New Zealand retained the number one ranking in the world when they smashed France by 39-12 in their final Test of the year in Marseilles on Saturday, also reclaiming the Dave Gallagher trophy that the French won from them in June.
But the most empathic aspect of this win is the five-tries-to-none win - ensuring that the All Black a clean sheet, no tries scored against them, throughout their year-end tour.
Jan de Koning rates the All Blacks players!
15 Mils Muliaina:
Started the counter that resulted in his try - one of the best scores of the year. That set the tone for the rest of the match. He was also very secure under high ball.
8/10
14 Cory Jane:
Some good runs, showed good pace and produced good fend, not to mention his kick-'n-chase for his try.
7/10
13 Conrad Smith:
Very solid on defence - his best trait - but produced a good weaving run as well. He is always a vital cog in Kiwi backline.
7/10
12 Ma'a Nonu:
Strong with ball in hand, but also gives away too many penalties in tackle. He's just big and strong and French easily took care of him.
4/10
11 Sitiveni Sivivatu:
Good strength and pace for his try, while he also displayed his pace in help setting up Muliaina's try. There was also a good hit on Dusautoir.
7/10
10 Dan Carter:
Looking far more assured - putting Nonu and Reid into space with silky smooth passing. But it was his tactical appreciation that was really something special - a sublime chip-'n-collect. Back to his best.
9/10
9 Jimmy Cowan:
Great charge down early and a solid service. Established himself as New Zealand's No.1 scrumhalf.
7/10
8 Kieran Read:
Good on defence and strong with ball in hand. Another player who is making sure he is getting a more regular starting spot.
6/10
7 Richie McCaw (captain):
It all started with a timely intervention to prevent try - it was illegal, but referee didn't spot it. We all know he pushes the envelope all the time and as always a menace at the breakdown. There were also some good carries.
8/10
6 Jerome Kaino:
There was a big tackle early on, but then gave away a penalty for early break at scrum. Big and strong, but at times tend to loose the plot.
6/10
5 Tom Donnelly:
Knocked on with tryline begging, but bounced back with a solid performance. He was physical at the breakdown and produced good support play.
6/10
4 Brad Thorn:
Gave away a penalty in an early line-out, but worked hard at the breakdown. His workrate is his biggest asset.
6/10
3 Neemia Tialata:
He was in trouble in early scrums and although he had his moments, was not as effective as you would have expected in such a big win.
5/10
2 Andrew Hore:
It was great work to win a penalty turnover and as always was strong with ball in hand. Was one of his best games.
7/10
1 Tony Woodcock:
He also struggled in the early scrums, but upped his workrate and had a decent game.
6/10
Replacements:
16 Corey Flynn (on for Hore, 76th min):
Not enough time to be rated.
17 Owen Franks (on for Tialata, 66th min):
He was yellow carded, his main contribution.
4/10
18 Anthony Boric (on for Thorn, 66th min):
He worked hard, but was not as effective as the veteran.
5/10
19 Tanerau Latimer:
Not used.
20 Andy Ellis (on for Cowan, 76th min):
Not enough time to be rated.
21 Stephen Donald (on for Carter, 73rd min):
Not enough time to be rated.
22 Luke McAlister (on for Nonu, 72nd min):
Not enough time to be rated.
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