New Zealand got their World Cup campaign off to an expected winning start with a 70-7 Pool D win over Italy under the Docklands Stadium roof on Saturday.
But despite running in 11 tries, New Zealand — one of the World Cup favourites — saw first choice goalkicker Carlos Spencer miss three out of four place kicks — errors that could prove costly against stronger opponents.
But back-up Daniel Carter landed six conversions as well as scoring a try.
Italy, coached by All Black great John Kirwan, did at least ensure there was no repeat of their 101-3 World Cup defeat by New Zealand four years ago.
Spencer and wings Doug Howlett and Joe Rokocoko each scored two tries. But worryingly for New Zealand, Rokocoko pulled up sharply after touching down his second, with what appeared to be a hamstring injury.
Italy’s only points came courtesy of a converted try from their New Zealand born No 8 Matthew Phillips.
”We haven’t played in a while. There were a few handling errors, but we expected that early on. There were some good things and some that weren’t,” said All Blacks captain Reuben Thorne.
He said he hoped injuries to key players were not too serious. ”We need those players for the rest of the tournament.”
Kirwan paid tribute to his side saying that had shown a lot of courage faced with a mighty All Blacks side.
”We came here to focus on the games after New Zealand, so we’re not disappointed.”
The match was almost over as a contest at half-time with New Zealand 25-0 ahead after scoring four tries.
They took the lead inside the first minute when, after Italy pulled down a maul, Spencer landed a penalty from inside the 22.
Italy, with centre Andrea Masi pulling off some fine cover tackles in defence, briefly kept New Zealand at bay.
But in the 12th minute lock Brad Thorn, half-tackled by Italy hooker Carlo Festuccia, ploughed his way over for a try.
And three minutes later New Zealand had their second try when captain Thorne, released by Rokocoko, went through the Italian cover.
Italy were struggling out wide and Howlett sprinted clear for a try. Carter, taking over converted and New Zealand were 23-0 up.
Italy did manage to gain territory thanks to kicking for touch penalties which might have earned them points. But they could not capitalise.
And they were punished when Rokocoko got away from centre Nicola Mazzucato and sent in Spencer for a try which gave the All Blacks a bonus point.
But the fly-half’s conversion attempt was his worst, fading in front of the posts.
After the break, New Zealand went further ahead when Italy failed to deal with Spencer’s high kick and Howlett burst away for his second try.
But Italy’s forwards had been competing well and they then created a period of sustained pressure that saw both Mazzucato and full-back Gert Peens held up over the line.
Italy had their reward when, after running another penalty, Mazzucato fed Phillips who bundled his way over for a 51st minute try.
Peens converted and New Zealand were 32-7 ahead.
But, as if worn out by their efforts, Italy collapsed as the All Blacks then scored 38 points without reply. -AFP
