Pacific Championship Rugby League: NZ Kiwis vs Toa Samoa Men's Final
The NZ Kiwis and Toa Samoa face off again after a close match three weeks ago, with New Zealand narrowly escaping victory.
Match Details
- Kickoff: 6.05pm Sunday, 9 November
- Venue: Go Media Stadium
Previous Encounters
Toa Samoa have never beaten the NZ Kiwis in six meetings. However, they came very close in their most recent clash, where they missed key scoring chances in the final 10 minutes, losing 24-18.
"They bombed at least two prime scoring opportunities in the final 10 minutes of a 24-18 defeat at Go Media Stadium."
In 2014, New Zealand narrowly defeated Samoa 14-12 in Whangārei, aided by a late try from centre Shaun Kenny-Dowall, ultimately helping New Zealand win the Four Nations title.
Notable Results
Some matches have had large score differences. In 2023, the Kiwis dominated with a 50-0 win, boosted by try doubles from Jamayne Isaako and Ronaldo Mulitalo, with Isaako converting seven tries.
Rivalry Evolution
Traditionally, Samoa was seen as a warm-up team for bigger nations, but the influx of top-tier players linking to their Pacific heritage has intensified this rivalry. Samoa established themselves as serious contenders by reaching the 2022 Rugby League World Cup final.
"They reached the final of the 2022 Rugby League World Cup, losing 60-6 to England in pool play, but turning the tables 27-26 in the semis, before losing 30-10 to Australia in the final."
This growing competitiveness has given the matches between the Kiwis and Toa Samoa greater significance on the international rugby league stage.
Photo Credit
Photo: Brett Phibbs/www.photosport.nz