New Zealand sealed the Rugby Championship with a convincing 35-17 victory over Argentina.
The All Blacks clinched their third straight title a week early thanks to tries from Rieko Ioane, Waisake Naholo, Patrick Tuipulotu and Anton Lienert-Brown.
New Zealand, on the back of a 36-34 defeat to South Africa in Wellington a fortnight ago, bounced back with fierce determination, controlling the game from start to finish despite a less experienced squad.
Waisake Naholo had the All Blacks’ second try before Ioane got his brace after a referee review, also converted by Barrett, putting the side in a commanding 21-3 lead at the break.
Patrick Tuipulotu added to New Zealand’s lead after mere minutes on the field as Argentina desperately sought to get a try on the board, Tomas Cubelli finally rewarding their efforts in the 58th minute.
Too many lineout errors from Argentina, who came into the game with a 23-19 win over Australia under their belts, proved costly and ultimately New Zealand’s quest to maintain a perfect record over the Pumas never looked in doubt.
New Zealand will next face South Africa and Argentina play Australia in the final two tests of the championship.
