Live: NZ Kiwis v Toa Samoa - Pacific Championships Final
Trailing 14-6 at halftime, the New Zealand team kept Toa Samoa scoreless after the break, scoring five tries to secure a 36-14 victory at CommBank Stadium in Sydney. This win awarded coach Stacey Jones' side the Pacific Championship title, maintaining an unbeaten record throughout the campaign.
Key Moments and Players
The match turned in favor of New Zealand when second-rowers Isaiah Papali'i and Erin Clark scored within 10 minutes of each other before the hour mark. Both players, former Samoan internationals, made significant contributions, benefiting from the effective halves pairing of Dylan Brown and Kieran Foran.
"A massive second half has seen NZ Kiwis defeat Toa Samoa 36-14 at CommBank Stadium in Sydney."
First Half Highlights
- Samoa initially took the lead with a try from wing Brian To'o after 10 minutes.
- Simi Sasagi then intercepted a Foran pass and sprinted almost the full length of the field to score.
- New Zealand's interchange forward Naufahu Whyte responded with a try, closing the first half at 14-6.
Second Half Dominance
Determined to control possession, the Kiwis dominated play in the second half, patiently breaking down the Samoan defense. Papali'i and Clark’s tries marked the shift in momentum. Later, Dylan Brown's skillful run along the left edge set up Casey McLean for another try, firmly securing the win.
"By the time Brown danced his way through the left edge to set up Casey McLean to score, the momentum was so well and truly with the Kiwis that they'd completed a full 10 sets more than the Samoans."
Match Impact
This victory crowned the NZ Kiwis Pacific Championship winners, highlighting strong teamwork, resilience, and strategic execution.
Summary: The NZ Kiwis came from behind with a dominant second half to win the Pacific Championship final 36-14 against Toa Samoa, showcasing skillful teamwork and strategic control.