Three takeaways: Kiwis vs Leeds

Peta Hiku formed a rookie halves pairing with Tui Lolohea. Photo / Getty

Michael Burgess lists his three takeaways from the Kiwis' 34-16 win over Leeds this morning.

Luke takes the load

Issac Luke was the `everywhere and anywhere' man for the Kiwis at Headingley. On his debut as co-captain, he took the kick offs, the penalty kicks for the sideline and the conversions. He ran things from dummy half, sparked the breaks that led to the first two tries and helped to guide Tui Lolohea and Peta Hiku around the park. For good measure he also led two hakas - the second one at the end of the game to farewell departing Leeds players Kylie Leuluai and Ali Lauitiiti - and fronted the media in the press conference.

Tuivasa-Sheck is ready to dazzle

Roger Tuivasa Sheck's first touch against Leeds set the tone for the night. He scooped up the ball at full pace then beat two defenders with a step and sharp acceleration. In the first half the full back thwarted three Leeds' breaks with precise cover tackles, then in the second spell found the space to score two tries and create another one.

Plenty of homework for the halves

The Kiwis now have nine days before the first test against England next Sunday (Monday NZT) and they'll need to use that time wisely. The rookie halves pairing of Tui Lolohea and Peta Hiku didn't lack for effort but for long periods struggled to impose themselves on the game. The Kiwis' kicking game and organization was below-par in the first half and any kind of repeat will cause real problems against England.