Cook Islands Secure World Cup Spot with Dominant Win over South Africa
The Cook Islands have qualified for their fourth Rugby League World Cup after a commanding 58-6 victory against South Africa at CommBank Stadium. Led by Warriors star Marata Niukore, the Pacific team showcased superior skill throughout the match.
Match Overview
Despite fielding no NRL players and only a handful from the State Cup, South Africa started strong, leading 6-4 early in the game. However, prop Davvy Moale's powerful run through three defenders to score made it 10-6 and began to shift the momentum decisively.
Key Moments Before Halftime
- Esan Marsters and Marata Niukore scored tries within five minutes of each other, extending the Cook Islands' lead.
Second Half Domination
- Five-eighth Cassius Cowley scored two impressive tries.
- Niukore completed his double with another well-executed run.
- Brendan Piakura scored the try of the game by cutting through defenders on halfway and outmaneuvering South Africa’s fullback.
- Cronulla star KL Iro finished off a 60-metre effort following an offload from Rua Ngatikaura and a clever pass by Cowley.
"Cook Islands were celebrating their fourth World Cup appearance."
This resounding win has secured the Cook Islands a place in next year’s Rugby League World Cup, confirming their continued presence on the international stage.
Summary: The Cook Islands qualified for their fourth Rugby League World Cup by overwhelming South Africa 58-6, demonstrating superior skill and teamwork without any NRL players on their side.
More News
- Puerto Rico: Beauty, Pride, and Honest Perspective
- 🚨 La santé de Bruce Willis, 70 ans, est en train de décliner
- Will the AI Boom Go Bust? | BBC News – Exploring the Future of Artificial Intelligence
- New AI chip may challenge Nvidia’s long-held dominance in critical computing technology
- THE 10 BEST Restaurants in Paris (Updated November 2025): Diverse Culinary Experiences and Top Local Favorites
- Term limits will not make Congress work better
- Championship: Sheffield United Lead Leicester 3-1; Hull Level at Stoke; Bristol City Ahead of Portsmouth
- Opinion - When Puerto Rico was offered independence — and one man turned it down
- Bijoux Divoire présente un ensemble en or plaqué zircon en édition limitée
- Recommandations de restaurants près de Paris à Las Vegas