Eight-try All Blacks thump Bulls 50-19 in Pretoria

The All Blacks delivered an emphatic performance in Pretoria, overwhelming South Africa's Bulls with a 50-19 victory marked by eight tries. This dominant display on Saturday served as an impressive tune-up ahead of their crucial first test against the Springboks next weekend. The match was anticipated to be their most challenging fixture before the four-test series, but the All Blacks showcased their most comprehensive all-round performance to date, following earlier wins against the Stormers and the Sharks.

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Another tough game for us, the Bulls turned up in patches there and it was a physical game.

New Zealand's forwards were solid in the set-piece and exerted control at the breakdown. The team also demonstrated improved discipline, although they faced a Bulls side that was not at full strength. The All Blacks' ability to execute when creating opportunities was noted, though captain Codie Taylor acknowledged there were still some mistakes. "We have played three games now and experienced South African footie now and I think we are well set up for the test series," Taylor commented.

The All Blacks opened the scoring with a well-executed backline move that exploited the Bulls' aggressive defense, leading to winger Josh Moorby crossing the try line. Moorby added a second try, and following a yellow card for Bulls prop Francois Klopper due to repeated infringements, hooker Taylor extended the lead with a try after a quick tap penalty. The All Blacks' effectiveness at the breakdown consistently forced turnovers and errors from the Bulls, allowing Taylor to score his second try before halftime, giving them a commanding 24-0 lead.

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No disrespect to the Bulls, but the Springboks will lift the tempo and the physicality and that is what test match footie is all about. It is an exciting week ahead.

In the second half, the Bulls managed to score their first try through lock Ruan Vermaak, a decision that was initially questioned by the television match official but upheld by the referee. However, the All Blacks quickly reasserted their dominance. Winger Leroy Carter scored two tries, and center Rieko Ioane and loose-forward Wallace Sititi added two more, propelling the team past the 50-point mark and securing a decisive victory.

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Executing when we do create special moments (could be better), there were a few mistakes in there. But we have played three games now and experienced South African footie now and I think we are well set up for the test series.