Fetu Samoa clinched a commanding victory against the PNG Orchids with a score of 34-12 in an electrifying showdown during the Pacific Championships at the CommBank Stadium.
Under the bright Sydney sky with perfect ground conditions, both teams displayed immense skill and determination, but Fetu Samoa emerged victorious.
The match started with a bang as Fetu Samoa’s Mercedez Taulelei-Siala scored an early try in the 5th minute. The team maintained their aggressive pace, with Jasmine Fogavini scoring twice at the 18th and 44th minutes, Jetaya Faifua adding another try at the 32nd minute, Lindsay Tui crossing the line at the 40th minute, and Jessica Patea sealing the win with a try at the 64th minute. Fetu Samoa’s Pauline Piliae-Rasabale, was exceptional, converting four out of six attempts and adding a crucial penalty goal at the 43rd minute.
The PNG Orchids, despite their valiant efforts, struggled to keep up. Elsie Albert was the standout player for the Orchids, scoring two tries in the 47th and 61st minutes. Both tries were successfully converted by Emily Veivers. However, the team faced a significant setback when Sera Koroi was sent off in the 55th minute, making it even harder for them to rally a comeback.
The exhilarating match highlighted Fetu Samoa’s strategic prowess and consistent execution, which allowed them to capitalize on every opportunity.
While the PNG Orchids demonstrated resilience, they were hindered by strategic challenges and the untimely sending-off a key player Sera Koroi, added to it.
The game underscored the fierce competitiveness of the Pacific Championships Women’s match, celebrating the talent and dedication of all the female players involved.
Fetu Samoa’s victory over the PNG Orchids not only showcased their skill and coordination but also set the stage for more thrilling matches in the next championship, especially for the PNG Orchids.