New Zealand and Australia set up a repeat of the Tri-Nations Final after overcoming Argentina and South Africa in the World Cup quarter-finals.
New Zealand 33-10 Argentina
The All-Blacks began life after Dan Carter with a comprehensive but not terribly convincing victory over Argentina in Auckland.
In the absence of Carter, scrum half Piri Weepu stepped up to the plate with 23 points from the boot, although in a further worrying development for the All-Blacks, Carter’s replacement Colin Slade was forced off the field with an injury in the first half.
Argentina had the temerity to take the lead in the first half thanks to a wonderful try from Julio Farias Cabello, which was converted by Contepomi to put the Pumas in front after Weepu had converted two penalties earlier on.
Two further penalties from Weepu gave the hosts a 12-7 lead, but Argentina has succeeded in giving the home side an almighty fright.
The Pumas stayed in the game for a large part of the second half, but the All-Blacks started to pull away after Kieran Read crossed for the All-Blacks’ try just past the hour mark. With Argentina beginning to tire, New Zealand added a further try through Brad Thorn, but the 23-point winning margin was harsh on their opponents.
That won’t unduly bother Graham Henry and his side, who remain on course for their first World Cup triumph since 1987.
Australia 11-9 South Africa
Despite being absolutely dominated in terms of territory and possession, Australia dumped reigning champions South Africa out of the World Cup in Wellington.
The Springboks only managed three points in the first half and trailed by five points at the break after Wallaby captain James Horwill crossed for the game’s only try after 11 minutes.
Morne Steyn kicked the ‘Boks into the lead with two penalties and a drop goal and considering the level of control they exerted in the game, Peter de Villiers’ side looked all set to progress to the last four when they held a one-point lead with eight minutes to go.
James O’Connor had other ideas and kicked an extremely difficult penalty from near the touchline to put Australia into the lead, an advantage they would maintain until the finish.
Australia’s win sets up a mouth-watering clash with the All-Blacks in the last four next weekend and although New Zealand will be favourites, Australia won the last meeting between the sides in the Tri-Nations decider back in August.
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