Ardie Savea has emphasised that the All Blacks will have to shrug off their late-game collapses to have any hope of conquering Twickenham on Saturday.
The All Blacks’ ability to go the full 80 minutes will be vital if they hope to overcome what Savea describes as a momentum-driver for England, as they brace for the Twickenham crowd.
In Scott Robertson’s first year in charge, the All Blacks have made a habit of Jekyll-and-Hyde performances, dominating first halves, but struggling to capitalise in the final 20 minutes of matches.
This was brought to the fore in the Rugby Championship, where they scored no points in the final quarter for five matches in a row.
When the All Blacks last faced England at Twickenham in 2022, they led 25-6 with 10 minutes to play, only for the hosts to roar back, scoring three tries in nine minutes to secure a draw.
“I think England not only bring the physical game, but they have got a bit of razzle and swag to their game as well and with Marcus Smith at 10 they can play from anywhere,” Savea told the New Zealand Herald.
“We saw that the last time we played them at Twickenham. We got up and they came back and drew for us, we have just got to be clinical, nail our job, our role, every moment or try to.
“We have grown a lot since the two tests in New Zealand. It is just a matter of coming together on Saturday and nailing it under pressure. We understand how important the crowd is and the noise that comes with it.
“There will be times when England get up and have the momentum, and we have to get back in the moment,” Savea added. “We have to expect that and when it does come, breathe and try to nail our next moment.”
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