KEY POINTS:
Daniel Carter spoke for the All Blacks when he said the long-haul flight to Edinburgh would be far more pleasant reflecting on a win in the results column rather than a loss leading into the next Grand Slam attempt.
"We may not be happy with how we played but the victory showed character and helps with the tour ahead."
The All Blacks were rusty, they had battled through a short tough buildup but were now far more prepared for the challenge of trying to emulate the 2005 tour, he said.
"I still think we have got a long way to improve. We are much more skilful and a better side than that and I hope it gets better each week."
Carter kicked all three first-half penalty attempts - including a 52m boomer - to keep the All Blacks in contact with the Wallabies, but missed his three attempts after he moved in to first receiver in the second half. It was just one of those things. He had kicked well in training and was not too concerned about his strike rate.
Carter said he felt more comfortable when he slotted back into first five-eighths. He felt more in touch directing the flow of the game and, longterm, that was where he wanted to play. "I think it is my position and that is where I want to cement my spot."
He had enjoyed the midfield run, having players who were versatile helped their game. The experiment had been worthwhile but he felt a little disconnected from the rhythm of the test, he said.
The Wallabies had shut the All Blacks down in the first half but the pack had responded to a halftime rev up, their momentum spilled over into the backline and allowed the team's character to grind out the victory.
