Kiwi Ferns Secure Seventh Straight World Cup Final Berth with Shutout Win Over Samoa

The Kiwi Ferns have secured their place in a seventh consecutive Rugby League World Cup final after defeating Fetu Samoa 32-0 in a rain-drenched semi-final at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday. The New Zealand side demonstrated defensive grit and clinical finishing to overcome a spirited Samoan team making its first-ever semi-final appearance. Stacey Waaka was the standout performer for the Ferns, crossing the line three times to complete a hat-trick. The scoring opened in the first half with tries from McKenzie Wiki and Waaka, giving the New Zealanders a slender 8-0 lead at the break. Despite the scoreline, Fetu Samoa dominated possession for a fifteen-minute period in the first spell, testing the Ferns' defensive line, which ultimately held firm under pressure. The Kiwi Ferns took command in the second half, adding 24 unanswered points. Waaka secured her second try in the 45th minute, expertly fielding a chip kick from Raecene McGregor. Mele Hufanga further extended the lead to 18-0 by powering through the Samoan defense with 11 minutes remaining. Late tries from Kaiyah Atai and Waaka's third effort sealed the comprehensive victory. Speaking after the match, Kiwi Ferns player Apii Nicholls expressed her pride in the team's discipline against a physical opponent, noting they knew it would be a tough encounter. Fetu Samoa captain Evania Isa'ako acknowledged the disappointment of the loss but highlighted the historic nature of the team's run, stating that their performance would have a massive impact on the growth of rugby league in Samoa. The Kiwi Ferns lineup featured a robust core including Nicholls, Hufanga, Waaka, and captain Georgia Hale, as they now prepare for another shot at world championship glory.