The Kobelco Steelers thrashed the Suntory Sungoliath 55-5 in the Japanese Top League final.

The Steelers scored eight tries, with All Blacks legend Dan Carter slotting five conversions and one penalty.

It was Kobelco’s first title since winning the inaugural Top League in 2003-04.

Carter, who is on a two-year deal with the Steelers, credited their solid defence with the victory, saying: ‘That’s probably something we are more proud of than the 50 points we scored.’