The All Blacks have taken first blood in this years Tri Nations, grinding out a hard fought 19-8 win over the Springboks in Wellington.

Once again Wellington turned on the wet conditions, which meant a greasy surface and plenty of handling errors by both sides.

Despite the slippery ball, both sides tried to play an open game, with a lot of tactical kicking.

Even Ali Williams joined in on it.

Dan Carter put the All Blacks ahead with three penalties, before Bryan Habana scored in the corner, narrowing the margin to 9-8 going into half time. The Springboks were giving the All Blacks a run for their money...

John Smit was an early casualty for the Springboks, leaving the field in the first half with a groin strain, after being dumped by Brad Thorn in an off-the-ball incident. Thorn has been given a one week ban for the tackle, and will miss the Carisbrook Test next Saturday.

Jerome Kaino scored the All Blacks first (and only) try to give them a handy eight point lead, and when Carter slotted a penalty later in the half the All Blacks took a 19-8 lead, which they kept to the final whistle.

Kaino was very unlucky not to be given a second try after chasing a Carter kick, but Stu Dickenson deemed him off side, which was a completely rubbish call. Why the video ref couldn't have had a look we don't know, but it should have been referred.

Kaino had a fantastic game, and looks to be maturing as an All Black, as does Ma'a Nonu.

Other standouts for the All Blacks were Ali Williams, who had a great game in his fiftieth Test, and Conrad Smith, who continues to silence his critics with great attacking and defending abilities.

The lineouts were very successful (until late in the second half), as was the scrum, where we dominated the Springboks throughout the game.

Our only real concern at the moment is Andy Ellis at halfback. We know he's young and relatively new to the All Blacks, but we need a halfback who can pass the ball quickly. Ellis seems to be permanently stuck in slow motion.

We'd like to see Cowan get a start this weekend, just to let Ellis know he has some competition for the number nine jersey. Maybe that way he'll up his game a bit more...

All in all it was a very tough and physical Test, which is exactly what the All Blacks needed. The Springboks showed us that they are a real threat, and could give us more of a run for our money in the upcoming Tests.

We can't wait for round two this Saturday in Dunedin - we just hope the snow has melted by then.