KEY POINTS:
It was one of the most one-sided games in rugby World Cup history - or so the statistics say.
When the key numbers from New Zealand's loss to France are analysed, it adds even greater kudos to the courage and defensive resilience of the tournament hosts.
The All Blacks had 72 per cent of territory, 62 per cent of possession and spent more than nine minutes in the French 22m area while being pinned in their own 22 for 3 minutes. As well as winning 153 rucks and mauls to France's 34, New Zealand had to attempt just 47 tackles compared to their opponents' 197.
The French tackle percentage was exceptional, as they made more than 90 per cent, while the All Blacks' success rate was 77 per cent. The most lopsided statistic against New Zealand was the penalty and free kick count dished out by English referee Wayne Barnes.
That was 9-2 to France, a statistic no amount of All Blacks' attacking play could overcome.
