Bostock's debut hat-trick lifts Australia past New Zealand
The Kangaroos won their World Cup opener 24-22, with Jack Bostock scoring the decisive try in the 75th minute at Allianz Stadium.
Jack Bostock scored three tries in his first appearance for Australia as the Kangaroos overcame New Zealand 24-22 to open their World Cup campaign. The match drew 41,255 spectators to Allianz Stadium.
The 23-year-old winger claimed the winning try by rising above Dolphins teammate Jamayne Isaako in the 75th minute. Reece Walsh also scored for Australia in his return to action after two months.
Both teams finished with injury concerns. Australian halfback Mitchell Moses left the field shortly after halftime with a calf injury, while New Zealand fullback Kalyn Ponga was unable to complete his Kiwis debut.
Kiwis coach Stacey Jones said Ponga would have scans for a possible arm fracture, with no immediate decision on his availability. Australian coach Kevin Walters said Moses also needed scans.
Casey McLean opened the scoring after three minutes, before Australia responded through intercept tries from Tom Trbojevic and Bostock. With the scores level at 10-10, Australia lost Kotoni Staggs to the sin bin for a professional foul.
Ponga crossed twice after halftime, but Australia prevailed despite New Zealand gaining close to 300 more metres. Walters praised Bostock's contribution in attack and defence after selecting him on the wing, rather than his usual centre position for Redcliffe.
