The Māori All Blacks have fought past a brave Brazil 35-3 in Sao Paulo on Sunday (NZ time).
The driving rain made the going tough for both sides but ultimately five tries by the New Zealanders – four of which came from the forwards – was the difference against a stern Brazilian defensive effort.
Skipper Ash Dixon lead the way with a brace of tries off the back of driving mauls, which proved the Māori's most effective weapon against a Brazilian forward pack that dominated its opposite at scrumtime.
First-five Otere Black looked great in his first start after a lengthy injury lay-off, kicking effectively in general play and flawlessly off the tee - nailing all five of his conversion attempts.
Brazil were ably lead by Christchurch native Joshua Reeves, who operated well behind their impressive scrum.
Tries to lock Isaia Walker-Leawere and Dixon saw the Māori take a 14-0 lead into halftime.
Brazil hustled well despite the loss of hooker Wilton Rebolo, who was shown a yellow card for a late hit on Black.
The New Zealanders kept things tight in the second half as the game struggled to find any momentum due to the horrendous conditions.
Dixon nabbed his second just before the 60 minute mark from a close-range lineout, followed a matter of minutes later by substritue Jackson Hemopo, who powered over under the posts after some patient build-up play.
Josh Ioane rounded the scoring with a well-deserved try minutes out from fulltime.
The Māori All Blacks now travel to Santiago to take on Chile on Sunday.
Newshub.
