Rugby: How the players rated in the All Blacks’ win over the United States

How the players rated in the All Blacks’ win over the United States.

Damian McKenzie – 8

At the centre of the team’s counter attacking play and ran good supporting lines; was beaten at the back to allow the USA their first try.

Will Jordan – 9

Seemed to be involved in every attacking move as he put his speed to good use, scoring tries and setting others up.

Braydon Ennor – 6

Had some good moments, but was guilty of trying to overplay his hand at times and turned the ball over. Perhaps needed the run.

Quinn Tupaea – 9

Was heavily involved in the attacking game, running for more than 140m and beating defenders, while he defended well too.

George Bridge – 5

Despite so much free-running attack, Bridge struggled to get involved as the All Blacks played mostly down the other wing.

Richie Mo’unga – 8

Was on the mark with his goal kicking and showed plenty of his skill in open play, both with the boot and with ball in hand.

Finlay Christie – 7

Provided good service atthe ruck to allow the attack to flow, ran well in support and even got stuck into contesting the breakdown.

Hoskins Sotutu – 6

Took every opportunity to show how strong a ball carrier he is, but discipline was an issue for him on the defensive end.

Dalton Papalii – 7

Took plenty of strong carries and made some good metres, made his impact felt in the contact areas as well.

Luke Jacobson – 8

Impressed in the attack, running strong lines both in support and with ball in hand. Scored two tries and defended well.

Tupou Vaa’i – 7

Heavily involved and enjoyed getting the ball in his hands. Played with high energy, though made some questionable decisions.

Samuel Whitelock – 8

Led the way defensivelyand contested well at the lineout. He worked hard at the clean out, though did concede the odd penalty.

Angus Ta’avao – 8

Did plenty of work cleaning out the ruck and was solid at the scrum. Ran good supporting lines and was rewarded with two tries.

Asafo Aumua – 6

Was active on the defensive end and took some strong carries, though his throwing at the lineout remains something of a concern.

Ethan de Groot – 7

Impressed in his first test start. He showed his reflexes to reel in a wayward pass and score a try and worked hard in the contact areas.

Reserves
Dane Coles – 6
George Bower – 7
Tyrel Lomax – 5
Josh Lord – 7
Sam Cane – 7
TJ Perenara – 6
Beauden Barrett – 7
Anton Lienert-Brown – 8

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