The All Blacks have comfortably defeated Fiji 47-5 in San Diego.
The All Blacks led 26-5 at half-time but Fiji still managed to restrict their opponents to the lowest score of their eight Test encounters.
New Zealand scored seven tries, including debuts for six new players: Pasilio Tosi, Wallace Sititi, George Bell, Sam Darry, Noah Hotham, and Billy Proctor. This victory continues Coach Scott Robertson’s perfect start, making it three wins in three matches.
Captain Scott Barrett noted the team’s performance wasn’t as polished as they had hoped, highlighting areas for improvement. Despite Fiji’s physical presence, the All Blacks managed to dominate.
The first try came within ten minutes when Caleb Clarke scored. Cortez Ratima followed with his first test try. Fiji responded with a try by Vilimoni Botitu, but New Zealand extended their lead with Billy Proctor, Ardie Savea, and Sevu Reece adding tries. Ethan De Groot and George Bell also scored in the second half.
Both teams suffered injuries to their scrum-halves, with Cortez Ratima and Fiji’s Frank Lomani leaving the game.
The All Blacks face Argentina next in Wellington on August 10 in the Rugby Championship opener.
