Outclassed and outmatched - All Blacks thrash Samoa

A sweeping 95 metre counter‑attack try for Beauden Barrett broke the shackles as New Zealand romped to a 12‑try, 78‑0 victory against Samoa at Eden Park last night and sent a message to the British and Irish Lions of what to expect in eight days' time.

Barrett's try, sparked after captain Ben Smith had pounced on a dropped ball on his line, was the catalyst for the world champions to take control of the game.

Barrett grabbed a second try in the second half while Anton Lienert‑Brown, Ardie Savea, Sonny Bill Williams, Israel Dagg, Julian Savea, Codie Taylor, Vaea Fifita, TJ Perenara and Sam Cane all crossed for the All Blacks.

Barrett slotted seven conversions, while replacement first five‑eighth Lima Sopoaga also kicked two conversions for the home side, but had his own try ruled out in the final minute for a forward pass.

Coach Steve Hansen had said prior to the game that he wanted to see the side begin to gel their combinations before the Lions series and for the last 50 minutes they sent a message to Warren Gatland how dangerous they are at turning defence into attack.

The All Blacks will now face the British and Irish Lions at 7.35pm next Saturday.

In another match last night Wales defeated Tonga 24-6