Kiwis Dominate Tonga with 40-14 Victory at Eden Park

The Kiwis secured a commanding 40-14 victory over Tonga XIII at Eden Park on October 29, 2023, effectively silencing the passionate Tongan supporters in attendance. With approximately 38,114 fans present, many adorned in red and waving Tongan flags, captain James Fisher-Harris led New Zealand to this decisive win, avenging their narrow loss to Tonga a year prior. The Kiwis showcased their strength, scoring a total of seven tries while Tonga managed to cross the line only twice.

The victory not only highlights New Zealand’s prowess but also sets up a showdown against Toa Samoa in the Pacific Cup final scheduled for next weekend in Sydney. The Kiwis established dominance early in the match, leading 24-2 by halftime, thanks to four tries in the first 40 minutes. Both teams displayed intensity, exchanging traditional challenges with their respective haka and sipitau, but it was New Zealand’s execution that made the difference.

Fisher-Harris’s leadership was complemented by the tactical brilliance of five-eighth Dylan Brown, whose kicks created significant pressure on Tonga’s defense. Brown was instrumental in the Kiwis’ offensive strategy and would ultimately score two tries himself. Tongan fullback Lehi Hopoate struggled to cope with Brown’s high kicks, resulting in pivotal moments that led to Kiwi tries.

Addin Fonua-Blake and Jason Taumalolo, key figures for Tonga, fought valiantly to rally their team. Taumalolo expressed gratitude post-match, stating, “The scoreline speaks for itself. We were able to score some tries but went into our shell. Would like to thank everyone, the sea of red, the Kiwi fans.”

New Zealand’s scoring began in the 18th minute with a brilliant break from Casey McLean, who outpaced the Tongan defense to assist winger Keano Kini in securing the first try. Just minutes later, Brown sliced through the Tongan defense, followed by another try from McLean. Centre Matthew Timoko added to the tally with a try in the 36th minute, giving the Kiwis a significant advantage.

As the first half concluded, Tonga managed to score their first points after Kiwi Erin Clark was sent to the sin bin, allowing halfback Isaiya Katoa to convert a penalty kick. Despite the setback, New Zealand dominated possession, with 59 percent and a completion rate of 71 percent from their sets, compared to Tonga’s 41 percent completion rate.

Second Half Action and Key Moments

The Kiwis resumed their momentum in the second half, increasing their lead to 26-2 shortly after the restart. However, Tonga’s Demetric Vaimaunga briefly ignited hope by scoring a try in the 49th minute, which Katoa converted. Unfortunately for Tonga, defensive lapses allowed New Zealand to respond quickly, with Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad scoring another try soon after.

Brown claimed his second try in the 64th minute, capitalizing on a Tongan error near their own line. The Kiwis continued to press forward, and hooker Phoenix Crossland sealed the game with a powerful try in the 70th minute. Tonga managed to score a consolation try through winger Daniel Tupou, but it was not enough to alter the outcome.

In total, the Kiwis maintained 59 percent of possession and achieved a 75 percent completion rate, successfully completing 30 out of 40 sets throughout the match. In contrast, Tonga completed 66 percent of their sets, showing resilience despite the lopsided scoreline. The Kiwis also outgained Tonga in yardage, amassing 1,827 metres against Tonga’s 1,027 metres, along with making 10 line breaks compared to Tonga’s three.

The match showcased the skill and determination of both teams, with the Kiwis emerging as the clear victors, setting the stage for an exciting final against Toa Samoa. As the players left the field, the atmosphere remained electric, with fans reflecting on a thrilling contest.