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, marking a memorable farewell for veteran playmaker Kieran Foran in his final Test match.
Second Half Surge Secures Victory
Trailing 14–6 at halftime, the Kiwis dominated the second half, scoring 30 unanswered points. Foran played a key role in the comeback, linking seamlessly with Dylan Brown.
Standout Performances
- Dylan Brown excelled 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.
Erin Clark’s powerful run early in the second half shifted momentum, while Papali’i's second try in the 76th minute sealed the win.
Supporting Players Shine
- Fullback Keano Kini impressed with 125 metres, six tackle breaks, and four offloads.
- Naufahu Whyte made a significant impact off the bench, contributing 194 metres and seven tackle breaks.
Historic Achievement and Future Prospects
This victory secured New Zealand’s second Pacific Cup title in three seasons, reinforcing their status as strong contenders ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Head coach Stacey Jones praised, “The team showed resilience and composure under pressure, led by Foran’s leadership and the squad’s response after a challenging first half.”
The win was a moment of pride for New Zealand Rugby League, celebrating silverware and honoring one of the Kiwis’ most respected players.
Author’s summary: The New Zealand Kiwis’ decisive comeback win over Samoa secured their second Pacific Cup title in three years and provided a fitting farewell to Kieran Foran in his final Test.
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