Kiwis Triumph Over Samoa to Claim Pacific Rugby Crown
The final game of the 2025 rugby calendar delivered an electrifying performance, as Samoa and New Zealand demonstrated their capacity to challenge Australia’s dominance at next year’s World Cup. Both teams combined powerful forwards with quick, skilled backs, creating a thrilling contest in the Pacific Championships final.
New Zealand's Comeback and Dominance
New Zealand overturned an eight-point deficit to decisively defeat Samoa 36-14, showcasing outstanding international rugby league. Key contributions came from Dylan Brown, a recent Knights recruit, who impressed in the black jersey by capitalizing on the fierce support from forwards James Fisher-Harris, Joseph Tapine, Naufahu Whyte, and Moses Leota.
- Dylan Brown registered three try assists.
- He achieved 10 tackle breaks and one line break.
- His performance ignited hope among Newcastle fans that he might resolve the team’s long-term attacking challenges.
Strengthening the Lineup
With the expected return of Jahrome Hughes, the Kiwis are poised to be formidable contenders with no apparent weaknesses at full strength for the upcoming World Cup.
Samoa’s Resilience and Key Performances
Samoa’s Payne Haas stood out with an immense effort, maintaining intensity despite the team succumbing to fatigue in the second half, as New Zealand controlled over 60% of the possession.
“Deine Mariner hits the line in Dylan Brown’s tackle.”
Looking Ahead
Both teams’ blend of power and agility signals a strong challenge to Australia’s reign in international rugby league.
Author’s summary: New Zealand's resilient comeback and stellar individual performances secured a commanding win over Samoa, setting both teams as serious threats to Australia's future rugby league supremacy.