LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
In a dominant performance, Jamayne Isaako made a double in his first game for the Kiwis since 2019, helping New Zealand secure a commanding 50-0 win over Samoa in the Pacific Championships clash at Eden Park.
Isaako, who was named the Ken Irvine Medallist for his impressive 24 tries during the Telstra Premiership season, added two more tries to his tally, giving the Kiwis an early lead that they would maintain throughout the game.
This victory also marked New Zealand's first shut-out win on home soil in over two decades.
The Kiwis showcased their power through the middle and excellent work from their outside backs, making it difficult for Samoa to generate sustained attacking pressure or make significant gains.
Captain James Fisher-Harris, Moses Leota, and Joseph Tapine were standout performers for the Kiwis, with Nelson Asofa-Solomona also contributing with a try off the bench.
The team's next challenge will be a highly anticipated clash against Australia in Melbourne, where they will face formidable opponents such as Tino Fa'asuamaleaui and Payne Haas.
Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, who was chosen as the fullback ahead of Golden Boot winner Joseph Manu, had an early impact for the Kiwis.
His clever cut-out pass set up Isaako for the first points of the game after 13 minutes.
Isaako continued to impress, sprinting down the sideline for another try following a skillful run from Matt Timoko.
Joseph Tapine then sent Jahrome Hughes over for a try, extending the Kiwis' lead to 12-0 at the end of the set.