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'Massive' - Twitter reacts to All Blacks humbling

By Online Editors
Nic White celebrates his try against the All Blacks last Saturday (Photo by Getty Images)

The All Blacks were crushed 47-26 by Australia in the Rugby Championship at Perth’s Optus Stadium - sending shock waves around the rugby world.

And the result means that Six Nations champions Wales will end New Zealand’s 10-year reign as world number one if they avoid defeat against England on Sunday.

The All Blacks had lock Scott Barrett sent off by French referee Jerome Garces just before half-time for a shoulder-led charge to the neck and face of Wallabies skipper Michael Hooper.

New Zealand trailed 13-12 when Barrett departed, but they then conceded 31 second-half points.

It was Australia’s highest points total against New Zealand, with wing Reece Hodge leading the way by scoring two tries.

Scrum-half Nic White, flanker Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, wing Marika Koroibete and full-back Kurtley Beale also touched down, with fly-half Christian Lealiifano kicking 13 points and Matt Toomua adding two conversions.

Beauden Barrett, Rieko Ioane, Anton Lienert-Brown and Ngani Laumape claimed New Zealand’s tries, while Richie Mo’unga kicked three conversions.

Australia’s victory took them top of the Rugby Championship, but South Africa will be crowned champions if they beat Argentina later on Saturday.

Twitter, naturally had a lot to say on the matter.

- additional reporting PA