The Pacific Championships witnessed a thrilling display of rugby league prowess, with New Zealand's men and Australia's women emerging victorious. In a nail-biting final, the Kiwis staged a remarkable comeback, overcoming Samoa 36-14 in Parramatta, Australia. This triumph marked a fitting send-off for veteran half-back Kieran Foran, who brought his illustrious 16-year international career to a close with a stellar performance.
Foran, aged 35, played a pivotal role in New Zealand's second Pacific Championship title in three years. His leadership and skill were instrumental in the team's success. Meanwhile, Australia's women dominated the women's final, securing their status as world number ones. The Jillaroos, who started the year with a resounding 90-4 victory over England in Las Vegas, showcased their prowess once again, beating New Zealand 40-8 at the Western Sydney Stadium.
The women's victory came just a day after Australia's men clinched a 3-0 Rugby League Ashes series win in England. However, the men's Pacific Championship was devoid of the world champions due to their commitment to touring England. Samoa, who had lost to the Kangaroos in the World Cup final at Old Trafford three years prior, entered the final with high hopes, leading New Zealand 12-0 early on. But the Kiwis fought back, with Naufahu Whyte's tries narrowing the gap to 14-6 at halftime.
The second half witnessed a display of New Zealand's resilience, as they scored five unanswered tries. Interchange forwards Erin Clark and Dylan Brown, along with Foran, played pivotal roles in the comeback. Foran and stand-off Brown's seamless combination led to Isaiah Papali'i's first try shortly after halftime. After a penalty kick levelled the scores, New Zealand's pace intensified, with Clark, Casey McLean, Papali'i, and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad scoring tries against the tiring Samoans, delighting the retiring Foran.
Foran expressed his deep desire for New Zealand's success, emphasizing the significance of playing for his country. He announced his retirement from the NRL at the end of the season, after three years with the Gold Coast Titans, and will rejoin his first club, the Manly Sea Eagles, as an assistant coach. Australia's women, who conceded only four points in last year's Pacific Championship, maintained their dominance, conceding only 10 points in the group stage and 8 in the final, showcasing their unwavering prowess.
New Zealand tested them in the group stage, losing narrowly 10-4 in Auckland. However, the Jillaroos, who began the tournament with a 60-0 victory over Samoa, dominated the final, leading 24-0 after 33 minutes. Despite Shanice Parker and Tysha Ikenasio's tries for New Zealand in the second half, Australia's comprehensive win of 40-8 solidified their status as the top women's rugby league team in the world.
