The New Zealand rugby league team have suffered another defeat at the hands of Australia, going down 26-12 in their Four Nations tournament opener in Warrington.
The reigning champion Kiwis trailed the Kangaroos 16-0 at half-time but rallied back with two quick tries early in the second stanza to narrow the margin to just four points.
However the men in black couldn't hold out the green and golds who scored soon after before adding another shortly before full-time to put the game beyond doubt.
Despite conceding a try in the opening minutes it was a much improved performance from Stephen Kearney's men but he must be wondering what he needs to do to inspire the defending champions to break their recent hoodoo against the Kangaroos.
New Zealand's next game is against Wales at Wembley next Sunday morning and now shapes as a must-win for the Kiwis.
