New Zealand raced into a 14-3 lead and led 17-10 at half-time before France staged a second-half turnaround. home team’s third straight win over All Blacks ties best streak against them since 1994-95; New Zealand next trip to Italy; France hosts Argentina
Last updated: 11/24/17 12:55 PM
Louis Biel-Biarey celebrates France’s remarkable win over New Zealand
France overcame a slow start to beat New Zealand 30-29 for a record third straight win at the Stade de France on Saturday.
The French produced their best winning streak against the All Blacks in 1994-95 in a breathless game that lived up to the hype.
New Zealand raced into a 14-3 lead and led 17-10 at half-time, but France turned the momentum around in the second half thanks to back-to-back tries from wing Paul Boudent and wing Louis Biel-Biare.
France’s Thomas Ramos and New Zealand substitute Damian McKenzie then traded penalties as the All Blacks pulled a point back with five minutes to go. But they can’t get out of their own half in pursuit of a stunning late win.
France secured an “authoritative” victory
The loss is New Zealand’s first since defeating Japan, England and Ireland on their Northern Hemisphere tour. The All Blacks move to Italy and France host Argentina.
“This is a prestigious victory,” said Fabien Galti, head coach of the French national team. “The good thing is that the players showed great spirit even when they were struggling.”
The commitment was evident from the second minute when All Blacks winger Samipeni Finau’s head collided with the knee of France player Tevita Tatafu. Finau came out and Tatafu held on a little longer.
Finau’s substitute Peter Lakay scored the opening try after Ardi Savea shot past three defenders. New Zealand’s scrum, meanwhile, was the platform for their second try when scrum-half Cam Roygaard set up No.8 Gregory Aldritt, stole his intended pass to Antoine Dupont and slotted in.
Dupont had little impact until the 33rd minute when France’s runs cut New Zealand short and he picked out Ramos to send full-back Romain Burros over for a debut try.
In last Saturday’s 52-12 win over Japan, Boudent’s brace came in the second half and his try from a lineout error in the 44th equalized.
New Zealand bounced back on the attack, but the half-volleyed pass was collected by Ramos, who kicked over the top. Biel-Biary then gassed up two All Blacks to score the decisive try.
France was never left behind.
