Japanese winger Jone Naikabula, originally from Nadroga, made an impressive start for Japan by scoring an early try in their international test match against New Zealand’s All Blacks in Yokohama. Naikabula broke through the defense to put the hosts ahead; however, the New Zealand team, coached by Scott Robertson, quickly turned the tide by scoring seven tries in the first half and an additional three in the second half, resulting in a decisive 64-19 victory.
Notable performances came from lock and captain Patrick Tuipulotu, number eight Wallace Sititi, and winger Mark Tele’a, while fly-half Damian McKenzie successfully kicked seven conversions. Tele’a and Tuipulotu both scored just minutes after Naikabula’s try.
Japan’s Faulua Makisi briefly narrowed the gap for his team, but New Zealand responded with three quick tries from Billy Proctor, Sam Cane, and Samipeni Finau within eight minutes to regain control of the match. Pasilio Tosi and Tamaiti Williams added to the scoreline before halftime.
In the second half, Cam Roigard, who returned to the New Zealand lineup after injury, scored, while Japanese substitute Opeti Helu celebrated his Test debut with a try. All Blacks debutant Ruben Love capped off the game by scoring twice in the final minutes.
New Zealand’s next challenge will be against England at Twickenham on November 2, followed by matches against Ireland, France, and Italy.
Leave a comment