New Zealand Survive Fiji Scare

New Zealand’s women recovered from a half-time deficit to beat World Cup debutants Fiji 18-12, while Fiji’s men opened their tournament with a 40-12 victory over the Cook Islands.

Fiji Push New Zealand to the Brink

New Zealand were expected to win comfortably in Newcastle but were forced into a tough battle after Fiji fought back from an early setback. The Ferns led through Stacey Waaka’s opening try before Fiji responded with scores from Losana Lutu and Sienna Laing to move ahead. Waaka’s second try reduced the deficit, leaving New Zealand trailing 12-10 at half-time.

Ferns Rally to Secure Victory

Fiji continued to frustrate New Zealand with strong defence after the break. Zehara Temara’s penalty kicks brought the scores level and then put the Ferns ahead. The victory was finally secured in the closing minutes when Raecene McGregor’s cross-field kick found Leianne Tufuga, who scored to complete the 18-12 win.

Henry Calls Defeat Scare a Wake-Up Call

New Zealand coach Ricky Henry admitted his team had fallen short of expectations despite finding a way to win. He said the players had moved away from their game plan and described the performance as a wake-up call. The Ferns have reached every previous Women’s Rugby League World Cup final, winning the first three before finishing runners-up to Australia in the last three tournaments.

Georgia Hale Criticises Untidy Performance

New Zealand player Georgia Hale said Fiji had played without pressure and tested her team throughout the match. She described the Ferns’ performance as ill-disciplined and untidy, adding that they had made the game harder than necessary. New Zealand will next face France in Christchurch, while Fiji take on Papua New Guinea in Group B.

Fiji Men Make Strong World Cup Start

Fiji’s men began their campaign with a convincing 40-12 win over the Cook Islands in Newcastle. They scored seven tries and recorded 34 unanswered points before the Cook Islands added two late consolation scores. Both teams are in Group A alongside co-hosts Australia and New Zealand, making qualification for the semi-finals a challenging task.

Fiji Target Upset Against Australia

Fiji’s preparations were disrupted by coaching changes, internal tensions within the national governing body and the retirement of captain Tui Kamikamica after he suffered a stroke in March. However, the opening win provided a boost ahead of their next match against reigning champions Australia. Head coach Mick Potter described the championship as a two-horse race and said Fiji would have an opportunity to upset the favourites.