New Zealand run in 12 tries to thrash USA at Soldier Field in Chicago
Last Updated: 01/11/14 10:24pm
Sonny Bill Williams marked his return to action for New Zealand with a pair of tries as the All Blacks crushed USA 74-6 in front of a sold-out crowd at Soldier Field.
Playing a Test Stateside for just the second time in their history, the reigning world champions - fielding a much-changed side from the line-up that squeezed past Australia last time out - turned on the style to warm up for their European tour.
In total New Zealand crossed 12 times, with the hosts only able to respond with a pair of penalties in the first half from fly-half Adam Siddall.
As well as Williams, Dan Carter made his international comeback for the All Blacks. The fly-half played the final 30 minutes, kicking three conversions after replacing Aaron Cruden.
Nathan Harris broke the deadlock in the opening minutes, though the hooker's delight at marking his first start for his country was soon cut short when an injury forced him out of the action.
The United States responded impressively to falling behind so early; they went through phase after phase in attack but were unable to find a way through to notch their first ever try against New Zealand.
Instead they had to settle for a penalty from Siddall, the No 10 adding another to sandwich a try for Cory Jane that was set up by a superb offload from Israel Dagg down the right wing.
Excellent handling
Excellent handling set up the chance for Patrick Tuipulotu to trot over, while Williams’ tries came either side of a score for Charles Piutau in the left corner.
The first scrum of the match in the 33rd minute led to New Zealand going over for a seventh time in the opening half, the ball being won against the head to allow Kieran Read to set up Julian Savea out wide.
Leicester winger Blaine Scully prevented the visitors having the chance to reach their half-century before the break with a superb try-saving tackle.
Yet it did not take long for the All Blacks to find a way through after the interval, prop Joe Moody going through a huge hole in the home defence from a well-worked lineout move.
Williams was denied a hat-trick when the pass to him was ruled forward, but there was nothing wrong with Cruden’s try that took his team beyond the 50-point barrier.
The fly-half missed with the conversion attempt before immediately making way for Carter, who showed his quality with ball in hand with a smart run that led to Dagg diving over.
Understandably the US were tiring in defence, allowing Sam Cane to break through two tackles and reach the line. Carter added the extras, a feat he also achieved after having a hand in setting up Savea.
New Zealand will expect a much sterner challenge in their next outing - they take on England at Twickenham next Saturday, a match you can see LIVE on Sky Sports 2 HD from 1.30pm.