Violence erupted during New Zealand's Rugby League World Cup clash with Fiji as two players were sent off following an ugly on-field confrontation. The Kiwis were cruising towards a comprehensive victory when tempers boiled over in the second half of their showdown with the Fijians on the Gold Coast.
Red Card and Retaliation
With New Zealand leading 48-0, winger Ronaldo Mulitalo was shown a red card in the 52nd minute after launching a dangerous shoulder charge which made direct contact with the head of Fiji's Ronald Philitoga. The tackle immediately sparked furious reactions from Fiji's players, with half-back Brandon Wakeham swinging a vicious punch at Mulitalo's face before a huge melee ensued.
Referee Grant Atkins had little hesitation in sending Wakeham from the field, leaving both sides to play the remainder of the contest with 12 men. Philitoga was unable to continue following the incident, with the Fiji player subsequently ruled out after failing a head injury assessment.
Disciplinary Consequences
The incident could have serious consequences for Mulitalo, who is now almost certain to be banned for New Zealand's semi-final. The tournament's disciplinary charges are expected to be announced on Sunday. There was further unrest late in the match when Fiji prop Jordan Miller was sent to the sin bin following another high tackle, which sparked another confrontation between players.
Dominant Victory
The ugly scenes overshadowed an otherwise dominant performance from New Zealand, who ran in 13 tries to secure a staggering 78-0 victory and book their place in the semi-finals. Casey McLean scored four tries, while Keano Kini crossed twice as the Kiwis delivered a statement performance. Fiji's afternoon had already been made worse by injuries to captain Api Koroisau, who was taken to hospital with a suspected facial fracture.
The result brings Fiji's World Cup campaign to an end, while New Zealand will now turn their attention to the knockout stages as they pursue their first World Cup title since 2008.
