All Blacks survive almighty scare in thrilling Test match against Samoa

New Zealand would have been in huge trouble without Dan Carter.

The world champions appeared to be coasting in the one-off Test encounter with Manu Samoa, in Apia, today but their veteran out-half steered them through some mighty surges. Following rousing Siva Tau and Ka Mate hakas before kick-off, Steve Hansen's men had the better of some fierce opening exchanges and led 12-3 at the break. A George Moala try, eight minutes into the second-half, looked to have settled the contest. https://youtu.be/qPRGWSz0bwg Samoa were not finished yet, however. After 64 minutes, and trailing 22-9, Alafoti Fa'osiliva powered through for a converted try. At 22-16, the All Blacks were another converted score away from losing. Carter remained on the pitch, though, to help see his men through. Post-match, New Zealand captain Richie McCaw warned that their hosts would be 'a force to be reckoned with' at this year's World Cup. Glad we don't have them so. [caption id="attachment_31386" align="alignnone" width="630"] 'Close call, eh Richie?'[/caption]