Not perfect but New Zealand pleased with discipline


  • Rugby
  • Saturday, 21 Sep 2019

Rugby Union - Rugby World Cup 2019 - Pool B - New Zealand v South Africa - International Stadium Yokohama, Yokohama, Japan - September 21, 2019 New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen reacts after the match REUTERS/Annegret Hilse

YOKOHAMA, Japan (Reuters) - New Zealand were never going to be perfect on day two of the World Cup, coach Steve Hansen said after Saturday's 23-13 Pool B victory over South Africa but he and captain Kieran Read were encouraged by their side's defence and discipline.

Two tries in four brilliant minutes proved the difference in the Pool B opener but the holders struggled to find much rhythm and had to ride out a brief Springbok scare in the second half.

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