The Barbarians, a formidable side featuring 17 South Africans, started the match against the All Blacks XV with a bang, scoring three tries in the first half. The South Africans, led by the dynamic duo of Pat Lam and John Dobson, showcased their prowess with a powerful display of teamwork and skill. Asenathi Ntlabakanye, the tighthead prop, charged over from close range, setting the tone for the Barbarians' dominance. Evan Roos, the No 8, followed suit at the end of the first quarter, and Bongi Mbonambi, the hooker, burst away from a lineout maul, with Rob du Preez slotting another conversion, giving the Barbarians a commanding 19-0 lead. The All Blacks XV, however, refused to give up. They fought back with a try from winger Caleb Tangitau just before halftime, reducing the deficit to 19-7. Scrumhalf Xavier Roe's score early in the second half further narrowed the gap to 19-14. The Barbarians, though, seemed to have the game under control. But the Kiwis had more in store. Tangitau raced away for an interception try in the third quarter, and Josh Jacomb's conversion levelled the scores at 19-19. The All Blacks XV then took the lead with a try from replacement scrumhalf Kyle Preston, followed by a score from centre David Havili, securing a 26-19 victory. The Barbarians, despite their initial dominance, couldn't hold on to their lead, but the match showcased the talent and determination of both teams. The final score of 33-19 for the All Blacks XV was a testament to their resilience and ability to turn the tide in the second half.
