New Zealand reach Rugby League World Cup final after defeating Tonga

New Zealand have reached the Rugby League World Cup final after defeating Tonga 34-10 in a rain-soaked semi-final in Newcastle. The Kiwis trailed during a competitive first half but took control after the interval, scoring 22 unanswered points, according to The Guardian. ABC News Australia described the match as being played in appalling conditions, with strong wind making kicking difficult and testing both teams.

Kalyn Ponga was central to New Zealand’s performance after returning to the side just 23 days after breaking a bone in his forearm. The full-back supplied the final pass for Briton Nikora’s opening try and later helped force the error that led to Dane Gagai scoring shortly before half-time. Tonga responded after New Zealand’s early score.

The Guardian reported that Jojo Fifita scored twice, first finishing a long-range attack and then crossing from close range to put Tonga ahead. New Zealand nevertheless went into the interval 12-10 in front after Gagai’s try. The Kiwis adapted more effectively as the conditions deteriorated.

Their kicking game, led by Jahrome Hughes and Ponga, helped them create pressure, while their forwards contained Tonga’s powerful pack. Casey McLean extended the lead after the restart, scoring his 18th try in eight Test appearances, according to The Guardian. Hughes then scored after Tonga misjudged a New Zealand kick.

Xavier Willison added another try, and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad completed the scoring after grounding a further kick. Jamayne Isaako converted all four of the Kiwis’ reported converted tries despite the wind and rain. The result gives New Zealand a place in next weekend’s final and a chance to win the tournament for the first time since 2008.

The Guardian noted that the Kiwis had not reached a World Cup final since 2013. Their opponents will be either Australia or Samoa, who contest the second semi-final. Both The Guardian and ABC News Australia presented New Zealand as favourites regardless of which side progresses, while acknowledging the rise of Tonga and Samoa in international rugby league.

Tonga leave the tournament after another strong showing in front of a large and passionate following. Half-back Isaiya Katoa thanked Tongan supporters around the world, while The Guardian described the defeat as the end of a campaign in which Tonga had established itself among the sport’s leading developing nations.