Rugby sevens: NZ outclass Korea in Hong Kong

Declan O'Donnell, Toby Arnold and Buxton Popoalii of New Zealand celebrate a try. Photo / Getty Images

Declan O'Donnell scored a hat-trick and Buxton Popoalii notched 26 points as New Zealand thrashed Korea 61-0 in their opening pool match at the Hong Kong sevens rugby tournament in Hong Kong tonight.

The Koreans fought hard to the end but were predictably outclassed by a New Zealand team resting several key players, including captain DJ Forbes, playmaker Tomasi Cama and rising star Frank Halai.

O'Donnell didn't raise a sweat in crossing for three simple tries while Popoalii and Toby Arnold each scored a brace of five-pointers, Popoalii converting eight of New Zealand's nine tries for a personal haul of 26 points.

New Zealand's remaining pool A matches against Portugal and France are tomorrow night.

Coach Gordon Tietjens' team jointly lead the world series with England on 80 points.

New Zealand 61 (Declan O'Donnell 3, Buxton Popoalii 2, Toby Arnold 2, Bryce Heem, Solomon King tries; Popoalii 8 con) Korea 0. Halftime: 21-0.

- NZPA