New Zealand Kiwis Triumph in Pacific Championships
The New Zealand Kiwis concluded their Pacific Championships campaign with a commanding 36–14 victory over Toa Samoa at CommBank Stadium. This match marked the final Test for veteran playmaker Kieran Foran, who received a perfect send-off.
Match Overview and Key Performances
Trailing 14–6 at halftime, the Kiwis dominated the second half by scoring 30 unanswered points. Foran played a crucial role in the comeback, linking effectively with Dylan Brown, who delivered an outstanding performance with three try assists, 10 tackle breaks, and 181 running metres.
- Isaiah Papali’i scored two tries.
- Casey McLean, Erin Clark, and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad also crossed the try line.
Clark's strong run early in the second half shifted the game's momentum, and Papali’i’s second try in the 76th minute secured the win.
Notable Player Contributions
- Fullback Keano Kini impressed with 125 metres, six tackle breaks, and four offloads.
- Off the bench, Naufahu Whyte made a massive impact, running 194 metres and achieving seven tackle breaks.
Significance of the Victory
This victory earned New Zealand their second Pacific Cup title in three seasons, reaffirming their status as strong contenders for the 2026 World Cup.
Head coach Stacey Jones praised the team's resilience and leadership, stating, "The leadership of Foran and the team's ability to respond after a tough first half was outstanding."
Overall, the win celebrated New Zealand Rugby League's pride and marked a memorable farewell for one of the Kiwis' most respected players.
Author's Summary
The New Zealand Kiwis achieved a convincing win over Toa Samoa, highlighting veteran Foran's farewell and securing their position as Pacific champions and strong World Cup contenders.