Rugby World Cup: All Blacks Thrash Italy

New Zealand 76 - Italy 14

After Argentina made the French look ordinary yesterday it was on the cards that Italy - a side that had  triumphed over Wales and Scotland in this year's Six Nations and taken Ireland to the wire in a World Cup 'friendly' (which admittedly they should have won if it had not have been for a very dodge TMO decision in Ronan O'Gara's favour, a week or so ago)  would at least compete against the All Blacks as one of the main Northern Hemisphere contenders.  Unfortunately, for the All Black knockers of the world, it was not to be. 

The New Zealanders cantered to a six try lead in twenty minutes without even breaking a sweat against the flummoxed Italians.   In the second half the Kiwis took their foot off the pedal by subbing their star players (McCaw, Carter et al); getting sinbinned (Hayman - whatever was he thinking?); and breaking a few  records (Howlett now matches Christian Cullen for the most tries scored by an All Black). Through this, the ABs managed to rattle their try tally up to eleven against a lacklustre two tries for the Azzurri.

This could be another example of the All Blacks peaking before their time. But the worrying factor for others in their group is that these Kiwis looked hungry and finished without barely competing.  In Pool D -  If Argentina do indeed beat Ireland and go through as first in their group - both the Shamrocks and Les Bleus should be seriously worried that they could potentially be facing a team, hardened, determined and licking their lips in anticipation for Cardiff. 

I mean, would you want to face these guys?

New Zealand 76 (Doug Howlett 3, Richie McCaw 2, Sitiveni Sivivatu 2, Jerry Collins 2, Mils Muliaina, Chris Jack tries; Daniel Carter pen, 7 con, Luke McAlister 2 con).

Italy 14 (Marko Stanojevic, Mirco Bergamasco tries; David Bortolussi con, Roland De Marigny con). Halftime: 43-7.