EDINBURGH, UNITED KINGDOM — Replacement fly-half Damian McKenzie once again proved his class under pressure as his late heroics sealed New Zealand’s 25-17 win over Scotland at Murrayfield on Saturday, extending the All Blacks’ century-long dominance in this historic rivalry.
McKenzie’s crucial try in the 74th minute edged New Zealand back in front after a spirited Scottish comeback, before his calm 79th-minute penalty confirmed the result. The victory marked the All Blacks’ 31st win in 33 Tests against Scotland since their first meeting in 1905, with the remaining two ending in draws.
The hard-fought match, played as part of Murrayfield’s centenary celebrations, saw Scotland push New Zealand to their limits, particularly in a thrilling second half that nearly produced a monumental upset.
McKenzie’s Composure Secures All Blacks’ Win
Damian McKenzie entered the match as a replacement fly-half but ultimately became the difference-maker in the tense closing stages. With the game tied at 17-17, McKenzie spotted a gap in Scotland’s defense, darted through, and grounded the ball to restore New Zealand’s lead.
He followed up with a decisive penalty just before full-time to ensure the All Blacks’ unbeaten streak against Scotland remained intact.
Speaking after the game, McKenzie credited his team’s patience and resilience in a match that saw momentum swing dramatically between the two sides.
“It was a tough old Test,” McKenzie told TNT Sports. “The boys started well, but they (Scotland) were on top of us for most of the second half. I’m proud of how we finished. We stayed patient, played in the right areas, and took our chance when it came.”
McKenzie’s influence once again underscored his reputation as one of rugby’s most reliable and dynamic playmakers, capable of shifting the course of a match with his tactical awareness and composure.
For Scotland, the loss will be a bitter pill to swallow. Coach Gregor Townsend’s men showed remarkable spirit after trailing 17-0 at halftime, producing one of their best second-half performances in recent years against the All Blacks.
Tries from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn, both converted by fly-half Finn Russell, along with a Russell penalty, leveled the score at 17-17 with just over 15 minutes to play.
The home crowd at a sold-out Murrayfield roared as Scotland pressed forward, sensing a historic first-ever win over New Zealand. However, McKenzie’s late intervention silenced the stadium and dashed their hopes once again.
Townsend admitted post-match that while there were plenty of positives, his side must learn how to close out matches against the world’s best.
“The win was there, and we needed to kick on when it was 17-17,” Townsend told the BBC. “Outstanding effort by the players, but we have to find that next step. We need to start winning these big games.”
The All Blacks wasted no time asserting their dominance. Within three minutes, second-row Josh Lord, standing in for injured captain Scott Barrett, burst through a ruck before releasing Cam Roigard for a try between the posts. Beauden Barrett added the conversion to make it 7-0.
Barrett then extended the lead to 10-0 with a penalty after Scotland strayed offside, before Will Jordan finished off a beautifully executed move down the blindside just before halftime.
Jordan’s try — his 44th in 52 Tests — came after Wallace Sititi broke through the Scottish defense, showcasing New Zealand’s trademark flair and precision. Barrett’s conversion made it 17-0 at the break, leaving Scotland with a mountain to climb.
Despite a yellow card to Leroy Carter for a trip on Scotland’s Darcy Graham, the All Blacks managed to maintain their defensive shape for most of the half.
The second half saw a different Scotland emerge from the tunnel. In the 46th minute, hooker Ewan Ashman powered over the line to score, with Russell converting to reduce the deficit.
New Zealand’s Ardie Savea was shown a yellow card shortly after for a cynical infringement, and Scotland capitalized on the numerical advantage as Kyle Steyn crossed the line to bring the scores level.
The atmosphere inside Murrayfield was electric as the crowd sensed a potential upset. Yet, McKenzie’s late brilliance and New Zealand’s experience under pressure proved decisive.
The win keeps New Zealand on course for a coveted Grand Slam tour — victories over all four Home Nations: England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Their next challenge comes against England at Twickenham, where McKenzie is expected to play a pivotal role once again.
For Damian McKenzie, this latest performance reinforces his growing stature in the All Blacks’ setup. Once seen as a utility back, he has evolved into one of the team’s most dependable match-winners — calm, clinical, and courageous under pressure.
As New Zealand continue their march toward another Grand Slam triumph, McKenzie’s name will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of discussions about the team’s success and leadership.
Source- EWN
