NEWCASTLE: New Zealand recovered to beat debutants Fiji 18-12 in their Women’s Rugby League World Cup opener on Sunday. Stacey Waaka scored twice at McDonald Jones Stadium.
Leianne Tufuga secured victory in the closing minutes after collecting Raecene McGregor’s cross-field kick. Earlier, Zahara Temara’s penalty kicks levelled the score and then put the Kiwi Ferns ahead.
New Zealand began their Group B campaign with a win, but coach Ricky Henry criticised their performance. “I reckon it’s a wake-up call,” Henry said. He welcomed the comeback but acknowledged his players had strayed from their plans.
Waaka opened the scoring in the 2nd minute, but Fiji responded in the 21st minute through Losana Lutu. Captain Sereana Naitokatoka created the opening with a dummy-half run.
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Five minutes later, Sienna Laing crossed to extend Fiji’s advantage. Waaka’s second try cut the deficit before the break, with the newcomers leading 12-10.
After half-time, Fiji’s defence kept frustrating New Zealand. However, Temara’s kicking eventually turned the match before Tufuga’s late try settled the contest.
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New Zealand player Georgia Hale said Fiji tested her side. She criticised the Kiwi Ferns’ discipline and untidy play after their promising start. Next, New Zealand face France in Christchurch, while Fiji take on Papua New Guinea.
