Filed under: Rugby Union, Rugby World Cup, Internationals, New Zealand Rugby
A dominant New Zealand laid down an ominous marker for the rest of the World Cup with an impressive opening win against Tonga.Graham Henry made nine changes from an All Black side that had lost its previous two matches but he had little concerns as the World Cup hosts got their tournament off to a clinical start.
Tonga battled bravely throughout the 80 minutes but they had little answer to New Zealand's early dominance, particularly as they were additionally inspired by a thrilling opening ceremony celebrating the All Blacks' maori heritage.
Fullback Israel Dagg and Richard Kahui both grabbed two scores each before the break to put Henry's men in charge while Dan Carter was as ruthlessly efficient as always with the boot.
New Zealand raced into a 29-0 lead thanks to their explosive start as Jerome Kaino also managed to brilliantly cross before the interval and then repeated the trick after the break.
However, Tonga refused to be entirely cowed by New Zealand and they were arguably the more impressive side in the second half.
Kurt Morath got them on the board with a penalty just before the break and they took that momentum into the second half, even if Kaino's second touchdown did further New Zealand's lead.
But Tonga then really came into their own and dominated the home side as Sona Taumalolo managed to score a try while Morath added the extras.
Yet they could not pull of the king of all comebacks as Ma'a Nonu finished off a wonderful passing move with just four minutes left to confirm it would be New Zealand's evening.
TO COME: ALL THE REACTION
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