New Zealand beat Australia to clinch Tri-nations

New Zealand beat Australia 34-24 at Eden Park yesterday to win the Tri-nations for the sixth time in 10 years.

Auckland winger Doug Howlett scored three tries for the All Blacks while openside flanker Richie McCaw crossed once. Luke McAlister kicked three penalties and Leon MacDonald one.

The Australians also scored four tries with Mark Chisholm, Mark Gerrard, Lote Tuqiri and Lloyd Johansson all crossing, while Mat Rogers landed two conversions.

New Zealand's victory yesterday enabled them to leap over South Africa at the top of the standings and regain the title they lost to the Springboks last year while Australia finished the championship without a single victory.