In a heart-stopping encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle, the New Zealand Kiwis emerged victorious against a determined Samoan side in a thrilling 28-22 test match at Go Media Stadium Mt Smart.
Nicoll-Klokstad Shines in Unfamiliar Territory
Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, typically a fullback for the Warriors, delivered a masterclass performance playing out of position at centre. The dynamic star scored two crucial tries and consistently threatened the Samoan defence throughout the intense 80-minute battle.
'I just wanted to get my hands on the ball as much as I could,' Nicoll-Klokstad revealed post-match. 'It's not my preferred position but when you're wearing the Kiwis jersey, you do whatever it takes for the team.'
Brown's Boot Proves Decisive
While the scoreboard showed a six-point margin, the match hung in the balance until the dying moments. Parramatta Eels playmaker Dylan Brown emerged as the unlikely hero with his flawless goal-kicking, slotting all five conversions and a penalty goal to keep the Kiwis ahead on the scoreboard.
Brown's 14-point contribution from the tee ultimately made the difference in a match where both teams traded blows and momentum shifts were frequent.
Samoa's Valiant Fightback Falls Short
The visiting Samoan side refused to surrender, mounting several courageous comebacks throughout the contest. Their never-say-die attitude saw them level the scores at 22-22 late in the second half, setting up a grandstand finish that had the Auckland crowd holding their breath.
However, the Kiwis' composure in the closing stages, combined with Brown's reliable boot, ultimately secured the hard-earned victory for the home side.
What This Means for International Rugby League
This gripping encounter demonstrates the growing competitiveness of Pacific nations in international rugby league. Samoa's performance against one of the world's top teams signals their continued rise as a genuine force in the sport.
For New Zealand, the victory provides valuable momentum as they build towards future international campaigns, though coach Stacey Jones will know there are defensive aspects to address before their next challenge.
