The Kiwi Ferns delivered a statement performance at McDonald Jones Stadium, overwhelming Samoa 32-0 in their Rugby League World Cup semifinal to book a place in the tournament decider.
New Zealand’s women’s rugby league side was ruthless from start to finish, with the scoreline reflecting their complete control of the match. The semifinal showcased the depth of attacking talent within the squad, as tries flowed consistently throughout the encounter.
Waaka’s Clinical Display
Stacey Waaka was the standout performer in the New Zealand backline, registering a hat-trick to lead the try-scoring charts. Her three tries exemplified the clinical finishing that defined the Kiwi Ferns’ display against the Samoan defense.
Tries Across the Squad
The offensive firepower extended well beyond Waaka’s individual brilliance. Mackenzie Wiki crossed for a try, as did Mele Hufanga, Kaiyah Atai, and Raecene McGregor, distributing the tries among five different scorers and underlining New Zealand’s attacking depth.
The semifinal victory at McDonald Jones Stadium sends the Kiwi Ferns through to the Rugby League World Cup final with genuine momentum behind them. Their 32-0 demolition of Samoa represented one of the tournament’s most dominant performances, with no points conceded and multiple attacking weapons finding the try line with ease. The combination of Waaka’s individual brilliance and tries from Wiki, Hufanga, Atai, and McGregor demonstrated a squad firing on all cylinders as they prepare for the championship match ahead.