Nadroga-born winger Jone Naikabula made an impressive start for Japan by scoring an early try in their international test match against the All Blacks in Yokohama. Naikabula broke through the defense to put Japan ahead, but New Zealand, coached by Scott Robertson, quickly turned the tide, notching up seven tries in the first half and three more in the second half, ultimately securing a convincing 64-19 victory.
Key players for New Zealand included lock and captain Patrick Tuipulotu, number eight Wallace Sititi, and winger Mark Tele’a, while fly-half Damian McKenzie successfully converted seven of the tries. Tele’a and Tuipulotu responded just minutes after Naikabula’s early score.
Japan’s Faulua Makisi managed to narrow the gap, but New Zealand maintained control with tries from Billy Proctor, Sam Cane, and Samipeni Finau within a quick succession of eight minutes, followed by additional tries from Pasilio Tosi and Tamaiti Williams before the halftime break.
New Zealand’s Cam Roigard, returning from injury, added another try after halftime. Meanwhile, Japan’s Opeti Helu made a notable debut, scoring a fine try for his team. All Blacks debutant Ruben Love capped off the match by scoring twice in the final two minutes.
Looking ahead, the All Blacks will take on England at Twickenham on November 2, followed by matches against Ireland, France, and Italy.
Leave a comment