We stared down barrel, says relieved Retallick

BRODIE RETALLICK admitted the All Blacks were ‘staring down the barrel’ before fighting back and scraping a nail-biting victory at Twickenham.

The giant lock was named Man of the Match for his all-action performance in the 16-15 triumph that broke English hearts in the pouring rain.

And Retallick admitted: ‘We were looking down the barrel for the opening 30 minutes but managed to turn things round. We needed to get control in the lineout and scrum, and did that as the game went on.

‘We will have to improve on our set-piece in time for the Irish next week. We need to work hard in training on getting things right.

‘England are a very good side. We knew they would come flying out the blocks and throw everything at us in the first 20 minutes. That was the case, and we always back ourselves to respond to adversity. It’s a sign of a very good team when you soak up the punishment and coming punching back with more physicality and desire.

‘It was a fantastic atmosphere and occasion, and will put us in the right frame of mind and mood for taking on the Irish next. They are another very strong and excellent team, which will provide for another fierce confrontation.’

All Blacks captain Kieran Read admitted it was a nervous wait before the TMO decided to favour the visitors when Courtney Lawes was ruled inches offside at a ruck before Sam Underhill’s try was eventually disallowed,

The No8 insisted: ‘There’s a lot of relief around the guys. It was a hell of a Test match. My heart was in my mouth a little at the end waiting for the TMO to make up his mind. Fortunately, it went in our favour and we got the win.’