Rugby World Cup: New Zealand run rampant to thrash Namibia in Tokyo
- All Blacks ram home 11 tries against outclassed Africans
The bonus point was secured before half-time and although there might be concern at yellow cards shown to Nepo Laulala and Ofa Tuungafasi for high tackles, the All Blacks look in ominous form heading into their last pool match against Italy.
Outstanding centre Anton Lienert-Brown, flying winger Sevu Reece and full-back Ben Smith all scored two tries and Jordie Barrett, making a first test start at fly-half, also crossed and kicked eight conversions.
Namibia, who have never won a World Cup match in 22 attempts, opened the scoring and drew within one point at 10-9 after half an hour but bridging the huge gulf in class was beyond them and their physical challenge waned as they tired.
After proving hard to put away in their only other meeting at the last World Cup when the All Blacks won 58-14, the Africans again proved competitive for much of the first half.
Hooker Torsten Van Jaarsveld and captain Johan Deysel gave them momentum while they also frustrated New Zealand at the breakdown by slowing down their ball or interfering with Aaron Smith’s delivery to the backs.