Dylan Brown is set to lead New Zealand in the Pacific Championships, aiming to secure a spot in the final as the Kiwis face Tonga this Sunday at Auckland’s Eden Park. To reach the Cup final against Samoa next week in Sydney, New Zealand needs either a win or a loss by fewer than 17 points.
Brown, who missed last year’s tournament due to a knee injury, has made a notable comeback. Last year, New Zealand had a heartbreaking end to their title run when Tonga clinched victory with a last-minute field goal from Isaiya Katoa. However, Brown made his presence felt in his first match back against Samoa, delivering two try assists and scoring the decisive try to lead New Zealand to a gripping 22-18 victory.
Expressing his enthusiasm for returning to the national team, Brown said, “I definitely missed it last year… it’s an honour to wear the black jersey.” He highlighted the importance of team spirit and the positive atmosphere within the squad as key motivators as they prepare for the match against Tonga.
Brown is aware of the challenges ahead, acknowledging that Tonga will be eager to bounce back after their 34-6 loss to Samoa in their previous game. He stated, “They’re going to be coming out firing… they have a lot to play for too.”
Under the new leadership of coach Stacey Jones, there is a heightened awareness of the stakes at play for New Zealand in this tournament. Jones expressed pride in the team’s performances but emphasized the need for development in tackling and attack. The upcoming match is crucial not only for their championship ambitions but also to ensure they do not face relegation against teams competing in the Pacific Bowl.
As fans eagerly anticipate the Pacific Cup final, the excitement surrounding the tournament is palpable. This competition presents a vital opportunity for New Zealand’s rugby league team to demonstrate their resilience and skills, paving the way for a promising future on the international stage. The weekend’s clash against Tonga is poised to be a defining moment for both teams, with high stakes and the potential for thrilling rugby on display.