New Zealand Kiwis Triumph in Pacific Championships
The New Zealand Kiwis concluded their Pacific Championships journey with a commanding 36–14 win over Toa Samoa at CommBank Stadium, giving veteran playmaker Kieran Foran a memorable farewell in his final Test match.
Comeback and Second-Half Dominance
After trailing 14–6 at halftime, the Kiwis surged back to produce a dominant second half, scoring 30 unanswered points. Kieran Foran played a key role in sparking the revival, working seamlessly alongside Dylan Brown, who delivered an exceptional performance with three try assists, 10 tackle breaks, and 181 running metres.
Standout Performers
- Isaiah Papali’i crossed for two tries, with his second in the 76th minute sealing the victory.
- Casey McLean, Erin Clark, and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad each contributed tries.
- Erin Clark’s powerful run early in the second half turned the tide of the match.
- Fullback Keano Kini impressed again, gaining 125 metres, six tackle breaks, and four offloads.
- Naufahu Whyte added strong support off the bench with 194 metres and seven tackle breaks.
Coach’s Reflections
Head coach Stacey Jones praised his team’s resilience and calm under pressure, acknowledging the leadership of Kieran Foran and the squad’s ability to regroup after a difficult first half.
A Fitting Farewell and Bright Future
The victory marked New Zealand’s second Pacific Cup title in three years and reaffirmed their status as a top contender heading into the 2026 World Cup. The night celebrated not only silverware but also Kieran Foran’s enduring legacy in New Zealand Rugby League.
Author’s Summary
The Kiwis sealed their Pacific Cup success with a spirited comeback, honoring Kieran Foran’s final Test while reaffirming their strength ahead of the next World Cup.