default-output-block.skip-main
Sport | All Blacks

Māori ABs take out first test against Japan

The Māori team got the first try of the match thanks to Chris Eves.

A quick off-load to Manawatū player Jason Emery, was an easy setup for another try.

Auckland flanker Sean Polwart scored under the sticks soon after and at 25-nil it looked as if it was just going to go the Māori team's way.

But Japan, to their credit wouldn't go down without a fight.  A strong rolling maul produced a penalty try.

The Māori All Blacks had the final say with a kick by Robbie Robinson which resulted in a second try to Emery taking the half-time score to 35-7.

Amanaki Lelei Mafi scored under the posts for Japan's second try.

It soon returned when another Manawatū player, Nehe Milner-Skudder scored in the corner.

Captain Charlie Ngatai and James Lowe both scored, while Japan added one more penalty try.

The final score, 61-21 to the All Blacks.

There is no doubt Japan will be re-evaluating their strategy for their next encounter in Tokyo.