Will Jordan scored a hat-trick but found it “hugely humbling” to become New Zealand’s record try-scorer as Italy were overwhelmed 47-17 in a fast-paced Nations Championship Test on Saturday.
The All Blacks shook off an unconvincing start to score seven tries and make it two bonus-point wins from two in the inaugural 12-nation competition under new coach Dave Rennie, following their 34-32 defeat of France last week. The home side led 14-10 after an unconvincing first half but they came alive in the third quarter of the match when they crossed four times as Italy were reduced to 14 players. Two of those went to Jordan, who had already scored in the first half, taking his career tally past wing Doug Howlett who had 49 tries.
“It’s special. I think back to when I was a kid, practising my chip and chase in the back yard,” said speedy wing Jordan after bringing up his 50th try in his 56th Tests.
“To think I’d be here today, it’s hugely humbling. I’ve been part of some great teams over the last seven years and, in turn, I hope I’ve inspired some kids to practise their chip and chase, and dream big.”
Italy’s hopes nosedived when lock Niccolo Cannone was shown a yellow card 10 minutes after the interval for a head-butt on New Zealand scrum-half Cam Roigard.
It was upgraded to red by match officials who deemed it carried a high degree of danger, with no mitigation.
The visitors suffered a series of injuries, including an apparent chest injury to fullback Tommaso Allan, who was stretchered from the field after a lengthy break.
Italy made a dream start when midfielder Tommaso Menoncello crossed in the third minute, finishing off a move he began by busting through Billy Proctor’s attempted tackle and interchanging passes with Malik Faissal.
New Zealand levelled the scores at 7-7 when lock Sam Darry barged over, before the visitors went back in front through a penalty to Allan.
Jordan crossed on the half-hour mark to ensure New Zealand took a narrow advantage into the interval after a scrappy 40 minutes in which they struggled to dent a resolute Italy defence.
“We started really well, we were putting them under pressure,” said Italy captain Michele Lamaro.
“We were trying to compete around the breakdown, we were strong in that area and we put them under pressure with our line speed.