MARSEILLE (Reuters) – New Zealand plan to maintain their momentum after an impressive 76-14 win over Italy when they take on Portugal next Saturday while trying not to humiliate the World Cup newcomers. "Clearly there's going to be a gulf in class but you've got to respect the fact it's going to be a huge day for them and for their rugby historically," assistant coach Wayne Smith told the team's official website (www.allblacks.com) yesterday. Asked if they would make any special allowances against the lightweight Portuguese in the scrummage and contact phases, Smith replied: "We will probably discuss that, but you can't disrespect the other team. They have qualified for the World Cup, they are keen to have a crack at us, it's going to be a huge day for them.

"You don't want to be stupid and you don't want to humiliate anyone. Hopefully that won't be the case. Hopefully it will be a contest that people can enjoy and that the players can enjoy. There will be some sensitivity but we have to be aware of keeping our standards high."

Portugal gave a proud and combative display in their 56-10 defeat to Scotland in their opening pool match on Saturday, but facing the might of the All Blacks will be an entirely different matter for a team made up largely of amateur players.

All Black squad member Andrew Hore said that the players would be doing their best to try and ensure they got a place in the team for the crucial matches in the later stages of the competition.

"It's still a test match and a lot of us are still pushing for spots," the reserve hooker told reporters on Monday. "I suppose we don't want to go out there and be silly about it. But we'll see what they've got. We're still playing for New Zealand and the reality is that we want to get out there and do our best."