Mataiasi Stark 
[Source: RLWC/ Facebook]
The Vodafone Fiji Bati suffered a heavy 78-0 defeat to tournament favourites New Zealand in their final pool match at Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast.
The Kiwis dominated from the opening minute, running in 13 tries and converting every attempt to complete a commanding performance.
Jahrome Hughes opened the scoring in the first minute before Keano Kini and Casey McLean added further tries as New Zealand raced to an early advantage. The Kiwis continued to pile on the points through Dane Gagai, James Fisher-Harris, Ronaldo Mulitalo, and Xavier Willison to take complete control of the contest.
McLean finished with four tries, while Kini grabbed a double as New Zealand’s attack proved too much for the Bati defence.
Despite battling throughout the match, Fiji was unable to find a way onto the scoreboard against a disciplined New Zealand outfit that completed a perfect attacking display with 13 tries from 13 conversion attempts.
The result sees New Zealand maintain its status as one of the leading contenders for the Rugby League World Cup title, while Fiji bows out of the tournament.
