Under an unforgiving sun in the town of Riom, New Zealand proved that they have arrived in France not only to win this tournament, but to do so in style as they took their opening match 75-16 against Italy.
In front of a generous and appreciative crowd, the Kiwis crossed the Italian line no fewer than 11 times, while the Azzuri managed one consolation try of their own.
The first half saw the men in black blitz the Italian defence with lightening fast back play rewarding a dominant pack with seven tries, three for Lelia Masaga. Cagnoni scored all of Italy’s points from penalties and at half time New Zealand led 47-9 and effectively the match as a contest was over.
The Italians did score first in the second half through Patrizio, but New Zealand hit back, playing penalties from hand rather than taking easy points on offer and scoring four unanswered tries as Italy’s best endeavours were quashed by a solid wall of black shirts.
Quotes
Michael Patterson, New Zealand captain: "It was a good match to start off with in the tournament. Italy are a good side but we're expecting tougher next time out."
Grant Hubbard, NZ manager: "It was a good training match for us. The weather was magnificent and the sun meant that we could play a nice style of rugby. It was a good start against a very physical side. We scored some good tries and that meant we got off to a good start."
Alberto Saccardo, Italy captain: "It was a very tough match for us, mostly because of the heat and the sun. We found it tough and there was a big difference between the two sides but we played a good match. Scotland will be more at our level in the next match."