THE Rugby League World Cup has delivered two convincing semi-final results, with New Zealand and Australia booking their places in Sunday’s Grand Final after impressive victories over Tonga and Samoa respectively.
New Zealand were first to punch their ticket to the big dance, accounting for Tonga 34-10 in a performance that demonstrated just how dangerous the Kiwis can be when they find their rhythm.
The standout performer was undoubtedly the returning Kalyn Ponga from injury, who produced a brilliant display and showed exactly why he is regarded as one of the game’s most exciting talents.
Ponga was outstanding in attack, creating opportunities, troubling the Tongan defence and playing a major role in New Zealand’s ability to control the contest.
While Tonga will be disappointed with the result, they have certainly shown they belong among the heavyweight nations of international rugby league.
Australia then made it two from two for the favourites, producing a red-hot performance to defeat Samoa 44-12.
The Kangaroos were simply too good, displaying their attacking firepower and defensive organisation in their best performance of the World Cup that will send a warning to New Zealand ahead of Sunday’s decider.
Samoa entered the match with plenty of expectations, but ill-discipline proved costly.
Giving away possession and allowing Australia too many opportunities was always going to make life difficult against a side of this quality.
There is no doubt the Kangaroos will head into the final full of confidence, but New Zealand will provide a very different challenge.
The Kiwis have plenty of attacking weapons, and with Ponga in this sort of form, they will believe they can cause an upset.
It is exactly the final rugby league fans would have hoped for, with two traditional powerhouses going head-to-head for World Cup glory.
The Women’s Rugby League World Cup Final is also set, with New Zealand and Australia booking their places after contrasting semi-final victories.
Bombers Tips:
Men – The Aussies are in form now and will go on with the job but don’t underestimate the Kiwis.
Women – The Aussie Jillaroos will hit back strong and win the final easily.
