Kiwis Edge Samoa in Thrilling Pacific Cup Clash at Mt Smart Stadium

The Kiwis secured a narrow victory over Samoa, winning 24-18 in a dramatic Pacific Cup match at Go Media Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland on October 29, 2023. Dylan Brown emerged as the hero, scoring a crucial late try that helped maintain the Kiwis’ dominance over Samoa, denying them a historic win.

A sizable crowd that included approximately 135,000 Samoans living in Auckland filled the stands, passionately supporting their team. Despite their hopes for a first victory against the Kiwis in six encounters, Samoa’s ambitions were thwarted when Brown executed a spectacular catch off a high kick from Kieran Foran, scoring in the 73rd minute.

The match was a nail-biter, echoing the close encounters of their previous meetings, including a 14-12 win for the Kiwis in 2014. Brown, who is set to join the Newcastle Knights on a lucrative ten-year contract worth AUD 1.3 million per season, played a pivotal role in the Kiwis’ success.

Casey McLean, a promising teenage centre, got the Kiwis off to a strong start with two early tries, demonstrating his scoring prowess after having already netted four tries on his debut against Papua New Guinea in 2024. The Kiwis’ first try came in just the ninth minute, with Brown assisting McLean in the build-up. McLean then scored again shortly after, capitalizing on an offload from teammate Isaiah Papali’i.

Samoa fought back with tenacity. Captain Jarome Luai attributed their resolve to the fervent support from fans, stating, “You kept us in the fight.” Samoa’s first try came from Deine Mariner in the 26th minute, followed by another from Simi Sasagi shortly thereafter, leveling the score at 12-12. Their efforts were bolstered by standout performances from NRL stars, including Payne Haas, who made 53 tackles and gained 177 meters, and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who contributed significantly from the fullback position.

The Kiwis regained the lead just before halftime, with Matthew Timoko scoring after a clever kick from Brown, putting the Kiwis ahead 16-12 at the break. The match continued to swing back and forth, with Samoa’s Murray Taulagi scoring in the 69th minute to equalize again at 18-18. However, a critical mistake from Mariner, who dropped a pass from Luai near the line, proved costly for Samoa.

The Kiwis’ defensive efforts ultimately secured the win, with Brown’s late try sealing the deal. As the teams prepare for their next matches, Samoa will face Tonga in Brisbane, while the Kiwis are set to clash with Tonga in Auckland on November 2, 2023.

This closely contested match showcased the competitive spirit and talent of both teams, further solidifying the ongoing rivalry in Pacific rugby league.