- England went into the break with a point advantage after tries from Feyi-Waboso and Freeman
- The All Blacks regained control of the match after the break at Eden Park
- Borthwick’s side suffered a 2-0 series defeat to the All Blacks in New Zealand
New Zealand held off a spirited England performance to beat Steve Borthwick’s side 24-17 and preserve their impressive unbeaten run at Eden Park.
Scott Maurice Robertson’s men lacked the necessary rhythm in the first half, despite taking the lead through Mark Telea’s try. However, England, thanks to two brilliant passes from Marcus Smith, took the lead at the break through tries from wingers Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Tommy Freeman.
However, the All Blacks showed why they are unbeaten in three decades at Eden Park and put in a commanding display in the second period, with Telea’s second try opening up a four-point lead after Smith converted a penalty.
England fell to a painful one-point defeat to their hosts in Dunedin last week and after Saturday morning’s loss they will only further regret their chance of beating New Zealand on home soil.
More to follow.
New Zealander Mark Tele’a’s second try late in the game ultimately proved to be the decisive result of the match.
England will rue missed opportunities in both clashes with New Zealand after coming so close to beating their hosts on home soil.