The 2025 Pacific Championships reached an exhilarating peak in its second week as Tonga and Samoa clashed at Suncorp Stadium, a match amplified by an emotional atmosphere and a lengthy 95-minute delay due to nearby lightning. Samoa took command of the game with an impressive 16-0 lead by the hour mark, prompting officials to clear the field for safety.
Following the lengthy pause, Samoa returned with renewed vigor, scoring three additional tries, including a heartfelt moment for Payne Haas, who marked his debut Test for Samoa with a try after affirming his allegiance to the team. With this victory, Samoa has qualified for the Pacific Cup final set for November 9. Tonga, on the other hand, faces a challenging task next week, needing to defeat the Kiwis by at least 17 points to keep their championship hopes alive.
In a thrilling showcase on the same day, the Australian Jillaroos showcased their dominance, overwhelming Fetu Samoa with an impressive 60-0 victory that included 11 tries. Standout performances from players like Julia Robinson, Jess Sergis, and Tamika Upton set the stage for an intense matchup against the Kiwi Ferns in Auckland next week.
Meanwhile, the men’s and women’s Pacific Bowl tournaments unfolded at Santos Stadium in Port Moresby, adding excitement to the weekend. The Papua New Guinea Kumuls made a striking return, crushing the Cook Islands 40-28, with Robert Derby scoring two tries to extend his impressive run, totaling eight tries in his last seven Tests. The Kumuls are now riding a wave of confidence, having won four of their last five matches and are set to clash against Fiji Bati for the title in week three.
On a historic note, the Cook Islands women’s team achieved a significant milestone by defeating Tonga, marking back-to-back Test wins for the first time in their history. The Moana clinched the Pacific Bowl championship for 2025, thanks to stellar performances that saw them score a commanding 76 points while conceding only 30 in their matches against the PNG Orchids and Tonga XIII.
The excitement surrounding the current tournaments signals a vibrant phase for rugby league in the Pacific region, showcasing the resilience and talent of emerging teams. As teams strive for glory, the camaraderie and competitive spirit will fuel their journeys toward future championships, providing hope for thrilling matches and memorable moments ahead.