New Zealand Kiwis Triumph in Pacific Championships
The New Zealand Kiwis sealed 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.
Match Summary
Despite trailing 14–6 at halftime, the Kiwis surged back with an impressive 30 unanswered points in the second half. Foran played a key role in this comeback, linking effectively with Dylan Brown, who delivered a standout performance including three try assists, 10 tackle breaks, and 181 running metres.
Key Players and Highlights
- Isaiah Papali’i scored two tries, boosting the team's momentum.
- Casey McLean, Erin Clark, and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad also crossed the try line.
- Clark’s powerful run early in the second half shifted the game’s momentum in New Zealand’s favor.
- Keano Kini had a breakout tournament performance with 125 metres, six tackle breaks, and four offloads.
- Naufahu Whyte made a significant impact off the bench, accumulating 194 metres and seven tackle breaks.
Coach's Comments and Legacy
Head coach Stacey Jones praised his side's resilience and calmness under pressure, highlighting Foran’s leadership and the team’s ability to recover after a challenging first half.
The victory secured New Zealand's second Pacific Cup title in three seasons and reinforced their status as strong contenders for the 2026 World Cup.
Match Closer
Papali’i’s second try in the 76th minute effectively sealed the game, capping a night of pride and celebration for New Zealand Rugby League and honoring one of their most respected players.
Author’s Summary
New Zealand Kiwis delivered a dominant second-half performance to win the Pacific Championships and celebrate Kieran Foran’s distinguished career in his final Test match.
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