The Four Nations Rugby league campaign saw Australia gear up with a commanding display, effortlessly defeating New Zealand 42-6 in Newcastle on Sunday.
On a lovely, sun-drenched afternoon, the Kangaroos exploited the dry conditions at Ausgrid Stadium to shine against the world champions, with debutants Akuila Uate, Darius Boyd, and Chris Lawrence each netting two tries.
In his last match on Australian soil before retiring, captain Darren Lockyer was central to the team’s efforts before Coach Tim Sheens rested him for the final 15 minutes in front of a packed crowd.
The Kiwis, featuring five debutants in their lineup, faced significant challenges defensively and found themselves trailing 26-0 at half-time.
Having recovered for a month from a fractured cheekbone, Lockyer’s resilience was tested by Russell Packer’s forearm just in the opening minute of the match.
Packer’s introduction to international play resulted in him being reported by English referee Phil Bentham, placing him at risk of missing the Four Nations opener against Australia on October 28 in Warrington.
Lockyer appeared unaffected by the fierce challenge and assisted local favorite Uate after a strong run by Willie Tonga, allowing Uate to score in the fourth minute.
Shortly after, Uate scored again, marking a remarkable debut, as the Kangaroos sliced through the Kiwis’ defense with remarkable efficiency.
The Newcastle winger nearly completed a hat-trick in the seventh minute but unfortunately dropped the ball just shy of the try line.
In what was his 35th match as Australian captain, Lockyer contributed to the team’s third try with a well-placed pass to Billy Slater, who found Boyd in the left corner.
Lawrence, who had scored a try on his international debut the previous year, added two more to his tally before halftime, as Sheens’ squad effectively secured the victory before the break with thrilling plays that set a positive tone for their UK tour.
After the break, the Kiwis displayed better discipline, narrowing the gap when fullback Kevin Locke scored on his debut, thanks to a strong run from Packer early in the second half.
Nonetheless, this minor setback quickly faded for the hosts, as prop Keith Galloway powered through from close range, followed by tries from Tonga and Boyd, further embellishing the Kangaroos’ impressive display.
by Buford Balony
