The All Blacks Sevens have opened their Paris Olympics campaign with wins over Japan and South Africa at Stade de France.
The Tokyo silver medallists claimed a comprehensive victory over Japan first-up, crossing for six tries in a 40-12 victory.
In the final match of the day Moses Leo scored two tries, including a crucial second half effort when New Zealand led 10-5 to give his side a bit of breathing space.
New Zealand claimed a 17-5 win, earning them a spot in the final eight.
The only downside of the victory against the Blitzboks was the potential injury toll as both Ngarohi McGarvey-Black and Regan Ware appeared to suffer shoulder injuries. The former was replaced, the latter stayed on in a limited capacity. Both appear to be in doubt for tomorrow.
Asked about Ware, coach Tomasi Cama said: “We haven’t had a look at it yet. He managed to say on the field – no subs – but we’ll have a look at it tonight and see what the plan is tomorrow."
On McGarvey-Black, he said: "Not sure. The doc and medical team will have a look and go from there."
Key forward Scott Currie spent most of the second half on the sidelines after being forced from the field for a head injury assessment. Currie returned to finish the match.
Tim Mikkelson, Sione Molia and Joe Webber have travelled with the 12-player squad as reserves.
The South Africa game was particularly physical, with New Zealand impressing with their handling skills and discipline.
Cama said: “It’s a pleasing first day. The first game, against Japan, obviously we don’t want to underestimate those guys… the boys played well and against South Africa we’re very pleased to get the result.
“In saying that, we’ve still got another big game tomorrow.”
Cama's advice to his players was: "Don’t play the occasion, just play the game and have fun. It looks like they did that in the last game against South Africa."
Their final pool A match is against Ireland at 2.30am tomorrow. New Zealand will know their quarter-final opponents after the Ireland match.
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