Australia have secured a place in their fifth successive Women’s Rugby League World Cup final as they chase a fourth consecutive title, overcoming an unexpectedly tough challenge from Fiji to win 30-14. After breezing through the group stages, the tournament favourites were forced to work much harder than anticipated at Sydney Football Stadium.
Fiji Shock the Favorites in First Half
Tournament debutants Fiji came into the match intent on unsettling the defending champions and became the first side since New Zealand in 2013 to open the scoring against Australia in a World Cup final. Australia trailed for the first time in the tournament after 12 minutes when Simaima Taufa conceded a penalty under the posts, allowing Luisa Yaranamua to kick for two points.
Four minutes later, Fiji extended their lead when captain Sereana Naitokatoka stole the ball from Jaime Chapman 10 metres from the try line, allowing Yaranamua to score and convert for a shocking 8-0 advantage. Australia responded in the final 10 minutes of the first half as Abbi Church drove over in the right corner and Tamika Upton slipped through the defence. Although Jocelyn Kelleher missed both conversions, leaving the score tied at 8-8 at half-time, Upton also made a crucial try-saving play by tipping a Fiji grubber kick behind the line.
Australia Restores Order After the Break
Australia took control in the second half, with Church completing her treble—highlighted by a brilliant catch from a booming Tarryn Aiken kick—alongside a try from Chapman. Although a late Maria Paseka try provided a deserved flourish for the fearless Fijian side, Church sealed the 30-14 victory by collecting Losana Lutu’s kick from 30 metres out and racing clear for her fourth try of the match.
Reflecting on the match, Australia captain Isabelle Kelly told BBC Sport that the close contest showcased the character within the team, while praising Fiji for an incredible and physical performance. Naitokatoka expressed happiness with her team’s effort, noting that their goal was simply to have fun and play hard for the full 70 minutes.
Australia will now face traditional rivals New Zealand in the final next Sunday in Brisbane, with the match kicking off at 05:10 GMT.
