New Zealand Triumphs Over Samoa in Women's Rugby League World Cup Semi-Final

In a thrilling display of skill and determination, New Zealand's women's rugby league team, the Kiwi Ferns, swept aside Samoa in the semi-finals of the Women's Rugby League World Cup, securing their spot in the upcoming final match. This victory was marked by Stacey Waaka's impressive hat-trick, which not only highlighted her individual prowess but also underscored the collective strength of the Kiwi Ferns.

The match saw New Zealand take an early lead with Mackenzie Wiki scoring the first try of the game. However, the real excitement came towards the end, where the Kiwi Ferns demonstrated their relentless spirit by scoring four tries in the final twelve minutes. These late-game scores were crucial in sealing the win, showcasing the team's ability to maintain focus and intensity until the very end.

Stacey Waaka's performance was particularly noteworthy, as she matched Australia's Jaime Chapman for the most tries in the tournament with nine each. Her contributions did not go unnoticed, with Raecene McGregor playing a pivotal role in setting up one of her tries through a well-timed kick. Additionally, Mele Hufanga, Kaiyah Atai, and Raecene McGregor all added to the scoreline in the closing stages, further cementing New Zealand's dominance.

Samoa, known as Fetu Samoa, faced challenges throughout the match, struggling with handling errors and failing to capitalize on advantageous field positions. Despite these setbacks, the team showed resilience and determination, with Anastasia Leatupue making her international debut, adding a fresh dimension to their lineup.

With this victory, New Zealand advances to face either Australia or Fiji in the final, continuing their impressive streak of reaching the final seven consecutive times. This consistent success highlights the depth and quality of the Kiwi Ferns, making them formidable opponents in any competition.

What we know

• - ¹² New Zealand defeated Samoa in the Women's Rugby League World Cup semi-final.
• - ¹² New Zealand will face Australia or Fiji in the final.
• - ¹² Stacey Waaka scored three tries for New Zealand.
• - ¹ New Zealand has reached the final seven times consecutively.
• - ¹ Samoa struggled with handling errors and failed to capitalize on field position.
• - ¹ Anastasia Leatupue made her international debut for Samoa.
• - ² New Zealand's team is called the Kiwi Ferns.
• - ² Samoa's team is referred to as Fetu Samoa.
• - ² Waaka and Australia's Jaime Chapman are tied for the most tries in the tournament with nine each.
• - ² New Zealand's Mackenzie Wiki scored the first try of the game.
• - ² New Zealand scored four tries in the last 12 minutes of the game.
• - ² Raecene McGregor contributed to Waaka's first try by kicking the ball.
• - ² Mele Hufanga, Kaiyah Atai, and Raecene McGregor all scored tries in the final 12 minutes.