Kiwi Ferns Stun Fetu Samoa with Late Comeback Victory

The Kiwi Ferns achieved a remarkable comeback against Fetu Samoa, securing a victory with a decisive late try from Mele Hufanga. The match, held at Mount Smart Stadium, saw the Kiwi Ferns initially struggle, entering halftime with a daunting 20-0 deficit. However, a spirited second-half performance turned the tide, culminating in Hufanga’s electrifying try that sealed the win.

Fetu Samoa dominated the first half, showcasing their physicality and determination. The Kiwi Ferns appeared shellshocked, unable to find their rhythm. Key defensive plays, including a crucial try-saving tackle by Apii Nicolls and a successful corner conversion from Patricia Maliepo, highlighted the intense back-and-forth nature of the matchup.

Hufanga’s game-changing moment came when she intercepted a Fetu kick, sprinting 90 metres towards the try line with no defenders in sight. Kiwi Ferns captain Georgia Hale expressed her confidence in Hufanga’s speed, stating, “She’s lethal. We just needed to find her some space and that was a great finish.”

Hale also commended Fetu Samoa for their strong start. “They came down and they bashed our front door down. We know they’re a physical side and they competed right through to the last minute.”

Coach Ricky Henry reflected on the team’s turnaround after halftime. He admitted the first half was challenging, stating, “We were a bit scratchy and disconnected. We couldn’t find a rhythm in the game.” The message during the break was clear: remain calm and focus on earning their way back into the match.

The Kiwi Ferns began the second half slowly but gradually built momentum, leading to a flurry of scoring opportunities. “We showed some class here to get ourselves back in the game,” Henry noted, praising the experience of his players, including four NRLW captains in the squad.

Despite playing on home turf, the crowd largely supported Fetu Samoa, creating an electric atmosphere that Hale appreciated. “It’s so nice to see the international game blossom,” she remarked. “I’m sure we’ll see it through the Tongan supporters when the men play them in a couple of weeks. It’s just so nice to see bums in seats supporting the game that we all love so much.”

Both teams will return to the field for another double header in a fortnight. The Kiwi Ferns are set to face Tonga, while Fetu Samoa will meet the Jillaroos. The excitement surrounding international rugby league continues to grow, with fans eager for the next display of talent and teamwork.