The Māori All Blacks launched Ross Filipo’s coaching reign in style with a commanding 53-20 victory over Japan XV in Tokyo, running in nine tries including six in a dominant second half.
Trailing 17-15 at halftime, the visitors exploded after the break with scores from Laghlan McWhannell, Zarn Sullivan, Sam Nock, Jahrome Brown, Kemara Hauiti-Parapara and Kaleb Trask, overwhelming a Japan side that had shown early promise.
The emphatic win sets a confident tone ahead of the Māori All Blacks’ upcoming clash with Scotland in Whāngarei.
