JAMAICA SCORED their first try in a Rugby League World Cup in their 68-6 to New Zealand in Hull.

The Kiwis took no time to settle into the match, with winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak crashing over in the corner after just four minutes.

The 27 year-old enjoyed quite the first half, scoring a magnificent hat-trick and assisting two tries. This, plus great scores by Marata Nikuore and Sebastian Kris, gave Michael Maguire’s men a comprehensive 34-0 lead heading into the break.

The 2008 World Cup winners didn’t take their foot off the gas in the second half either, scoring another 34 points in just 31 minutes. The highlight had to be Watene-Zelezniak’s fourth.

A sweeping team move released the New Zealand Warriors winger, who produced an incredible, acrobatic finish despite being in some discomfort from cramp.

But the moment of the match came from Romeo Monteith’s side just five minutes from time. A dangerous kick through was fumbled by the New Zealand fullback and pounced upon by Ben Jones-Bishop, who kicked the ball forward before grounding it just to the left of the posts. It was nothing more than the Reggae Warriors deserved for how hard they’d worked against a world class team and sparked wild celebrations both on and off the pitch.

Despite heavy defeats in both of their matches so far, which mean they’re unable to qualify for the knock-out stage of England 2021, there is definite potential in this Jamaica team.

Their work ethic is as good as anyone’s and with exciting youngsters like Kieran Rush and Ajahni Wallace in their ranks, there’s no doubt that they can go on and assert themselves in future tournaments and give Lebanon a good game next week.

That clash with Michael Cheika’s men takes place next Sunday at the Leigh Sports Village.

Meanwhile, New Zealand, who’ve already qualified for the next part of this World Cup, face Ireland in Leeds.