All Golds grab glory
New Zealand got an early blow in ahead of the Test series with Great Britain as the All Golds beat the Northern Union side 25-18.
Last Updated: 20/10/07 9:09pm
New Zealand got an early blow in ahead of the Test series with Great Britain as the All Golds won their centenary international against the Northern Union side 25-18 at Warrington.
Although labelled as a celebration match, with most of the two sides set to figure in the upcoming Test series between Great Britain and New Zealand, it was never going to be a friendly.
Retiring Kiwi legend Stacey Jones perhaps inevitably had the last say with the final scoring touch, after he came out o f retirement to end his glittering career with five conversions.
Great Britain coach Tony Smith had himself labelled the match as a fourth Test, but he was left with much to think about after the final whistle.
The match was held under 1907 rules as part of the celebrations, saw an injury worry for Smith with Kirk Yeaman limping off - while Adrian Morley and Danny Tickle were both placed on report for alleged high tackles.
Danny McGuire grabbed the first of his two tries on 13 minutes, but Ali Lauitiiti countered with two tries in four minutes, while Greg Eastwood also forced his way over to hand the All Golds a 15-5 half time lead.
McGuire's second and a try from hooker Jon Clarke levelled the score for the home side, and Yeaman's score on the hour gave the Northern Union the lead.
Louis Anderson scampered over on 65 minutes and Clinton Toopi scored a decisive fifth try for the Kiwis right on full time.
