Welsh wait for All Blacks wingoeson

New Zealand continued their long reign of dominance over Wales by winning a one-sided Autumn Nations Series clash 55-23 in Cardiff yesterday.

The All Blacks made it 33 successive wins against the Welsh, who have still not toppled New Zealand since 1953.

Hooker Codie Taylor, scrumhalf Aaron Smith and centre Jordie Barrett each scored two tries, while number eight Ardie Savea and replacement hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho also touched down as New Zealand never lost control after building an early 17-point advantage.

Fly-half Richie Mo’unga added four conversions and a penalty, and Beauden Barrett booted two conversions, with the All Blacks proving ruthless inside Wales’ 22.

Wales had their moments, notably tries from Test debutant Rio Dyer and skipper Justin Tipuric, with Gareth Anscombe kicking three penalties and two conversions.

Mack Hansen scored a scintillating try as Ireland cemented their status as rugby’s top-ranked nation by holding on for a 19-16 win over world champions South Africa.

The eye-catching score added to a bulldozing effort from Josh van der Flier as Andy Farrell’s in-form hosts laid down a marker ahead of next year’s World Cup pool-stage meeting with the Springboks.

Scores from replacement Franco Mostert and Kurt-lee Arendse brought the tourists to within touching distance late on but the hosts, aided by nine points from captain Johnny Sexton, dug in to begin their autumn campaign with a bang.

England will face New Zealand in the final of the Women’s World Cup after beating Canada 26-19, while the Kiwis saw off France 25-24, in their semi-finals yesterday.