, and Ben Smith each scoring two tries. Jordie Barrett, making his first test start at flyhalf, also crossed the line and kicked eight conversions.
Namibia, who have never won a World Cup match in 22 attempts, opened the scoring and drew within one point at 10-9 after half an hour. However, the physical challenge they presented waned as they tired, and the All Blacks took control of the game.
“First half was pretty disappointing, we didn’t turn up with the right attitude and the Namibians made us pay for it,” said All Blacks coach Steve Hansen. “They had more intent in the first half and played better than us in the first half. That’s a good lesson isn’t it? Second half, there was plenty of good stuff in it.”
The match was a significant win for the All Blacks, who look ominous heading into their last pool match against Italy.
