By Lestyn - 11/10/03
October 11 2003

The All Blacks kicked their World cup off in emphatic style, running in 11 tries in a 70 points to seven win over a hapless Italian side. Winger Joe Rockocko was in electric form, scoring two tries himself and setting up several others.

But it was not all god news for the Group D favorites, as star centre Tana Umaga limped out of the tournament with damaged knee ligaments, which could be good news for Wales and their probable damage limitation plan against the All Blacks.

Elsewhere France went on to thrash Fiji 61-18, in what was a tight game for the opening 50 minutes. Even if they were on the end of a hammering, the south sea Islanders still scored the try of the day. Auckland Blues winger Rupeni Caucaunibuca showed why New Zealand were so desperate to make him an All Black, with a dazzling run from half way. The opening minutes of the second half did give the Fijians hope, only for the French to break lose and punish a tiring side.

Ireland were far from convincing in there 45-17 win over Romania in Gosford, although it was a game heavily affected by blustery conditions. Keith Wood and Brian O'Driscoll both picked up knocks, but should return for next Sunday's tie with Namibia. Eddie O'Sullivan's side will have to improve their discipline greatly and shake off any of the clear rustiness shown if their going to compete with either the Aussies or Argentine's.

Today's final match saw South Africa beat Uruguay 72-6, but the Boks were far from impressive, particularly in the front five, where they lacked little fight. Credit must go to the Uruguayans who despite their financial problems still competed with the South Africans in most area's but couldn't cope in defence. Notably all four of the big nations got a try scoring bonus points, this possibly could be a pattern for the rest of the tournament.