All Whites coach Anthony Hudson was pleased with his side's 2-0 win over New Caledonia in their World Cup qualifier at QBE Stadium in Albany.
But Hudson still sees plenty of room for improvement, as the All Whites missed a number of opportunities. Still, Hudson was happy his side kept the Les Cagous scoreless.
"It was a solid win and a good start to the qualification campaign," said Hudson.
"We had many chances, kept a clean sheet, and we can do so much better, but I'm very happy with the team's performance today.
"There were a couple of moments where they caused us problems, but I never felt any pressure from the touchline, and as the game wore on we got stronger."
The All Whites made countless opportunities to add to their two goals, but they failed to convert, and Hudson puts that down to the lack of matches his side has played in New Zealand.
It was the first time since May 2014 and 13 matches since the All Whites last played in New Zealand when they faced South Africa at Mount Smart Stadium.
"When we haven't played at home for long time, we're not just going to turn up and play and all express ourselves.
"There was an expectation from everyone we have to come out and play all this great football and entertain, and we want to do that, but there was a little bit of tension there.
"But overall we were very solid and they probably only had one real chance and couple half-chances."
The All Whites will depart for New Caledonia tomorrow ahead of Tuesday's clash in Kone.
Also in their pool is Fiji, whom New Zealand play home and away in March.
Newshub.
