Carter leads Steelers to the title

DAN Carter led the Kobe Kobelco Steelers to victory in the Top League final in Japan, thrashing Suntory Sungoliath 55-5 at the Prince Chichibu Memorial Ground.

Carter lined up opposite old foe Matt Giteau at 10, and orchestrated what was to be a one-sided affair.

The win is the Steelers first for 18 years since the inaugural Top League season in 2003-04.

Aussie wing Adam Ashely-Cooper scored in the rout, with Carter kicking six conversions and a penalty.

Steelers head coach Dave Dillon said: “You get what you prepare for and our preparation was awesome, especially leading into this game.”

Last season they finished fifth but they underwent a major overhaul and aside from Carter, new signings included Tom Franklin, Hayden Parker and centre Richard Buckman, adding to the likes of former All Black half-back Andy Ellis and Ashley-Cooper.