New Zealand dismantled a spirited Tongan challenge to clinch a 34-10 victory in Newcastle, securing their place in the Rugby League World Cup final. Although Tonga mounted a tenacious first-half assault that briefly put them in command, the Black Ferns’ depth and physicality proved decisive as the match progressed. The hosts will now prepare for a high-stakes showdown next week against either Australia or Samoa, aiming to reclaim their continental dominance in the sport.
Black Ferns crush fading Tongan resistance in Newcastle to book their place in the decider.
The contest featured a dramatic shift in momentum just before the break, with Dane Gagai’s try and Jamayne Isaako’s conversion flipping the scoreline to give New Zealand a slender 12-10 lead at halftime. This crucial reversal neutralized the early impact of Jojo Fifita, whose two tries had initially given the underdogs the upper hand against Briton Nikora’s opening effort. By the time the second half commenced, the momentum had fully shifted, setting the stage for a one-sided affair that would define the remainder of the match.
New Zealand’s second-half performance was a masterclass in controlled aggression, as they ran in four additional tries against fast-tiring Tongan opponents who could not sustain their initial intensity. The 24-point margin in the final quarter underscored the Black Ferns’ superior fitness and tactical execution, effectively ending any hope of a thrilling comeback for Tonga. This comprehensive win not only guarantees New Zealand a spot in the final but also signals their readiness to challenge for the title against the remaining contenders.
Source: The Independent Sport
