Kiwis Defeat Samoa 24-18 in Thrilling Pacific Cup Showdown

The Kiwis triumphed over Samoa with a 24-18 victory in a gripping Pacific Cup match at Go Media Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland on October 29, 2023. Dylan Brown, a standout performer, scored a late try that secured the win and prevented Samoa from claiming their first victory against the Kiwis in six encounters.

With approximately 135,000 Samoans residing in Auckland, the stadium was filled with passionate supporters dressed in blue and red. Their hopes for a historic win were high, especially after Samoa battled back to level the score at 18-18 in the second half. However, Brown’s aerial prowess proved decisive, as he leaped to catch a kick from Kieran Foran and crashed down to score in the 73rd minute.

The match was marked by intense competition, with the Kiwis initially taking control through two tries from teenage centre Casey McLean, who scored in the 9th and 21st minutes. Despite this early lead, the Kiwis faced a resilient Samoa team that refused to back down. Samoa’s captain, Jarome Luai, expressed pride in his team’s effort, highlighting the support from their fans as a driving force.

Brown, who is set to join the Newcastle Knights on a lucrative ten-year contract, emphasized how Samoa’s performance matched expectations. He acknowledged the crucial role of the Kiwi forwards, particularly Joseph Tapine, in creating opportunities. Foran, who has extended his career to contribute to the Kiwis, praised Brown’s determination, stating, “If anyone was going to go up and come down with it, it was Dyl.”

The match featured several pivotal moments. Samoa’s persistence paid off when they scored their first try through Deine Mariner in the 26th minute, followed by Simi Sasagi’s try in the 32nd minute, leveling the score at 12-12 at halftime. The Kiwis managed to regain the lead just before the break, with Matthew Timoko scoring off a clever kick from Brown.

As the second half progressed, Samoa demonstrated their tenacity, with Murray Taulagi scoring to tie the game once more at 18-18. A dropped pass by Mariner prevented Samoa from taking the lead, which ultimately allowed the Kiwis to regroup.

With tensions high and the clock winding down, the Kiwis demonstrated their defensive capabilities. Jamayne Isaako’s penalty goal in the 63rd minute gave the Kiwis a crucial six-point lead, but Samoa’s response was swift. They capitalized on a mistake by Kiwis fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, leading to Taulagi’s try.

As the final minutes approached, Brown’s exceptional skills shone through. His ability to read the game and execute under pressure proved vital, securing the Kiwis’ win. The emotional atmosphere of the stadium reflected the close contest, reminiscent of their narrow victory against Samoa in 2014.

Looking ahead, Samoa will face Tonga in Brisbane next weekend, while the Kiwis prepare to clash with Tonga in Auckland on November 2, 2023. The excitement surrounding the Pacific Cup continues to build, with both teams eager to showcase their talents on the international stage.