-
Frank Halai - Source: Photosport -
Related
New Zealand made short work of Japan in their second pool match at the USA Sevens in Las Vegas, running out 42-5 winners today.
Japan looked keen to avoid any repeat of last weeks 54-0 belting in Wellington and began both halves strongly, maintaining possession with good continuity and crossing early in the second after New Zealand raced out to a 21-0 half time lead.
New Zealand were simply too powerful despite the brave Japanese resistance, Mark Jackman showing the gulf in class as he raced 65 metres to score with New Zealand's first touch of the ball.
Japan were unable to build any momentum after conceding a penalty for an early tackle and then dropping the ball cold on their next possession and were quickly made to pay once more.
Fresh out of Wellington shoolboy rugby, Ardie Savea showed his potential, selling a huge dummy and showing a strong fend to cross out wide as the halftime break approached.
The Kiwis squeezed in another try after the half time hooter, Frank Halai stepping inside two defenders to run in under the posts.
Japanese try-scoring celebrations were then cut short two minutes in to the second half as Halai showed his pace and acceleration from a standing start, collecting the ball on the bounce on halfway before setting off and evading four defenders to again score under the posts.
Debutante halfback Jonathan Malo showed plenty of pace and a good sidestep as he raced in to score New Zealand's fifth and sixth tries in quick succession to wrap the match up.
Coach Gordon Teitjens would be happy with his sides performance particularly with two new caps getting a run as he looks to carefully manage the workload of his senior players.
Earlier today New Zealand had little trouble in their opening match of the tournament, emerging 31-5 winners against Australia.
They now have the night to recover and relax before learning who they will meet in the quarter-final stage tomorrow.
New Zealand: 42 (Jackman, Savea, Halai 2, Malo 2, 4 cons).
Japan: 5
