2015 Rugby World Cup results: New Zealand records 9 tries to brush off minnow Namibia

New Zealand is now at the top of Pool C of the 2015 Rugby World Cup after thrashing rugby minnows Namibia 58-14 at London Olympic Stadium on Friday. The All Blacks stormed towards victory by scoring a total of nine tries against the 20th seed Namibian team.

A huge blowout victory was expected of New Zealand in the group stage match of the RWC against a valiant Namibia, but the All Blacks failed to materialise as the tournament favourites, stuttering through the gears and unable to keep the errors out of their game. The defending champions showed a lack of patience and flat-footed attacks, resulting in stop-start plays spoiled by a referee, who searched for TMO calls or resetting scrums.

Coach Steve Hansen admitted that despite the frustration during the game, Namibia was able to put up a fight against the world No. 1 New Zealand. Hansen acknowledged that Namibia were “worthy opponents” who considerably improved in this year’s World Cup.

“The scoreboard would suggest that’s the case,” Hansen told the Rugby World’s official website. “World Rugby has spent quite a bit of money to try to improve sides, and I think the so-called minnows, for want of a better word, have played well so far.”

The All Blacks managed a rapid start in the game, with Beauden Barrett kicking a penalty just three minutes after kickoff followed by No. 8 Victor Vito, who scored the team’s first try in the sixth-minute mark. New Zealand scored five tries heading into the second half, while Namibia only managed two penalty kicks courtesy of Theuns Kotze.

Despite the loss, Namibia captain Jacques Burger was pleased with how their team became stronger as the game wore on, denying the All Blacks to the century of points that some had expected. Burger, the Saracens’ brute, came off with 15 minutes left to preserve him for the team’s next clashes against Tonga and Georgia.

"New Zealand have given some really good sides some good hidings but we wanted -- made them work for every bit, and towards the end we got into our stride a little bit," Burger said, according to 3 News. "Hopefully against Tonga we'll be a lot sharper."

Namibia will visit Sandy Park to take on Tonga, who lost its tournament opener against Georgia 17-10. New Zealand, on the other hand, will have an eight-day break until they face Georgia in their third game of the Rugby World Cup.

Contact the writer at feedback@ibtimes.com.au, or let us know what you think below.