New Zealand have forfeited the title of easy beats after comfortably making Tonga’s life uncomfortable via a 56-8 victory in their final warm up match.
New Zealand have forfeited the title of easy beats after comfortably making Tonga’s life uncomfortable via a 56-8 victory in their final warm up match
New Zealand scored 10 tries to two including three from Jerome Ropati and two each by Jason Nightingale and Benji Marshall as the home side overwhelmed Tonga's lineup after leading 22-0 at halftime.
Despite bringing a starting 13 that have all played in the NRL,Tonga failed to threaten the Kiwi line and were unable to score until Cooper Vuna put first points on the board in the second term.
New Zealand kicks-off their campaign against Australia at Sydney Football Stadium on October 26 while Tonga play Ireland the following day at Parramatta Stadium.
New Zealand 56 Jerome Ropati (3), Jason Nightingale (2), Benji Marshall (2), Setaimata Sa, James Leuluai, Simon Mannering tries; Krisnan Inu (6), Steve Matai (2) Tonga: Tries: Cooper Vuna, Tevita Leo-Latu goals. Tonga 8: Cooper Vuna, Tevita Leo-Latu tries;
