It was a weekend to remember at Go Media Stadium in Auckland, as both the Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns produced sensational comebacks to give home fans a double dose of rugby league drama in the 2025 Pacific Championships. The atmosphere was electric, the stakes high, and the passion undeniable as New Zealand’s men’s and women’s teams showed heart, resilience, and class to conquer their Samoan rivals in back-to-back thrillers.
The action began with Ricky Henry’s Kiwi Ferns, determined to make amends after falling short against Australia’s Jillaroos in last year’s Pacific Cup final. But their start against Fetu Samoa was anything but smooth. The Samoan side, coached by Jamie Soward and newly promoted to the top-tier Pacific Cup after last year’s Bowl triumph, came out firing. They stunned the home crowd by racing to a 20-0 halftime lead, showcasing ruthless finishing and physical dominance.
However, the Kiwi Ferns refused to crumble. Led by veteran grit and youthful flair, they clawed their way back into the contest with a second-half surge that epitomised New Zealand spirit. The defining moment came when powerhouse centre Mele Hufanga produced a blistering long-range try to seal a 22-20 comeback victory. The turnaround not only highlighted the Ferns’ composure under pressure but also sent a clear message — this team is determined to go one better in 2025.
The men’s clash that followed was equally dramatic. Michael Maguire’s Kiwis were pushed to the limit by a fired-up Toa Samoa, who took a 12-6 lead after Blaize Talagi crossed in the 29th minute. But New Zealand, driven by a vocal Auckland crowd, rallied to lead 16-12 at halftime. The second half was a tense arm wrestle, with both sides trading blows until Casey McLean’s double and a clinical, match-winning try from Dylan Brown sealed a 24-18 victory for the Kiwis.
After missing out on last year’s Pacific Cup final, the Kiwis look laser-focused on redemption. With Samoa now behind them, their sights turn to a massive week-three showdown against Tonga, a fixture that promises fireworks and fierce rivalry.
Meanwhile, Samoa’s focus shifts to recovery as they prepare for their own heavyweight clash with Tonga in Brisbane next weekend.
If Sunday’s Auckland blockbusters were any indication, the 2025 Pacific Championships are shaping up to be an unforgettable showcase of Pacific pride, power, and passion.
