Overview

• The Wallaroos scored 11 tries in Salford to open Pool A, registering their largest World Cup victory and moving top on points difference.
• Winger Desiree Miller completed a first‑half hat‑trick before leaving after a head‑on‑head collision, with her availability subject to World Rugby head‑injury protocols.
• Samoa replacement Melina Grace Salale had a yellow card upgraded to a red for the tackle on Miller, the first red card of the tournament.
• Eighteen‑year‑old fullback Caitlyn Halse crossed twice and became the youngest Wallaroo to play at a Women’s World Cup.
• Samoa made their first World Cup appearance since 2014 with a debutant lineup, highlighting resource gaps reported to include players self‑funding participation.