It wasn't a pretty win, but the All Blacks showed a moment of counter-attacking brilliance against France in the second Test tonight, leading to a try on the stroke on halftime.
After a clearance kick from Morgan Parra failed to find touch, Jordie Barrett decided to hold on to the ball with the French chasers coming.
The fullback heaved a massive pass back in field to replacement first-five Damien McKenzie who immediately began a counter-attack towards the left wing.
McKenzie then linked up with Rieko Ioane who set off up field, carrying the ball over halfway before offloading to support runner Anton Lienert-Brown.
The All Blacks midfielder had only the sweeping defence to beat as he crossed into the French 22, but playing the safe game opted to draw and pass for a guaranteed try.
And who else was there to take the pass than the man who started it - Barrett.
The Hurricanes utility took the ball under the posts to score for the All Blacks, giving them a 21-6 lead at halftime.
The All Blacks added one try after halftime to win the game 26-13.
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