Joe Rokocoko holds aloft the Bledisloe Cup

Flanker Richie McCaw said New Zealand's defending was the difference between the two sides following their 21-17 victory over Australia in a pulsating Tri-Nations encounter.

The All Blacks, who had already secured the Tri-Nations crown, withstood a ferocious late rally to regain the Bledisloe Cup for the first time since 1998 at a rainswept Eden Park.

"The way we defended in the last 20 minutes was probably the difference in the end," said McCaw, who played a vital role in his side's victory.

Final table New Zealand P4 Pts18 Australia P4 Pts6 South Africa P4 Pts4

"When you see a mate knock them back you want to get in and be a part of the action.

"It's amazing to get the Bledisloe Cup back. It was disappointing to lose it in the last few minutes last year but to finally secure it is awesome.

"It was a terrific performace from everyone and we can now look ahead to the World Cup with confidence," he added.

All Blacks coach was pleased with the way his team had battled to victory.

"That was good for us. You have got to win the grinds and you've got to win the big ones," said Mitchell.

Hooker Keven Mealamu, captain Reuben Thorne and lock Chris Jack all produced some thunderous tackles to keep Australia at bay.

And skipper Thorne said afterwards his side were desperate to recapture the Bledisloe Cup.

The Australians never gave up and we expected that Reuben Thorne All Blacks captain

"The country really wanted us to do well. We were aware of the pressure on us but we didn't want to get bogged down by it," Thorne said.

"The guys are absolutely delighted, it's taken a long time to get it back. The Australians never gave up and we expected that."

Australia coach Eddie Jones said the Wallabies' World Cup plans were still on track despite the defeat.

"In terms of where the team's going it was a positive performance," said Jones.

"There were some improvements in certain areas of our game and it puts us in a good position now to push for our World Cup preparation," he added.