A Try Every Day of the Week: Kiwis Defeat Samoa to Claim Pacific Championship
The final match of the 2025 rugby calendar featured an intense showdown between Samoa and New Zealand, both demonstrating their ability to challenge Australia’s dominance at the upcoming World Cup. Each team combined strong forward power with impressive skill and speed in the wider play, highlighting their potential to disrupt the Kangaroos' global reign next year.
New Zealand's Comeback Victory
New Zealand overcame an eight-point deficit to convincingly beat Samoa 36-14 in a thrilling display of international rugby league at the Pacific Championships final.
Standout Performances
- Dylan Brown, recently signed by the Knights, extended his excellent form by delivering three try assists, 10 tackle breaks, and a line break, fueling hope for Newcastle fans that he could resolve New Zealand’s long-standing attacking issues.
- The relentless middle-forward drive came from James Fisher-Harris, Joseph Tapine, Naufahu Whyte, and Moses Leota, underpinning the team’s dominance.
- Payne Haas was a formidable presence for Samoa, maintaining impressive intensity even as his team struggled to keep pace in the second half.
New Zealand commanded over 60% possession in the latter half, wearing down Samoa’s resistance despite their never-say-die attitude.
“These Kiwis will have no weaknesses if they are at full strength for the World Cup,”
noted the impact of Jahrome Hughes’ anticipated return to the lineup.
Memorable Moment
Deine Mariner made a notable play hitting the line in Dylan Brown’s tackle, a snapshot of the fierce competition on the field.
Author’s summary: New Zealand’s comeback win over Samoa in the Pacific final signals their growing threat to Australia, with key players showing promising form ahead of the 2026 World Cup.