Tryline Watchalong 12 - Australia vs New Zealand 2008

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Week 12 of our watchalong saw us take in the 2008 World Cup Final, as Australia faced New Zealand for the second consecutive final!

Haka
It's not often that you get a highlight before kick off, but New Zealand's haka and the Australian challenge was a hair-raising moment!
A Blistering Start 
After an early New Zealand chance, the Kangaroos raced into a two score lead and it was looking ominous for the Kiwis.
It could have been even worse for New Zealand if Darren Lockyer had managed to ground a Cameron Smith grubber kick!
The Kiwi Revival
New Zealand needed a spark and that came from Jeremy Smith. Soon after, a fortuitous try saw the Kiwis hit the front.
But the Kangaroo captain Lockyer grabbed his second of the evening to ensure his men led at half time.

On the Ropes... 
The second half saw a stunning start by New Zealand. Firstly, a disallowed try, before Lance Hohaia swung the game once again.
What a Shocker!
The last man you would have predicted to make an error in a game of this magnitude would be Billy Slater. Yet that is exactly what happened. New Zealand were now in a very strong position!

You can't keep Australia down for long though, within minutes they brought the deficit down to two points.
The Game Changer
Then followed one of the most controversial moments in World Cup history. Lance Hohaia was taken out by Joel Monaghan and the video referee was asked to rule on a possible penalty try...
There was still time for one more try. And it fell to New Zealand as Adam Blair secured World Cup glory!

Champagne Moment
Not many words needed here. This is the moment that New Zealand became world champions for the first time!
If you enjoyed this watchalong, then make sure to check out our ever-growing archives!

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