North starred at Eden Park

Wales winger George North produced the standout performance in Saturday’s clash against the All Blacks, according to SARugbymag.co.za’s Opta-powered stats.

In the end, the All Blacks came away with a hard-fought 39-21 victory, but Wales certainly deserve plenty of credit for the manner in which they threw the world champs off their game.

In particular, Wales’ rush defence was highly effective, while their big-name players stepped up when it mattered. None more so than North, who made 121 running metres, beat six defenders and executed four clean breaks.

It was an individual effort that typified everything that was good about Wales’ performance on the day, but ultimately the All Blacks’ bench made all the difference.

Beauden Barrett came on as early as the 42nd minute and produced an industrious cameo, while forwards Wyatt Crockett, Charlie Faumuina, Patrick Tuipulotu and Ardie Savea all enjoyed an extended run as momentum shifted in favour of the All Blacks late in the game.

See how your favourite player fared in this match

Photo: Fiona Goodall/Getty Images

Post by

Craig Lewis