A Try Every Day of the Week: New Zealand Dominates Samoa to Claim Pacific Title
The final match of the 2025 rugby calendar proved to be a thrilling display as Samoa and New Zealand both demonstrated their ability to challenge the Kangaroos at next year’s World Cup.
With both sides boasting powerful forwards and speedy, skilled players on the wings, they show potential to shake up Australia’s global supremacy in rugby league.
New Zealand’s Comeback Victory
New Zealand overcame an eight-point deficit to decisively defeat Samoa 36-14 in a spectacular Pacific Championships final. This performance highlighted the Kiwis’ strength and teamwork on the international stage.
Standout Performances
- Dylan Brown, recently signed by the Knights, excelled in the black jersey, contributing significantly to the middle-forward momentum driven by James Fisher-Harris, Joseph Tapine, Naufahu Whyte, and Moses Leota.
- Brown delivered three try assists, 10 tackle breaks, and a line break, offering hope to Newcastle fans that he could resolve the team’s long-standing attacking challenges.
- With Jahrome Hughes expected to return, the Kiwis will be even stronger, posing no weaknesses if fielding their full-strength squad in the World Cup.
- Payne Haas was dominant for Samoa, displaying immense effort even as his team tired in the second half under New Zealand’s controlling possession, which exceeded 60%.
"The Kiwis commanding upwards of 60% of overall possession showed their control and determination," highlighting Samoa's resilience despite the challenge.
The match affirmed New Zealand’s readiness to contend strongly in the upcoming World Cup, showcasing depth, skill, and strategic dominance in the Pacific rugby league scene.
Author’s summary: New Zealand surged past Samoa in the Pacific final with a commanding display, fueled by Dylan Brown’s brilliance and a formidable forward pack, positioning themselves as strong World Cup contenders.