@ACT-Crusader said in Māori All Blacks v Japan XV 2:

Another 3 players get their chance at international footy. Poihipi has had a meteoric rise over the last 12 months. Has improved out of sight and may even push for higher honours. Would love to see him in the AB XV mix later this year.

To be fair, Poihipi made his MABs debut way back in 2020.

A 9 pm NZT kickoff for this game.

Referee: Damian Schneider (UAR)
Assistant Referee 1: Andrea Piardi (FIR)
Assistant Referee 2: Luc Ramos (FFR)
TMO: Oli Kellett (RA)

Benet kumeroa is a new name for me. Any info on him? Thanks

@family-man said in Māori All Blacks v Japan XV 2:

Benet kumeroa is a new name for me. Any info on him? Thanks

Looks like he is pretty decent at Weight lifting. Broke a lot of NZ records at youth level.

Our boys look to be struggling in the conditions.

Also very scrappy with the ball retention.

Far out Harmon what was that???

Half time, 8-0 to Japan XV

Maul try for the MABs. Converted by Poihipi.

8-7 Japan XV

I must get off my arse and get to Japan to watch a decent Rugby match. Looks to be an awesome experience.

Japan lock up the win with a driving maul try.

Game over.

Well done Japan XV. Respected the ball far better than the MABs.

@ACT-Crusader said in Māori All Blacks v Japan XV 2:

Game over.

Well done Japan XV. Respected the ball far better than the MABs.

Yeah, that was a bit of an embarrassing performance by the MAB, looked like they thought they were playing 7s.

Very little territory, and when the MAB did they coughed up the ball. Forbes had a shocker.

The conditions must have been difficult as Sullivan was subbed due to heatstroke.