New Zealand into semis with statement win over Fiji

New Zealand deliver a statement victory as they thrash Fiji 78-0 to book their place in the Rugby League World Cup semi-finals. Casey McLean (left) has scored seven tries at this World Cup New Zealand delivered a statement victory as they thrashed Fiji 78-0 to book their place in the Rugby League World Cup semi-finals. The Kiwis established a 24-0 lead with four converted tries in the opening 13 minutes as Fiji – who pushed reigning champions Australia close a week ago – had no response on Australia's Gold Coast. Fiji conceded eight tries in the first half and five in a fiery second period, during which half-back Brandon Wakeham was sent off along with New Zealand winger Ronaldo Mulitalo.

Centre Casey McLean claimed four tries, Keano Kini scored two and Jahrome Hughes, Dane Gagai, James Fisher-Harris, Mulitalo, Xavier Willison, Briton Nikora and Erin Clark also crossed for Stacey Jones' team. "Pretty special and pleased about how we went about our business," said New Zealand captain Fisher-Harris. "Fiji are a good team but I thought we played really well. It was a battle of the forwards." Fiji's woes were not confined to the scoreline, with captain Apisai Koroisau suffering a suspected broken jaw as he clashed heads with Joseph Tapine in the eighth minute. Semi Valemei, who impressed with a