A Try Every Day: Kiwis Defeat Samoa to Claim Pacific Rugby Title
The final game on the 2025 rugby calendar delivered an outstanding contest as Samoa and New Zealand demonstrated their potential to challenge Australia at next year’s World Cup.
Both teams impressed with strong forward packs and swift, skillful play on the wings, signaling a possible end to Australia's dominance in international rugby league.
New Zealand’s Comeback and Key Performers
New Zealand overturned an eight-point deficit to secure a 36-14 victory over Samoa in the Pacific Championships final, showcasing elite international rugby league.
Knights recruit Dylan Brown continued his excellent form, capitalizing on the relentless forward pressure from teammates James Fisher-Harris, Joseph Tapine, Naufahu Whyte, and Moses Leota.
- Brown contributed three try assists
- Achieved 10 tackle breaks
- Recorded his own line break
This strong performance offers hope to Newcastle fans that Brown may solve the team’s long-standing attacking challenges.
Full Strength Kiwis Set for the World Cup
With Jahrome Hughes expected to return, the New Zealand squad will be incredibly balanced and formidable when at full strength for the upcoming World Cup.
Samoa’s Resilience
Despite the loss, Samoa’s Payne Haas stood out with a massive performance by his own high standards.
“Samoa never surrendered despite running out of steam in the second half due to the Kiwis commanding upwards of 60% of overall possession.”
Samoa fought hard but ultimately couldn’t match the Kiwis’ possession dominance.
Summary
New Zealand overcame early challenges to dominate Samoa, highlighting both teams' rising capabilities and setting the stage for a competitive World Cup where the Kiwis look especially strong.
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