Top matches of 2015: 5) All Blacks thrash France

Julian Savea scored a hat-trick in the All Blacks' quarter-final win over France. Photo / Brett Phibbs

The All Blacks had set themselves for the quarterfinal. Their work in the pool games oscillated between strong and uncertain but behind the screens which hid their training ground work from prying eyes, they geared up for the playoffs.

Once more the target was France. Their form was scratchy in coach Philippe St Andre's final campaign but history showed the RWC anxiety they gave the All Blacks. The 2007 quarterfinal in Cardiff was the lowest slump.

Eight years on same venue and rivals. Coach Steve Hansen talked a strong game as captain Richie McCaw, lock Brodie Retallic and wing Julian Savea returned to the starting selection. Wyatt Crockett began at loosehead with Tony Woodcock injured and out of the tournament.

The All Blacks started fast, pinned the French back and Retallick had a charge down try to begin the unexpected carnage.

Match highlights

Sidestepping Nehe Milner-Skudder danced to the line then Savea from a backhand Daniel Carter flip pass before the wing bashed three tacklers out of the way to claim his second and a 29-13 halftime lead.

Those who had taken in all the All Blacks work since 2011 knew they were in the zone with their uncluttered expression. They were physical and decisive but those with superstitious recollections of the 1999 and 2007 meltdowns were not so convinced the semifinal was inevitable.

After a couple of close calls then Louis Picamoles' sinbin dismissal, Jerome Kaino surged in at the corner and the French resistance broke. Four more tries came in a rapid torrent and with 10 minutes time left the scoreline stood at a remarkable 62-13.

Somehow it stayed the same for the remainder of the test. The All Blacks had the luxury of using a slew of reserves but hen Carter hurt his right leg, that added a touch of caution to the impressive victory.