New Zealand wins Rugby World Cup opener in unimpressive fashion - Rugby News
Six tries in the inaugural match of the Rugby World Cup 2011 sealed the first victory for the All Blacks against Tonga on September 9 in Eden Park, Auckland. Richard Kahui and Israel Dagg shared two tries each whereas Ma’a Nonu and Kaino elevated the All
Blacks with one try in the match. The All Blacks could not maintain the momentum of the first-half and added just 12 points to their total in the second part of the match.
New Zealand went in the second-half with a handsome lead of 29-3 with high aims, however, they could not extend their lead until the next 9 minutes despite desperate efforts. Sonny Bill Williams made the first serious effort to steal a try but missed the
opportunity with a narrow distance. The Tongan side had done well to keep the big man away from white wash line in the 42nd minute of the match.
The All Blacks were again on the attacking mode a couple of minutes later. This time Israel Dagg was tackled by outside defenders from Tonga. A few substitutions were made by both side after the 50th minute.
Tonga defence looked improved in the second-half as they managed to tackle at least three try attempts in the first 10 minutes. The All Blacks were doing everything except claiming points and the scorecard remained constant until the 57th minute
of the match. Meanwhile, Tonga displayed an excellent game on the scrums after the interval.
Jerome Kaino broke the strong growing defence of Tonga during the 58th minute with a well executed try and gave his side a breather. Dan Carter missed another conversion shot and the All Blacks had to settle for 34-3. Isaia Toeava was replaced
by Cory Jane during the 61st minute of the match.
Tonga made first exclusive effort to score their maiden try in the match after some good work in the defence but the All Blacks denied the attempt before the mighty crowd. Finally Sona Taumalolo elevated Tonga with long waited try and Kurt Morath decreased
the All Blacks lead to 10-34 in the 72nd minute of the match on a conversion.
The All Blacks players looked frustrated and off the colour during the last ten minutes of the match but remained unsuccessful in increasing their total until Ma’a Nonu scored his first try of the match with four minutes remaining in the final whistle. Colin
Slade converted the follow up shot and sealed the victory with 41-10 for the All Blacks.
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