Much better, but don’t get carried away

Because the memories of the misfires before the seven-try trouncing in the Tron, a terrific turnaround after the historic 25-18 loss to the same opponents in Christchurch a week earlier, were still too raw.

We have been in this situation before. Anyone remember the epic 35-23 win over the Springboks at Ellis Park in Johannesburg on August 14?

After stumbling to defeat to the Boks in Mbombela a week earlier, the All Blacks were written off prior to the test in Jo’burg. Then, whammo, they made fools of those of us who doubted them.

A fortnight later, in Christchurch, the All Blacks made us look like chumps – again. Instead of building on the victory at Ellis Park, they crumbled.

That loss to the gallant Argentinians forced a rethink. The question was, which All Blacks team was going to turn up for the rematch?

Well, now we know. It was similar to the one that walked out at Ellis Park.

Granted, Argentina played like a team that had its moment of glory in Christchurch and was physically, and emotionally, spent. Yet the All Blacks, despite the rain and slippery ball, were efficient, clever, tactically aware and hellbent on dragging their reputation out of the mud.

The All Blacks’ defence was outstanding, and Cane, who was again replaced in the final quarter, responded to Sir John Kirwan’s demand he be dropped by pulverising anything in a blue and white uniform.

Blindside flanker Shannon Frizell also took another welcome step in the right direction with his work in the tight exchanges and, perhaps, Foster is closer to solving the riddle of who should fill the No 6 jersey on a regular basis.

After the nightmare a week earlier, the backline needed to respond.

First five-eighth Richie Mo’unga varied his kicking game to put the rushing Argentina defensive line in two minds, forcing it to slow a fraction with dinks or deep drives into space, and halfback Aaron Smith was more active with his running game.

Next up, the Wallabies in Melbourne on September 15. Victory would ensure the Bledisloe Cup is retained before the return match in Auckland.

Judging by what we witnessed in Hamilton, All Blacks supporters can be confident. Within reason.

Because following the All Blacks’ fortunes is like gripping a thick wire on an electric fence while standing in a creek, and not knowing if it’s been turned on or off. It’s hard not to feel nervous.

But at least it keeps everyone on edge.