Doug Howlett goes over against Australia
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Matches: New Zealand 21 - 17 Australia

Teams: Australia | New Zealand

New Zealand got their hands on the much-prized Bledisloe Cup with a hard fought 21-17 Tri Nations triumph over Australia in Auckland.

The win brings the formidable trophy to New Zealand for the first time since 1997 but they were made to work hard for the win against a resolute Wallabies side at a rain swept Eden Park.

Kiwi speedster Doug Howlett grabbed a brace to steal the headlines away from his prolific team-mate Joe Rokocoko but the the result was in the balance until the closing moments when All Blacks skipper Reuben Thorne stepped up to claim two vital lineouts to snuff out any lingering Australian hopes.

The allabies opened the scoring through the boot of Elton Flatley in the opening couple of minutes, but the signs were ominous for the visitors shortly after when Howeltt crossed for his first five-pointer. Fullback Mils Muliaina sparked the move, as he did several times throughout the game, with Richie McCaw and also making big gains. A smart pass from Aaron Mauger stretched the Wallabies' defence and timely offload from Keven Mealamu sent the Aucklander in for the score.

Carlos Spencer added the conversion but his place kicking is sure to come under the scrutiny of coach John Mitchell between now and the World Cup. In contrast Flatley looked assured off the tee and two more penalties from his boot gave the Wallabies the lead mid-way through the half.

But they didn't have the lead for long as the All Blacks upped the pressure. The impressive Jerry Collins turned over the ball and a probing kick from Spencer set up a foot race between Howlett and Flatley that the Kiwi won easily to claim the try. Spencer hit the post with the conversion attempt but extended their advantage shortly after with another penalty.

The home side went for the kill before the break with the forwards driving close but Chris Jack was not quite in control of the ball as he crashed over. Offered a chance to rescue something from the move when they were called back for an earlier penalty, Spencer was wide of the mark with the last kick of the half.

The second half saw the welcome return to action of fullback Leon MacDonald due to an injury to Muliaina and Spencer redeemed himself by slotting another three pointer to stretch their lead.

Flatley and Spencer traded further penalties before the Wallabies got some due reward for their efforts when George Smith dotted down in the corner the Wallabies' only try. The score ensured a nail-biting finale where Thorne led by example by opting to receive two crucial lineout throws and secure possession and so end the Wallabies hopes.

The final whistle sparked delight amongst players and fans alike illustrating the importance placed on regaining the Bledisloe crown. But the overall performance will again give Mitchell plenty to work on with the lineout most notably mis-firing.

The Wallabies showed, as if anyone really doubts it, that they still have what it takes to push the best in the world all the way despite their lack of consistency. As a taster for the World Cup to come this clash of the titans will only have whetted the appetite even more.