The New Zealand Womens Futsal team exploded out of the blocks and stamped their mark as a tournament favourite after they demolished Chinese side Panyu Shilou 12 nil in their opening game.

Australia still loom as the team to beat but all eyes were on the Kiwi's as they went about their business scoring 6 in each half led by 4 goals from Aimee Phillips who was outstanding all game. Loren Harkerss chimed in with 3, Lucy Chan 2 with further goals to Chloe Williams, Kirsty butland and player of the match Tina Bosscher.

In stark contrast to the previous day, the weather was fine and sunny which was a relief to tournament organisers who are playing the games outdoors in Guangzhou's CBD. Large crowds were on hand for all games as South China Vikings look to grow the game by taking it to the people.

New Zealand Coach, Paul Wadsworth, was more than satisfied with the first hit out, especially with the girls concentration. "New Zealand sides have a tendancy to swich off during games, but today they showed they can concentrate for the entire game". The most impressive state for the Kiwi's was there were no recorded shots on goal against them. "The defence was fantastic, working as a unit and snuffing out any chances", said Wadsworth.

New Zealand will play Chendu on Saturday at 3pm (8pm nz) and Foshan at 5pm (10pm nz)

In other games Australia made hard work of it against the Philippines winning 6-0 although you got the feeling they really didn't get out of second gear and Foshan were very convincing against Chengdu 9-0