Overview
- New Zealand advanced to the Pacific Championships decider set for November 9 at CommBank Stadium in Sydney against Samoa.
- A 24-point burst in 19 minutes powered the Kiwis to a 26-0 halftime lead, with Keano Kini and Casey McLean combining for a length-of-the-field opener.
- Dylan Brown starred with two tries and a pinpoint cross-field kick for McLean, while New Zealand’s pack dominated the middle.
- Tonga’s Eliesa Katoa suffered a warm-up head knock, underwent two HIAs during the match, then left on a medicab and was taken to hospital with doctors accompanying him, coach Kristian Woolf said.
- Tonga’s campaign ended after needing an 18-point win to qualify, as 38,914 fans packed Eden Park for a one-sided contest.