Rugby Championship: All Blacks thrash Argentina to avenge defeat by Pumas

New Zealand thrashed Argentina 42-10 to avenge the defeat by the Pumas in their opening match of the 2024 Rugby Championship.

The All Blacks, beaten 38-30 by Argentina a week earlier, scored five first-half tries to take a 35-3 lead in Auckland.

Damian McKenzie ran on to a Jordie Barrett chip to touch down before further tries from All Blacks captain Ardie Savea, Caleb Clarke, Will Jordan and Beauden Barrett before the break.

New Zealand quickly stretched their advantage early in the second half when Jordan added his second try for his 33rd in 33 internationals, while McKenzie converted each of his side’s tries.

“Very happy to get the win and respond the way we did,” said Savea.

“We’re the All Blacks, we’ve got to bring that every week and not rely on a loss to get that response from us.”

Argentina scored a late consolation try through Juan Cruz Mallia but the All Blacks extended their 30-year unbeaten run at Eden Park to 50 Tests.

“We weren’t good enough this week, we need to be more consistent, week in, week out,” said Argentina captain Julian Montoya.

“I’m proud of team that we went to look for the game until the last minute. But against this team, you can’t give them one half.”