/ 9 September 2011

New Zealand crush Tonga in World Cup opener

New Zealand made their intentions clear of winning their first World Cup in 24 years when they scored a 41-10 victory over Tonga on Friday.

New Zealand made their intentions clear of winning their first World Cup in 24 years when they scored a 41-10 victory over Tonga in the tournament’s opening match in Auckland on Friday.

Richie McCaw’s men looked invincible in the first half, taking a 29-3 lead going into the break.

Two tries a piece from Israel Dagg and Richard Kahui marked a powerful display of running rugby by the hosts in the first half with Tonga battling to keep up with the game.

Coach Isotala Maka must have fired up his troops in the dressing room at half-time, as the Pacific Islanders looked a far more settled and determined outfit when they returned.

Tonga thwarted a number of All Black attacks and prevented what could have resembled a cricket score had the All Blacks had their way.

Flanker Jerome Kaino did manage to break through their defensive lines and earned the first try of the second half in the 58th minute.

Substitute Sona Taumalolo scored a try in the 71st minute that was easily converted by flyhalf Kurt Morath.

Nonetheless, Ma’a Nonu completed the All Blacks tally of six tries when he crashed over in front of the posts in the 76th minute.

Dan Carter complimented the scorers with accurate goal kicking that saw him slot three conversions and four penalties.

It was never expected that the Tongans would seriously challenge New Zealand but the hosts’ slick passing and pinpoint manoeuvres when approaching the tryline will serve as a warning sign for the opposition.

McCaw was satisfied with his team’s efforts.

“There were some good patches but we’ve got some things to work on. There were some good bits and it’s a start. It’s a little disappointing but we’re happy for the most part,” he said.