Tonga celebrate Saturday’s win over New Zealand.Credit:Getty Images
The Tongans monstered New Zealand in the first half,with their pack playing the opening 30 minutes unchanged and running through the Kiwis’ with ease.
Keano Kini was terrorised at the back,while the likes of Fonua-Blake ran roughshod in the middle.
Fonua-Blake scored one of Tonga’s four first-half tries when he dummied and went through a massive gap,as part of his 214 metres for the game.
Jason Taumalolo also had 188 metres in a return to his best,while Sione Katoa was damaging on the wing and crossed for Tonga’s opener.
The Kiwis look on during their one-point loss to Tonga.Credit:Getty Images
Siliva Havili and Soni Luke also both scored out of dummy-half,with the Kiwis out on their feet.
But eventually,the possession began to even out and Tonga suddenly appeared the more fatigued.
After Sitili Tupouniua made Tonga’s first error in the 35th minute,Isaiah Papali’i breathed life into New Zealand when he went over on the right edge.
Loading
Kini got his groove back and began slicing through Tonga’s left edge,while Johnson started to step up in attack and produced a crucial try-saver in defence.
The No.7 put his fullback Kini over for one try,and backed up on a Peta Hiku break to send Phoenix Crossland over for another and make it 24-18.
Joe Tapine also produced a moment of brilliance,with the Kiwi prop toeing a loose ball ahead,regathering and stepping Sione Katoa to score and make it 24-24.
At that point a New Zealand victory appeared inevitable.
But Isaiya Katoa had other ideas,producing the biggest moment of his career and kicking Tonga to one of the greatest sporting victories in their nation’s history.
Sports news,results and expert commentary.Sign up for our Sport newsletter.