All Blacks Defeat France 14-10

(Photo by Hannah Johnston/Getty Images)

Perhaps it is the sight of black garbed men opposite them, but if Les Bleus committed these sorts of performances every test match, they would be a mighty world power.

But, it is the lack of consistency that is the marque de fabrique of the Tri colours. 

This series could be the critical moment for Coach Marc Lievremont. It is the two best performances his team has strung together under his watch, and not only has this series proven that France will mark a considerable assault on the World Cup in 2011, but will have other Northern Hemisphere nations on notice.

France on this series must be favourites for the 2010 Six Nations.

While the world’s collective glance may be towards South Africa in the Lions series, these classical test matches have defined international rugby competition at its premium.

A battle of attrition was to be expected, but in poor conditions with constant rain and a clear southerly chill, the lack of benevolence from the weather would ensure a much fiercer contest.

As expected, a wounded All Black team lifted their performance to the demanded level required as befitting their proud history and lofty public requirements.

In the first half, All Black ball retention was superb. It is difficult to say whether it was the inclusion of a specialist open side, or just a better display all round in the loose, but the contest for the ball and the retention of possession would have done the master Richie McCaw proud.

New Zealand turned over French ball four times in the first half, and conceded no ball themselves.

But as the All Blacks looked a far superior side to the team that lost 22-27 in Carisbrook last week, the French backed up their heroics from their first test win. There was so much heat and focus on the All Blacks in the second test build up, that it was lost whether or not Les Bleus could back up.

France is not a sequential team, as shown in their history of Southern tours. 

With the exception of their 36-26 triumph over the Springboks in Cape Town in 2006, this is their best tour since the French of the early nineties.

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?